Is it safe to go out during the monsoon season?

The monsoon season in Phuket does bring about stronger winds, bigger swells and a higher chance of rain, but it also means less tourists! Before we undertake any of our trips, whether in the dry or monsoon season, we check the tides, swell chart, satellite images and weather reports. If we feel there is any danger to you, our boat or us we will cancel the trip as early as possible. Furthermore, either Geoff, Jenny or Sebastian will also be onboard (who have over 12 years boating experience between them), and will cancel a trip if they feel anyone's safety in compromised. Because of this pattern of weather we also like to run more Phang Nga trips in the monsoon season, as the bay is more protected from the elements and generally has smaller average swells. We understand the concept of safety first!

 

Are these trips suitable for children?

Yes, all our trips are suitable for children (3-10 years) and they seem to enjoy themselves throughout the day. However, if you have younger children, think about it as it can be a very long day for them. Note: Booking infants for the Phi Phi Excursion during the monsoon season is not advisable due to the increased chance of rough seas.

 

How do I book?

Booking can either be done via email or by calling Geoff or Jenny. If you look under Prices/Booking you will see a booking procedure for either booking from abroad or in Thailand . Simply follow the easy steps and remember to read the cancellation policy.

 

What do I need to bring on the boat?

During your trip we will provide all your drinks, snacks, fruit, cake, lunch and snorkeling equipment. We have face clothes, a small fresh water shower and life jackets for all ages (including infants) so we recommend you travel light! A hotel towel, camera, swimwear, sun screen and a light pair of shirt/shorts should be fine. Oh, and of course cash to pay for the trip!

 

How do I get to and from Royal Phuket Marina?

Simba provides a/c minibuses transfers to and from the marina for those that are staying within the Kata/Karon/Patong areas. If you are staying outside those areas, we can arrange for a car or minibus to transfer you, however there will be an additional charge. We will try where possible to share the cost of this if there are any other guests also staying in your area. Please do not pay the minibus drivers. You are also welcome to make your own way to the marina, but just make sure you are there on time!

 

How do I get to the Royal Phuket Marina if I'm making my own way there?

The Royal Phuket Marina has a detailed description here or Simba is on Google Maps.

Will Geoff or Jenny be onboard?

Yes, either Geoff orJenny will be onboard on every excursion.

 

How do I pay?

You can currently pay your deposit via PayPal (www.paypal.com has all the information your require if you need to set up an account). The remaining balance is payable in cash on the day of your trip.

 

How many people do we take?

As a rule, we normally take a maximum of 15 people on either the Phang Nga or Phi Phi trips, yet in reality it is often less. Simba itself is licensed to take up to 22 people yet it has always been our aim to have fewer people on the boat, making the whole experience more personal and enjoyable.

 

What do I do if I get sea sick?

The Simba boat is open aired and unlike larger vessels there is less side to side rolling which is often the cause of the worst sea sickness. We also have seasickness tablets onboard for those who need them. But don't panic the boat stops at an island roughly every half hour and we know a few ‘old wives tales' about remedying the problems that seem to have worked in the past.

 

Do we provide snorkeling equipment and life jackets?

Yes, we do. We have masks, snorkels, fins of all sizes and well maintained life jackets (including child and infant sizes) All the equipment is included in the price of your trip.

 

How long is the journey to Phi Phi?

Approximately one hour non-stop, but Simba stops along the way to break the journey up.

 

Is the trip ok for non swimmers or weak swimmers?

Yes, we often have non swimmer onboard all the various trips we do. Phang Nga involves more sightseeing, cave exploring and canoeing so it has a little more action for none swimmers. Yet Phi-Phi also involves sightseeing and stopping at magical island so you can explore from the safety of solid ground! For those adventurous yet maybe weak swimmers, we can provide life jackets, floating buoys and harnesses and even hold your hand through the whole experience. We also select snorkeling spots that are protected and don't have strong currents.

 

Do you cater for vegetarians?

Yes we do. If you could let us know before the day we can make special arrangements.

 

Are pregnant women ok?

This is a difficult subject as unfortunately, Simba's insurance does not cover women that are pregnant. Having said that, we have taken women in the early stages of pregnancy and got them to sit at the back (the least bumpy part of the boat) and there have been no problems but you must check with your own holiday insurance company before deciding to go. We also take into consideration your pregnancy when checking the weather forecast and if we feel it will be a particularly ‘bumpy' day, we will also contact you to let you know.

 

Does Simba have insurance?

Yes, Simba has comprehensive insurance with AIG. We also have a valid TAT (Tourism Authority Thailand) tour guide and license. Please note however, we are not insured for pregnant women and therefore advise should be sought from your holiday insurance provider before booking.

 

What is the cancellation policy during bad weather?

Unfortunately the nature of being a boat company is that we are dependant on the weather, yet the Andaman Sea is one of the most consistent weather regions to operate in. The ‘dry' season generally consist of almost flat sea and no rain. The monsoon season does mean a little more rain and slightly larger swells and therefore more chance of cancellations due to bad weather. Before every trip, we study the swell chart, satellite images, weather reports and tides and make our decision purely based upon the safety of you, the crew and the boat. If we cancel due to bad weather, you do not have to pay anything, and if you have made a deposit, this will be refunded if we can't find another day you would like to go on. Often the prevailing wind comes from the north east, so although Kata, Karon and Patong are protected and therefore sunny, the east coast can look a little different. This causes problems because people can't understand why we have cancelled, but please understand, we follow a strict policy of safety first.