Krabi 7 Islands Snorkeling & Plankton Night by Big Longtail Boat

A Day of Island Hopping, Snorkeling, and Nighttime Wonders in Krabi

If you’re dreaming of a day spent exploring Thailand’s beautiful coast, this Krabi 7 Islands Snorkeling & Plankton Night tour offers a packed schedule of scenery, marine life, and memorable moments. For just over $38, you’ll spend roughly 7 to 8 hours cruising on a traditional longtail boat with a knowledgeable guide, visiting seven distinct islands like Chicken Island, Tup Island, and Poda Island. The tour includes a delicious sunset barbecue, and the highlight for many is swimming among glowing bioluminescent plankton after nightfall.

We really like how this trip combines both daytime adventure and a unique nighttime experience, making it suitable whether you’re into snorkeling, relaxing on beaches, or just enjoying spectacular views. The round-trip transfers from Krabi or Ao Nang mean you won’t have to worry about logistics — just show up and enjoy.

A few considerations: the group size can be up to 30 people, which might feel crowded during busy times, and some reviews mention the boat can be quite packed. Also, if weather conditions aren’t perfect, some activities like the bioluminescence might be less impressive. This tour suits travelers who want a full day of island-hopping, are comfortable with boat rides, and are curious about Thailand’s marine environments and natural phenomena.

Key Points

• Visiting seven islands in one day offers a comprehensive glimpse of Krabi’s coastline.
• Snorkeling gear and a guide enhance safety and learning about marine life.
• The sunset barbecue dinner is a highlight that combines great views with good local food.
• The tour’s bioluminescent plankton swim is a rare, magical experience.
• Round-trip transfers make logistics easy, especially for travelers unfamiliar with local transportation.
• The experience can be crowded and weather-dependent, so flexibility helps.

Exploring the Krabi 7 Islands Snorkeling & Plankton Night Tour

What makes this tour stand out?

This cruise is a solid way to cover a lot of ground in a single day. Instead of just standing on the shore, you’ll get the chance to snorkel in multiple spots — from Ko Ya Wa Sam with colorful corals to Chicken Island, famous for its marine biodiversity. We loved how each island offers a different vibe: Poda Island, with its long stretches of white sand, feels ideal for relaxing and swimming, while Tup Island’s sandbank is a fun spot to walk along during low tide.

The guided commentary is helpful, especially if you’re new to snorkeling or want to learn about the local marine ecosystems. Several reviews praise guides like Pong for their helpfulness and attentiveness, which makes a big difference when navigating busy islands or tricky water conditions.

What about the sunset and dinner?

The barbecue buffet dinner during sunset is a real treat. You’ll watch the sky change colors while enjoying grilled chicken, prawns, and vegetables, often with plenty of soft drinks and fruits. Many reviewers mention how memorable this moment is; the combination of good food, a spectacular view, and a gentle sea breeze makes for a relaxing end to a busy day.

The highlight of the night: bioluminescent plankton

Once darkness falls, you’ll have the chance to snorkel among glowing plankton, which light up your movements underwater. It’s a surreal, almost otherworldly experience. One reviewer called it “like swimming in stars,” and many say it’s something you should try at least once. Keep in mind that the bioluminescence can be less vivid if there has been recent rain or if the water is murky, which a few travelers noted.

Itinerary breakdown: what to expect

• Ko Ya Wa Sam: Starting with snorkeling, you’ll see vibrant corals and marine life. It’s a good introduction and often praised as a top snorkeling spot.
• Chicken Island: Known for its distinctive shape and coral reefs, it’s another popular snorkel stop. Many felt the marine life here was abundant.
• Tup Island: Famous for its sandbank at low tide, this stop is perfect for walking across the connecting islands, giving a sense of Thailand’s hidden gems.
• Ko Mor: The miracle sandbank connecting Chicken Island to Tup Island offers fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to stretch your legs.
• Ko Ma Tang Ming: A quick stop for more snorkeling, with the opportunity to swim or relax.
• Poda Island: The largest stop, offering about two hours for swimming, relaxing on the beach, or exploring the scenic surroundings.
• Ko Rang Beach: The last stop, where you’ll witness the magic of bioluminescent plankton after sunset, lightening up the water with tiny flashes of light.

What about the logistics?

• The starting point is Nopparat Thara Pier in Ao Nang or Krabi town, with free round-trip transfers. Reviews indicate that pickup times might be slightly inconsistent, so being ready early helps.
• The tour duration is roughly 7-8 hours, with the day starting around 12:00 pm.
• Group size can be up to 30 people, which means it’s lively but might feel crowded, especially on the boat.
• Snorkeling equipment and life jackets are provided, though some reviews suggest boat comfort could be better — boat steps may be tricky, so a bit of agility helps.

Considerations and tips

Some reviews mention that boat safety and comfort could be improved — overcrowding, cramped seating, and unstable ladders were concerns. If you’re worried about comfort or safety, consider the size of your group or look for options that might offer more luxurious arrangements.

Weather plays a role; if storms or heavy rain occur, the bioluminescence might be less visible, or some activities could be affected. It’s always good to check the forecast beforehand.

The food is generally considered good value, with some reviewers praising the barbecue dinner, though others felt some of the seafood was overcooked. If you have dietary preferences, alert the guide in advance.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers who want a full day of island hopping and underwater discovery. It caters well to those comfortable on boats, eager to snorkel at multiple sites, and excited to see the bioluminescent plankton — a rare and magical experience.

If you’re traveling with family, most reviews indicate it’s suitable for children over 4 years old, but keep in mind the boat’s space constraints and the physical activity involved. Those who value good value for money, scenic views, and a balance of relaxation and exploration will find plenty to enjoy here.

It’s less suited for travelers seeking luxury or a completely uncrowded experience, as some reviews highlight the crowds and the basic comfort level of the boat.

Final Thoughts

The Krabi 7 Islands Snorkeling & Plankton Night tour offers a lively, visually stunning adventure with a mix of snorkeling, beach relaxation, and a rare chance to swim among glowing plankton. For a price that’s reasonable considering the length and variety of stops, you’ll find plenty of value — especially if you’re eager to see a variety of islands and marine environments in one day.

The combination of scenic views, friendly guides, and the awe-inspiring bioluminescence makes it a memorable experience, perfect for travelers who want a busy, yet rewarding, day on the water. Just be prepared for some crowding and variable weather, and ensure you’re comfortable with boat rides.

This tour strikes a good balance for those wanting to make the most of their time in Krabi, with enough variety to keep everyone engaged and plenty of photo-worthy moments.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling masks and life jackets are provided, so you can just focus on enjoying the underwater sights.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 4 and above can participate, but keep in mind that boat steps and water activities require some physical agility.

What should I wear or bring?
Wear quick-drying clothes, bring a hat and sunscreen for daytime, and a waterproof bag for valuables. Swimming attire is recommended for snorkeling and swimming stops.

Can I see the bioluminescent plankton if it’s cloudy?
The experience depends heavily on good weather. Rain or cloudy skies can diminish the glow, so check the forecast if this is a priority for your trip.

How long are the island stops?
Most stops range from 20 to 120 minutes, with Poda Island getting around two hours for relaxation and exploration.

Is lunch or food included?
No, the tour offers a buffet dinner at sunset, with fruits, soft drinks, and snacks, but no lunch.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Are transfers included?
Yes, round-trip transfers from Krabi town and Ao Nang are included, although some reviews mention slight scheduling inconsistencies.

How crowded does it get?
The group can be up to 30 travelers, which can feel busy, especially on the boat, but guides do their best to keep everyone comfortable.

What’s the best time to do this tour?
Most prefer the afternoon to enjoy the sunset and evening activities, with the tour starting around noon. For the bioluminescent experience, plan for after sunset.

This tour offers a well-rounded day of island discovery, aquatic fun, and nighttime magic. Whether you’re a snorkeler, a sunset enthusiast, or just curious about Thailand’s natural phenomena, it’s a trip worth considering.