Hong Islands One Day Tour by Speed Boat (from Ao Nang, Krabi)

Hong Islands One Day Tour by Speed Boat (from Ao Nang, Krabi)

Imagine zipping across clear waters in a sleek speedboat, with the wind in your hair and an island paradise unfolding around you. For about $50, you can spend roughly six hours exploring some of the most beautiful spots near Ao Nang, Krabi. The tour visits Hong Island, Koh Pakbia, Ko Lao Lading, and Daeng Island, with stops perfect for swimming, snorkeling, photography, or simply soaking up the scenery. Led by friendly guides, this trip offers a relaxed pace and plenty of opportunities to make memories—if you pack sunscreen and a little extra cash for souvenirs or snacks, you’ll be all set.

What we love most about this tour is how smoothly it runs—thanks to attentive guides who keep everything organized, and the fact that it gives you a genuine taste of island life without feeling rushed. The highlight for many is the 360-degree viewpoint on Hong Island, offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands, and the quiet, less crowded beaches you’ll encounter along the way. The included lunch, with vegetarian options, is another big plus, making this a good value experience.

A potential consideration is the pace of travel, as some travelers might find the speedboat rides a little bumpy or the quick stops a bit rushed, especially if you prefer more time at each location. Also, remember that national park entrance fees aren’t included in the tour price—these are payable at check-in—and can add about 300 THB per adult.

This tour suits travelers who want a well-organized day of island hopping with a focus on stunning scenery and relaxed activities. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate efficient transportation and a good mix of activities will find this trip a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Stunning views and photo opportunities at multiple islands, especially the panoramic Hong Island viewpoint.
• Well-organized group size (max 35 travelers), ensuring a comfortable experience without feeling overcrowded.
• Delicious, inclusive lunch options, with vegetarian and halal choices, plus plenty of drinks and snacks on board.
• Speedboat advantage: faster and more exciting compared to larger, slower boats, with less time spent in transit.
• Cost-effective value considering the included meals, snorkeling gear, and hotel pickup.
• Flexible cancellation policy allows full refunds if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

In-Depth Review of the Hong Islands Speedboat Tour

The Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off early in the morning at GR Rungtawan Co., Ltd. in Ao Nang, with pickups available from many hotels nearby. We appreciated how smooth the pickup process was—no long waits or confusion. The ride to the pier includes a quick check-in where you’re handed a mobile ticket, making things straightforward.

The boat itself is a speedy vessel designed for comfort and safety, with a maximum capacity of 30-35 passengers. This small group size means you won’t be lost in a crowd, and guides can provide more personalized attention—something many reviews praise highly.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour lasts about 6 hours, which includes travel time—roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes each way—and 4 hours and 45 minutes of island hopping.

First stop: Hong Island
Here, you’ll find a long, beautiful beach lined with limestone cliffs and dotted with trees. It’s the perfect spot for a dip or to relax on benches shaded from the sun. The highlight is the 360-degree viewpoint, a rare sight in the Andaman area, perched 109 meters above sea level, offering an incredible panorama of neighboring islands. Many travelers commented, like Zakiya_T, that the views were “great” and the organization “amazing,” with plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the scenery.

Hong Lagoon
Nested within Hong Island, this shallow lagoon surrounded by cliffs and mangroves is a photographer’s dream. The tour guides carefully navigate the boat inside the lagoon for photos, and depending on the tide, you might be able to swim in the calm waters. Several reviews mention that the lagoon is a peaceful spot, though sometimes crowded.

Koh Pakbia
Another favorite, this rocky island features a sandbar connecting to a smaller island. It’s an iconic scene—perfect for photos and a quick swim. It’s a less crowded alternative to busier beaches, ideal for quieter relaxing moments.

Ko Lao Lading
Known for its bay surrounded by cliffs and lush trees, this island offers shaded spots perfect for a break. Tour guides recommend the best photo spots here, and you get about 45 minutes to explore, swim, or simply enjoy the shoreline.

Daeng Island (or similar)
Many reviews mention that this stop is where snorkeling becomes the star attraction. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, you’ll see colorful fish and corals, with the opportunity to snorkel right off the boat. Some travelers, like Bob_L, appreciated the snorkeling but noted that tides and weather can affect visibility.

The Food and Refreshments

Lunch is a buffet, carefully prepared to cater to different tastes, including vegetarian and halal options, which many travelers find thoughtful. Several reviews highlight the quality and ample portions—”lunch was superb” and “plenty of water and sodas” are common praises. Snacks like fruits and drinks are available throughout the trip, making sure you stay refreshed in the tropical heat.

Guides and Group Dynamics

Guides like Nadia and Leo receive praise for being friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. They keep the group informed, safe, and entertained, which makes a big difference when navigating multiple islands and activities. The max group size of 35 ensures personal attention, and reviews consistently mention how smoothly everything runs despite the busy schedule.

The Value and Practicalities

At $50.36 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the inclusion of all snorkeling gear, lunch, snacks, and hotel pickup. The national park entrance fee (300 THB for adults) is an additional expense, paid at check-in, but this is standard for such protected areas. For travelers seeking a hassle-free, well-organized day with plenty of scenic highlights, this price is reasonable.

Reviews and Authentic Traveler Feedback

Most reviews are highly positive, praising the efficiency, guides, and stunning scenery. Reviewers like Stacey_S mention that the speedboat is much faster and more fun than larger boats, and the lunch was delicious, with many feeling the tour offers good value for money. Others like Esra_T appreciate the less crowded beaches and the chance to see top views of the islands.

There are some critiques—such as the crowd levels at certain stops or a few comments about less-than-ideal weather affecting the clarity of the waters. One reviewer expressed disappointment over being overcrowded and having less than expected food portions, but these seem to be exceptions rather than the rule.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a well-organized day of island hopping with efficient transportation, this tour is a solid choice. It’s particularly suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy scenic views, snorkeling, and relaxed beach time. The inclusion of lunch and snacks makes it a convenient choice, and the small group size appeals to those who dislike being part of a huge crowd.

It’s best for travelers who appreciate authentic, less commercialized spots like Hong Island’s quieter beaches over more crowded destinations like Phi Phi. If you’re limited on time but want a taste of Krabi’s best islands, this tour packs in a lot without feeling overly rushed.

The Sum Up

This Hong Islands speedboat trip offers a great balance of adventure, scenery, and comfort. It’s a well-crafted option for those who want to see multiple islands without the hassle of planning every detail. The friendly guides, stunning viewpoints, and included meals contribute to a memorable experience that feels both authentic and enjoyable.

While the pace may be brisk for some, the overall organization, the quality of stops, and the value for money make it a compelling choice. If you’re looking for a fun, scenic, and hassle-free day on the water near Krabi, this tour is worth considering.

Travelers who enjoy small-group tours, snorkeling, and panoramic views will find this trip ticks all the boxes. Just remember to bring plenty of sunscreen, some extra cash for park fees, and an appetite for beautiful scenery and good company.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The overall experience lasts approximately 6 hours, including travel time and island stops. The island hopping and sightseeing itself take around 4 hours and 45 minutes.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, convenient round-trip hotel pickup is included in the tour, making logistics much easier.

What should I bring?
Pack sunscreen, a hat, towel, waterproof camera or phone, cash for park entrance fees, and any personal snacks or drinks if desired.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?
Yes, a vegetarian option is available upon request, and the buffet includes halal food choices.

What is the group size?
The tour caps at 35 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience compared to larger group outings.

Are snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included and available for use during the snorkeling stops.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers an accessible, scenic, and well-organized way to experience some of Krabi’s most stunning islands. Whether you’re seeking quiet beaches, panoramic views, or snorkeling adventures, it delivers a memorable day on the water with friendly guides and good value.