22 miles from Yacht haven
Otherwise known as Sea Gypsy Village, Koh Pan Yi island is built almost entirely on stilts over water to the south of the islands sheer cliffs. The people here are really Muslim fishermen, not Sea Gypsies as the tourist name suggests. The nearest real Sea Gypsies live far south on Phuket Island.
The approach from the south is clearly marked by a light structure on a small rocky islet at the river entrance and the course to the village is straight. Favour the right side, if any, to stay in deeper water. Anchor in 4-9 metres to the east of the village, taking care to avoid the many floating cages used for raising fish.
There are dinghy landings, many restaurants and souvenir shops in the village, which is usually packed with up to 3,000 tourists during the lunch period, but is quiet and peaceful in the late afternoon and evening.
Further north on the east side of Khao Khian are cave drawings dating far back, perhaps to Neanderthal times.
West of Khao Khian is a shallow mangrove river that meanders through rocky outcrops and past an awesome sheer cliff. This river eventually leads through Tham Lot cave approximately three miles from the village. Depths make this only suitable for small speedboats and dinghies.
Local tour operators are frequently seen racing up and down this river and can indicate where the deeper water is found. Keep to the outside of blind corners and keep a good lookout for speeding tour boats.
