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At some times of the year, it can be tricky to sail in Phuket
waters . . . especially for the beginner. There is a very
viable option, however: Laguna Phuket. The resort, comprising
some five hotels, is on the west coast of the island, amidst
a wonderful mixture of fresh-water lakes, beaches and eye-catching
scenery. So . . . why recommend this in an article about watersports?
No matter what the weather, the Hobie Cats and other craft
available at Laguna can be safely sailed on their inland waterways
. . . and it's great fun!
September is potentially the wettest month in Phuket, but
like the rest of the “rainy season” there can be “mini high
seasons”. In some areas, however, it is recommended not to
venture too far into the sea. At Laguna Phuket, the freshwater
lagoons provide the perfect alternative. At the Allamanda
Laguna Phuket, Hobie Cats are available year-round.
Hobie Cats are basically lightweight catamarans, ideal for
fun sport on the water. The first Hobie product was designed
as a surfboard and built in 1950, by a High-School student
(Hobie Alter) and his father, in their garage. They were faster
and lighter than any other surfboard on the market.
Hobie Cats originated in 1967 and revolutionised the sailing
world. The fibreglass design enables people to single-handedly
enjoy exciting sailing in the surf . . . or take pleasure
in the calm of a lagoon.
As Ms Abigail Brown, Sports and Recreation Manager of Allamanda
says, “the lagoon is protected by buildings and trees, so
the wind is lessened, but is enough to enjoy good sailing”.
Staff members are fully trained to teach guests the art of
sailing a Hobie Cat or any of the other water craft on offer.
Sailing lessons are available year-round and the lagoons provide
the ideal setting . . . even in the rain! As Abigail says,
“we also provide windsurfers, canoes and paddle boats, all
available with instructors. These activities are popular with
guests of all ages and families especially enjoy going on
the water together.”
Each hotel in the Laguna complex has Hobie Cats, most are
used in the sea but return to the safety of the Allamanda's
lagoon during the low season. The lagoons are actually old
tin mines and although they are very deep (40 metres in places)
the depth is regulated by a dam near the Laguna Beach Resort.
Hobie Cats are really good fun, to the extent that some 100,000
are in the water worldwide. Some even refer to the love of
the craft as “the Hobie way of life”.
To try the experience (whether you are a novice or a seasoned
pro')
Contact the Allamanda Laguna Phuket
on (66 76) 324 359, fax (66 76) 324 360 or
E-mail them at: allamanda@lagunaphuket.com
attention of the Sports and Recreation Department: Good
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