The Kata Rocks Poker Run is a rally circumnavigating the island of Phuket, and the best crews arrive prepared. Whether this is your first run or your tenth, these seven tips will help you enjoy every mile of the Andaman Sea on Saturday 19 December.
The best poker run crews blend a confident skipper, a good navigator and at least one person whose only job is to keep spirits high. Entry is per person, with the skipper and their boat counting as one ticket, so confirm your line-up early and secure early bird entry before 30 November.
Check fuel, safety equipment, life jackets and communications on Friday, not Saturday morning. A well-prepared boat means more time at each stop and less time troubleshooting. If you are joining the Superyacht Rendezvous Brunch on Friday, plan your checks for the morning before you come ashore.
Your official map is handed over at registration from 12:00 at Kata Rocks. Take a few minutes with your crew to plan your route between the five locations before the 13:00 start. A clear plan keeps the day relaxed.
The Andaman Sea is at its calmest in December, yet conditions on the water always deserve respect. Keep your skipper clear-headed, stay hydrated and save the celebrations for the awards evening, where free-flow local beers and sparkling are waiting.
Matching crew looks are a poker run tradition. Your 2026 limited edition Poker Run shirt is included with every entry, and wearing it on the day makes for great photographs. Add a hat, polarised sunglasses and reef-safe sunscreen.
The cards decide the winner, so there is no prize for rushing past the scenery. Linger at each stop, enjoy the mid-run break for food and drinks, and take in the coastline. Some of the best memories happen between the checkpoints.
There are two ways to be remembered at the awards evening. The strongest hand takes the awards, while the fastest time earns the bragging rights. Decide early which glory your crew is chasing, or be bold and go for both.
The awards evening runs from 18:00 to 21:00 back at Kata Rocks, with a burgers and BBQ buffet to close the weekend in style.
Reserve Now and bring your crew to the Andaman Sea.
