Pongvarut “Phai” Prasongpongchai Expands Luxury Tourism with 70 Million Baht Catamaran PISCES in Phuket
Discover how the young heir of the Prasongpongchai family merges his deep Andaman roots with a sustainable luxury marine tourism venture.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Pongvarut Prasongpongchai invests 70 million baht to establish Cape Odyssey Co., Ltd. and launch the luxury catamaran "PISCES" in Phuket.
- The vessel measures 26 meters in length, 10.8 meters in width, accommodating up to 70 passengers with a capped shared capacity of 45 guests.
- Integrates eco-friendly practices in Phang Nga Bay National Park, featuring marine debris cleanups and mangrove planting initiatives.
- Offers premium private charters starting from 250,000 net baht for 30 guests equipped with top-tier amenities.
Modern tourism operations must prioritize sustainability alongside niche, immersive experiences. This core philosophy drives Pongvarut “Phai” Prasongpongchai, a dynamic young executive from the Prasongpongchai family who grew up navigating the Andaman Sea. Instilled with a deep respect for the ocean's immense power and unpredictable nature by his father, Theerapong Prasongpongchai, he previously found success pioneering eco-conscious tourism with "John Gray's Sea Canoe," introducing educational routes in the stunning Phang Nga Bay National Park that balance enjoyment with environmental responsibility.
Drawing from daily observations of catamaran operations at Ao Po Grand Marina in Phuket, Pongvarut spent over three months researching the market, analyzing competitors, and scouting boatyards across Phuket, Rayong, and Pattaya. After securing full approval from his family, including his father and sister Theerawalchu Techaubol, he founded Cape Odyssey Co., Ltd. The construction and interior customization of the vessel took approximately a year and a half with an investment of roughly 70 million baht, drawing inspiration from Pisces, the zodiac sign he shares with his twin brother, which symbolizes balance, connection, and freedom in the sea—the exact ethos of the family's Cape Hotel Collection.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
Named "PISCES", the newly launched catamaran spans 26 meters long and 10.8 meters wide, ranking among the largest operating in Phuket. Crafted from high-grade lightweight fiberglass, the hull delivers a remarkably stable, silent, and smooth glide over the water compared to heavier steel structures. The expansive deck is lined with premium genuine teak wood, built around three foundational concepts: unobstructed panoramic views, tasteful open-air spaces, and ultra-smooth navigation. Inside, a spacious air-conditioned saloon wrapped in expansive windows offers 360-degree views accompanied by a high-end sound system.
"We are part of the community's environmental stewardship, especially in maintaining cleanliness around the Ao Po Pier area and conducting beach cleanups in Thalang district, Phuket. With the readiness and capability of our team, we aim to spearhead environmental initiatives throughout the Phang Nga Bay region."
Pongvarut Prasongpongchai
Distinguishing itself from typical luxury charters that pack up to 80 passengers, "PISCES" limits shared excursions to a maximum of 45 guests to ensure privacy and comfort, arranging seating into isolated tables and private corners. It services premier routes including Naka Island, Koh Tapu (James Bond Island), Phanak Island, Hong Island, towering limestone cliffs, sea caves, and hidden lagoons. Alternatively, guests can book an exclusive "Premium Private Charter" starting from 250,000 net baht for 30 passengers, boarding from private beaches, hotels, or nearby piers to customized destinations such as Phi Phi Islands, Khai Islands, and Racha Yai Island. Onboard highlights include a DJ booth, multi-level flybridge connected to a teak sun deck, ocean floating pool, sunbeds, and water sports equipment like paddleboards, electric surfboards, and underwater scooters.
This strategic push into high-end marine tourism via a large-scale catamaran highlights how a new generation of Thai entrepreneurs is elevating the country's luxury tourism sector. By moving away from mass-volume tourism and embedding sustainability directly into luxury offerings within Phang Nga Bay National Park, the venture sets a strong benchmark for eco-conscious luxury travel in Southeast Asia, aligning modern nautical engineering with environmental preservation.
Source: Thairath Lifestyle
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