How Can I Stay Updated on Weather Forecasts and Maritime Conditions While Sailing in Thailand Waters?

Though it may be the calm, tranquil waters that draw in yachts from around the world, when sailing Thailand’s captivating shores, it is essential to ensure you stay updated with maritime conditions and weather forecasts. Depending on the time of year, you will likely encounter diverse weather patterns in this paradise location, so knowing where to get the information you need is crucial. Thankfully, you can ensure safe and smooth sailing in several ways, from weather equipment to forecast websites; obtaining a comprehensive forecast can help you sail confidently. 

WHERE TO FIND ACCURATE WEATHER FORECASTS AND MARITIME CONDITIONS ONLINE

Before we set sail on a yachting trip, there are several sites we can check to ensure the weather is in our favour. One of the most accurate weather forecasts specifically aimed at sailors in Thai waters is the Thai Meteorological Department, also known as the TMD. This website gives up-to-date and comprehensive forecasts and is exceptionally timely when issuing weather warnings and advisories. This site covers everything from wind speed and wave height to storm activity. When taking a yacht out in Thai waters, it is highly recommended to plan your voyage based on the information provided by the TMD. 

Another brilliant source of information is the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. This is a global weather forecast and marine condition resource, but it provides comprehensive data, accurate forecasts, weather charts, sea surface temperature maps, wind forecasts, and satellite imagery to help assess weather patterns and safely plan your trip. 

Additionally, there are other websites to ensure the information is accurate. Bouyweather, Thailand Marine Guide, Novionics, Southeast Asian Pilot, Windy.com, and PredictWind also provide detailed analyses and give you access to valuable tools such as weather models and interactive maps. These online platforms also offer customisable features such as wave forecasts, wind animations, and weather alerts. This means we can visualise patterns, ensure we are sailing in our preferred conditions, and plan accurately. 

WHEN TO BE CAREFUL WHEN NAVIGATING THAI WATERS

In Thailand, there are two seasons. The wet season runs between May and October, and the dry season between November and April. Certain waters may be rough during the dry season due to the northeast monsoon, but the conditions are generally relatively stable. However, in the wet season, winds increase with the Southwest monsoon, sometimes making sailing a little tricky. During this time, it can be challenging to dock on the western coast of Phuket. Additionally, during the wet season, we should always expect between 2 and 3 hours of rain in the evening. 

FURTHER INFORMATION

While it is advisable to always check the forecast using as many resources as possible, we must also ensure we are venturing into Thai waters with appropriate equipment. This includes a weather radio to give you real-time forecasts and a VHF radio with weather channels. Additionally, you can have onboard weather instruments such as anemometers, wind indicators, and barometers. If you want to find out more or are interested in purchasing or chartering a yacht, contact Simpson Marine today. We have been leading the industry for over forty years, and there isn’t much we can’t help with.