Thailand’s Maritime Attractions for Lovers!
As well as having one of the top ports in Southeast Asia, there are also some spectacular Thailand maritime attractions on offer that maritime lovers will definitely have to add to their bucket lists! From South Africa, getting to Thailand is fairly easy and the flight time isn’t too long, so this is one destination to visit once international travel is safe again.
Thailand’s National Maritime Museum
Located in Chanthaburi, a bucket list of Thailand’s maritime attractions would not be complete without a visit to the country’s National Maritime Museum. Built in 1994, the museum consists of twin buildings that display exhibitions of Thailand’s naval history, leading up to where they are today. The museum was initially established after the Fine Arts Department discovered over 10 000 archeological ruins sunk under the sea in the area. The museum is a popular tourist attraction and visitors are sure to learn a lot about Thailand’s maritime industry, as well as the country and its people.
Similan Islands
Close to Phuket is Koh Similan, one of the best-known group of islands in the Andaman Sea due to the gorgeous crystal blue waters surrounding it. While there is lots to explore above water, this area is also counted as one of the best dive sites around, with plenty to see below the water, including incredible coral growths which attract a wide variety of beautiful fish and marine life. Due to its beauty, this area has also become a popular destination for boat tours and yachties, and for those interested in them and enjoy a bit of boat spotting!
Phang Nga Bay
This area is one of the most scenic, and popular in Thailand. Located only 95km from Phuket, Phang Nga Bay is made up of majestic aquatic grottoes, amazing caves, and limestone islands. One of the most famous islands in the bay is a sea stack known as Ko Ping Kan, or James Bond Island due to it being featured in the James Bond movie ‘The Man with the Golden Gun.” We’d suggest visiting this area by sea kayak as this is the only way you will be able to explore the sea caves and grottoes, and you don’t want to miss out on that!
Floating Markets
While these are now more popular as tourist destinations rather than the essential aspects of the local farming economies that they used to be, the floating markets in Thailand are exciting places to visit and great spots to find delicious local cuisine. The most popular floating market for tourists to visit is Damnoen Saduak. Here you get to really immerse yourself in the culture of the country.
Which of these Thailand maritime attractions will you be adding to your travel list?
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