Ko Phanak, Phang Nga Bay
Rex1
Sat 14 Dec 2013 00:00
8.11.3N 98.29.1E
We left the marina at 11am as we were waiting for slack tide to ensure our safe exit through the shallow channel. We were in convoy with John and Sue from Storyteller but unfortunately they had to return to the marina due to an ongoing problem with their heat exchanger.
We motored 14 miles to the eastern side of Ko Phanak and as we were about to drop the anchor their was no power to the anchor remote - so we had to make an emergency anchor using a rope which we dropped in 3 metres of water. So much for using the brand new anchor chain! Greg said this is the first time there has ever been a problem with the anchor remote - he checked the solinoid which was fine and he thinks it is the batteries that power the anchor and bow thruster (which also didn't work as we were leaving the marina). I guess something was bound to happen as it was Friday 13th!
The scenery would be quite stunning if there wasn't so much smoke haze around and the water is a green colour due to 3 rivers that all flow into Phang Nga Bay. Not great for swimming, but ideal for a kayak! At about 3.30pm I followed a kayak tour into the nearest hong - it was 200 metres and was filled with bats. I think it takes a bit of getting used to - it was very dark and I used an LED headlamp- a bit eerie really, especially by yourself. However I love the kayak! There are lots of beautiful sea eagles around the island and the weather is very mild with a nice north easterly breeze.