Krabi: 4 Islands Tour by Longtail Boat & Thai Buffet Lunch

Krabi: 4 Islands Tour by Longtail Boat & Thai Buffet Lunch

Imagine cruising across crystal-clear waters, spotting limestone cliffs, and lounging on pristine beaches—all in one day. For around $33 per person, this Krabi 4 Islands Tour offers a chance to visit some of the most iconic spots along the Gulf of Thailand, from Phra Nang Beach to Poda Island and the famous Chicken Island. Led by lively guides and packed with snorkelling, sightseeing, and great food, this tour packs a punch.

What we love most about this experience are the stunning photo opportunities on the sandbars and the friendly, energetic guides who keep the mood light and informative. Plus, the included Thai-style buffet lunch on the beach is surprisingly good for a day trip—flavorful and plentiful. On the flip side, the short stops mean you’ll need to keep an eye on your watch if you’re eager to explore at a more leisurely pace. This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy active sightseeing combined with relaxed beach time and are okay with a busy schedule.

If you’re someone who values authentic scenery, friendly guides, and a well-organized day, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially great for first-timers to Krabi or those wanting a quick but comprehensive snapshot of the islands with a good mix of fun, food, and photo ops.

Key Points

• Visiting four iconic islands in one day offers excellent variety and photo opportunities.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the trip with friendly, humorous commentary and helpful tips.
• The tour includes a delicious Thai buffet lunch and fresh seasonal fruit—surprisingly tasty for a boat trip.
• Snorkelling gear and life jackets are provided, making the water activities accessible for many.
• The longtail boat rides provide a relaxed, scenic way to travel, but may be less comfortable for some, especially seniors.
• Be prepared for short stops and a busy schedule, with some reviews mentioning the pace feels rushed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the 4 Islands Tour

Starting Point and Transportation
The tour begins with hotel pickup if you’ve chosen that option, making it easy to start your day stress-free. The minivan takes you to Nopparat Thara Pier in Ao Nang, where you’ll meet the crew and board a classic wooden longtail boat. This traditional Thai vessel adds a rustic charm and provides plenty of open-air space to enjoy the sea breeze. Keep in mind, the boat rides can be a bit bumpy and may involve multiple transfers, which some reviews noted as tiring, especially for those not accustomed to boat travel.

First Stop: Railay Beach and Phra Nang Cave Beach
Your first highlight is Railay Beach, one of Thailand’s most photogenic spots—towering limestone cliffs, lush jungle, and shimmering white sand. You’ll visit the Princess Cave (Tham Phra Nang), a site of local offerings, incense, and flowers left by fishermen for safe voyages. This stop is both scenic and culturally interesting, offering a glimpse into local beliefs. Reviewers consistently praise guide Irene’s care and her ability to explain the significance of the cave and surrounding scenery, noting her kind, jovial manner.

Next: Poda Island
Traveling onward, the boat reaches Poda Island, famous for its powdery white beaches and turquoise waters. This is the perfect place for swimming, snorkelling, or simply relaxing on the sand. The famous giant rock formation in front of the island makes for an iconic photo and is often featured in postcards. Here, you’ll enjoy a Thai buffet lunch on the beach, with many reviewers agreeing that the food is tasty, fresh, and generous. Expect a variety of dishes that cater to different tastes, including vegetarian options if you specify in advance.

Cruising around Chicken Island
The journey continues around Chicken Island, named for the rocky outcrop resembling a chicken’s head. This is another fantastic photo spot, especially from the boat. You’ll also get a chance to snorkel in the clear waters, with the crew providing gear and life jackets to ensure safe swimming. Some reviewers mention that the snorkeling was brief but worthwhile, with enough time to dip in and snap photos.

Final Stop: Koh Tub and the Sandbar
The last major stop is Koh Tub, which is connected to Chicken and Mor Islands by a spectacular sandbar. Crossing this shallow stretch of sand in calm waters offers a moment of tranquility and fun. It’s a favorite for many because of the unique experience of walking between islands. Some reviews highlight that the stop here is just enough time to appreciate the scenery and snap a few pictures before heading back.

Return to Ao Nang
After exploring four beautiful spots, the boat heads back to Ao Nang, with a scenic ride that offers a chance to relax, reflect, and enjoy the last views of limestone cliffs and blue waters. The return journey can be tiring if you’ve been busy all day, but the staff generally keep everyone comfortable and well-hydrated.

Practical Details and What It Means for You

Transportation & Comfort
The longtail boats are traditional but can be cramped, especially if you’re tall or claustrophobic. Some reviews expressed discomfort with multiple boat transfers or the cramped seating during the return trip, which could be tiring. If you’re prone to seasickness or have mobility issues, you might want to prepare accordingly or consider other options.

Timing & Schedule
You can expect about 15-60 minutes at each stop, depending on the tide and weather conditions. The tour is well-paced but tends to be quite busy, with many travelers appreciating the efficient schedule. If you prefer more leisurely exploration, this may feel a bit rushed.

Food & Drinks
The included Thai buffet lunch is a highlight for many, with fresh, flavorful dishes served on the beach. Snacks, seasonal fruit, water, and drinks are provided throughout, which helps keep everyone energized. Vegetarian and vegan options are available if you specify your preference 24 hours in advance, making this a flexible choice for dietary needs.

Guides & Service
The guides receive high praise for friendliness, energy, and their depth of knowledge. Irene, Rosie, Tony, and others are frequently mentioned as making the trip memorable with their humor, care, and explanations. Their enthusiasm helps pass the time and makes the experience more engaging, especially if you’re new to these islands.

Cost & Value
At $33 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck—visiting four diverse islands, snorkelling gear, lunch, water, and transportation included. Considering the cost of private boat hire, this is a very economical way to see multiple highlights of Krabi’s coastline.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for active travelers who want to see a variety of islands in a single day without the hassle of planning. It suits first-timers eager for iconic scenery, great photos, and a bit of snorkelling. If you’re comfortable with boat rides and short stops, you’ll find this very satisfying. Families with children over 2, and those in good health, will enjoy it most, though seniors or those with medical issues should weigh the boat comfort and schedule.

If you value friendly guides, tasty food, and stunning scenery in a well-organized package, this tour will meet your expectations. It’s also a good choice for travelers who don’t mind the busy pace and want to pack in a lot of sights without extra cost.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the option, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, which makes the start and end of your day much easier.

How long do we spend at each island?
Stops generally last between 15 and 60 minutes, depending on tide and weather. This means you’ll get a good overview but may not have time for long explorations.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, flip-flops, water shoes, and cash for the national park fee and any extras.

Can I snorkel?
Yes, snorkelling equipment and life jackets are provided. Some reviews mention snorkelling was brief but enjoyable, with good water clarity and fish at some stops.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for children over 2, but beware of the boat rides and the short stops. Pregnant women, people with back or heart conditions, and wheelchair users are advised against participating.

How much extra will I need to pay?
You’ll need to pay a 200 THB per adult national park entrance fee and 100 THB per child if applicable, on-site.

More Great Tours Nearby

Final Thoughts

This Krabi 4 Islands Tour offers a brisk, scenic, and fun-packed day. It’s especially good for those who want a cost-effective way to see some of Thailand’s most famous islands, snorkel in clear waters, and enjoy delicious local food. The guides are consistently praised for their friendliness and professionalism, making the day not just sightseeing but also an enjoyable social experience.

While some may find the boat rides and short stops a bit tiring or rushed, for many travelers, the stunning scenery and lively atmosphere more than make up for it. It’s a way to check off multiple must-see spots without the hassle of organizing your own boat trips, and the included buffet lunch adds a nice touch.

This tour is best suited for active, social travelers who don’t mind a busy schedule and are eager to photograph iconic sights, snorkel in beautiful waters, and meet fellow explorers. If you prefer long, leisurely stays on a single island or more comfort, you might want to consider other options. But for an energetic, affordable, and scenic adventure, this tour delivers plenty of value.

Plan ahead: Book in advance, specify dietary preferences if needed, and get ready for a day full of sunshine, sea, and stunning scenery in Krabi.

Enjoy your trip!