‘World’s first’ floating beach club opens in Thailand
A lavish three-level floating beach club has opened in Phuket, Thailand, four months after the opening was delayed by authorities over safety and environmental concerns.
The Yona Floating Beach Club Phuket is a modified boat designed to accommodate up to 500 guests, offering amenities including a 22-metre infinity pool, private cabanas and Mediterranean and Japanese restaurants. It describes itself as the ‘world’s first’ floating beach club.
It is reportedly owned by a French businessman who has run a boat business in Phuket for a decade. He has invested in the business jointly with Thai partners.
In April 2023, authorities in Thailand blocked the owners from opening the vessel, stating further clarification on operating protocols was required before permission could be given.
In April, the Bangkok Post reported that representatives from the Phuket marine office had confirmed the boat was legally registered. However, it was later modified and fitted out to provide food and other services that were not in accordance with what the boat was designed for.
Phuket governor Narong Woonciew had also expressed concern about the impact of marine resources on such a large vessel, as well as safety in the face of strong wind or waves. An inspection reportedly found that the boat’s waste treatment system and the swimming pool’s water filtration system met general standards.
However, Yona has successfully navigated these concerns and opened on 8 August 2023.
The vessel, described as a ‘decadent oasis in the heart of the Asia Pacific’ has been in the works for six years. It will be stationed off Patong Beach during the peak season, and will relocate to Royal Phuket Marina on the east coast during low season.
“This is one more reason for superyachts to add to their list of reasons to visit/return to the ‘Superyacht Hub of Asia’, one of the world’s top superyacht cruising destinations,” says Gordon Fernandes, co-founder of superyacht agency Asia Pacific Superyachts. “Now yachting enthusiasts can enjoy the unique state-of-the-art multi-level beach club.”
Guests can relax by the 22-metre infinity pool and sip on a cocktail from a pool bed, dance to DJs and enjoy the scenery from the second-floor Sunset Terrace, or admire views of the Andaman Sea from third-floor rooftop.
The seaview restaurant serves up coastal, Mediterranean, Thai, and Japanese cuisine with a backdrop of DJs and a 360-degree ocean view.
Main image courtesy of @amazingthailand
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