After lunch at the other side of Koh Miang (Similan Island No 4), we were told by the guide to proceed along a mosquito-infested dirt path to Princess Bay; where we had about 30 minutes to chill out at the beach.
What i didn't expect was how stunningly beautiful Princess Bay is; even my then still shaken dad (due to this particular incident) was impressed with the postcard-perfect view in front of him!
The seemingly lonesome island in the middle is Koh Payu (Similan Island No 7) but there's actually a bigger island behind which you will be able to spot when you move further left or right.
Soft, powdery sand!
Dad feeling better after soaking in the view although i didn't realise his eyes were closed! If not, this would have been printed out for his collection. Unlike our generation, my dad's generation still prefers hard copy and i would usually choose a few good ones after our trips and print them out.
I was undecided on the direction to take and couldn't make a decision if i should snorkel; given that it's right after lunch and i have the tendency to be seasick after a heavy lunch.
However, i didn't eat much and i figured it should be fine to snorkel; i hope. Anyway, the left side appeared to have lesser people and i guess i would try my luck there instead.
On second thought, i should have checked out the rocks on the right as it seemed like a good spot to take some pictures! With just 30 minutes at Princess Bay, my main worry was whether i have sufficient time.
Now you know what i mean by lesser people on the left side of Princess Bay; i can count the number of people at this area using my two hands!
The right side which was filled with people!
Snorkeling time and i am glad to see my dad being excited over it even though he almost drowned a few hours ago! Click here if you wish to read more.
Don't bother snorkelling in the middle of the bay as there would be minimal marine creatures unless you want to risk it by swimming further out of Princess Bay. Instead, you should walk over to either ends of the bay, where the rocks are.
Spotted a puffer fish, i think!
Not many but there were a few larger fishes, including parrot fish and fishes that look like silver pomfret with three dots on the side of its body.
Sergeant major fishes again! Given the frequency i see them when snorkeling in Thailand and Malaysia; i have ever wondered before if they were predatory, with the ability to destroy other species.
A satisfied dad although if you ask him in person; he will tell you he would still prefer the mountains with a cool climate. Not just any mountain; only the ones in China.
Found a seashell which fit nicely on my middle finger! As Similan Islands is a national park; please do not take away any object! A fine applies if you break the rules although i personally think this should be basic courtesy for any traveller!
Do note the boat zone where swimming is disallowed! Other rules as indicated above in the right display board; by the way, you are not allowed to fly drone in the area. With the proliferation of drones in the market, it would be hard to enforce the rule.
Lifeguard lookout point - it's a safeguard but the responsibility is on you to protect yourself. Wear a life jacket at all time as its bright colour would attract attention should anything happen.
The Chinese tourists were really good in posing although i sometimes hope that they don't hog up the area as other visitors would also want to take pictures and it's not like we have all the time in the world. No issue at Princess Bay though as there's plenty of space.
Time for out speedboat to leave Princess Bay for our next destination!
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What else i did in Phuket?
Check out my 5-day Phuket itinerary here!