4 Island Tour by Traditional Big Longtail Boat from Krabi

If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters, powdery beaches, and dramatic limestone formations, a day trip to Krabi’s famous 4 Islands might be just what you need. For around $31.64, you’ll spend roughly six and a half hours hopping between Tup Islets, Chicken Island, Poda Island, and Railay Beach — all aboard a traditional big longtail boat. Guided by friendly crew members and enjoying lunch on Poda Island, this tour offers a snapshot of some of Thailand’s most photogenic spots.

What we love about this experience is the authenticity of traveling by longtail boat, which adds a charming local touch to the sightseeing. Plus, the chance to snorkel in sheltered lagoons and walk across sandbars that reveal themselves at low tide makes it feel like stepping into a postcard. On the flip side, the main drawback is that it can feel a bit rushed, especially when the schedule is tight and weather conditions shift unexpectedly. If you’re someone who prefers several hours of leisure at each stop, this might not be your perfect match.

This tour suits adventurers and first-timers eager to see multiple islands in one day without breaking the bank. It’s a lively, well-organized outing that caters to those who enjoy a mix of scenery, water activities, and authentic boat travel. If you’re after pristine, untouched beaches with plenty of time to relax, you might want to consider longer, more secluded alternatives. But for energetic explorers wanting a taste of everything Krabi has to offer, this tour delivers.

Key Points

• Affordable & Efficient: For just over 30 dollars, you get a packed day of island hopping, snorkeling, and a Thai lunch.
• Authentic Transport: Traveling on a traditional longtail boat adds local flavor and a sense of adventure.
• Diverse Stops: From sandbars at Tup Islets to snorkeling at Chicken Island, each stop has its unique charm.
• Weather Dependent: As noted in reviews, weather can impact the experience, especially snorkeling and beach time.
• Rushed Itinerary: Many travelers mention the pace can feel hurried, with limited time at each location.
• Excellent Guides: Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides who make the trip enjoyable.

A Deep Dive into the 4 Islands Tour Experience

Starting Out: Convenient Pickups & Early Mornings

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Krabi or Ao Nang, usually around 7:50 to 8:45 am. The early start is key, as you want to maximize your time on the water. The pickup process is generally smooth, but some reviews note delays, especially during busy periods like Songkran. Once at Nang An Pier, you’ll quickly board your traditional longtail boat, which is part of the charm — a real slice of local life on water.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Cover & What It Means for You

Tup Island & Mor Island (Sandbar & Snorkeling)

Your first stop is Tup Island, famous for its shifting sandbank that appears at low tide, connecting it with Mor Island. Here, you’ll have about an hour to walk along the sand, enjoy the tropical fish swimming below, or snorkel if the tide’s high enough. The reviews highlight the “abundance of tropical fish,” making snorkeling a highlight. One traveler mentioned, “seeing monkeys at Railay, snorkeling, and swimming off the sandbar,” which shows how varied the experience can be.

Chicken Island & Its Unique Rock Formation

Next is Chicken Island, home to the famous rock formation resembling a chicken’s head. The steep cliffs and vibrant reef attract snorkelers and swimmers alike. One reviewer shared, “the island has steep cliffs with an amazing rock formation,” adding that exploring the rock formations provides a more adventurous side of the trip.

Poda Island & Lunch

Then it’s time for Poda Island, a favorite among many for its white sandy beaches and calm waters. You’ll get about an hour here to sunbathe, swim, or photograph the scenery. The included picnic lunch—often praised for its freshness—gives you a chance to refuel and chat with fellow travelers. A reviewer called the lunch “tasty” and appreciated the big Ice box of water, which is crucial in the tropical heat.

Railay Beach & Phra Nang Cave

The final stop is Railay Beach, with its limestone cliffs and the famed Princess Cave (Tham Phra Nang). This spot offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and a touch of local legend. You can explore the cave, take a dip, or simply marvel at the spectacular cliffs. The review mentioning “spectacular limestone cliffs and white coral sand” perfectly captures this area’s postcard vibe.

Practicalities: What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour provides hotel transfers, snorkeling gear, life jackets, and drinking water—all of which enhance safety and comfort. The lunch, with options for different diets, is a real plus, especially given the price point. The THB 200 national park fee is not included but is straightforward to pay on-site.

The Real Experience: What Travelers Say

Most reviews rave about how well-organized the trip is, highlighting helpful crew members and efficient scheduling. One reviewer commented, “the guides and boat crew were brilliant; so helpful getting people on and off the boat,” underscoring how important good support is when navigating multiple stops.

Yet, some reviews reveal the limitations of time, with many feeling they only get a short window at each stop. For example, “we only had about 30 minutes at Railay Beach,” which can feel rushed if you’re eager to explore more leisurely.

Weather unpredictability is another common theme. One traveler recounted getting caught in a storm at Poda Island, forcing the boat to wait, and the experience becoming more about patience than pure fun. Still, they appreciated the crew’s efforts to help everyone out of the storm safely.

Safety & Accessibility

While most travelers felt safe, a few noted hazards like slippery ladders and rough water conditions, especially when boarding or disembarking. On the whole, the professional guides and life jackets help mitigate risks, but if you’re concerned about mobility or safety, it’s worth considering.

Value for Money

At around $31.64, this tour offers a full day of diverse experiences: island hopping, snorkeling, scenic views, and Thai cuisine. Several reviews describe it as a “great deal”, especially considering the included transfers and equipment. However, some travelers felt the pace was a little rushed, but for many, the value outweighed this minor inconvenience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who loves scenic boat rides, quick island visits, and the chance to snorkel in protected lagoons, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for families, first-time visitors, or anyone on a budget wanting to see as much of Krabi’s coastline as possible in one day. If you prefer more relaxed, longer stays at each location, or pristine, untouched beaches, look for quieter, more exclusive options.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This 4 Island Tour by Traditional Longtail Boat is a lively, well-organized way to see some of Krabi’s most iconic spots without spending a fortune. It’s perfect if you’re eager to hop from beach to reef, snap stunning photos, and enjoy snorkeling in calm waters. The friendly guides and authentic boat experience add a special touch that many travelers cherish.

However, keep in mind the schedule’s brisk pace and the weather’s unpredictable role. If you’re looking for serenity and plenty of leisure time, this might not satisfy. But for those wanting a dynamic, scenic, and affordable adventure that hits all the highlights, this tour offers a lot of bang for your baht.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour provides hotel round-trip transfers, snorkeling equipment, life jackets, drinking water, fruit, and a lunch that caters to different diets, including Halal and vegetarian options.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 6 hours and 30 minutes, with pick-up usually around 7:50-8:45 am and returning back to your hotel by mid-afternoon.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund. Weather can impact snorkeling, beach time, and overall experience.

How much time do we get at each island?
Most stops are about one hour each, but some guests feel this is too short—especially at Railay Beach, where only about 30 minutes was allotted in some cases. The schedule is quite tight.

Is the walk on sandbars safe?
Walking across sandbanks is a highlight, but it can be slippery and depends on the tide. Use caution, especially if you have mobility concerns.

Are there safety concerns?
While most travelers felt safe, some noted slippery ladders and rough sea conditions. The crew is generally helpful, and life jackets are provided.

Who should avoid this tour?
If you dislike feeling rushed or have difficulty with boat boarding and disembarking, this might not be ideal. Also, weather-sensitive travelers should check forecasts, as conditions can affect the day’s activities.

This tour balances scenic highlights, water activities, and cultural touches at a friendly price point. Perfect for those wanting a lively glimpse of Krabi’s coastline, it offers a genuinely authentic boat experience with plenty of photo-worthy moments.