There's nothing quite like exploring the stunning islands off the coast of Pattaya, Thailand. Recently, I had the pleasure of embarking on a luxurious catamaran cruise, which turned out to be an unforgettable experience. Here's a detailed look at my island-hopping adventure aboard this magnificent vessel.
Watch the Adventure
Before diving into the details, check out my vlog for an immersive experience of the trip. In this video, you'll see stunning clips of the islands, snorkeling spots, and the playful monkeys of Koh Ped. Watch it now to get a visual taste of this unforgettable journey!
Setting Sail from the Yacht Club
Our day began bright and early with a convenient pick-up from our hotel. The crew greeted us warmly, setting the tone for a day of relaxation and adventure. Boarding the catamaran was a breeze, and we set off on our voyage at around 9:45 AM, filled with excitement for the day ahead.
Koh Phai: The Snorkeling Paradise
Our first stop was Koh Phai, an island renowned for its snorkeling opportunities. The clear, turquoise waters were inviting, and we eagerly dove in to explore the vibrant marine life. The beach was pristine, providing a perfect spot to relax and soak in the sun. The underwater scenery was a true highlight, offering glimpses of colorful coral and playful fish.
Koh Rin: A Tranquil Escape
Next, we traversed for about an hour to reach Koh Rin. I loved this spot the most because the water was crystal clear, allowing us to see much of the reef. Unfortunately, I didn't get a chance to see many fish, perhaps because I didn't bring any food for them. Despite this, the stunning underwater visibility made the visit worthwhile.
Koh Ped: The Island of Monkeys
Our final stop was Koh Ped, also known as Monkey Island. This was undoubtedly the most fun part of the trip. We were greeted by playful monkeys, and feeding them was an absolute delight. Additionally, the island offered various water activities that kept us entertained. Interacting with the monkeys and enjoying the island's natural beauty made for a perfect end to our island-hopping adventure.
Onboard Delights and Memorable Moments
Throughout the day, we were treated to a delicious Thai buffet onboard the catamaran. The menu catered to all dietary preferences, including vegetarian options, ensuring everyone was satisfied. The crew's hospitality was impeccable, making the journey enjoyable and comfortable. I also had the chance to connect with some amazing fellow travelers, adding to the overall experience.
Eco-Friendly Snorkeling Tips
When swimming around reefs, it's important to avoid wearing sunscreens with harmful chemicals, as they can stress out the reefs and fish. According to studies, common chemical ingredients in sunscreens, such as oxybenzone, avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene, can damage coral DNA and disrupt reproduction. Reefs are constructed from limestone, primarily composed of calcium carbonate, which provides the structural foundation for coral growth. Introducing these chemicals can interfere with this delicate process, leading to reef degradation.
As a geologist, I understand the importance of preserving these natural wonders. That's why I recommend using alternatives like rash guards to protect both your skin and the environment. Our rash guards not only shield you from the sun but also ensure you can enjoy the reefs without causing harm.
Final Thoughts
I highly recommend booking this experience if you're staying in Pattaya or visiting Bangkok. The company is called Serenity Yachting, and their website is below. Additionally, you can download the Google Earth KMZ file directly to your mobile device for a quick overview of the islands you'll be visiting. It's an experience you won't want to miss!
Relevant Links and Sources For Your Voyage:
Tour Website: https://www.serenity-yachting.com/
Google Earth: Map
Read more about chemicals that harm the reefs here:
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Oxybenzone:
- Downs, C. A., Kramarsky-Winter, E., Segal, R., Fauth, J. E., Knutson, S., Bronstein, O., ... & Loya, Y. (2016). Toxicopathological effects of the sunscreen UV filter, oxybenzone (benzophenone-3), on coral planulae and cultured primary cells and its environmental contamination in Hawaii and the US Virgin Islands. Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, 70(2), 265-288.
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Avobenzone:
- Mitchelmore, C. L., He, K., Gonsior, M., Hain, E., Heyes, A., & Clark, C. (2019). Occurrence and distribution of UV-filters and other anthropogenic contaminants in coastal surface water, sediment, and coral tissue from Hawaii. Science of the Total Environment, 670, 398-410.
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Homosalate:
- Pan, Z., Lee, W. Y., & Cheong, W. J. (2019). A preliminary ecotoxicological assessment of some sunscreen agents on two species of marine microalgae. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 26(4), 3269-3277.
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Octisalate:
- Okumura, T., & Nishikawa, M. (1996). Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry determination of salicylate- and benzophenone-type UV absorbers in water, sediment, and mussel samples. Journal of Chromatography A, 731(1-2), 167-175.
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Octocrylene:
- Balmer, M. E., Buser, H. R., Müller, M. D., & Poiger, T. (2005). Occurrence of some organic UV filters in wastewater, in surface waters, and in fish from Swiss lakes. Environmental Science & Technology, 39(4), 953-962.
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General Information on Reef Degradation:
- Kleypas, J. A., McManus, J. W., & Meñez, L. A. B. (1999). Environmental limits to coral reef development: where do we draw the line? American Zoologist, 39(1), 146-159.