Private Islands Tour (Boat Charter, customized)

Exploring Phuket’s Islands by Private Boat: A Customizable Adventure

When you think of a day in Phuket, images of busy beaches and crowded tours might come to mind. But what if you could enjoy the pristine beauty of Phuket’s surrounding islands without the hustle and bustle, all in your own private vessel? For about $1,500 per group (up to 12 people), you can charter a boat—either a speedboat or a luxurious catamaran—and craft your perfect day exploring the islands of the Andaman Sea. With an approximately 8-hour journey, this experience offers a blend of snorkeling, swimming, relaxing on sandy beaches, and enjoying a delightful lunch, all tailored to your preferences.

What we particularly love about this tour is the flexibility it offers. You can decide whether to spend more time at the quieter, coral-filled lagoons or linger on the sand beaches of Coral Island. Plus, the small group setting means you won’t be squeezed into a rigid itinerary—your day is as relaxed or adventurous as you want it to be. The second highlight? The quality of the experience—from the friendly crew to the fresh, plentiful lunch—which makes for a truly personalized and enjoyable day out.

A potential consideration is that this experience is best suited for those comfortable with boat trips and who prioritize customization over a fixed schedule. If you’re looking for a very structured tour with set stops and timings, this might feel too loose. However, for travelers craving authentic, stress-free island time, it’s a perfect fit.

This tour is especially ideal for small groups or families who want to avoid the crowds and explore at their own pace. It’s also perfect if you love snorkeling and swimming in clear waters or simply want a luxurious day on the water with excellent food and privacy.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary allows you to customize your day on the islands.
• Choice of boat type (speedboat or catamaran) caters to different preferences for speed and comfort.
• Includes amenities like snorkeling gear, lunch, coffee/tea, and insurance, offering good value.
• Small group size (up to 12) ensures a more intimate experience.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.
• Great for those seeking privacy and a personalized marine adventure.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Booking

Booking this private island tour is straightforward—most travelers plan about 20 days ahead, which is quite reasonable given the exclusivity of the experience. The tour includes pickup from your hotel, making the start of your adventure seamless. Once onboard, you’ll choose whether to sail on a speedboat, perfect for quick, zippy trips, or a catamaran, which offers a more stable, spacious ride.

The Itinerary – Breaking Down the Stops

Koh Racha Yai is your first stop. Known for its crystal-clear lagoons and soft coral sands, it offers a chance to snorkel among vibrant reef fish and corals. The reviewer “Severine” appreciated the beautiful lagoons and the relaxing beaches, noting how they enjoyed swimming with a mask in the transparent waters. This stop lasts about 90 minutes, giving ample time to explore or lounge.

Next, on to Ko Racha Noi, where snorkeling reveals some of the most stunning underwater sights in the Andaman Sea. The quiet, less crowded nature of Racha Noi makes it a favorite for underwater lovers. It’s a quick 40-minute stop, but it’s enough to get a good glimpse of marine life.

Coral Island is a highlight, especially with its beach restaurant. Here, you can enjoy a buffet lunch, often praised for being plentiful and tasty. The 1.5-hour stop allows for beach lounging, swimming, or simply soaking in the scenery, with optional activities like jet skiing, Thai food, or cocktails available at extra cost.

The visit continues to Ko Mai Thon, where another snorkeling session showcases more of the vibrant underwater world. It’s a shorter 35-minute stop, but the remarkable clarity of the water makes every second count.

Finally, the tour wraps up at Khai Island, famous for its beautiful beach and easy entry into the sea. It’s ideal for swimming and relaxing, and the calm waters make it great for families or less experienced swimmers.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The flexibility of this tour is its biggest draw. Unlike standard group tours with fixed schedules, you can decide how long to stay at each island, focus on snorkel spots you prefer, or just relax on the beach. Plus, the private boat means no sharing your day with strangers, which is a priceless perk.

The Crew and Service

Reviewers rave about the friendly, accommodating staff. “Severine” mentioned how “the staff and crew were very kind and friendly,” which adds to the comfort of the day. The air-conditioned vehicle for transfers, snorkeling equipment, and buffet lunch are all part of a package that emphasizes value and convenience.

Food and Comfort

The lunch included is often described as abundant and tasty, with some reviewers noting how much they enjoyed the fresh food. The massive cooler to add drinks was a hit, especially on hot days. The air-conditioned transfer helps keep you comfortable before and after the boat trip.

Is It Worth the Price?

At just over $1,500 for a full-day private tour for up to 12 people, the value hinges on your desire for privacy, customization, and comfort. You’re paying for your own boat, personalized stops, and a luxury experience—not just a boat ride and a set itinerary. For groups that want an exclusive, flexible adventure, the cost is justified.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits families, couples, or small groups who prioritize privacy, customization, and the chance to explore at their own pace. It’s perfect for snorkelers and swimmers eager to see marine life up close without the crowds. Plus, if you prefer delicious food and relaxed beach time over rushing from spot to spot, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is private and flexible—you’re encouraged to plan your day according to your preferences.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 hours, including transfer time, island stops, and onboard time.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, your package includes the use of snorkeling gear.

What type of boat can I choose?
You can select either a speedboat for quicker transfers or a catamaran for a more stable, spacious ride.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers snorkeling equipment, lunch, coffee/tea, all fees and taxes, and insurance for your group.

Are there extra costs?
Additional activities like jet skiing, Thai food, or cocktails are available for extra payment on certain islands.

Is this suitable for children or non-swimmers?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but those uncomfortable with boats or swimming should consider their comfort level.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, receiving a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 20 days ahead, but availability may vary during peak seasons.

Final Thoughts

This private islands tour from Phuket offers a rare combination of flexibility, comfort, and personalized adventure. It’s perfect for those looking to escape the crowds, explore beautiful underwater spots, and unwind on tranquil beaches—all in your own private vessel. The quality of the crew, the delicious lunch, and the ability to customize your day make it a standout choice for travelers who value authentic, stress-free experiences.

While it’s more expensive than some group tours, the value lies in the privacy, flexibility, and tailored experience. Ideal for small groups or families wanting a memorable day on the water, this tour could easily become a highlight of your Phuket trip. If you’re seeking beautiful scenery, excellent snorkeling, and a private escape, this could be just what you need.

To sum it up, if you want a luxurious, customized day out exploring Phuket’s islands, with delicious food and stunning views, this private boat tour delivers. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the best of the Andaman Sea with the comfort of privacy and personalized service, making it well worth the investment for those who value authentic, relaxed adventure.