Krabi to James Bond and Hong Islands Offbeat Speedboat Tour

If you’re looking to see some of Thailand’s most iconic and less crowded islands, this Krabi to James Bond and Hong Islands Offbeat Speedboat Tour is a fantastic choice. For around $127.48 per person, you’ll spend about 8 hours exploring with a knowledgeable guide, visiting famous sights like James Bond Island, but also discovering quieter spots like Hong Islands and Koh Yao Noi.

What we love about this tour is the focus on avoiding the crowds—something you truly appreciate when you’re trying to enjoy Thailand’s natural beauty without the selfie-sticks and tour buses. Plus, the included buffet lunch on the beach and opportunities to snorkel and swim make this a full, satisfying day.

One thing to keep in mind is the boat size—most reviews praise the intimate group of around 17 travelers, but a few mention that this can feel a little tight, especially on busy days. Still, the ride’s speed and efficiency mean you’ll pack in a lot of sights without feeling rushed.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want authentic, scenic experiences—especially if you’re tired of crowded tourist spots and crave some peaceful, picture-perfect moments. If that sounds like your perfect day, read on for a detailed look.

Quality Guides: The tour is operated by professional, certified guides who make the experience both informative and fun.
Secluded Stops: Most locations are timed to avoid crowds, offering a more relaxed atmosphere and better photo opportunities.
Good Value: The tour includes all taxes, park fees, and a hearty buffet lunch, making it easy to budget.
Snorkeling & Swimming: Plenty of time to enjoy the water at Hong Islands and Koh Yao Noi, with safety gear and briefings included.
Flexible Booking & Cancellations: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind.
Small Group Experience: With a maximum of 17 travelers, you’ll get personalized attention and fewer crowds on the boat.

Overview and Key Features

This full-day excursion from Ao Nang offers a well-rounded adventure, focusing on the most scenic and less touristy spots around Phang Nga Bay. For about 8 hours, you’ll hop between Hong Island, Koh Yao Noi, and the star of the show, James Bond Island, with a tasty Thai buffet on the beach.

The cost of roughly $127.48, including taxes, park fees, and safety gear, makes this a competitive option for travelers seeking quality without breaking the bank. Plus, the tour includes live commentary, a guiding book, and fresh fruit, soda, and coffee—an added touch of hospitality.

Itinerary Breakdown

Hong Island: The Lagoon with Limestone Cliffs

The tour kicks off with a 30-minute stop at Hong Island, renowned for its beautiful lagoon enclosed by limestone cliffs. This spot is a favorite for swimming and snorkeling, and many reviewers emphasize how quiet and pristine it feels—far from the crowds that plague other popular islands. As one guest put it, “They timed the stop so we had beaches all to ourselves,” which truly enhances the sense of escapism.

Koh Yao Noi: Quiet Beaches and Limestone Coves

Next, you’ll visit Koh Yao Noi for about 1 hour and 20 minutes. This island is described as ‘wild and beautiful’, with few commercial influences, making it a great place to relax or explore less-developed beaches. Reviewers appreciated the timing—they often arrive when most travelers are elsewhere—giving a more intimate experience. You might enjoy photos of limestone rock formations and swimming in crystal-clear waters.

James Bond Island: The Iconic Pinnacle

The highlight for many is James Bond Island, famous for its appearance in The Man with the Golden Gun. The tour’s approach—viewing from the boat—means avoiding the overwhelming crowds that gather on land, allowing for better photos and a more relaxed visit. The 20-minute stop provides just enough time to admire and snap pictures of the famous limestone pinnacle. One reviewer called it “worth the visit,” despite the crowds, because of the spectacular views.

The Experience on Board

The speedboat is praised for being fast and well-maintained, with most tours accommodating only 17 guests, which promotes a more personal atmosphere. Some reviews mention that the boat can get crowded, with 19 passengers, but overall, travelers find the smaller group size preferable to larger, noisier boats.

The crew is described as friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. Guides like Woody and Jorge or Eggy and Tuna keep the mood lively with informative commentary and humor. They also timed each stop carefully, based on the tides and crowds, which reviewers say makes all the difference in experiencing quieter beaches.

Snorkeling & Beach Time

The snorkeling briefing and fish ID included are valuable for those new to underwater exploring. You’ll get life jackets, and ample time for swimming and relaxing at each stop—especially Hong Islands and Koh Yao Noi. Several guests comment on how crystal-clear the water is and how few boats are around, making for a peaceful experience.

Lunch & Refreshments

A buffet lunch on the beach is included, with vegetarian and Halal options available. The food is often praised for freshness and variety, with fruits, soda, and coffee to keep you energized. One guest said, “The lunch was more than enough, with rice, noodles, spring rolls, and fruits.”

The Group Size & Booking

With a maximum of 17 travelers, the tour promotes a more intimate experience. Many reviews highlight how this small group setup enhances interaction with guides and reduces the chaos often found in larger tours. You can book well in advance—most travelers plan about 44 days ahead—but last-minute bookings are also possible.

Transfer & Meeting Points

The tour offers hotel pickup in Ao Nang, with various meeting points like Krabi Resort or Nopparatara Pier. For those staying in Railay or Krabi Town, private transfers are available for a fee. The pickup times are generally in the morning, starting around 8:20 am, with the tour beginning at 9:00 am.

This tour excels at balancing popular sights with quieter, off-the-beaten-path moments. The timed visits mean you’ll often arrive at beaches when most travelers are elsewhere, allowing you to truly enjoy the scenery without the crowd noise. Guests repeatedly praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, which adds a personal touch to what might otherwise be just another boat trip.

Many say the lunch on the beach is a highlight—not just for the food itself but for the relaxed, casual setting. Having fresh fruit and a hearty meal midway through a busy day helps recharge for more island exploring. The snorkeling gear and briefings mean even beginners can enjoy the underwater life, adding an adventurous element.

If you’re someone who values authentic, less crowded experiences, this tour is a great choice. You’ll visit some of the most iconic sights like James Bond Island, but the small group size and careful timing mean you won’t be overwhelmed by the crowds. The quality guides and delicious lunch make it a comfortable, enjoyable day, whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-time visitor.

While it’s a full day, the speedboat’s efficiency means you’ll see more in less time, making it ideal for travelers with limited days in Krabi. The emphasis on safety, local flavor, and personalized service really shines through in the reviews, ensuring you get a memorable, well-organized adventure.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting around 9:00 am and returning in the late afternoon.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is available from select hotels in Ao Nang, with meeting points in Krabi Resort or Nopparatara Pier. Private transfers can also be arranged for additional fees.

What’s included in the price?
All taxes, park entrance fees, safety gear, lunch, snacks, drinks, and live commentary are included. The tour also provides a guiding booklet and fish identification briefing.

Can I snorkel?
Absolutely. Snorkeling gear and briefings are part of the experience. You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the underwater scenery at Hong Islands and Koh Yao Noi.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 4 and above can participate if accompanied by an adult. Keep in mind that the boat can be somewhat crowded, and children should be comfortable with boat rides.

What if the weather cancels the tour?
The tour is dependent on good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are on the boat?
Most trips accommodate up to 17 travelers, creating a smaller, more intimate experience. Some reviews note the boat can sometimes be a tad crowded with 19 passengers.

Are vegetarian or Halal options available?
Yes, you should advise the tour provider at booking for specific dietary requirements.

Can I book last minute?
While booking 44 days in advance is common, last-minute bookings are sometimes possible, depending on availability.

What’s the main benefit of this tour?
Its biggest strength is avoiding the crowds at popular sites, thanks to careful timing and smaller group sizes, giving you a more relaxed, authentic experience.

This Krabi Offbeat Speedboat Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Thailand’s stunning islands. With expert guides, quiet beaches, and delicious food, it’s perfect for those who want a beautiful, hassle-free day of island hopping. Whether you’re after photo-worthy views of James Bond Island or peaceful lagoons, this tour strikes a good balance between iconic sights and hidden gems.

While it’s not the cheapest option, the value for money—considering food, safety, and the small-group experience—makes it a smart pick for travelers wanting to see the best without the crowds. If you prefer a more personal, relaxed adventure with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing, this tour is likely to exceed your expectations.