Krabi: 4 Islands & Krabi’s Separated Sea Longtail Boat Tour

Krabi: 4 Islands & Krabi’s Separated Sea Longtail Boat Tour offers an authentic and scenic way to explore some of Thailand’s most celebrated coastal sights. For just $25 per person, you’ll spend about 7 hours gliding through turquoise waters, visiting iconic destinations like Chicken Island, Koh Poda, and Railay’s famous caves.

What we really appreciate about this tour are two key features: the chance to see spectacular limestone formations that define Krabi’s landscape and the opportunity to experience local life aboard a traditional longtail boat. Both add authenticity and a sense of adventure to your day.

One thing to keep in mind is the additional fee for national parks (200 THB per adult), which isn’t included in the base price—so plan for that extra bit of cash. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of scenery, cultural sights, and some active fun with snorkeling and beach time, especially those who want to see several spots in a single day without the hassle of organizing transport.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Travel on a traditional longtail boat, giving you a local, down-to-earth flavor of Krabi.
• Variety of Highlights: From caves and beaches to sandbars, the tour offers a well-rounded day of sightseeing.
• Beautiful Scenery: Expect jaw-dropping limestone formations, turquoise waters, and sun-kissed beaches.
• Packed Itinerary: Multiple stops allow you to see many of Krabi’s coastal treasures, ideal for curious explorers.
• Value for Money: At $25, including lunch, snorkeling gear, and guides, it presents a good deal for a full day of adventure.
• Potential Extra Costs: Remember the park fee and optional transfer charges, which add to the overall expense.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into Krabi’s 4 Islands & Separated Sea Tour

This tour is a carefully curated snapshot of Krabi’s coastal charm. It starts with a hotel pickup in the Ao Nang area, a convenient service that makes beginning your day stress-free. You’ll board a colorful longtail boat, a vessel that’s as much a part of Thailand’s maritime identity as the limestone cliffs themselves. The boat’s relaxed pace and open-air design mean plenty of chances to snap photos and take in the scenery.

Exploring Railay and Phra Nang Cave Beach

The first stop is Railay’s Phra Nang Cave Beach, famous for its towering limestone cliffs and the mystical Princess Cave, or Tham Phra Nang. Here, the cliffs create a dramatic backdrop for your photos, and the cave adds a touch of local folklore. Expect to see lush jungle canopies and dramatic rock formations—perfect for those who love a view that feels like a postcard.

The guided commentary (if you’re lucky with your guide, like “John” or “Sophie”) will help you understand why this area is so iconic. It’s a great starting point because it introduces you to the region’s geological beauty and gives you a taste of the limestone spectacle that defines Krabi.

Poda Island’s White Sands and Crystal Waters

Next, the boat takes you to Poda Island, a classic Thailand postcard scene—white sands, palm trees, and clear waters. Here you’ll enjoy a Thai-style boxed picnic lunch under the shade of palms, with the stunning rock formations visible in the background. This isn’t just a quick snack; it’s a relaxed meal that lets you savor authentic Thai flavors while soaking up the sun. Many reviews mention how lovely it is to experience lunch on a beach, with one traveler stating, “the scenery was incredible, and I recommend this to anyone looking for a peaceful escape.”

You’ll have some free time here to swim, sunbathe, or explore the shoreline at your leisure, making Poda a highlight for beach lovers.

Chicken Island and Its Quirky Rock

The third stop is Chicken Island, named for the peculiar rock formation that resembles a chicken’s head and neck. This quirky feature appears in postcards and photos, making it a fun photo opportunity. We loved the way the guided tour explained the story behind this famous rock, turning it into a memorable part of the day.

Here, you can stroll around the island, snorkel in the warm waters, or simply relax on the soft sands. The tour guides are usually well-informed, making it easy to learn a bit about the island’s unique geology and history.

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Koh Tub’s Sandbar and the Magic of Tidal Landforms

One of the most special parts of this tour is the visit to Koh Tub—a tiny island connected by a sandbar that emerges at low tide. You’ll walk across this natural bridge, feeling like you’re in a movie scene. It’s an ephemeral moment, only visible during certain times, so it’s worth timing your trip if possible.

The sandbar linking Chicken, Koh Tub, and Mor Islands allows for some fantastic photos and a sense of walking on water. This experience captures the sense of discovery that makes Krabi’s coastline so magical.

Snorkeling and Relaxing

Throughout the day, snorkeling gear and masks are provided, so you can explore the underwater world. The waters around these islands are known for their clarity, and many reviews highlight how pristine the snorkel spots are, with one person noting that the water was “beautiful and perfect for snorkelers of all levels.”

Expect to see vibrant fish, coral, and possibly some marine life if the timing is right. For many travelers, this adds a rewarding adventure element to the trip.

Final Return and Reflection

As the sun begins to set, your boat heads back to Ao Nang, casting a golden hue over the limestone cliffs—a perfect end to a day full of natural wonders. The transfer back to your hotel is straightforward, and you’ll likely be exhausted but happy, with plenty of photos and memories to share.

Why This Tour Works for You

This tour is especially suitable for travelers who want an affordable, all-in-one coastal experience. It captures the essence of Krabi’s natural beauty – stunning rock formations, beaches, caves, and sandbars – in a manageable, 7-hour package. The inclusion of lunch, snorkeling gear, and guides makes it practical and valuable, letting you focus on enjoying rather than organizing.

While the additional park fee is an extra expense, many find the overall experience worth the modest cost. The small group size and personable guides ensure you’ll get a more intimate and informative trip than large bus tours.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If your idea of a perfect day involves cruising on a traditional longtail boat, exploring limestone caves, and relaxing on white sandy beaches, then this tour hits the mark. It offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, activity, and cultural authenticity, all at an accessible price point.

It’s ideal for those who appreciate authentic experiences with knowledgeable guides, as reviews praise the guides’ insights and friendliness. It’s also a good choice if you want to see multiple islands in one day without the hassle of self-organizing transport or multiple bookings.

However, if you’re seeking a more luxurious or private experience, or want to avoid additional costs like the park fee, you might want to compare other options. Still, for the average traveler wanting a fun, scenic, and memorable day in Krabi, this tour offers excellent value and plenty of reasons to smile.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is available for all hotels within Krabi Town, Ao Nang, Klong Muang, and Tub Kaek areas, starting between 07:50 am and 08:30 am.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including all stops, lunch, and travel time.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, sunglasses, swimwear, and sunscreen. Don’t forget your camera for all those stunning views.

Are snorkel masks provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks and gear are included so you can enjoy exploring underwater.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, an entrance fee to the national park is 200 THB per adult and 100 THB per child. There is also a small optional transfer fee of 100 THB per person if you are coming from specific areas.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s generally not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility or heart problems due to physical activity and boat travel.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

This tour offers a solid taste of Krabi’s best natural sights, balanced with authentic local flavor and a relaxed pace. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, it’s an experience that captures the essence of Thailand’s stunning coastline.

You can check availability for your dates here: