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

Experience the Best of Krabi’s Islands in a Half-Day Speedboat Tour

If you’re longing for a quick but memorable escape to some of Krabi’s most iconic islands, the 4 Islands Day Tour by Speed Boat offers an engaging way to explore. Starting around 9:00 am, this roughly 5 to 6-hour journey whisks you through Tup Island, Chicken Island, Poda Island, and Phra Nang Cave Beach—each with its own charm. The tour, priced at about $41.13 per person, includes hotel transfers, a Halal mini buffet lunch, snorkeling gear, and a knowledgeable guide, making it a good value for those wanting a hassle-free day on the water.

What we really love about this experience is the variety of stops—from the sandbar at Tup Island to the stunning limestone formations at Phra Nang Cave, you’ll get a well-rounded taste of Krabi’s natural beauty. Also, the friendly, professional guides ensure that even first-time visitors feel comfortable and informed, adding a personal touch that elevates the trip.

One potential downside is that entry fees for the national parks are not included, which means you’ll pay a small additional fee at each site—something to keep in mind when budgeting. Also, since the itinerary depends on weather and tides, plans can sometimes shift, so flexibility is recommended.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a taste of multiple islands without spending a full day or dealing with the hassle of independent boat bookings. If you’re after a well-organized, engaging, and beautiful excursion that suits families, groups, or solo travelers, this tour will likely meet your expectations.

Key Points

• Comfortable Group Size: With a maximum of 35 travelers, you won’t feel lost in a crowd.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Includes transfers, lunch, snacks, and snorkeling gear, making it easy to relax and enjoy.
• Flexible and Convenient: Starts from your hotel or a designated meeting point, with pickup offered.
• Authentic Natural Beauty: Stops highlight Krabi’s unique limestone formations, clear waters, and scenic beaches.
• Weather-dependent: It’s subject to weather and tide conditions, so be prepared for possible schedule changes.
• Good for All: Suitable for most travelers, with reviews praising their guides and the scenery’s splendor.

A Deep Dive into the 4 Islands Speedboat Tour

Starting Point and Overall Experience

From the moment we’re picked up (or meet at the designated spot), the tour kicks off with a quick check-in at the local office in Ao Nang. The boat departs promptly around 9:00 am, which is impressive for a tour that includes multiple stops. The boat itself is a speedy, comfortable vessel, equipped to handle the coastal waters efficiently, with plenty of space for sunbathing or relaxing with a cold drink.

The tour is well-organized, and the crew seems experienced and friendly, which sets a positive tone. The small group size ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd, and the English-speaking guide is both informative and approachable, eager to answer questions and share insights about each stop.

Tup Island – A Dreamlike Sandbar

Our first stop is Tup Island, a tiny pair of islets connected by a narrow sandbar visible only during low tide. Here, we loved the crystal-clear waters and the chance to walk between the islands—a surreal, almost otherworldly experience. The shallow waters make for easy snorkeling, revealing vibrant marine life just beneath the surface.

Although admission to the island isn’t included, the payoff is the peace and quiet you get here, away from busier tourist spots. Many reviews mention that Tup Island feels like a perfect slice of paradise and is great for swimming and taking photos.

Chicken Island – A Natural Wonder

Next, we headed to Chicken Island, famous for its rock formation resembling a chicken’s head. It’s an eye-catching sight, especially from the boat or on foot during low tide when you can walk across a sandbar to nearby Koh Tub and Koh Mor.

The tour stops here for sightseeing, swimming, and photos. The waters are clear, and snorkeling can be rewarding, with plenty of fish and coral nearby. The guide’s tips on the best spots for photos and snorkeling add to the enjoyment.

Poda Island – Sun, Sand, and Serenity

One of the most loved stops on this tour is Poda Island, with its stunning white sandy beach and towering limestone cliffs. You’ll love sinking into the soft sands or paddling in the calm, transparent waters. It’s a perfect spot for relaxing, sunbathing, or exploring the shallow reefs.

We appreciated that the guide took us here to take photos of the iconic chicken head pillar and do some snorkeling. The island doesn’t have a developed landing area, which keeps it feeling more natural and less commercialized. Travelers often comment on how peaceful and pure this spot feels—a true escape from the crowds.

Phra Nang Cave Beach – Cultural & Natural Beauty

Our last stop is Phra Nang Cave Beach, famed for its stalactites, stalagmites, and the sacred shrine built in honor of a princess goddess. The cave’s natural formations are fascinating, and the nearby beach offers stunning views with dramatic limestone cliffs.

Here, we had plenty of time to explore, snap photos, and relax on the beach. The reviews highlight that guides often share stories about the cultural significance of this cave, adding depth to the visit. It’s also a favorite for rock climbers and those interested in natural sculptures.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

Duration and Timing

The entire tour lasts about 5 to 6 hours, with each island stop ranging from 45 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes. The itinerary’s flexible nature means some stops might be longer or shorter depending on weather conditions and tides. The early start at 9:00 am helps you beat some of the larger crowds, especially at popular sites like Tup Island and Poda Island.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package covers hotel transfers, which is a big plus—especially if you’re staying in Ao Nang. The Halal mini buffet lunch is a thoughtful inclusion, with vegetarian options available. Snacks, bottled water, and soft drinks are also provided, making this a well-rounded experience.

You’ll have snorkeling gear at your disposal, although you might want to bring your own mask if you’re particular. Keep in mind, national park entrance fees (200 THB for adults, 100 THB for children) are paid separately on the day, which is common in this region but worth remembering for your budget.

Group Size and Booking Tips

With a maximum of 35 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate feel. Booking 27 days in advance is average, indicating good popularity but also allowing time to plan. We recommend booking early, especially in high season, to secure your spot.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Highlights

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides who make the experience engaging without overwhelming. As one reviewer noted, “Leo was fantastic and very engaging,” emphasizing the importance of good leadership on such tours. The stunning scenery at Tup and Poda Islands often leaves visitors in awe, and the chance to walk between islands or snorkel over coral reefs makes for memorable moments.

The local islands’ natural beauty is the star here. The limestone formations at Phra Nang Cave and the white sands of Poda Island stand out as genuine highlights. The tour’s structure allows you to enjoy both beach relaxation and adventure activities like snorkeling, making it versatile for different interests.

What Could Be Better?

Some reviews mention that the buses or pickups can be delayed or that breakfast items are limited or gone by the time you check in. Also, since entry fees are not included, it’s worth budgeting an extra 200 THB for adults. Weather-dependent scheduling might also mean occasional changes, so flexibility helps.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour caters well to families, solo travelers, and groups looking for a balanced mix of scenic beauty, beach time, and light adventure. If you appreciate well-organized day trips with meaningful stops—and don’t mind paying a small extra fee—you’ll find this to be a rewarding experience. It’s especially suited for those who want to see a variety of Krabi’s iconic islands without the hassle of arranging separate boat trips.

Final Thoughts

The 4 Islands Day Tour by Speed Boat offers a solid, enjoyable way to explore some of Krabi’s most photogenic spots. The combination of carefully chosen stops, friendly guides, and all-inclusive amenities makes it a practical pick for travelers wanting a hassle-free day of sightseeing. While it’s weather-dependent and requires a bit of extra budget for entrance fees, the scenery and ease of logistics often outweigh these minor considerations.

If you’re after a short, scenic escape that combines nature, culture, and fun, this tour is likely to tick most of your boxes. It’s a great introduction to Krabi’s islands, especially if you’re short on time but want to maximize your experience.

FAQ

• Does this tour include hotel pickup?
  Yes, transfer from your hotel is included, or you can meet at the designated office in Ao Nang.

• What should I bring?
  Bring beach towels, sunglasses, extra clothes, sunscreen, and your snorkeling gear if you prefer your own.

• Are lunch and drinks included?
  Yes, a Halal mini buffet lunch, bottled water, soft drinks, and snacks are provided.

• What is the duration of the tour?
  The tour lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, with each stop lasting from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.

• Are entrance fees included?
  No, the national park fees (200 THB for adults, 100 THB for children) are paid separately on the day.

• Is snorkeling equipment provided?
  Yes, snorkeling gear is available for use during the stops.

• How many people will be on this tour?
  A maximum of 35 travelers ensures a comfortable experience.

• Can I cancel this tour?
  Yes, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  Yes, children aged 4-11 are welcome, with a reduced fee, and the itinerary is generally family-friendly.

To sum it up, the 4 Islands Speedboat Tour from Ao Nang offers an engaging, scenic, and well-organized way to see Krabi’s most famous islands. It strikes a good balance between relaxing beach time, stunning landscapes, and light adventure, making it a great choice for travelers seeking a memorable day out on the water.