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Island Hopping with Captain Kai at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui
Southern Thailand is a haven for some of the most stunning shores and various aquatic life in the world. Once here, a beach walk is one of the first items on the itinerary and guests at the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui can select from two excellent boats for private charter the 60-foot (18 metres) sunseeker Minor Affair for up to 12 guests and the 42-foot (13 metres) sports cruiser Siam Seas Explorer for up to 8 guests.
Many beautiful destinations are a short ride away, and the Resorts Boat Captain, Anuchit Chaisuk, has five particular ones in mind. There are several adjacent islands around Koh Samui that you could visit for a half or full-day trip.
Whether your idea of the ideal vacation is to do nothing at all, anchor off a secluded beach for a day of pure tropical recreation or head to the best snorkelling or diving spots in the Gulf of Thailand, theres something for everyone, promises Khun Kai, as Chaisuk is better known. Ang Thong Marine National Park: An archipelago of 42 islands in the Gulf of Thailand, Ang Thong National Marine Park features untouched beaches surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs, lush vegetation, waterfalls, hidden coves and lakes.
Excellent for a day trip by chartered boat from Koh Samui, Ang Thong is a secured area of more than 37 square miles (100 square kilometres) of land and sea and is home to a vibrant assortment of fascinating wildlife and sea creatures. Snorkelling, hiking, sea kayaking and diving are the main activities to enjoy here, shares Captain Kai, who along with his team can take guests to the highlights of Ang Thong including Emerald Lake, a saltwater lake on Koh Sam Sao Island, or hike to a viewpoint 860 feet (262 metres) above sea level for a stunning sight of the entire marine park.
Koh Tao: Locally known as Turtle Island, Koh Tao is a scuba diving destination of choice in Thailand. The pleasant tropical heaven is home to vibrant coral reefs and colourful sea creatures. Dont miss this wonderful place! he says, The island is just 1 hour 45 minutes by private charter and a ideal place to find the marine treasures of the Gulf of Thailand.
Koh Tan and Koh Mad Sum: Less touristy than the popular Ang Thong Marine National Park but just as pleasant to explore, the sister isles of Koh Tan and Koh Mad Sum are excellent for those who want a quick escape from Koh Samui. While Koh Tan has a rugged coast thats ideal for snorkellers, Koh Mad Sum has clear white beaches, perfect for uninterrupted sunbathing.
Koh Si Koh Ha: In Thai, this assortment of islands in the southwest of Koh Samui is called four islands, five islands, because the fifth island is hidden behind the other four, shares Captain Kai. Ideal for a sunset cruise, this group of islands is also great for picnics at one of the hidden beaches or to explore the limestone caves. These islands are home to a large number of swift birds and offer great sighting.