FIRST: The time counter on the video is wrong! Drop the "2". The actual time is 40:28.

This is a compilation of photos and videos of our recent trip to the Phuket area of Thailand with our two good friends, Cindia and Bryce. The main focus of our trip was a Moorings catamaran bareboat charter with my wife and another couple. The trip was overall wonderful. The scenery was exotic and beautiful and the weather, while quite warm, was very comfortable.

Unfortunately, we did not have any wind on several days so ended up motoring between destinations. However, when we were able to sail, the sailing was good. While the water was warm, for the most of the trip, the ocean was loaded with large jellyfish which made for undesirable swimming. When we arrived at the Phi Phi islands, the water was much clearer and the jellyfish were more dispersed.

The limestone "islands" were impressive. There are caves everywhere, most you can enter with a kayak. We paddled into Ko Hong and found it delightful, although the throngs of tourists diminished the experience.

We found the Thai people to be exceptionally friendly, polite and helpful. Language was not a problem, most of the Thai we encountered knew enough English, and us enough Thai, to make it work. The food is what I'll remember most. We have some good Thai food in the States, but obviously it was the real deal in Thailand.

Railay Beach was beautiful, my favorite stop. The town was quaint but definitely catered to tourists. The Phi Phi islands were my favorite islands, especially the northeast shore at the Saii resort. The main harbor was hectic with boats flying by in every direction but somehow, still seemed organized.

Ash (base manager) and Willy (head tech) at Moorings were great. I've been chartering through Moorings for a long time and have been to most of their bases. The Thailand base was, albeit smaller that others, very well organized and the staff were very friendly, and most importantly, competent. The equipment and boat were well maintained and we had no mechanical problems. Be sure to take good notes in your chart briefing, lots of information to gather and store. Ash did an outstanding job with our briefing as did Willy with our boat check-out.

Navigation is easy, at least as long as you pay attention to your location and the charts. Lots of shoaling waters and the tides are significant. Mooring balls are scarce so plan on dropping the hook. Apparently, damaging the coral is a hefty fine (should be) and can even land you in jail. Be sure to ask where to anchor. Unfortunately, the water is not that clear, so the usual visual cues for coral don't exist. When you do anchor, the holding is good. We used a 5:1 scope although one night we had to let out substantially more due to strong winds. Be sure to factor in the tides when anchoring and allow enough room to swing during the night.

The Diving in the Phi Phi islands was outstanding. Really enjoyed the two dives we were able to fit in with Saii Scuba Divers. The divemaster was personable, knowledgeable and did a great job showing us a variety of marine life.

All in all a great trip with friends. Lots of laughs; a great adventure!