John Gray's Sea Canoe

Eco tourism has become a growing trend around the world, especially in tropical areas. Visitors can go on expeditions to various places by land, air, or sea, and learn about nature at the same time. It has become a thriving part of the tourist industry, and appeals to a great deal of people who are concerned about the environment in some way. These days, that category fits just about everyone.

In Phuket, ocean tours through Phan Nga Bay have become commonplace. John Gray’s Sea Canoe is the best company in Phuket to host your own personal Eco tour, and it is the only sea caving operator that adheres to truly professional standards . Renowned Hawaiin environmentalist John “Ling Yai” Gray has been an activist for over fifty years, and now holds his base of operations here on the island. Along with running John Gray’s Sea Canoe, he also does regular cleanup on the ocean, and teaches the local population the importance of taking care of the the environment.

Going on a tour with Gray is as inspiring as it is fun. His staff lovingly refer to him as Ling Yai or “Big Monkey,” given to him due to his and playful, fun loving demeanor. Gray has built a reputation for himself in Phuket as a steadfast devoted activist and as prodigal explorer. He is very knowledgeable about the area, of navigation, and will be able to answer any questions you might have regarding issues plaguing the local ecosystem. He is certified in SCUBA, has his Senior Lifeguard Certificate, Honolulu Ocean Lifesaver Certificate, and is a ACA Sea Kayaking certified instructor. He teaches his staff the highest in professional western standards, and it shows. The number one concern of John and his staff is your personal safety, and no expense is spared in making sure of that.

The tours themselves are very accommodating and comfortable. Clients can choose between day trips, to overnight trips that can span several days. All itineraries are designed by John Gray himself. The most common trip that most clients take with John Gray’s Sea Canoe is the Hong by Starlight adventure.

Departing from Ao Por Pier, the Sea Canoe boat travels north east to Nakaya Island, circles past Phanak Island, and then brings visitors to the famous Hong Island, and then returns to Phuket. The entire trip is fully equipped with great meals, training, and a first hand educational experience about the environment. Here is the schedule of the trip:

Starlight Itinerary:
Hotel Pick-up at 30-60 minutes before departure. 11:00-13:00
Escort Boat Departs from Pier
Thai-style Light Lunch
Nature and Safety Briefing
1300 to Sunset
Afternoon of Tranquility
Sea Caving, Hong Exploring
Swimming
Then make your own Thai Seafood Sunset Dinner Buffet
Sunset-Return
Hong by Starlight Kayak Tour
Loi Kratong Ceremony – Tranquility Float
Return to Ao Por Pier and transport back to your hotel]

The Hong by Starlight is but one standard trip that clients can choose from. There are a variety of different places to choose from depending on what you want out of the trip. Customizable tours are also available at special request. John and his staff encourage you to make your trip timeless. “We put you in your own documentary” says John, and he does not disappoint.

Prices:
Hong By Starlight:
3,950 Baht Per Guest
Children 6-12 Yrs. 1,975 Baht
Children Under 6 Yrs. Go for free

Another trip is also available. It mixes Hong by Starlight and an overnight trip called Camping Day In The Islands in one convenient package. This combines the visit to Hong island with overnight camping in Phan Nga bay. Total cost for this is 9,775 Baht per guest for 4 guests or more, or 12,775 Baht per guest for 2 or more guests. The price of the trip includes transport to and from your hotel anywhere in Phuket, the boat trip, kayak rental, and meals.

For more information visit http://johngray-seacanoe.com/
Tel. +(6676) 254505-7