Moana Journey on the Sea
As I stepped aboard the gleaming double-decker super-yacht decorated with colorful lanterns and tropical floral arrangements, a crew member greeted me with a glass of crisp champagne. This was my welcome aboard the Moana Andaman Signature’s small-group luxury sailing to some of Thailand and Myanmar’s most breathtaking and remote islands.
After a short toast wishing everyone an incredible journey at sea, our group of 12 travelers was led to our stately suites to settle in before setting sail. The airy stateroom featured floor-to-ceiling windows, a luxurious bed, stylish furnishings and the perfect oasis to relax into the sailing ahead of the Andaman Sea in Phuket,Thailand island.
Soon after, we gathered to meet the crew and captain in the elegant lounge to hear about the remarkable services, amenities and bespoke itineraries crafted specifically for Moana Andaman Signature guests. Our smiling bartender appeared to refresh champagne glasses before the executive chef discussed meal plans, describing mouthwatering regional dishes and fine wines carefully selected to pair flawlessly each day.
As the ship sailed swiftly over azure waters, I gazed out floor-to-ceiling windows with childlike wonder at the mysterious islands growing closer on the horizon. Over the next week, we explored secluded white-sand beaches only accessible by sea, observed traditional island cultures, snorkeled among vibrant corals and marine life, immersed in spiritual wellness experiences and dined on tantalizing cuisine personalized to our preferences by the onboard culinary team.
Mornings began gently with sunrise yoga sessions on an open upper deck followed by fresh tropical fruit and juices. As we sailed through gemstone waters, some days included talks on regional history and customs while others were left unscheduled for reading, lounging in the jacuzzi or indulging in treatments.
When we anchored, guided island shore excursions commenced – jungle treks and waterfall swims, tours of ancient villages, cooking classes with locals, or cycling through rubber tree plantations. We explored local markets and purchased handmade textiles and crafts, pausing to enjoy tea with welcoming residents.
Later afternoons were reserved for snorkeling dazzling reefs or water sports launched from the ship’s activity marina. At sunset, unique cultural performances were arranged on secluded beaches with bonfires, traditional music and dancing – magical settings where time seemed suspended.
Our decadent culinary experiences matched the sublime island adventures – dishes bursting with fresh regional flavors, spectacular seafood barbecues on the beach, intricate multi-course tasting menus paired with exceptional wines. The remarkable personalized service never ceased to impress our small group.
As we sailed toward our final island on the seventh evening, watching the red sun melt into the sea as flying fish skimmed ruby waters at sunset, I reflected with immense gratitude at having experienced this once-in-a-lifetime voyage into indigenous island cultures and breathtaking tropical landscapes, made possible by the outstanding Moana Andaman Signature cruise.
