From Anchors to Adventures
About Us
The Faraway Yachting story began with four cruising sailors, four yachts, and a shared love for Thailand's islands.
From Anchors to Adventures
Our Story
Faraway Yachting was founded in 1996 when we first arrived in Thailand. In the beginning, we were 4 cruising sailors with 4 different yachts from different parts of the world.
Two monohull yachts sailed from the Red Sea and two catamarans from Australia. The owners were from Australia, Norway, The Netherlands and I from Austria. We met unintentionally at an anchorage for a sundowner at Kata Beach, discussing the next cruising routes.
Freddy, from Norway, the most entrepreneurial of us wanted to start scuba diving trips to the Similan islands. His yacht "Colona II" was already set up for this venture.
Makz, born in The Netherlands, with his monohull yacht "Stressbreaker" also had all the scuba diving equipment. He decided to do the same.
Australian Bob on his boat "Lizard of Oz" and I from Austria, on "Amadeus" immediately set up our catamarans for scuba diving as well.
We all started offering sailing trips with diving and so Faraway Sail & Dive Expeditions was founded in the summer of 1996.
Over the years, we had amazing ventures, especially when the Mergui Archipelago, Myanmar opened up in 1997. We were one of the first ones offering scuba diving and sailing cruises in this area.
We sailed the many remote islands in Myanmar and discovered the Andaman islands which belong to India. These islands are only 420 nautical miles away from Phuket, but over 1000 miles away from the Indian mainland!
We were diving at Barren Island with a sometimes active volcano. We went swimming with elephants on Havelock Island, and meeting Sea gypsies at the most remote islands of the Mergui Archipelago. These were only some of our adventures years ago.
Now, almost 25 years later, the company still exists. We renamed it "Faraway Yachting" a few years later and is still owned and managed by the last remaining of the original founding partners.
Wolfgang from Austria, settled in Phuket with his wife and 2 sons, who went to school here till graduation and then they both moved to Europe to continue their studies.
With our 5 own catamarans, we still like to do special trips with our guests to explore some special places.
The difference to any other charter company is that we from Faraway Yachting are all (or have been) charter skippers. With this experience and knowledge on hand over more than 25 years, we are very aware of our customer's needs.
Knowing the cruising grounds intimately we are able to advise you on a very personal level, to assure you of the charter holiday of your dreams.
This personal touch goes a long way, before, during and after the charter.
Beyond the Horizon
Our Mission
At Faraway Yachting, our mission is to create unforgettable, safe experiences that exceed the expectations of both our team and our guests. We believe that a happy team is the foundation of guest satisfaction, making it our top priority alongside ensuring safety.
- Safety is paramount. We perform extensive preventive maintenance and yearly haulouts, exceeding the highest industry standards. Our crew undergoes annual safety training with regular updates and scenario plays. We never compromise safety for guest requests and maintain a higher level of caution compared to other companies. We are committed to ensuring that only a safe charter for guests, crew, and boats can create the best possible guest experience.
- We prioritize fostering a united and joyful team, working together towards shared goals. By creating a fulfilling work environment, we empower our team to provide exceptional service and ensure guest satisfaction. We are dedicated to delivering the best possible experience for our guests, going the extra mile to ensure their happiness. From personalized services to special gestures like complimentary birthday cakes, we aim to create lasting memories and exceed expectations.
- Our dedication to guest happiness is unwavering. We strive to deliver the best possible product and go the extra mile to ensure their happiness and satisfaction. From personalized services to special complimentary gestures, we aim to create lasting memories and exceed our guests' expectations at every turn.
- As Thailand's leading yacht company in sustainability, we are committed to environmental conservation and ongoing sustainability. We prioritize low gasoline consumption in our yachts and educate our team on environmental stewardship. Regular meetings encourage the introduction of new ideas and technologies to improve our environmental practices. We take proactive steps to protect the pristine beauty of the areas we operate in.
- While profit is essential for the sustainability of our operations, it is not our primary focus. We invest in team and guest happiness, understanding that providing the highest value to our guests is paramount. Our financial resources are allocated to enhance our team's skills and well-being, as well as continuously upgrading our yachts with the latest technologies. By doing so, we maintain our commitment to excellence and ensure that the value we offer to our guests far exceeds their expectations.
Our mission is to create extraordinary yacht charter experiences that leave a lasting impression on our guests, positively impacting our team, the environment, and the communities we serve. By prioritizing team happiness, sustainability, and exceptional service, we strive to deliver unparalleled experiences and exceed the expectations of all who sail with us.
Team Faraway Yachting
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to complete a Digital Arrival Card before entering Thailand?
Yes. From 1st May 2025, all visitors must complete the Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online before arriving.
- Fill out the form at tdac.immigration.go.th
- Do it within 3 days before arrival
- Show the QR code at immigration
- For help, see the official guide
- Complete it early to avoid delays
What are the charter options?
We offer 4 main charter types:
- Crewed Charter: A captain and chef handle everything - sailing, meals, and cleaning. You choose the pace and itinerary
- Bareboat Charter: You sail the yacht yourself and manage meals and cleaning. Sailing experience and qualifications required
- Bareboat with Engineer / Guide: You skipper the boat, and an onboard engineer helps with mechanics and guiding. Meals and cleaning are up to you
- Luxury Charter: High-end yachts with a full crew: chef, hostesses, dive master, and more. Like a private floating resort
- Special trips available: weddings, honeymoons, reunions, diving courses, team events, and dietary needs customizable upon request
How do charter holidays compare with land-based vacations?
Charter holidays offer more freedom, privacy, and variety.
With your own yacht, you set your own schedule, avoid crowds, access remote beaches and hidden coves, and dine, swim, and relax right onboard.
It is your floating hotel, restaurant, and private escape - all in one.
What will the food be like?
Fresh, flavorful, and plenty! Expect delicious Asian-style meals with fresh seafood, fruits, and veggies.
- Vegetarian and kid-friendly dishes always available
- Dietary needs happily accommodated
- Each day includes hearty breakfast, relaxed lunch on deck, afternoon snacks or fruit platters, sundowners, and tasty dinners
- Prefer local cuisine? You are free to dine ashore
- Want to learn Thai cooking? Some chefs love sharing tips
What should we bring?
Keep it light and simple!
- Casual, breathable clothes, swimsuits, sandals, and long sleeves for sun or mosquitoes
- Modest clothing when going ashore in Myanmar
- Hat, non-oily sunscreen, mosquito spray for land only, and personal medication
- Snorkeling and diving gear is provided, but you can bring your own and share sizes in advance
- Soft bags only, because they are easier to store and gentler on the yacht
- Bedding, towels, and basic first aid are provided
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, we highly recommend it. Your policy should cover sailing, watersports, and trip cancellation.
Faraway Yachting does not offer refunds for guest cancellations.
Providers like World Nomads offer coverage for over 150 adventure activities, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and more.
How do I book a charter yacht?
Submit a charter inquiry via our website, email us at info@far-away.net, or call +66 81 895 1826.
The more details you share, the better we can tailor suggestions.
- Once confirmed, we hold your yacht for 7 days
- Payment: 30% deposit, 70% final payment due 60 days before departure
- We assist with catering preferences, airport pickup, hotel suggestions, and more
- Travel insurance is recommended
- Need help? Just reach out - we reply within 12 hours
Why take a charter vacation with Faraway?
Because it is the ultimate escape.
Wake up on a private yacht in a new secluded cove each day. Swim, snorkel, sail, or just relax - your time, your pace.
With a crewed charter, everything is taken care of: meals, cleaning, and expert guidance.
- Transparent pricing, no hidden fees
- Easy, stress-free booking
- Handpicked, tropical-ready yachts
- Trusted since 1995 with loyal, repeat guests
What activities are available?
There is always something to explore - above and below the water.
- On the water: snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, sailing, scuba diving, water skiing, surfing, windsurfing, and wing-foiling on select yachts
- On land: rock climbing at Phi Phi and Railay, village visits in Phang Nga Bay, temples in Krabi and Phuket, and ancient caves in Krabi and Koh Lanta
Can we bring children?
Absolutely - kids love it! They can swim, kayak, help with sailing, and explore safely.
Skippers are experienced with families, and catamarans are especially great for young kids because they are stable, spacious, and safe.
Need help choosing a family-friendly yacht? Fill out the form, email info@faraway.net, or call +66 81 895 1826.
Are there pirates in Thailand?
No - just the playful kind!
There is no piracy in the areas we sail, including Thailand, Northern Malaysia, and Myanmar. It is safe, peaceful, and well-monitored.
The only "pirates" you will meet are kids pretending to captain the ship!
Are my personal belongings covered by your insurance?
No. Our insurance does not cover personal items such as cash, jewelry, watches, cameras, phones, laptops, tablets, passports, and important documents.