If you’re heading to Ko Lanta, one thing’s for certain: the sea and islands are the main attractions. This island is not just about relaxing on beaches; it’s a hub for amazing boat trips that take you into some of Thailand’s most stunning waters. Whether it’s wandering through caves, snorkeling over coral reefs, or exploring mangroves, the options are plentiful and diverse. We particularly like the Koh Lanta: 4 Islands and Emerald Cave Tour by Longtail Boat for its combination of snorkeling and exploring the famous Emerald Cave. It offers a full day of adventure with a good balance of scenery, wildlife, and local flavor.
Ko Lanta’s boat tours shine because they give you close-up access to Thailand’s marine life and pristine beaches, often with fewer crowds than other parts of the country. From half-day mangrove trips to full-day island-hopping excursions, there’s something for every traveler. And with prices starting as low as $23, these tours are often excellent value considering what’s included.
Quick Overview
Our list includes island-hopping cruises like the 4 Islands Snorkeling Tour, which focuses on snorkeling in vivid coral reefs. For those interested in eco-tourism, the Mangrove Boat Trip with Lunch offers a peaceful journey through lush mangroves and bird-watching. Adventure seekers will love the Phi Phi Day Trip by Speed Boat, which combines snorkeling, beach walks, and lively marine parks. For a custom experience, private tours like the Lanta 4 Islands tour let you set your own pace.
Below, we reveal the details behind each top-rated boat tour to help you find the right fit.
1. Koh Lanta: 4 Islands and Emerald Cave Tour by Longtail Boat
This full-day adventure takes you to four islands in the south of Koh Lanta, with highlights including the famed Emerald Cave on Koh Mook. Starting with a breezy long-tail boat ride, you’ll visit Koh Cheuak for snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, then explore the Emerald Cave, which requires swimming through a tunnel to reach a secret lagoon. The tour includes a Thai-style beach picnic surrounded by tropical forests and a visit to Koh Maa to feed tropical fish and see the local bat population.
Rated 4.5 out of 5 with 450 reviews, many travelers praise the balance of activity and relaxation. The tour’s value comes from the inclusion of snorkeling gear, lunch, and the chance to see some of Thailand’s most iconic spots in one day. Perfect if you want a mix of adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty. The only downside? It’s a longer day, so be prepared for a full schedule. Overall, a top pick for those who want an immersive water experience.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, full-day tour suitable for active travelers eager to see the Emerald Cave and snorkel among coral reefs.
2. Ko Lanta: 4 Islands Snorkeling Tour by Longtail Boat
At number 2, this snorkeling-focused trip explores Koh Ngai, Koh Chueak, Koh Mook, and Koh Ma. The trip emphasizes discovering underwater life, with stops at the best snorkeling sites near Koh Lanta. Guests rave about the colorful tropical fish and large coral reefs they encounter, with some noting the experience is less crowded than other tours, allowing more room to enjoy the marine environment.
The tour lasts a full day and includes snorkeling equipment, with opportunities to sunbathe on paradise-like beaches with white sand and turquoise waters. The highlight is the chance to swim in calm, warm seas with vibrant marine life. Priced at $35, it offers good value for around 120-150 minutes of snorkeling, along with beach relaxation. It’s ideal for snorkelers who want a dedicated day exploring underwater ecosystems.
Bottom Line: Perfect for snorkelers seeking clear waters, abundant fish, and fewer crowds. A straightforward, enjoyable day on the water.
3. Ko Lanta: Half Day Tour Mangrove Boat Trip With Lunch
For those more interested in eco-tourism and tranquil scenery, this half-day tour offers a peaceful exploration of Koh Lanta’s mangrove forests. Traveling by longtail boat, you’ll see mudskippers, fiddler crabs, and birdlife, all while floating through lush waterways. The tour includes a visit to a local fish farm and a relaxing lunch with seasonal fruits at a mangrove restaurant.
Rated 4.5 out of 5 with 88 reviews, travelers love the chance to experience nature up close without the crowds. It’s a short, affordable trip—just $28—and ideal if you’re looking for a gentle, nature-focused outing. The guide’s knowledge makes it educational and fun for eco-conscious travelers or families. A great way to appreciate the quieter, natural side of Koh Lanta.
Bottom Line: A peaceful, eco-friendly trip that’s best for wildlife lovers and those seeking a slower pace.
4. Ko Lanta: Phi Phi Day Trip by Speed Boat
The full-day Phi Phi tour by speedboat offers the quintessential island-hopping experience. It hits the highlights: snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, wandering along Maya Bay’s famous beach, and exploring Phi Phi Don. The tour includes a buffet lunch on the beach and a stop at Bamboo Island, known for its white sandy coastline.
Rated 4 out of 5 with 170 reviews, this trip gets high marks for well-organized logistics and friendly crew. The boat is comfortable, and the itinerary offers plenty of opportunities to swim, sunbathe, and snorkel. Some reviews note that the crowded nature of the popular spots can be overwhelming, especially at Maya Bay, which is now somewhat protected but still busy. For around $57, it’s a good value considering the length and activities packed into 7 hours.
Bottom Line: An energetic, full-day adventure ideal for travelers wanting to see the iconic Phi Phi Islands in one go, with plenty of snorkeling and beach time.
5. A full Day Haa & Rok islands from Koh Lanta (By Speed Boat)
This full-day snorkeling trip takes you to Koh Rok Nai, Koh Rok Nok, and Koh Haa. The focus is on snorkeling at pristine spots with equipment, lunch, and fresh fruit included. You’ll visit two Rok islands with crystal-clear waters, then finish at Koh Haa, famous for its underwater beauty. It’s rated 4.5 out of 5 with 36 reviews, highlighting friendly guides and spectacular marine life.
The itinerary includes multiple snorkeling stops, with the bonus of lounging on stunning beaches during the break. The lunch is served on the beach, making it a laid-back, full-day affair suitable for families and snorkelers. The price at around $47 offers good value for a full day of underwater exploration.
Bottom Line: Excellent for snorkelers wanting multiple stops and a relaxed day with good food in a beautiful setting.
6. Ko Lanta: Emerald Cave and 4 Islands Tour by Longtail Boat
This 8-hour tour pairs visits to the Emerald Cave with stops at four islands, including Koh Mook and Koh Ngai. It features snorkeling, sightseeing, and a Thai picnic on Koh Ngai’s beaches. The highlight is swimming through the tunnel to reach the secluded Emerald Cave, a truly memorable experience. Rated 4.2 out of 5 with 68 reviews, travelers appreciate the comprehensive itinerary and the chance to see marine life and stunning beaches.
The trip covers multiple water-based activities with an emphasis on adventure and scenery. Ideal for travelers comfortable with swimming and looking to maximize their time on the water. The inclusion of transfer and lunch makes this a convenient all-in-one option.
Bottom Line: A balanced, full-day trip for those who want both adventure and relaxation in one package.
7. From Ko Lanta: Mangrove Eco-Excursion by Longtail Boat
This eco-tour explores Tung Yee Peng’s mangroves, focusing on wildlife observation—monkeys, birds, mudskippers, and fiddler crabs. Rated 4.8 out of 5 with 8 reviews, it’s a small, intimate experience perfect for nature lovers. The tour includes a lunch with views of the mangroves and opportunities to learn about conservation efforts.
The trip emphasizes wildlife watching and is suitable for those looking for a peaceful, educational outing. It’s short but packed with nature encounters. The tour is especially appealing for eco-conscious travelers or families wanting a quiet, scenic day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil, educational experience.
8. Lanta 4 Islands tour (Longtail boat)
This 8-hour tour is a family-friendly island-hopping experience, visiting Koh Cheuek, Koh Mook, Koh Maa, and Koh Ngai. It features snorkeling, beach relaxation, and all necessary equipment included. Travelers appreciate the no-fuss logistics, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, making it easy to enjoy the day without hassle.
The itinerary offers a good mix of snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing at each island, with plenty of time to explore. At $28.46, it’s a cost-effective way to see more of the surrounding islands, especially if you’re new to the area.
Bottom Line: A straightforward, family-friendly cruise offering a relaxed day on multiple islands, perfect for first-time visitors.
9. Half day Mangrove by Kayaking or Longtail boat from Koh Lanta
For a more active, nature-focused outing, this half-day tour lets you paddle through Koh Lanta’s mangroves or take a longtail boat. Rated 4.0 out of 5 with 55 reviews, it’s great for kayaking enthusiasts and wildlife watchers wanting to see monkeys in their natural habitat. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient.
It’s perfect if you enjoy paddling or quiet boat rides, and want to learn about the mangrove ecosystem from an expert guide. The tour is short, about 3 hours, making it suitable as a morning or afternoon activity. Note to bring water and sun protection.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers who want an intimate look at Koh Lanta’s mangroves and wildlife.
10. Ko Lanta: Kayak and Long-Tail Boat Nature and Wildlife Tour
This 5-hour tour combines kayaking and long-tail boat rides to explore Koh Talabeng’s caves, Koh Phee’s ghostly formations, and the surrounding waters. Rated 4.6 out of 5 with 8 reviews, it appeals to those looking for a hands-on, active day with wildlife encounters like feeding monkeys.
Travelers love the diverse scenery and the opportunity to see marine and terrestrial animals up close. The tour also includes hotel pickup and is suited for those comfortable with physical activity. It offers a good balance between adventure and sightseeing.
Bottom Line: For active travelers wanting a mix of kayaking, wildlife, and scenic boating, this tour delivers.
11. Koh Lanta Mangrove and Monkey Point Longtail Boat Tour
With a perfect 5-star rating, this short but rich experience includes a trip to Tung Yee Peng’s mangroves and Monkey Point. Travelers rave about how relaxing and rewarding the trip is, especially for those who want to see monkeys in their natural environment while cruising peaceful waterways.
The tour is economical at $21.73, and its concise nature makes it ideal for a half-day activity. It’s best suited for families or wildlife enthusiasts who want to combine scenery and animal watching without a full day commitment.
Bottom Line: A top-rated, quick trip for wildlife lovers and those seeking a peaceful boat ride.
$21.73 per person
12. Mangrove Boat Trip in Ko Lanta With Lunch
This short tour offers a comfortable boat ride through Koh Lanta’s mangroves, coupled with a local lunch. The 3-hour experience is highly rated, especially for its relaxing pace and scenic environment. You’ll see fiddler crabs, birds, and possibly monkeys, all while enjoying authentic Thai food.
It’s ideal if you want a taste of nature combined with good local cuisine without committing to a full-day trip. A great choice for families, seniors, or anyone wanting a gentle, scenic adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, nature and food experience that’s both relaxing and full of wildlife.
$23.01 per person
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour
When selecting your ideal boat trip, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. If snorkeling is your priority, tours like 4 Islands Snorkeling or the Rok Islands snorkeling offer great underwater experiences. Want a quieter, eco-focused getaway? The Mangrove Eco-Excursion is excellent. Curious about wildlife? The Mangrove and Monkey Point trip fits perfectly.
For those with limited time, half-day options like the Mangrove and Monkey Point or Mangrove Boat Trip with Lunch provide a taste of the environment without a full-day commitment. Book early, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on popular trips like the Phi Phi day or Emerald Cave tours.
Final Thoughts
Ko Lanta offers an impressive variety of boat tours for every type of traveler, from snorkelers and wildlife lovers to eco-enthusiasts. If you’re after a full-day adventure with marine life and caves, the Koh Lanta: 4 Islands and Emerald Cave Tour is a standout. For a more relaxed, nature-focused experience, try the Mangrove Eco-Excursion. And if your goal is to explore Iconic Phi Phi or hidden reefs, the speedboat trips deliver on excitement and scenery.
No matter which tour suits your style, booking early is wise—these trips fill up fast during high season. Now, get ready to enjoy the stunning waters and islands of Ko Lanta, where every boat ride promises a memorable story.