I am contemplating taking a Star Clipper cruise RT from Phuket November of 2008. There are two different itineraries. Having never been to this part of Thailand I was wondering if one seems more interesting than the other for experiencing life/culture on a Thai island:

Northbound: Surin Islands, Similan Islands, Hin Daeng/KO Rok Nok, Langkawai, Phi Phi Islands, Phang Nga/Ko Khai Nok.
Southbound: Batong group, Penang, Ko Lipe, Ko Khai Nok, Phang Nga/Ko Hong, Similan Islands

If anyone has feedback on my choices let me know. I haven't booked anything yet. Thanks for your help on planning this trip.

Susie

Wow, quite a choice, but I think it is easier, first option includes Langkawi and Phi Phi, my humble opion therefore would be to go for that route.

Are these those tall masted sail ships ?

I saw one anchored out from Patong last December and it looked absolutely 'stunning'.

From the pictures in the brochure and web site, yes they are tall masted. I've been on 30+ cruises but never on a sailing ship.The southbound includes Pennag which I've been to, the northbound Langkawi which I've not. That may help me decide. But I'd still like opinions as to whether this is a good way to spend the only week I have in Thailand. The second week of our vacation will be in Cambodia.

Tour option 1 is far superior especially if you enjoy snorkeling and/or diving. But beware the cabins are very small unless you are in the top 2 categories. About 1/2 of a superior/deluxe but not a suite on a Celebrity ship built in past 4-5 yrs.

Susiesan, Haven't done the Thailand Star Clipper but have done two other star clipper itineraries and absolutely loved the ship! When we retire we plan on doing the 37 days trip on the clipper. Sailed from Istanbul to Athens, also the Cannes, France to Croatia ones. They actually sail the ship. You can elect to do a guided tour with them or wander on your own. They anchor in close to the towns so you can go back and forth by their boat shuttle that leaves the dock every 30 minutes. Service is good, lectures good, and loved the fact that it carries only about 170 people when full. It's the closest you will get to a private charter feeling. Great experience! People were interesting-not all Americans, well traveled, and easy to talk with and enjoy.The cabins were a bit tight but were never a problem for us. Only went below to clean up or sleep. Sat at the outside bar and had a drink while the other cleaned up so that we never bumped butts. Worked out beautifully.
Great ship, great fun and wish I could do every trip we take on a starclipper.