Phuket Weather in November: Smoother Seas, Brighter Skies, Easier Touring

The month of November is when the Phuket tourism season comes alive. The rainy season departs, the air gets clearer and the Andaman sea gets calmer. If you are touring the region in November, boat tours bring calmer conditions, warmer waters and an ample increase in sunshine.

An overview

Phuket weather in November is a welcome reset. Showers still occur on occasion, but they are shorter in duration and more localised. Winds ease and subsequently the sea begins to smooth out, especially inside sheltered bays. Water temperatures rise to a comfortable level, so you can happily wade in the waters for ages and not feel uncomfortable.

Phuket Weather  - November Days

In November, sunrise is potentially the best time to set sail across the Andaman Sea with the mornings still and bright. As the day progresses, you may encounter a quick shower storm before the blue skies reappear. Humidity is still present, although much less sticky than that which is encountered throughout September and October. As the sun departs for the day, you may be greeted with exceptional sunsets (especially if the clouds have dissipated) as you venture back to the mainland.

Which Island Provides the Calmest Trip

If you are prone to seasickness, then it is likely you'll want to plan for the calmest trip possible. The Phang Nga Bay tour and the Hong area of Krabi are both shielded by large karst formations that shelter visitors from the wind. This generates calmer waters that are suitable for families traveling with young children, and those who don't possess strong swimming skills. The extremely popular Phi Phi Island tour route is a little rougher to begin November but as the month progresses the waters become much more settled.

What about the Similan Islands?

During the month of November, The Similan Islands provide a fantastic opportunity to see a highly-protected region of Phuket in all its glory. Generally, visibility is enhanced on days when the weather is settled with the coral reefs appearing extra clear, as well as the waters surrounding the shore. Keep in mind that Similan Island boat tours are capped for conservation reasons so it is best to plan ahead if you are keen to journey to this destinations.

How Simba Sea Trips schedule tours in November

At Simba Sea Trips, our tours are guided by the weather in order to provide our guests with the ultimate experience. This means that all our boat tours of Phuket ensure that we travel with small group sizes, early departure times and flexible routing options to keep our trips as smooth as possible.

• Most reliable this month
  Phang Nga Bay and Koh Hong are the least likely tours to be disrupted by weather in November. Expect calm cruising, hidden lagoons, and relaxed snorkelling.

• Additional options as the month progresses
  The Phi Phi Islands and the Similan Islands improve in interest as destinations as the month progresses. From mid to late November when offshore winds decrease and the clouds get less frequent we find much more interest in terms of enquiries.

If the weather turns we are always prepared. The goal is always the same, a silky ride and unhurried time in the water.

A typical November rhythm

• Week 1
  Weather is a little bit more fickle, as the region transitions towards the high season. Early in the month, the bays are best. We offer Phi Phi on days with lighter wind and manageable conditions.

• Weeks 2 to 3
  Sunshine stretches out and seas calm further. More Phi Phi and Similan Island tours open up.

• Week 4
  High season is upon us. Most routes are good to go unless a brief front appears on the horizon.

What to pack

Generally we encourage our guests to keep items to a minimum. Returning travelers with Simba usually opt for a long-sleeve jacket that is light to ensure protection from the sun, likewise reef-safe sunscreen is encouraged, in addition to a bum-bag or small backpack for items such as phone. Most other equipment is provided such as snorkeling gear. We would generally not encourage a towel, as the sun generally does the job of drying for you.

Ready to book

If you want the calmest cruising with iconic scenery, pick Phang Nga Bay any day in November. If your heart is set on Phi Phi or the Similan Islands, mid to late month often brings the smoothest crossings. Tell us your dates and comfort level, and we will match you with the right route and the right morning start so your day feels optimized from the moment you first step on board.