Sawanu Travel, a Phuket-based boat tour operator, recently hosted an exclusive Open House Trip under the concept "Elevating Thai Seas to Global Premium Standards." 

The event showcased premium marine tourism across the Andaman Sea, in line with the Tourism Authority of Thailand's (TAT) push to position Thailand as a world-class destination amid growing demand for quality leisure and sustainable travel experiences.

The open house was attended by Juthamas Prajaksin, deputy director of the TAT Phuket Office, travel and lifestyle media representatives, and Anchilee Scott-Kemmis, Miss Universe Thailand 2021.

The tour experience

Guests are collected from their hotel and transferred to a private lounge at Royal Phuket Marina before departure. Professional guides cover trip briefings and safety instructions, and complimentary food and drinks are available throughout the day.

On the water, guests can take part in paddleboarding, clear kayaking, and floating mat activities.

Four signature programmes are available:

• Phi Phi – Khai Island: Features water slides, paddle boards, clear kayaks and floating mats

• Phi Phi – Bamboo Island: Focused on relaxation in clear waters

• Phang Nga Bay – James Bond Island: Featuring limestone scenery, canoeing and Koh Tapu (James Bond Island)

• Similan Island: Aimed at snorkelling, with Sail Rock highlighted

Additional routes include Hong Island in Krabi, Four Islands tours, and customisable itineraries. Private tour options are also available.

Vessel & safety 

Captains and crew undergo monthly drug testing, all vessels carry full safety equipment, including first aid kits and fire extinguishers, and staff complete annual training to maintain service standards.

Sawanu Travel operates the Kelly Speed Catamaran, a stable, spacious vessel with large windows, a rooftop deck, and two onboard restrooms. The catamaran design reduces seasickness and avoids the overcrowding common on traditional speedboats.

Pricing

Packages start from 3,600 baht, covering Phi Phi Islands, Khai Islands, Bamboo Island, Phang Nga Bay, and the Similan Islands.

What did the event day include?

The open house day included traditional Thai dance performances, local snacks, and a cultural showcase featuring Baba-Yaya costumes, with welcome remarks from Sawanu Travel executives and TAT representatives. 

The on-water itinerary covered Maya Bay, a lunch stop at Phi Phi Island, a visit to Pileh Lagoon by long-tail boat, and a final stop at Khai Island. The day concluded with a Wine Experience and Networking Session, with swimming, paddleboarding, and jet skiing available.

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Phuket to Similans that's a long boat trip. Seastar pretty much owns vip service here and uses Thap Lamu pier which is less boat.

A couple of beaches are stunning, but highly overrated due too number of boats, tourists and expense.