Thailand may not first come to mind when planning a cruise holiday but some ultra-luxe cruise lines are making their way to the Land of Smiles to discover the kingdom from a different perspective.
Based in the United Kingdom, The Luxury Cruise Company curates an enviable selection of ocean, river and exploration-style cruises around the globe, specialising in organising personalised cruise itineraries aboard the world’s finest vessels. When it comes to cruising Asia, we asked General Manager Scott Anderson what’s on the horizon, particularly for cruises docking around Thailand.
Several luxury liners offer attractive cruise itineraries that include spending time in the Andaman Sea around Phuket or even making a quick stop in Bangkok. But why even consider seeing Thailand from a cruise?
Anderson says it’s all about the landscapes.
“The amazing karst landscape of the Andaman, such as Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island, is best viewed from the deck of a ship. Passengers can also access smaller islands that are hard to reach other than by ship.”
Additionally, cruising around the region allows travellers to experience the beauty of Thailand and Southeast Asia in a completely different way from the usual tourist trail. While in Bangkok, for instance, the ships serve as opulent floating hotels from which to base your city explorations. Scott says Thailand is also an attractive stop off on longer round-the-world cruises as well for those who wish to experience the historic charm of travelling by ship.
PHUKET TO SINGAPORE
8 days departing 28 March 2020
1,395 GBP per person
Cruise south from Phuket through the Andaman Sea aboard the Star Clipper for a week-long escape in paradise. Making stops at tiny Thai islands amidst azure waters before reaching the culture-rich ports of Penang and Malacca in Malaysia and finally reaching the vibrant city of Singapore, this luxurious 8-day cruise allows for plenty of time to soak up the sun while staying in grand staterooms.
The Route
Day 1: Phuket, Thailand
Day 2: Koh Similan, Thailand
Day 3: Phang Nga/Koh Hong, Thailand
Day 4: Koh Adang, Thailand
Day 5: Penang, Malaysia
Day 6: At sea
Day 7: Malacca, Malaysia
Day 8: Singapore
ABOARD THE STAR CLIPPER
Line: Star Clippers Cruises
Crew: 72
Guests: 170
Length: 110 metres
Width: 15 metres
Reflecting its heritage in every inch of polished brass and gleaming brightwork, a voyage aboard the Star Clipper blends the romantic sailing traditions of the past with all the modern comforts of a 5-star resort.
OPULENT CAPITALS & SACRED SHRINES
22 days departing 16 November 2019
10,145 GBP per person (including flights from Britain to Dubai)
Starting in Dubai aboard the Seven Seas Voyager and sailing poetically through seven countries to reach Singapore, this lengthy cruise offers a once in a lifetime experience for those who have the luxury of uninterrupted time.
The Route
Middle East: Dubai, Fujairah; India: Mumbai, Goa, Mangalore, Cochin; Sri Lanka: Colombo, Myanmar: Rangoon; Thailand: Phuket; Singapore: Singapore.
ABOARD THE SEVEN SEAS VOYAGER
Line: Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Crew: 447
Guests: 700
Length: 204 metres
Width: 29 metres
Regent Seven Seas Cruises sail to all of the seven continents, calling at more than 300 ports. The fleet of luxury ships are designed to carry guests numbering in their hundreds, rather than thousands, providing a personal and accommodating ambience onboard including impeccable accommodation, service, dining and amenities that earn an impressive 6-star rating.
For more cruising options contact: theluxurycruisecompany.com