Phuket Charters?

[CamH]

Friend from work is looking for fishing charter at Phuket. Found plenty of options but just wondering if anyone has any recommendations on one or another or if anyone has any first hand experience? Thanks.

Cameron

[trueblue]

No point trying to organise one before getting there. Much better to research this when he is there, and seeing the boat and crew in person.

Otherwise you are likely to think you have scored a real bargain game fishing trip and then when you arrive find that its in a long boat with a dozen other people given a handline each...

[fishphile]

I went on a couple that I had booked from the hotel whilst there. Looked good in the brochure and everything but both ended up being cowboy operations, Wrong gear and everything, Rusted reels and taped up rods. On one we trolled all day for a couple of small barracuda then stopped for a swim and all the coral had been harvested or dynamited.
I would definately suggest going and checking them out before booking a trip otherwise it can be a disheartening experience.
Sorry to be a downer but I wouldn't want your mate to have a bad experience especially as Phuket is a fantastic holiday.

Dave.

Oh yeah tell him to do one of the kayak trips, Awesome sights.

[CamH]

Good info - thanks guys.

[Spartan]

Cameron. I went in April 2004 and I agree with the above. I looked on the net at different tours (besides fishing) before going and found some of the prices too dear. I didn't book anything before getting there. On getting there by booking at the Hotel not only where they cheaper but word of mouth with other guests put us onto the better trips. My fishing trip was cancelled on the morning due to the weather, Ivcan't remember their name but speaking to other guests I didn't miss too much. Tell your mate to go to Fantasea, a spectacular show and well worth the price.