Separated Sea and 4 Islands – The Unseen of Thailand Full Day Tour From Krabi

Separated Sea and 4 Islands – The Unseen of Thailand Full Day Tour From Krabi offers an inviting opportunity to explore some of the less-visited yet stunning spots in Krabi. For $36.49 per person, this 8-hour adventure takes you across five diverse islands, with highlights like snorkeling in reef-rich waters, walking through a disappearing sandbank, and marveling at unique rock formations. Led by friendly guides, you’ll travel like a local on traditional longtail boats, experiencing authentic Thai coastal life.

What we really love about this trip is how it combines natural wonders with practical comfort. The buffet lunch on Poda Island lets you relax and soak in the scenery, while the underwater tunnels at Talu Cave provide a splash of adventure. Plus, the tour includes all the essentials—snorkeling gear, life jackets, and insurance—making it an easy, worry-free way to enjoy Krabi’s marine beauty.

However, a potential consideration is the weather’s impact—if winds pick up, some stops like the cave may be skipped, leading to shorter or altered experiences. Also, the group sizes can be quite large (up to 15 travelers), which might affect the personal touch, but reviews show that guides like Love tend to make the experience enjoyable.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a full day of snorkeling, island hopping, and natural sights without breaking the bank. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with boat trips and eager to see less crowded, authentic spots rather than the typical touristy beaches.

Key Points

• Authentic boat travel: Experience riding on traditional Thai longtail boats, adding an immersive local flavor.
• Beautiful natural features: See unique formations like chicken-head rocks, a disappearing sandbank, and Talu Cave’s underwater tunnels.
• Snorkeling in coral reefs: Marine life is abundant, with reviews highlighting excellent visibility and large schools of fish.
• Well-organized for value: Includes lunch, snorkeling gear, insurance, and transfers, making it a cost-effective choice.
• Weather dependent: Some stops may be canceled or shortened due to high winds, so flexibility is key.
• Group size: Up to 15 travelers, which balances social atmosphere with enough space to enjoy the scenery.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day:
Most travelers are picked up from their hotels in Krabi Town or Ao Nang early in the morning, usually between 8:00 and 9:00 AM. The convenience of hotel transfers—often free for those in Krabi or Ao Nang—is a notable perk, especially when you consider the hassle of arranging transportation on your own.

Departure and First Stops:
By 9:30 AM, you’re on a traditional longtail boat, which instantly sets a relaxed, local tone. These boats aren’t fancy, but they’re part of the charm, giving you a taste of how locals see their coastlines. The first highlight is Separated Sea, where three islands are connected by a sandbank at low tide. It’s a spectacle you won’t find in many tourist guides—imagine walking across a sandy bridge that vanishes with the tide, revealing unspoiled beaches on all sides.

Snorkeling at Chicken Island:
Next, the boat docks at Chicken Island, a popular snorkeling spot. With coral reefs teeming with marine life, you’ll find an underwater world bursting with color and activity. One reviewer fondly mentions seeing a school of parrotfish during the last snorkel session, which shows how vibrant the underwater scenery can be. The coral reefs here are often praised for their clarity, making it a favorite for snorkelers.

Lunch and Relaxation:
By midday, everyone heads to Poda Island for a buffet lunch. The setting is idyllic—white sands, turquoise waters, and plenty of shade. Many reviews highlight the tasty food and the opportunity to relax, swim, or just enjoy the view. It’s a perfect midday break, giving you time to recover from snorkeling, soak up the sun, or snap photos of the scenic surroundings.

Exploring Pranang Cave and Rock Climbing:
In the afternoon, the tour visits Pranang Cave, a well-known local shrine and a scenic spot for photos. The cave’s significance to local culture is notable—it’s dedicated to a princess spirit and is a site of worship. The area also offers excellent rock climbing opportunities, so active travelers or those looking for a photo opp will appreciate this stop.

Talu Cave and Underwater Tunnels:
One of the tour’s standout features is Talu Cave, where you can swim through underwater tunnels. This adds a splash of adventure to the day and appeals especially to those who love snorkeling or exploring caves. However, some reviews mention that high winds or rough seas may limit access to this feature, so it’s not guaranteed.

Return and Wrap-up:
By 4:00 PM, the boat heads back to Ao Nam Mao pier, where travelers are transferred back to their hotels. The journey offers plenty of downtime for reflection, photos, or just resting on the boat deck.

What the Reviews Say

The majority of reviews are positive, emphasizing friendly guides, stunning views, and great value. For example, Kurt W. praised the staff for their helpfulness and the opportunity to see a large school of fish at the last snorkel spot. Magdalena F. appreciated the tasty lunch and the caring guides like Love, making the experience feel personal.

Some less favorable reviews mention disorganization or weather-related cancellations. Emily H. noted a bit of chaos at the start and that some activities were cut short due to wind. Nicole Harvey, in a more critical tone, described a less-than-ideal pickup experience and a feeling of being rushed. These comments remind us that weather can impact the day, so flexibility is essential.

The size of the groups—sometimes combined with multiple boats—can also affect the intimacy of the experience. Still, many travelers found that guides like Chim and Love made the day enjoyable despite some logistical hiccups.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Transport & Convenience:
Most pickups are included for Krabi Town and Ao Nang, making this a hassle-free choice. For remote areas like Klong Muang and Tub Kaek, there’s an additional fee (THB 100), so be prepared for that small extra cost.

Duration & Flexibility:
Spanning around 8 hours, the tour covers a lot, but weather can cause delays or cancellations. The schedule is fairly rigid—if the weather’s rough, some stops like Talu Cave might be skipped.

Cost & Value:
At just over $36, this tour offers excellent value—covering transportation, lunch, snorkeling gear, and insurance. Many reviews highlight the quality of the marine life and the scenery, making it a worthwhile purchase for budget-minded travelers seeking authentic experiences beyond crowded tourist spots.

Group Size & Atmosphere:
Limited to 15 travelers, the group size is manageable, encouraging social interaction but still giving you space to enjoy the scenery.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who are eager for a full day of island hopping, snorkeling, and natural wonders. It’s particularly appealing for those interested in authentic Thai coastal life, and who are comfortable with boat trips and some physical activity like swimming and walking on sandbanks. If you’re looking for budget-friendly adventure with knowledgeable guides and stunning views, this fits the bill.

However, if you prefer luxury comfort or have mobility issues, you might find the basic boat setup and weather-dependent schedule less suitable. Also, if you’re traveling during a season with high winds or storms, be prepared for possible last-minute changes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, free pickup is available from Krabi Town and Ao Nang. For other areas like Klong Muang or Tub Kaek, there’s an additional THB 100 fee.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting around 9:30 AM and returning by 4:00 PM.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers transfers, lunch, drinking water, fruit, snorkeling gear, life jackets, a tour guide, first aid kit, and accident insurance.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, a 200 THB per adult National Park fee is payable at entry, and extra transfer charges may apply for remote pickup areas.

Can I snorkel at all stops?
Most stops include snorkeling opportunities, especially at Chicken Island, but weather conditions can restrict access, as noted by some reviews.

What about the cave?
Swimming through Talu Cave’s underwater tunnels is a highlight, but it’s weather-dependent. High winds or rough seas might prevent access.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 4-11 can join at a discounted rate. However, the tour involves boat trips and snorkeling, so families should consider their children’s comfort with water activities.

Final Thoughts

The Separated Sea and 4 Islands Tour is an excellent choice for travelers seeking an authentic, affordable way to see and snorkel in Thailand’s less-visited islands. It offers a good balance of natural beauty, local flavor, and fun activities, all led by guides praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

While weather can influence what you see and do, most travelers find that the highlights—like the disappearing sandbank, marine life, and underwater tunnels—make it a worthwhile adventure. The included lunch and transfers add convenience, making it an accessible option for those wanting a full day on the water without a hefty price tag.

If you’re comfortable with group tours and keen to explore beyond the typical tourist spots, this trip promises a memorable glimpse into Krabi’s hidden coastal treasures.

In summary:
This tour is best for budget-conscious travelers craving genuine experiences, snorkeling lovers, and those who enjoy boat trips packed with natural wonders. Keep an open mind regarding weather, and you’ll likely leave with wonderful memories of Thailand’s unseen shoreline.