Krabi 4 Islands by Longtail Boat

Krabi 4 Islands by Longtail Boat: A Practical Guide to Thailand’s Coastal Gems

First-time visitors to Krabi often find themselves drawn to the region’s famous limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and idyllic beaches. For those looking to see several highlights in one day, the Krabi 4 Islands by Longtail Boat tour offers a straightforward, affordable way to do just that. Priced at around $31.64 per person for roughly six hours, this tour hits a mix of popular spots—Koh Poda, Chicken Island, Tup Island, and Pharming Cave Beach—each with its own unique charm.

One thing we love about this experience is its focus on authentic island-hopping with a local-style longtail boat, which keeps the journey feeling traditional and fun. The chance to snap a photo of the famous chicken-shaped rock on Chicken Island and snorkel around coral reefs is a definite plus. Another highlight is the included Thai lunch, served right on the beach—simple, tasty, and a good way to recharge.

However, there are a few considerations. The tour’s group size can reach up to 50 travelers, which might mean some crowded moments at popular spots. Also, the itinerary can vary, as some reviews mention issues with the pickup or misdirection at the port, which hints at the importance of clear communication with your tour provider. This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a cost-effective, well-rounded day of island scenery and relaxing beach time—especially those happy to share space with others and navigate a busy schedule.

Key Points

• Affordable Experience: Great value for a full day of island hopping in Krabi.
• Diverse Islands: Visit iconic spots like Koh Poda and the famous Chicken Island with its rock formation.
• Snorkeling & Relaxation: Opportunities to swim, snorkel, sunbathe, and enjoy a beachside Thai lunch.
• Group Size & Logistics: Up to 50 travelers, with some reviews mentioning logistical hiccups.
• Included Amenities: Transportation, snorkeling gear, water, tea/coffee, and a guide.
• Potential for Crowds and Variability: Expect busy spots and possible itinerary changes or pickup issues.

A Detailed Look at the Krabi 4 Islands Tour

The Starting Point and First Impressions

You’ll begin your day at Nang An Pier around 8:00 am, where a friendly guide will greet you and load you onto a longtail boat. The transport is usually a roundtrip transfer from Aonang or Krabi Town, making it convenient if you’re staying in those areas. The small group size means you’ll get a more intimate experience than large cruise ships, but the total number of travelers can be up to 50, which might lead to some crowded moments.

The ride itself is part of the charm. The speedboat zips across the waters, and as you leave the mainland behind, you’ll start to get a sense of the marine landscape that makes Krabi so special.

Phra Nang Cave Beach: Limestone Marvels

Your first stop is Phra Nang Cave Beach, a spectacular stretch of white sand backed by towering limestone cliffs. The caves and cliffs make for stunning scenery—perfect for photos and wandering around. While the admission fee isn’t included, the view alone makes it worth a quick visit. We loved the way the limestone mountains seem to rise straight out of the water, creating a dramatic backdrop that’s hard to match elsewhere.

Visitors like Philippe praised the smooth pickup process but noted that “the pickup at the port was not as good,” reminding us that logistics can be hit or miss. Still, the view of caves and limestone formations here is a highlight that makes the trip worthwhile.

Chicken Island: The Rock-Formation Photo Opportunity

Next, the boat heads to Chicken Island, easily recognizable by its rock formation resembling a chicken’s head—a fun and quirky photo spot. This island is popular for its snorkeling spots, where you can see a colorful array of fish and coral reefs just beneath the surface. It’s a good place to relax, swim, and take some memorable pictures.

One traveler mentioned, “Enjoy colorful fishes and coral,” emphasizing the snorkeling potential here. Keep in mind, some reviews hint that the admission fee isn’t included, so check with your guide about costs. If you’re into underwater life or quirky natural sculptures, this stop is definitely a highlight.

Koh Poda: The White Sandy Beach Paradise

Koh Poda offers a perfect stretch of white sand and clear waters—a classic tropical beach. It’s a spot where you can sunbathe, swim, and enjoy a packed lunch provided on the beach. The relaxed atmosphere here makes it ideal for those wanting a break from sightseeing to simply soak up the sun.

Reviewers like Philippe appreciated the free time for relaxation but also mentioned that some crowds could detract from the serenity, depending on the day. Still, the beach’s natural beauty is undeniable and will likely please anyone craving a classic tropical beach experience.

Tup Island and Moh Island: The Tidal Connection

The final stop is Tup Island, famous for its sandbar that becomes visible at low tide, connecting it to Moh Island. This is one of Thailand’s hidden gems, where you can walk across white sand to another island during low tide, creating an almost surreal landscape.

The timing of the tide defines this experience, so it’s a bit of luck whether you catch the full effect. The white sand bridging the islands is remarkably photogenic, and many find it a highlight of the tour. Visitors report that Tup Island “connects when low-tide,” making it an unusual and memorable photo opportunity.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour includes roundtrip transfers, snorkeling equipment, life jackets, water, tea/coffee, and lunch (a simple halal box lunch). Having these essentials covered reduces the hassle and lets you focus on enjoying the scenery.

However, admission fees for some sites are not included, and you’ll need to bring your own towel if you want to dry off comfortably. Some reviews mention confusion or issues with the pickup, so confirming your pickup details beforehand can help.

The Practicalities

• The tour starts at 8:00 am and lasts approximately 6 hours.
• It’s suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues or prone to seasickness should consider their comfort.
• The maximum group size of 50 can mean some crowded moments, particularly at popular stops like Koh Poda and Chicken Island.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Insights

From the single review available, we see that logistics can be hit or miss—Philippe noted that “the pickup at the port was not as good,” which emphasizes the importance of good communication. Despite this, the overall experience with beautiful views and snorkeling seems to be a common highlight.

Many travelers appreciate the value—spending a full day exploring multiple islands for just over thirty dollars—though some mention the crowds and itinerary variability as potential drawbacks. The snorkeling opportunities and photo spots stand out as reasons to consider this trip, especially if you’re eager to see iconic Thai islands without the expense of private tours.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for an affordable, no-fuss way to see several of Krabi’s most famous islands, this tour offers a solid introduction. It’s best for budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind sharing space with others and are content with a busy schedule. Those with a sense of adventure will enjoy the snorkeling, the quirky chicken-shaped rock, and the chance to relax on pristine beaches.

However, if you’re seeking serenity and less crowded spots, or if logistics and itinerary flexibility are high on your list, you might want to explore other options. Still, for a well-rounded taste of Krabi’s coastal beauty, this trip delivers enough to satisfy most travelers—and costs less than many private options.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip transfer from Aonang or Krabi Town is part of the package, making it easy to start and end your day without hassle.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps an underwater camera if you want to capture the snorkeling. The tour provides snorkeling gear, but personal gear can also be used.

Are the stops flexible?
Some aspects of the itinerary, like Tup Island’s sandbar, depend on the tide, so timing can vary. The stops are generally fixed but may fluctuate slightly.

How crowded will it be?
With a maximum of 50 travelers, expect some busy moments, especially at popular photo spots like Chicken Island or Koh Poda.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a simple lunch box (Halal) is provided on the beach, enough for a quick energy boost and to enjoy the scenery.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if your plans change or weather looks uncertain.

In all, this tour is a practical way to tick off some of Krabi’s top islands while enjoying the ocean breeze and some snorkeling. Its value and variety make it a good choice for first-time visitors or those wanting a guided day out, provided you’re prepared for some crowds and a busy schedule.