Krabi: 7 Islands Sunset by Longtail Boat with Snorkeling

Krabi: 7 Islands Sunset by Longtail Boat with Snorkeling offers an inviting glimpse into Thailand’s Gulf of Thailand, combining natural beauty, fun aquatic activities, and local flavors. For around $40 per person, you’ll spend an afternoon exploring Yawasam, Tang Ming, Chicken Island, Tup Island, Mor Island, Koh Mor & Koh Tub, and Koh Raeng. The tour promises colorful snorkeling, scenic sandbars, a sunset Thai buffet, and a magical night swim among glowing plankton.

What we love most about this experience is the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters amid vibrant coral and fish, and the romantic sunset dinner on Poda Island’s beach. These moments are genuine highlights, offering both visual beauty and a taste of local hospitality. The night swim with bioluminescent plankton brings a sense of wonder, a rare chance to see Thailand’s magical waters sparkle in the dark.

A key consideration is that the tour can feel crowded on the boat and at stops, especially during peak season, which might affect a more tranquil experience. Also, the food quality receives mixed reviews, with some finding it cold or bland, so setting expectations appropriately is wise.

This tour would suit those who enjoy active days with snorkeling and sightseeing but don’t mind a bustling atmosphere, and it’s perfect for travelers looking for a value-packed half-day adventure with authentic island visits. If you’re after peaceful solitude or gourmet cuisine, you might want to explore other options, but for fun, scenery, and lively group energy, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Varied Island Stops: Explores multiple islands with snorkeling, sandbars, and scenic views.
• Snorkeling & Marine Life: Opportunity to see colorful fish, coral, and even a baby shark.
• Sunset & Dinner: Enjoy a Thai-style buffet paired with a stunning sunset on Poda Island.
• Nighttime Wonder: Swim among bioluminescent plankton, witnessing Thailand’s natural glow.
• Crowd Levels: The tour can be quite busy, especially during high season.
• Food Quality: Buffet meals are often cold or bland, so have realistic expectations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Krabi 7 Islands Sunset Tour

The Itinerary: What to Expect and Why It Matters

Starting around noon, the tour kicks off with a hotel pickup, which is a big plus considering the convenience. Once on the longtail boat from Nopparat Thara Pier, you’ll head out toward the islands, with a brief stop at Railay Beach to gather more guests during high season (December to April). If you’re staying in Ao Nang, Ao Nam Mao, Klong Muang, or Tubkaek Beach, this door-to-door service is a major perk, removing the fuss of arranging transport yourself.

The first stops are Yawasam and Tang Ming Islands, where snorkeling becomes the main event. Here, the water is described as crystal clear, teeming with colorful fish and coral reefs. This is the moment to gear up with the provided snorkeling mask and life jacket, and dive into underwater life with the hope of spotting vibrant marine species, including the rare sighting of a baby shark. As one reviewer pointed out, the guides do their best to show you the best spots, and the coral reefs are generally considered delightful.

Next, you’ll cruise past Chicken Island, famously named for the large rock formation resembling a chicken’s head and neck. It’s a favorite photo stop, and the views are indeed picturesque. If the tide is low, you might walk across the sandbar connecting Tup Island and Chicken Island, a highlight for many, offering a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to soak up the sun.

Further snorkeling at Tang Ming Island allows more underwater exploration before heading to Poda Island. Here, the focus is on the sunset on the beach and the Thai-style buffet dinner. The sunset is generally described as romantic and beautiful, perfect for those wanting a memorable picture or a peaceful moment watching the sky change colors. The buffet offers local flavors, with vegetarian options available, and is included in the price—though some reviews note the food can be cold or bland.

After dinner, the tour continues with night snorkeling at Koh Raeng, where you can witness the bioluminescent plankton fluorescing in the dark water. This is a truly mesmerizing experience, often described as magical and a highlight for many travelers. It’s a gentle, curiously quiet moment after a busy day exploring.

Finally, the boat heads back to Nopparat Thara pier around 8 p.m., and you’re transferred back to your hotel. The whole experience typically lasts about 7 hours, making it a full but manageable afternoon-to-evening adventure.

The Value of This Tour: What You’re Paying For

At $40 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. You get round-trip transfers, a guide, snorkeling equipment, drinks, seasonal fruit, and a buffet dinner. The inclusion of multiple island visits and the chance to snorkel and swim in both day and night conditions means you’re covering a variety of experiences in one trip.

However, it’s important to note that fins are not included, which could make snorkeling more comfortable if you bring your own. Also, additional fees apply for national park entrance, which is standard in many Thai nature reserves—100-200 THB per person, payable on the day.

The Experience: What Travelers Have Said

Reviews paint a balanced picture. Many highlight friendly crew members and breathtaking scenery, with remarks like “the sunset was very beautiful” or “swimming with plankton was amazing.” The guides’ friendliness and professionalism stand out in several reviews, making the experience feel welcoming and well-organized.

On the flip side, some travelers found the crowds overwhelming, especially snorkeling spots, with “at least 100 people at each stop.” One reviewer noted the safety practices were less than ideal, with guides encouraging removal of life jackets and little safety briefing before snorkeling, so if you’re cautious, you might want to be vigilant.

The food is a mixed bag—some say it’s cold or bland, but others appreciated the local flavors and generous portions. The bioluminescent plankton swim, despite some reporting only a faint glow, remains a unique highlight, especially after a long day of sightseeing.

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Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring your own fins if you want extra comfort while snorkeling.
• Book early during high season to avoid overcrowding.
• Prepare for weather changes, as the tour is subject to sea and weather conditions.
• Carry cash for the national park fee and any extras.
• Don’t forget sun protection: sunscreen, hat, sunglasses.
• Bring a waterproof bag for your valuables and camera.
• Consider dietary restrictions—vegetarian and vegan options are available if requested a day in advance.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This adventure suits travelers who enjoy active outdoor activities like snorkeling and walking on sandbars, and who appreciate spectacular natural views. If you’re comfortable with some crowding and are looking for a cost-effective way to see multiple islands, this trip delivers. It also appeals to those intrigued by bioluminescent waters and sunset dinners on idyllic beaches.

However, it may be less perfect for peace seekers who prefer solitude, or those with sensitive stomachs (given the mixed reviews on food). It’s ideal for groups or families who enjoy lively outings, and those keen to get a good taste of Krabi’s island beauty in one go.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a fun-filled, budget-friendly way to discover some of Krabi’s most beautiful islands and waters. With highlights like snorkeling amid colorful reefs, walking along stunning sandbars, watching a sunset on the beach, and swimming among glowing plankton, it’s packed with memorable moments. The friendly guides and inclusive approach make it accessible, though the crowds and variable food quality are worth considering.

If you’re a traveler who loves adventure, scenery, and local flavor without breaking the bank, this trip is a solid choice. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere and don’t mind a busy schedule. Just keep expectations realistic about food and crowd levels, and you’ll likely leave with plenty of photos and stories.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transfers are included from your hotel or from Railay Beach during high season, making logistics straightforward.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 7 hours, from around noon to early evening, giving you a full afternoon and evening of island fun.

Are snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, basic snorkeling masks and life jackets are included, but fins are not. Bringing your own fins could enhance your comfort.

What should I bring?
Essential items include sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, change of clothes, camera, waterproof bag, cash for park fees, and possibly insect repellent.

Can I request special meals?
Vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary options are available if you notify the tour operator one day in advance.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for children under 2, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility, back, or heart issues due to the physical nature and boat travel involved.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to weather conditions. If cancellation is necessary, the operator will contact you, and you can reschedule or receive a full refund.

In the end, this tour is a lively, scenic, and engaging way to experience Krabi’s islands, especially if you’re after action, vibrant marine life, and stunning sunsets. It’s a great pick for travelers eager to see as much as possible in a day, with plenty of authentic moments and memorable sights to take home.

You can check availability for your dates here: