Phuket Island, close to Malaysia, Hong Kong, Singapore and Australia

Lee Marine Headquarters is located at The Boat Lagoon Marina on the east coast of the island of Phuket in the Andaman Sea. Linked to the mainland in the North, Phuket is easily accessible by land, sea or air. The International Airport flies to countless major cities via Bangkok and an increasing amount directly from the island. It also has frequent links to Malaysia, Hong Kong, Singapore and Australia. The island has two seasons; the Northeast monsoon (October to May) and the South West monsoon (May to October). The rainy season is generally expected towards the end of the South West monsoon, which can bring occasional squally, wet weather.

Phuket, one of Asia's prime holiday destinations.

The water temperature ranges from 27 to 30 degrees Celsius throughout the year, ensuring perfect bathing conditions and an abundance of marine life. Phuket has long been considered a desirable destination for holidaymakers worldwide, whether to lie on one of the islands immaculate beaches, or to explore the many fascinating dive locations within easy reach.

The Phang Nga National Park, a new sailing destination

More recently, the yachting community has discovered what was previously a closely guarded secret, and the new Millennium will undoubtedly see continued expansion in recreational and professional sailing around Phuket waters. You only have to experience the surrounding cruising area to understand why; Heading Northeast from Phuket, a short sail will take you into Phang Nga National Park. This 400 sq./km water wonderland is truly awe-inspiring, with it's limestone pinnacles rising from calm, misty waters and it's numerous anchorage's to explore, this area combines breath-taking scenery with a sense of true serenity. Further East, sailing into clearer waters, the Krabi Province blends the staggering topography of Phang Nga with the stunning coral-fringed islands of the Andaman Sea. Long popular with rock-climbers and beachcombers alike, Krabi's Rai-Le beach is most fully appreciated lying at anchor and watching the spectacular sunset cast it's warm glow across the sand.

The Phi Phi Islands & The Similans.

South of Krabi are perhaps the most famous islands of the area, Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Le, and sailing into the shelter of Ton Sai bay on Phi Phi Don for the first time will certainly have you keen to return. This large bay can host many visiting yachts with good facilities and restaurants in abundance ashore. Heading South further still from Ko Lanta towards the duty-free port of Langkawi, you will find the remote islands of Tarutao National Park. Largely unvisited by cruising yachts, these islands offer peace and tranquility with miles of un-congested water and a steady breeze for the sail back towards Phuket itself. During the North East monsoon, the west coast of Phuket has many attractive anchorage's allowing easy access, if desired, to sample some of Phuket's best nightspots. Also, the Similan Islands, rated one of the top ten global dive locations, are 50 miles west of Phuket and the NE winds makes these islands an un-missable spectacle with the clearest waters imaginable. These locations, and many more, are easily accessible from Phuket's two marinas and form the perfect start to South East Asian cruising.

Phuket, home of the King's Cup Regatta.

The King's Cup Regatta, now in it's 15th year, is regarded as the jewel in the crown of the Asian Yachting Circuit. The combination of top standard racing, spectacular scenery and sailing conditions and outstanding social events attracts on average 1,000 sailors and party goers each year. Last year the event attracted a record fleet of 100 boats, with serious racing craft coming from Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia, Malaysia, the Philippines & Europe. Many passing yachts also enter. The week long event takes the fleet the length of Phuket west coast where the crews are treated to some of the most beautiful scenery this region has to offer. Each year, His Majesty the King sends a personal representative to present the King's Cup trophies on his behalf. This special Royal awards ceremony is the highlight of the event. Racing takes place over a 6-day period in several classes of yacht, namely racing, cruising, ocean cruising, multihull & classic keel boats. Please visit http://www.kingscup.com or contact the Regatta Office in the Boat Lagoon Marina on Tel: (66-076) 273 380, Fax: (66-076) 273 389 or e-mail on kingscup@phuket.com for more information.