Phuket in July - where would you go ?

[caveman22]

Hi All

We have a 48' cat charter organised for one week in July and would love to hear some local advice on your favorite (less crowded if this is actually possible) anchorages and perhaps favorite islands to stop off in the evening for a meal.

With the SW monsoon we will be limited to the Andaman bay east of Phuket. Im thinking broadly about heading North from Ao Po Grand Marina base, up around Phang Nga Bay then heading south down to Lanta Island possibly via Phi Phi and then to east to Racha and head north up the east coast back to base.

What are you favorite Island hongs ? I like the sound of Ko Kudu Yai as a possible overnight stop.

Further south, Lanta island and Lantra old town sound great and perhaps abit off the main trail - where would you stop onroute from Phang Nag Bay ?

The plan is obviously weather dependent and covers a few miles but we do enjoy a sail!

Am wondering about wind and swell once out of the lee of Phuket or Ko Yao Yai. Have kept an eye on Windy on the lead up to this trip and it seems prevailing winds are NW>W>SW between 5 - 15 kts with a occasional blow over 20kts south of Phuket. Am expecting the odd squall to come through with winds stronger than this.

We are experienced sailors, have the SE Asia pilot and looking for a bit of fun, sun and some great thai food.

Love to hear your thoughts, experiences and any other advice you can offer.

The Caveman