Marine Services in Ao Chalong, Phuket
Phuket has Southeast Asia's most concentrated marine industry. The combination of Boat Lagoon Marina (north of Chalong), Yacht Haven Marina (north end of the island), the Chalong trades, and the Rolly Tasker sail loft makes this one of the best-value refit destinations in the world. Cruisers who've come east from the Indian Ocean often stay 6–12 months here completing comprehensive refits.
Ao Chalong itself is the customs anchorage — clear in here, then move to a marina based on the work plan. The town behind has provisioning, hardware, and the usual Phuket tourist infrastructure.
Where to berth and work
Boat Lagoon Marina
The largest cruiser marina in Thailand. Locked basin, travelift, hardstand, full contractor network. Cruiser default for longer stays and refit work.
Yacht Haven Marina
North of the island. Smaller, sometimes quieter. Good for cruisers wanting less hubbub.
Ao Po Grand Marina
Northeast coast, with its own yard. Slightly off the beaten track but capable.
What it costs
| Service | Common range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Marina berth / day (40 ft) | $50–90 | Boat Lagoon, peak season |
| Haul + relaunch (40 ft) | $400–700 | Plus blocking |
| Hardstand / month | $250–450 | 40-footer total |
| Bottom job (40 ft) | $1,800–2,800 | Full prep, paint |
| Labour / hour | $25–40 | Skilled trades |
| Rolly Tasker sail repair | $200–500 | Same-week turnaround often |
Services available
- Sailmaking: Rolly Tasker is the biggest loft in Asia. New sails, recuts, repair all competitive on price and quality.
- Rigging: Multiple riggers; full swaging including hydraulic.
- Composites: Strong skill base. Carbon repair, structural work, full fairing.
- Diesel and engineering: Yanmar, Volvo, Perkins, Beta supported. Parts via Singapore.
- Electrical and electronics: Deep capability. Lithium retrofits standard. Custom panel work routine.
- Joinery and woodwork: Outstanding teak work; interior refits at remarkable prices.
Frequently asked questions
Why Phuket?
Southeast Asia's largest marine industry. Full-service marinas and yards at prices below Australia/NZ.
Where do cruisers clear in?
Ao Chalong. Anchor, dinghy ashore for paperwork, then move to Boat Lagoon or Yacht Haven.
Cost?
Labour $25–40/hour. Bottom job $1,800–2,800. Marina berth $50–90/night.
Trade depth?
Excellent. Sailmakers, riggers, composite specialists, joiners, paint applicators all multiple.
Monsoon?
May–October SW monsoon. Cruisers haul or stay in protected marinas. Boat Lagoon's locked basin is the standard option.