Lanta’s Hidden Gems: 4 Islands by Traditional Longtail Boat

Imagine gliding across turquoise waters on a classic longtail boat, visiting four stunning islands that showcase some of southern Thailand’s best-kept secrets. For just around $31 per person and lasting about seven hours, this tour in Trang Province offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic island scenery. You’ll snorkel over coral reefs, paddle through an Emerald Cave, and soak up sun on quiet beaches—an experience that combines the best of Thailand’s scenic coast with a touch of adventure.

What we love most about this trip is the chance to snorkel in clear waters teeming with fish and explore a mysterious sea cave that winds inward for 80 meters. Plus, the lunch on Koh Ngai is an authentic Thai feast right on the beach, giving you a true taste of island life. On the flip side, the 45-minute boat ride to the first snorkel spot could be a bit long for those prone to seasickness, and the cave swim requires a good level of comfort in the water. It’s best suited for water lovers who don’t mind a bit of darkness and adventure in their snorkeling.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic sights and enjoys a day of water-based exploration, this tour fits the bill. It’s particularly ideal for active travelers, snorkelers, and those craving a genuine taste of Thailand’s island charm. Families with children over 2 years old and those comfortable in the water will find it a memorable, value-packed outing.

Key Points

• Island hopping by longtail boat offers an authentic, scenic experience
• Snorkeling among coral reefs provides a glimpse of tropical marine life
• The Emerald Cave is a highlight for adventurous swimmers
• Lunch on Koh Ngai features traditional Thai cuisine right on a pristine beach
• Tour duration of about 7 hours makes it a full but manageable day
• It’s suited for water lovers comfortable with swimming through caves and snorkeling

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Four Islands Adventure

Starting with Convenience and Comfort

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel on Koh Lanta, which is ideal if you’re staying near the main roads such as Kantiang Bay, Long Beach, or Klong Dao. The buses are generally reliable, and the inclusion of hotel transfers adds value, saving you the hassle of finding your way to the pier. You’ll meet your English-speaking guide either at your hotel or at the Lanta Old Town Pier—an historic spot worth exploring if you arrive early.

The group size tends to be manageable, and the boat rides are relatively short, with about 15 minutes between stops. The longtail boat itself, with its distinctive prow and traditional design, adds a nostalgic touch to the journey, giving you a true sense of local maritime culture.

First Stop: Koh Chueak – Snorkeling and Sea Caves

The first highlight is the small karst island of Koh Chueak, where we loved the opportunity to snorkel over crystal-clear waters and see some fish. The guide’s mention that the seabed can sometimes appear “dead in terms of coral” was accurate in parts, but there’s enough marine life to make it worth the effort. The sea caves and tiny beaches surrounding the island add a rugged, scenic element that makes for great photos.

This stop lasts about 1.5 hours, giving plenty of time to snorkel, swim, and explore the caves if you’re comfortable in the water. Remember, it’s a good idea to wear your water shoes and sun protection to handle the rocky areas and sun exposure.

Koh Mook and the Emerald Cave

Next, the boat takes you to Koh Mook, the largest island on the tour. Here, the star attraction is the Tham Morakot, better known as the Emerald Cave. Entry is only possible during low tide, so check the schedule if you have flexibility. Swimming through the dark, narrow entrance into the cave is a highlight, and those who have done it say the 80-meter swim in darkness is both thrilling and a little challenging.

Inside, you’ll find a hidden beach, encircled by towering cliffs, with an emerald-colored pool that makes the effort worthwhile. Our guide explained the cave’s formation and pointed out the steep cliffs that surround the secret beach, making the whole experience feel like a true hidden treasure. The guide’s careful supervision and encouragement are key to making this a safe and enjoyable adventure.

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Lunch and Relaxation on Koh Ngai

From the cave, you’ll head to Koh Ngai for a delicious Thai buffet lunch right on the beach. The menu includes steamed rice, fried vegetables, Massaman Curry with chicken, and seasonal fruits—simple but flavorful fare. We appreciated the opportunity to unwind on the spotless sandy beach, with plenty of shade and clear waters ideal for snorkeling and swimming.

Koh Ngai’s interior is dramatic, with mountainous tropical forest, but it’s the beaches that steal the show for most visitors. The beach is quiet, perfect for relaxing, and offers scenic views of the surrounding islands.

Koh Maa and Feeding the Fish

The final stop is at Koh Maa, where you can feed fish with bread or bananas—an activity that delights kids and adults alike. You might also spot large bats hanging in the trees, adding a bit of jungle ambiance. This stop is about 30 minutes, giving you time to observe and enjoy the lively marine environment.

Returning to Koh Lanta

After a full day of exploring, swimming, and sightseeing, the boat departs around 3:30 pm for the return trip. The journey back offers a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights, with the boat gently rocking you back to the port in Koh Lanta’s Old Town.

The Experience: What It Means for You

This tour is a fantastic way to see some of the most iconic and beautiful parts of Koh Lanta’s surrounding islands without the hassle of organizing multiple trips yourself. The longtail boat ride gives you an authentic Thailand experience, and the itinerary is well-paced, balancing activity with downtime.

Snorkeling is a major draw, and while some reviews mentioned the coral’s condition, there are still plenty of colorful fish and interesting formations to see. The Emerald Cave is a must-do for adventure-seekers and adds a real sense of discovery. Lunch on the beach is a simple but genuine Thai meal that fuels your afternoon.

However, the cave swim and snorkel duration may not suit everyone—those with mobility issues or a fear of dark enclosed spaces might find this part challenging. The 45-minute boat ride to the reef could feel long if seas are rough, so bring motion sickness remedies if needed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for water lovers who enjoy snorkeling and exploring caves, as well as travelers seeking an authentic, scenic day on Thailand’s islands. It’s especially suitable for active families, couples, or solo travelers comfortable in the water. If you’re looking for a relaxing beach day with some added adventure, this tour hits the sweet spot.

It’s less ideal if you prefer a slow-paced, land-based experience or if you have limited mobility or fear of enclosed spaces. Keep in mind the seasonal variations—jellyfish might appear, so protective clothing like long swimwear and watershoes are recommended for swimming.

Final Thoughts

This 4-islands tour by traditional longtail boat offers a compelling blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and authentic Thai island charm. For a modest price, you gain access to some of Koh Lanta’s most scenic spots—snorkeling over coral reefs, swimming through a sea cave, and relaxing on quiet beaches. The experience of traveling on a classic boat, combined with the natural wonders you’ll encounter, makes it a memorable day for water enthusiasts.

While the tour does include some active swimming and cave exploration, the overall pace is manageable, making it suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and fun in the water. The included lunch adds value, giving you a chance to sample local flavors in a beautiful setting.

In sum, if you’re eager for a day of genuine adventure and stunning views, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic way to see Koh Lanta’s surrounding islands. It’s particularly rewarding if you want to see hidden caves and coral reefs that might be missed on land-based excursions.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour provides hotel round-trip transfers from most locations near the main roads on Koh Lanta, making it convenient to start your day.

How long is the boat ride between stops?
The longest ride is about 45 minutes to the snorkeling site, with shorter trips between other stops, ensuring the day remains active but not overly long on boats.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, change of clothes, towel, camera, sunscreen, flip-flops, and water shoes. A waterproof bag is also recommended.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, infants under age 2, or those with back or neck problems. Also, during jellyfish season, protective clothing is advised.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers transfers, snorkeling equipment, life jackets, a Thai beach lunch, drinking water, soft drinks, seasonal fruits, and basic insurance.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
No, entry to Hat Chao Mai National Park costs 200 THB per adult and 100 THB per child and isn’t included.

How physically demanding is the cave swim?
Swimmers should be comfortable in the water, as swimming through the Emerald Cave involves about 80 meters in darkness, which can be challenging for some.

Is this a good tour for families?
Yes, provided children are comfortable with swimming and cave exploration. The activities are engaging and safe with proper supervision.

This tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Koh Lanta’s most beautiful islands without the hassle of arranging multiple trips yourselves. It’s a well-balanced day of water fun, scenic wonders, and authentic Thai island life—perfect for adventurous travelers eager to explore Thailand’s underwater and coastal treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here: