If you’re staying in Phuket and dreaming of turquoise waters, dramatic limestone formations, and pristine beaches, a day trip to Krabi’s famous islands might be just what you need. For around $69 per person, this tour offers a full 9-hour journey that whisks you from Phuket to Ao Nang, then onto Koh Poda, Chicken Island, and the Tup Islets. Expect a day packed with snorkeling, swimming, lounging on white sands, and enjoying a tasty Thai lunch.

We love how this trip makes it easy to see multiple islands in one day, especially with hotel pickup and drop-off, eliminating the hassle of figuring out transportation. Plus, the snorkeling equipment and professional guides ensure you get the most out of your underwater adventure. On the downside, the long ferry rides and the itinerary’s occasional inconsistencies have caused some grumbles — but for travelers eager to explore the highlights of Krabi’s coastline, this tour hits many high notes.

If you’re a traveler who values authentic scenery, well-organized guides, and a balanced mix of activity and relaxation, this trip suits you well. But if you’re looking for a more leisurely, less crowded experience, or have specific islands like Railay Beach in mind, you might want to consider alternative options.

Key Points

Comprehensive Island Hopping: Visit four iconic islands, including Koh Poda, Chicken Island, and Tup Islets.
All-Inclusive Comfort: Pickup, snorkeling gear, and a Thai lunch are included, offering good value.
Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their helpfulness, safety awareness, and friendly attitude.
Long Transit Times: Expect significant ferry and speedboat rides, which can be tiring but are part of the adventure.
Mixed Reviews on Itinerary: Some report only visiting three islands instead of four, and a few mention logistical hiccups.
Ideal for Nature & Snorkeling Lovers: The tour offers beautiful scenery and excellent underwater experiences but might be less suitable if you prefer less travel and more leisure time.

Starting Point: From Phuket to Krabi

Your adventure begins with a hotel pickup in Phuket, covering popular areas like Patong, Kata, Karon, and Chalong. The exact pickup time is confirmed via email, which helps plan your day. From there, you’re transported to Rassada Pier, where the crew from Ao Nang Travel & Tour awaits. This initial transfer is straightforward, and most travelers find the process smooth, especially with the included hotel pickup.

The ferry ride from Phuket to Ao Nang takes approximately 1.5 hours. While the boat is large and comfortable, it’s a considerable chunk of the trip—some reviews note that this long transit can feel like the bulk of your day, especially if you’re eager to spend more time on the islands instead of in transit. Still, it’s a scenic ride past limestone cliffs that define the Andaman coastline, setting the tone for what’s to come.

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The First Stop: Nopparat Thara Pier & Tup Island

Once at Ao Nang, the tour switches to a speedboat, which zips across the water to Tup Island. Here, you’ll have about 45 minutes to relax and wade on the sandbar at low tide—a special feature that many travelers rave about, calling it a “paradise” moment. If you’re lucky with the timing, you can walk from one island to another across the shifting sandbank, a fleeting and memorable experience.

Some visitors express a desire for more swimming time at Tup Island, as the window depends on tide schedules. This stop offers a genuine chance to float in clear waters and sunbathe on soft sands, making it a favorite for many.

Snorkeling and Swimming at Chicken Island

Next up is Chicken Island, famous for its rocky “chicken head” formation. Here, snorkeling is included and highly praised. Guides help you gear up, and many reviews mention the vibrant marine life and crystal-clear water as highlights.

You’ll spend about 50 minutes at Chicken Island, enough time for a swim and a bit of underwater exploration. The snorkeling gear and life jackets provided are generally appreciated, and some travelers share that they saw “unbelievable fish and coral.” The guides’ enthusiasm and safety consciousness contribute to a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere.

Lunch Break by the Beach

Following snorkeling, you head to a beachside restaurant on Chicken Island for lunch, which usually lasts about an hour. The menu features Thai dishes, with options including halal and vegetarian choices upon request. Reviewers consistently mention the delicious food, with some saying it’s “great setting” and “refreshing after a busy morning.”

However, some travelers note that food can be basic and that portions may be limited, especially during busy times when dishes run out. Packing a snack or extra water might be wise if you’re particularly hungry.

Koh Poda: Sun, Sand, and Swimming

The last major stop is Koh Poda, a small island known for white sands and calm waters. You’ll have about 1.5 hours here to relax, sunbathe, swim, or explore the rocky coastline. Many reviews describe it as a beautiful, peaceful spot perfect for unwinding after a busy morning.

It’s worth noting that access to Koh Poda can be affected by tide timings, and some guests mention the difficulty of getting on and off the boat due to rocks and uneven surfaces. Better facilities, including more changing rooms, could improve the experience.

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Returning to Phuket

After enjoying Koh Poda, the tour heads back to Nopparat Thara Pier for a quick return ferry, then a transfer back to your hotel in Phuket. The return journey is about 2.5-3 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides and how they help make the day smoother. “Tony and his crew were amazing—they took good care of us,” one traveler shares, emphasizing the personal touch. Others appreciate how beautiful the islands are, describing the water as “so clear” and the scenery as “breathtaking.”

The value for money is also often praised, especially considering all included: hotel transfers, snorkeling gear, and a satisfying Thai lunch. For those on a budget or short on time, many find this trip a worthwhile way to see multiple islands in one day.

However, some critiques are worth noting. A few mention long transit times—the ferry from Phuket to Krabi is a significant part of the journey. “It’s mostly a ferry trip,” says one review, which may feel tedious if you were expecting more island time.

Others express frustration over hidden or changing itinerary details—for example, visiting only three islands instead of four, or the absence of certain stops like Railay Beach. Weather cancellations have also caused some disappointment, particularly with trips to the National Park, which may be canceled last-minute due to poor weather.

This trip suits travelers who are eager to see multiple islands in one day and are comfortable with a fair amount of boat travel. If snorkeling and relaxing on white sands are your main goals, you’ll likely be pleased with the beautiful scenery, friendly guides, and good food. It’s particularly good for nature lovers who want a hassle-free way to explore Krabi’s coastline.

On the other hand, if you prefer more leisure and less transit, or are hoping to visit specific sites like Railay Beach, you might find this tour somewhat limited. Also, if you dislike long ferry rides or are sensitive to crowds during busy times, you may want to explore other options.

This tour offers a solid slice of Krabi’s natural beauty at a reasonable price. The organized itinerary, combined with guides praised for their helpfulness, helps travelers get the most out of their day. The snorkeling, white sands, and delicious Thai lunch are definite highlights that many reviewers remember fondly.

It’s a great choice for adventurous travelers wanting to pack in as much as possible in a short time, especially if they enjoy underwater activities and scenic beaches. However, those seeking a more relaxed, in-depth experience might find the long transit times and occasional itinerary surprises a bit frustrating.

This trip can be a valuable introduction to Krabi’s islands, especially for first-timers or those short on time. Just remember to bring a sense of adventure—and perhaps some extra snacks.

How long is the total tour?
Approximately 9 hours, including hotel pickup, transportation, island visits, and return.

Are meals included?
Yes, a Thai lunch with seasonal fruits and drinks are included. Vegetarian and halal options are available on request.

What islands will I visit?
Most visits include Koh Poda, Chicken Island, and Tup Islets. Some reviews mention only visiting three out of four islands, depending on weather and operational limits.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear and life jackets are included and generally praised for their quality.

Does the tour accommodate different diets?
Yes, vegetarian, halal, and other dietary options can be requested for lunch.

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, waterproof camera, and some extra water or snacks, especially if you’re hungry.

How early do I need to be ready?
Pickup is usually around 8:30 am, and exact times are confirmed via email.

Are there any hidden costs?
Entrance fees to the National Park and some optional extras are not included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers with children enjoyed it, but keep in mind the long boat rides and some rocky island access.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour may be canceled or rescheduled; a full refund or alternative date will be offered if weather conditions prevent the trip from happening.

In the end, if you’re eager to snorkel, soak up the sun, and marvel at stunning islands without fuss, this tour provides a good, balanced way to explore Krabi’s islands from Phuket. Just prepare for some travel time, and you’ll likely leave with plenty of beautiful memories.