The island of Phuket is no stranger to tourists and, unfortunately, that can be a bad thing in some ways. Beaches can be crowded, neighbourhoods can be loud, and the relaxing, seaside escape from the concrete jungle can actually just become a transfer to a seaside jungle. Despite this, there are still pockets of seclusion and serenity on the island of Phuket, and while some places are really secluded, and as far away from civilisation as they can be, The Boathouse Phuket has hit the rare, sweet spot of being tranquil in the middle of a somewhat bustling neighbourhood.
Located on Phuket’s west coast at Kata, The Boathouse Phuket has been around for a number of years and has changed management a couple times. Their very latest relaunch, giving the hotel a new makeover with a yacht-like design, had them reopen their doors to the public last November. But despite the change in management and the top-to-bottom revamp, we were glad to see that they stuck to their roots, because back when it started, The Boathouse Phuket was solely a restaurant. Patrons would eat and drink the night away and an increasing number of them wanted to spend the night, so rooms were added to accommodate the demand. Thus, the nickname “The Restaurant With Rooms” was given to The Boathouse.
That remains true even in its current version. The rooms The Boathouse Phuket has to offer, from its deluxe rooms to its suites, offer absolute comfort, a true home away from home. It’s not just the amenities or the features of the room that makes it feel this way, but the accommodating staff as well. We’re sure you’ll get onto a first-name basis with them during your stay, particularly when it comes to Max Chin, the hotel’s general manager, who takes time to walk around and talk to the guests.
But of course, being dubbed “The Restaurant With Rooms” means that the highlight of it all is the restaurant. The legacy of The Boathouse Restaurant remains intact and their dishes are nothing short of spectacular. Their signature (and, in our opinion, a must-try when you dine there) is the Massaman kae, a perfect combination of tender lamb and the famous curry. Refreshing salads that feature tropical fruits are available, perfect for their beach set-up, as well as a number of tropical-fruit drinks and shakes that you can nurse while relaxing beachside.
Paired with the Thai and international cuisine is a wide and varied selection of wines, with over 600 labels in their carefully curated cellar. Just ask the resident sommelier for a recommendation on what goes great with what and you’ll surely not be disappointed. Their cocktails are perfect for a sunset drink. But you should definitely try the famous Piper-Heidsieck champagne to go with your dinner.
The Boathouse Phuket is homey, with nothing but friendly staff. But more than that, it’s definitely a culinary destination for Phuket. It’s perfect for a getaway from the urban chaos, but even if you’re already in Phuket and just looking for a great place to dine, definitely pay The Boathouse a visit.
The Boathouse Phuket is at 182 Koktanode Road, Kata Beach, Phuket. Visit boathouse-phuket.com or fb.com/boathousephuket. Several packages are on offer to celebrate its relaunch. Book for 2, 5 or 7 consecutive nights from now until Feb 15 to receive sizeable discount of 40-50%. Book 30 days in advance to get 35-40% off their BAR (best available rate) for stays from Feb 25-Oct 31. Their “Stay 4 Pay 3” offer means you stay four nights for the price of three. At the time of this writing, room rate starts at B7,700 per night. Visit their website for more info and to book.
