Krabi 4 Island Adventure by Longtail Boat Full Day Tour & Lunch

Krabi 4 Island Adventure by Longtail Boat: An Honest Look at a Popular Day Trip

When you imagine visiting Krabi, Thailand, chances are you picture crystal-clear waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and peaceful sandy beaches. For many travelers, exploring the 4 Islands off Krabi’s coast is a highlight. This tour, priced at about $27 per person, offers a full day of island hopping with round-trip hotel transfers and a delicious Thai lunch included. It lasts roughly 7 hours, making it a manageable, affordable way to see some of the region’s most photogenic spots.

What we really like about this tour are the small group size—a maximum of 9 travelers—which can create a more relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Plus, the included snorkeling gear, water, and fruit mean you’re well-fueled for exploring beneath the waves. However, a potential downside is the itinerary’s focus on multiple islands, which might mean less time at each spot—something that a review participant pointed out as a bit disappointing.

This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a cost-effective, guided experience with the convenience of hotel pickup (though only in Ao Nang area, with extra fee elsewhere). If you love stunning scenery and don’t mind a packed schedule, it could be just right. But if your ideal day involves more time relaxing on one beach rather than hopping between several, you might find it a bit rushed. Overall, it’s a practical choice for those eager to tick off several islands in a single day.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $27, it offers good value for a full day of island hopping.
• Small Group: Intimate tours with a max of 9 travelers enhance comfort and interaction.
• All-Inclusive: Lunch, bottled water, snorkeling gear, and insurance are covered.
• Multiple Stops: Four islands—each with its own unique features—offer diverse scenic and snorkeling opportunities.
• Potential Drawback: Less time at each location might leave some travelers wanting more.
• Suitable for: Budget-conscious visitors who enjoy group tours and want to see multiple islands in one day.

Exploring the Krabi 4 Islands by Longtail Boat

The Itinerary in Detail

This tour’s starting point is the hotel pickup in Krabi Town or Klong Muang, with a scheduled departure around 8:00 am. If you’re staying in Ao Nang, you’ll be pleased to know pickup is included, but there is an additional surcharge for other areas like Krabi Town, Klong Muang, or Tub Kaek (around 800 THB).

Once aboard the longtail boat, the journey begins with a scenic cruise along Krabi’s rugged coastline. The first stop is Pranang Beach, a beautifully secluded spot accessible only by boat or foot. Because it’s tucked away on a peninsula, it’s free from crowds and perfect for sunbathing or snapping photos of the dramatic limestone formations. Here, you can also visit the nearby Princess Cave, a small temple with decorative spirit houses, adding a touch of local culture to your visit. Expect about an hour here—long enough to relax, swim, or explore.

Next is Tup Island, which earns its reputation for being a tropical paradise. During low tide, a white sandy causeway appears, connecting Tup Island with a neighboring island—ideal for walking across and discovering the exotic coral reefs just beneath the surface. The shallow waters make snorkeling easy and enjoyable, especially for beginners or families. Many travelers love this spot for its tranquil beauty and the opportunity to snorkel right from the beach.

The third stop is Chicken Island, named after its famous limestone rock that resembles a chicken’s head and neck. This natural landmark is a favorite for snorkelers because the waters are warm and teeming with coral reefs and colorful fish. The rock formation is a fun photo opportunity, and the warm waters invite you for a quick swim.

Finally, the tour concludes at Poda Island, often described as the jewel of the Andaman Sea. Its pristine beaches and rocky cliffs create a postcard-perfect scene. The island has a bamboo plantation and a long, sandy beach where you can relax, swim, or snack on the provided fruit and snacks. The scenery here is arguably the most striking, offering a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or some downtime before heading back.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

The group size keeps the experience intimate, which is a real plus if you prefer avoiding large crowds. The shared transfer from your hotel simplifies logistics, though the extra fee for pickups outside Ao Nang is worth considering if you’re staying elsewhere.

The duration at each island is about an hour, which balances sightseeing with beach time, but some travelers might feel it’s a bit rushed—especially if you’re keen on spending more time relaxing or snorkeling at any one spot. The lunch included is Thai-style, with water, fruit, and snacks to keep you energized. The snorkeling equipment is provided, though you might want to bring your own mask or fins if you’re particular.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Based on review feedback, the tour is generally well-organized and guided by a pleasant guide. The scenic views are truly stunning—many participants mention the beautiful beaches and limestone formations as highlights. “We loved the way Tup Island connects with the neighboring island at low tide,” one review says, emphasizing the unique natural features.

However, some guests found the itinerary repetitive, with multiple trips to similar islands or spending too much time traveling. One reviewer summarized it as, “It would have been better spending more quality time at just one or two places.” This points to a common challenge with group tours that try to tick off several sites in a short window.

Is This Tour Worth It?

The value lies in the low price point and the convenience of a full-day guided trip. If your priority is seeing multiple islands without the hassle of planning, and you don’t mind a more hurried pace, this tour offers great scenery and snorkeling opportunities. It’s especially suitable for travelers on a budget or those who prefer small group experiences over large, crowded boats.

But if you’re someone who prefers more time at each location or has specific beach favorites in mind, you might want to consider alternatives or customize your day locally.

The Sum Up

The Krabi 4 Islands tour by longtail boat provides a cost-effective introduction to some of the most stunning coastal scenery Thailand has to offer. Its small group size and included amenities make it accessible and comfortable, especially for travelers who appreciate a guided experience with some local insight.

While the itinerary’s busy pace might leave some wishing for more time at each stop, the views of limestone formations, coral reefs, and white sandy beaches are undeniably spectacular. This tour best suits budget travelers, first-time visitors, or those eager to see multiple islands without much logistical fuss.

If your goal is a relaxed, in-depth visit to one or two spots, or if you’re seeking a more personalized experience, consider longer or private options. But for a snapshot of Krabi’s island paradise that won’t break the bank, this adventure offers plenty of beautiful scenery and snorkel fun in a single day.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 7 hours, including transfers, island stops, and lunch.

What islands are visited during the trip?
Tup Island, Chicken Island, and Poda Island, with a stop at Pranang Beach.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you are staying in Ao Nang. Additional charges apply for Krabi Town, Klong Muang, and Tub Kaek.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 9 travelers, creating a more intimate experience.

Are snorkeling gear and lunch provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment, water, fruit, snacks, and a Thai lunch are included in the price.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
Most travelers can participate; it’s ideal for those comfortable with boat trips and modest beach activities.

This tour is a solid choice for seeing several of Krabi’s best islands on a budget, especially if you value small groups and scenic views. Keep in mind the shorter stops and busy schedule—it’s a quick taste of paradise, not a relaxing beach day.