Arriving in Koh Samui……
The regatta is based on Chaweng Beach, which is situated east coast of Koh Samui. There are no marina facilities on Koh Samui, although a number of developments are planned for the near future. Most yachts anchor in the bay in front of the race headquarters – Centara Grand Beach Resort. During regatta week there is a maximum tidal range of approximately 2m so most yachts anchor in between 5 and 10m of water.

Approximate location of the Regatta Headquarters is
N 9° 31.11 E100° 03.58

Crews arriving at Chaweng Beach will find over 100 sailor friendly resorts, restaurants and bars situated along the beachfront. Behind the resorts is the main beach road which contain all the usual tourist facilities such as money exchange, ATM, Car and Motorbike hire, for those who want to explore the island, and the obligatory internet café’s for those who need to stay in touch with the rest of the world.

There is good GSM telephone coverage, throughout the Island so you are never out of contact.

All vessels arriving on Koh Samui from international destinations need to report to the Customs, Immigration and Harbour authorities, which are based at the Islands official Port, Nathon. Nathon is situated on the west coast of the island. Unfortunately, there are no real facilities for arriving yachts to berth at Nathon, so it recommended to anchor in Chaweng and get a taxi or hire a jeep for the 30 min ride to the main offices.

Office hours are:
08.30 – 12.00 and 13.00 – 15.00 Monday to Friday

It is the captain’s responsibility to go ashore and check the yacht in/out with the authorities. However, we suggest that all crew attend.

Please note: To assist with paperwork, it is suggested that only permanent crew are checked in as Crew and all departing members are checked in as Passengers.

Many nationalities are granted entry visas for 30 days on arrival without a visa, or if you already hold a visa, stay will be granted for its duration. Check in advance which nationalities are eligible for 30-day visas on arrival.

The captain of a yacht does not require a visa. Instead he/she will be registered as being in transit with the vessel and will be issued a 30-day stay. The captain can sign off the yacht by posting a US$500 returnable bond.
The yacht will be granted a six month stay extendable to one year without paying any duties.

Documentation required to check in:
All passports (captain, crew and passengers);
The yacht’s registration; and
Clearance certificate from your last port.

Fees
Customs: 100THB
Immigration: 300THB plus 10 THB per passenger
Port Control (Harbour Master): 100THB

There may be an overtime charge for weekends and out of hours check in.

Note: The above is a guideline, and was accurate at the time of going to print. For exact details and prices check with the relevant authorities.