16th June 2009


Dear Members,

I assume everyone is aware of how the current visa regulations deter many visiting yachts from remaining in Thai waters & the subsequent loss of revenue to the country.

Present rules allow a Foreign Flagged Vessel to stay in Thai waters for 6 months or 12 months, if based in a marina.

Captain & crew of a vessel receive 1 month only. Strictly this is non extendable.
This rule is currently circumvented IF:
Captain & crew arrive with an “O” visa obtained from a consulate (2 months + 1 month extension, ttl cost 3,800 THB pp). This actually gives them single entry “tourist” status.
OR
They get a Visa On Arrival valid 1 month. In order to stay longer they must lay a deposit of 20,000 THB/person, exit Thailand, return as tourists and reclaim the bonds.

“Please note that with effect from Saturday 06 December 2008 any person eligible to enter Thailand under the “Visa Exemption Rule” will be granted a maximum stay of 30 days only if entering Thailand via an international airport. Persons entering Thailand through a land border checkpoint from a neighboring country will be granted a maximum stay of just 15 days”

The above processes can be completed 4 x only …at present. I gather this is a new rule.

I have been unable to find any specific rules relating to captain, crew, passengers or owners of Private leisure vessels.

Suggestions to present to The Interior Minister with the aim of increasing marine Tourism in Thailand

1. For countries that qualify for a Visa On Arrival, please consider a 90 day VOA for Captain & crew
2. For Captain & Crew that apply for a “Tourist Visa” please consider a 12 month option
3. To extend the stay of the vessel from 6 months to 12 months on arrival
4. To allow the above visas to be multiple entry
5. To discontinue the “bond” system since the vessel is proof of funds