The Similan Islands, still part of Thailand, are a handy first stop on the journey to the Andaman Islands.

A pleasant day's sail, the Similans have crystal clear waters with abundant fish life. We went up there a couple of days in advance of Storyteller and Kalypso, our companions on the trip to the Andamans. We were joined by the Scallys (Paul and Gloria from Scallywag) and spent a most enjoyable three days with them in these beautiful islands, snorkelling and enjoying the scenery. For the first time in ages we saw a large pod of dolphins and snorkeled with a turtle.

During the day the islands are very busy with dive boats and sightseeing boats, but up to about 11 in the morning and after 4 in the afternoon we had the anchorage almost to ourselves.