Elite Traveler May-June 2015

136 elite traveler MAY/JUNE 2015 ISSUE 3

Flight of fancy

A private dhow cruise around Phang Nga Bay

There’s an other-worldly allure to the limestone karsts of Phang Nga Bay, off Thailand’s north-west coast. Now is the best time to see the jagged rocky outcrops looming out of the bright, blue-green water of the Strait of Malacca, just before the annual rainy season arrives in August. Now this prehistoric seascape can be enjoyed from the privacy of your own beautifully refurbished 56-ft dhow, which sets sail from the Six Senses Yao Noi, itself an elegantly understated, five-star resort with 56 alluring pool villas. Guests on the dhow are treated to a dream- like four-hour cruise around the area’s deserted beaches and lagoons, into which they can jump any time for a dip. A plethora of staff are on hand to wrap guests in fresh towels, serve champagne at sunset and whip up a four-course meal under the stars.

From $1,276 per couple sixsenses.com/resorts/yao-noi/destination

Words: Emily Mathieson. Illustration: Daniel Clarke