Bon Island Tour by longtail boat with Lunch

Exploring Bon Island by Longtail Boat with Lunch: A Relaxed and Authentic Day in Phuket’s Marine Paradise

If you’re craving a peaceful escape from the bustling streets of Phuket, this Bon Island tour offers a gentle taste of Thailand’s natural beauty. For around $81, you’ll spend about five to six hours immersed in the quiet charm of Bon Island, with transportation on a traditional longtail boat and a delicious beach picnic included. Led by knowledgeable guides, this small-group outing promises a relaxed pace and genuine encounters with wildlife and scenic vistas.

What we particularly love about this tour is the intimacy — with only a few travelers, you get a more personal experience, perfect for travelers who appreciate authentic moments and detailed explanations from guides. Plus, the chance to snorkel in remote spots and observe Hermit crabs, lizards, and birdlife makes it a well-rounded adventure for nature lovers.

A possible consideration? The 15-minute boat ride is short, but if you’re prone to seasickness or looking for a full-day adventure, you might want to explore other options. Still, for those seeking a calm, scenic, and informative day that’s easy to fit into a Phuket itinerary, this tour hits most marks.

This experience suits those who value small groups, authentic natural encounters, and local insight. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a laid-back day with plenty of opportunities to relax on pristine beaches, snorkel in clear waters, and enjoy Thai hospitality in a quiet setting.

Key Points

• Authentic coastal experience on a traditional longtail boat
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed vibe
• Includes a beach picnic lunch served in a tranquil setting
• Opportunity to snorkel and explore remote beaches around Bon Island
• Guided nature walk to observe local wildlife like hermit crabs, birds, and lizards
• Flexible pickup options for convenience, with extra fees for some areas

Discovering the Beauty of Bon Island: A Practical, Authentic Day Out

When you think of Phuket, the image often leans toward vibrant nightlife and busy beaches, but this Bon Island tour offers a different side — a peaceful, nature-focused escape that feels more like a local secret than a tourist trap.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Your day begins at CC’s Hideaway, where a friendly guide will greet you before heading to Rawai pier for the departure. This short 10-minute transfer is a good warm-up and provides a glimpse of local life along Phuket’s southern coast. Once aboard a traditional longtail boat, you’ll cruise for about 15 minutes to the small, uninhabited Bon Island.

Bon Island itself is a quiet spot, with plenty of shady Pandanus Pines where you can chill or walk along the soft sand beaches. The guide will lead a brief exploration, pointing out local wildlife like hermit crabs, lizards, and birds. It’s a perfect chance to dip your toes in the water or just relax in the shade.

The highlight is the picnic lunch served right on the beach. Expect a simple yet tasty spread—fresh and satisfying enough to fuel your afternoon of exploration. After lunch, the boat takes you to other remote beaches for swimming and snorkeling, revealing the vibrant marine life and underwater scenery that makes this area special.

The tour wraps up with a return trip to Rawai pier, where you’ll be back around 4 hours after departure. The entire experience is designed to keep you relaxed while offering a genuine taste of the island’s natural beauty.

The Experience: What We Love

One of the best parts? The small group setting ensures you get personalized attention and can comfortably ask questions about the local environment. Reviewers note “really kind and knowledgeable guides”, which elevates the experience from simple sightseeing to a true learning adventure.

Another standout is the cruise on a traditional longtail boat. It’s a quintessential Thai experience, and the short ride keeps it manageable for most travelers—no long, tiring boat trips here. Plus, the snorkeling gear is included, so you can easily dip into the water and explore the underwater world.

The Value and Practicalities

At $81, this tour strikes a good balance between comfort and affordability. The all-inclusive approach — lunch, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and hotel pickup — means no hidden costs, and the small group size enhances the feeling of a personal excursion rather than a crowded tour bus.

Flexibility is available for pickup from different Phuket areas, although some locations may incur an extra fee. Be sure to make your lunch selection by 8 am, especially if you have dietary preferences like vegetarian options.

Possible Drawbacks: Things to Consider

The short boat ride might feel limiting if you’re looking for a full-day excursion or struggle with seasickness. Also, since the tour uses a traditional longtail boat, it might not be suitable for travelers needing more stability or with mobility issues.

While the quiet beaches are a big plus, they might not appeal to those seeking lively beach scenes or extensive water sports facilities. This is more about serene nature and wildlife than high-energy activities.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re seeking a peaceful escape, enjoy nature and wildlife, and appreciate small-group intimacy, this tour is a winner. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to avoid crowded tourist spots and prefer to learn about local marine life from knowledgeable guides. It’s also perfect if you love snorkel gear or want a relaxed day with plenty of beach time.

Couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a quiet, authentic experience will find this tour a delightful way to spend a day.

The Sum Up: Why Choose This Bon Island Tour?

This tour offers a genuinely relaxed and informative introduction to Thailand’s marine environment, with the added charm of a traditional longtail boat ride and a beach picnic. The small group size means you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd, and the knowledgeable guides will help you appreciate the wildlife and landscape in a meaningful way.

While it’s not suited for those seeking a full-day adventure or high-energy water sports, it’s perfect for travelers wanting a calm, scenic experience that feels both authentic and intimate. The flexibility, inclusiveness, and focus on nature make it a great value for the money — a day that leaves you with lasting memories of Phuket’s quiet side.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, including pickup, boat rides, and exploration time.

What is included in the price?
Included are bottled water, beverages, lunch, snorkeling equipment, and a local guide. Pickup from certain areas is also offered.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, a vegetarian lunch option is available, but you need to advise at the time of booking.

What about transportation?
The tour begins at CC’s Hideaway, with hotel pickup available in the Kata and Karon areas. Extra fees may apply for other locations.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Absolutely, snorkeling gear is provided, and you’ll have opportunities to explore marine life in remote beaches.

Is there any age restriction?
Most travelers can participate, but specifics aren’t provided. The tour’s relaxed pace suits most ages unless mobility is an issue.

This Bon Island tour proves that sometimes, the best adventures are simple, slow, and close to nature. It’s an easy choice for those who want a peaceful day out, with plenty of chances to appreciate Phuket’s marine beauty — all wrapped in a friendly, small-group setting.