EXPERIENCE: Aumgaia; ship with soul
As Aumgaia glides past the superyachts berthed at Phuket’s Yacht Haven Marina, she is the only one with any real character; the only ship with soul. A majestic Indian Dhow built in 1950, painted with a vivid Nali on her bow; she has a colourful history originally built as a passenger ferry serving along the West coast of India to Malpe. In the 1960s, Aumgaia functioned as a salvage vessel for divers reaping bronze from Portuguese shipwrecks until some time in the 70s when she was abandoned around Mangalore.
She eventually caught the eye of a Swiss couple who re-fitted and improved her design to become a fully liveable pleasure craft. Aumgaia was home to the couple for 19 years until she was bought by a Phuket resident who again re-designed her to accommodate special charter trips and sumptuous sunset cruises.
Coast out to an island cove and enjoy a day of kayaking, swimming or snorkelling among the jutting limestone karsts that render this region famous. Full catering can be arranged prior to departure or Aumgaia can sail to a fishing nook to purchase some of the region’s best seafood right from the fishermen. The crew will stoke up the barbecue and serve your fresh lobster, prawns or fish just the way you like it.
Fancy a luxurious spa treatment in the middle of scenic Phang-Nga Bay; or how about a day of therapeutic acupuncture in this relaxing environment? Aumgaia’s spa cruises can accommodate many forms of therapy.
The atmosphere is further enhanced by ambient music, expertly manipulated by Phuket’s leading mobile DJ, Kaleidoscope Sounds. Enjoy some classics, smooth jazz, rock or live music performed by some of the region’s best violinists, flautists, guitarists, even accordion players.
For charter information please contact Khun Kat
Tel: +66(0)81 719 2257
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DINE: The Euro Deli
Chef Maitree (Jo-Jo) Pakitanang presents a colourful array of mouth-watering fusion dishes at the Euro Deli Restaurant et Café in Kata beach. Having worked in top hotels in countries like Singapore, Jakarta, New Caledonia, Sardinia and the Ukraine, Chef Jo-Jo has amassed a culinary repertoire that few Thai chefs can rival.
Contrary to its name, the Euro Deli is not a delicatessen; rather the menu is extensive with a great range of soups, salads, appetizers and brasserie items including New Zealand lamb and beef and fresh Phuket seafood all served with artistic devotion. There is also a good selection of Thai food prepared in the manner of royal Thai cuisine and a separate menu of Russian delights.
Appetizers include a crab meat ravioli with mango salsa that is zesty and succulent; a sweet and spicy burst of flavours. The salmon tartare is tangy and aromatic with a strong hint of mustard and the pink prawn with avocado is an artistic and delicious rendition of an old favourite. For mains try the rack of lamb served with assorted vegetables and an amazing carrot mousse. The chicken cordon blue is rolled rather than pancaked, brimming with its lush cheesy filling. The tuna steak is lightly seared with a green peppercorn crust and served with fresh greens and a tasty balsamic and bell pepper sauce. The dessert menu includes a selection of tortes, ice cream and homemade sherbet.
Chef Jo-Jo’s artistic presentation and skillful use of complementary flavours won him the gold medal for Freestyle Challenge Cooking at the Phuket Food and Beverage Show 2006.
The Euro Deli, opposite Dino Park, Kata Beach.
For reservations please call +66(0)76 286 265
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