Whale Watching in the Gulf of Thailand
Wild Bryde’s whales feeding a short boat ride from the coast: a private day on a local boat in the upper Gulf of Thailand, from Bangkok or from Hua Hin.
Tour overview
Bryde’s whales live all year in the upper Gulf of Thailand, and from about September to December they come close to the coast to feed on schools of small fish, often opening their huge mouths at the surface with seabirds all around. This private day takes you out on a local boat with an experienced captain who knows the feeding areas. From Bangkok you drive about an hour to the pier in Samut Sakhon; from Hua Hin you leave from the Laem Phak Bia area in Phetchaburi. Watching is calm and respectful: the boat keeps its distance and turns off the engine near the whales. You may also see dolphins and many seabirds. On the way back you stop at the salt fields, where salt is still harvested by hand.
Scheduled stops
- •Pier in Samut Sakhon (from Bangkok)
- •Private boat in the Gulf of Thailand
- •Bryde’s whales and seabirds
- •Salt fields
Whale watching itinerary (from Bangkok)
Times are approximate and may vary depending on traffic, queues, temple access and local conditions. The order of visits may be adjusted when necessary to provide the smoothest experience.
Hotel pickup in Bangkok
About one hour to the pier in Samut Sakhon.
Boarding
Life jackets and a short briefing with the captain.
Whale watching
About five to six hours in the feeding areas; the captain follows the latest sightings from local fishermen.
Lunch on board
A simple lunch is not included in the standard tour price and is available on request; bring snacks and water.
Back at the pier
Return to the harbour.
Salt fields
A short stop at the salt fields along the coast.
Return to Bangkok
Start of the drive back.
Estimated arrival at your hotel
Around 17:30, depending on traffic.
Photo gallery
Photos: Nik Cyclist (CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons) · JJ Harrison (CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons)
Frequently asked questions
Can the tour start in Hua Hin?
Yes. From Hua Hin you drive about an hour to the Laem Phak Bia area, go out from 07:30 to about 12:00, then visit the salt fields; you are back around 15:30. From 18,700 THB for 2 guests. Mention it in your message.
Are whales guaranteed?
No. Sightings are very likely in season, but these are wild animals and the sea decides. The tour runs from about September to December; in other months on request.
Is the tour private?
Yes. The vehicle, the driver and the guide are only for your group (1–8 people). Larger groups on request.
What if the sea is rough?
Safety comes first: if the captain advises against going out, we move the tour to another day or refund it.
What is included
- Licensed local English-speaking guide.
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with driver, fuel, tolls and parking.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in central Bangkok, or in Hua Hin, Cha-am and Pranburi.
- Private local boat with captain and crew, life jackets and drinking water on board.
- Basic travel insurance for every customer, the guide and the driver.
Tour price inclusions and exclusions
- The private boat with captain and crew is included.
- The price shown is for the tour from Bangkok; from Hua Hin it starts at 18,700 THB for 2 guests.
- Lunch is not included in the standard tour price; it is available on request.
- Price for the whole private group, VAT included.
Practical tips
- Bring motion-sickness tablets if you are sensitive on boats.
- A hat, sunglasses and strong sunscreen: there is little shade at sea.
- A camera with a zoom lens or binoculars is useful.