Our thanks to regular contributor Anthony Swanston for this update from Krabi.

New management takes charge

Krabi River Marina lay unmanaged for about a year, with the plastic pontoons even catching fire one night.  But at the start of 2024, a local man took on the lease and asked the very experienced Matthew na Nagara, who owns and runs Port Takola Marina, to take overall management charge.

Many of the upright posts had become detached from the plastic lego pontoons, sparking fears that the marina may disappear down river on a spring ebb tide.  All are now securely attached.

All of the water taps now function, I have been drinking the water for six months with no ill effects.  All of the electric pylons now work and all of the previous frequent reverse polarity problems have been eliminated. Lights on the pontoons come on at dusk and stay on for the hours of darkness.  The shower and toilet block has been completely refurbished to an adequate standard. A security guard is on duty when the office is empty at night.

The office is run by Vicky, who is always very helpful.  Nothing is too much trouble and she prepares letters for immigration etc. in super-quick time.  There is a full-time engineer on site keeping things going and up to scratch.  He is always on hand to take lines.  Be aware of the fact that the current is very strong, especially the ebb current when combined with the river flow. Only come in to the Marina at slack water and be sure to stem any current there still is.

The lego pontoons are a bit coggily (unsteady/wobbly), but it’s not a problem.  The big advantage of this marina is that it is within walking distance of Krabi town with its many shops, bars, restaurants and supermarkets.  Big shopping centers, such as Big C and Lotus, are a 40 Bhat bus ride away or less than 200 Bhat in a Grab. Customs is a short walk away, Port Control and Immigration about three kilometers.

Email krabimarina2023@gmail.com for a berthing quote. Prices are very competitive.

Anthony Swanston
SV Wild Fox

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