Private Longtail Boat Charter to Stunning 4 Islands

An Authentic Day Exploring Krabi’s 4 Islands

When you’re visiting Krabi and craving a true escape on the water, a private longtail boat to explore some of Thailand’s most picturesque islands is just the ticket. For around $38 per person, this two-hour journey offers a chance to see Chicken Island, Poda Island, Tub Islands, and Railay Beach — all with the flexibility and comfort of your own private boat. Your trip includes hotel pickup in Ao Nang, ensuring a smooth start, and offers snorkeling gear, bottled water, and fruits to keep you refreshed.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances sightseeing and relaxation. The ability to choose how long to stay at each destination means you aren’t rushed—something many other tours overlook. Plus, the focus on authentic beaches and natural formations makes for a memorable experience that feels personalized. The only consideration to keep in mind is that entrance fees (200 baht for adults, 100 for children) are not included, so budget for that extra expense. This tour suits travelers who prefer a flexible, intimate adventure over large group excursions, especially those keen on snorkeling and beach lounging.

Key Points

• Flexibility and Privacy: You choose how long to stay at each island, making the experience tailored to your pace.
• Stunning Natural Sites: See iconic rock formations, sandy beaches, and sandbanks that connect islands.
• Snorkeling and Relaxation: Plenty of time for snorkeling and unwinding on beautiful beaches without guides rushing you.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup in Ao Nang included; other areas might incur extra transfer costs.
• Good Value: For under $40, you get a personalized water adventure with snacks and equipment.
• Suitable for Most Travelers: Designed for those who want a relaxed, authentic experience with minimal fuss.

Exploring the 4 Islands: A Closer Look

The Start: Hotel Pickup and Private Boat Comfort

Your day begins with hotel pickup in Ao Nang, making it straightforward to begin your adventure without the hassle of public transportation or crowded group tours. The private longtail boat offers a quieter, more intimate way to travel, giving you a front-row seat to the stunning scenery. The boat ride itself is part of the experience — soft breezes, the hum of the motor, and the view of limestone cliffs lining the coast.

First Stop: Chicken Island and the Rocky Icon

Your journey kicks off with a visit to Chicken Island, famous for its large, distinctive rock formation resembling a chicken’s head. Here, you’ll snorkel in crystal-clear waters, where colorful fish and coral await. The review from Lucy highlights how she appreciated the ample time on each island and the “cold water and fresh watermelon” that kept everyone refreshed. The unique rock formation makes this a particularly photogenic spot, and you’ll enjoy the chance to explore the sandbanks that connect Chicken Island to Tub Island — a fun and scenic walk that adds to the adventure.

Poda Island’s White Sandy Beaches

Next, you’ll move to Poda Island, renowned for its pristine white sands and calm waters. It’s the perfect place to stretch out, swim, or just relax under the sun. The gentle waves and soft sand make it ideal for families or those wanting a peaceful beach experience. According to reviews, there’s plenty of time here to find a good spot and enjoy the natural beauty without feeling hurried.

Tub Islands and the Connection to Chicken Island

Just next door to Chicken, the Tub Islands are smaller but offer great snorkeling and quiet spots to enjoy. The sandbanks connecting the islands are a highlight, providing an unusual and charming landscape for photos or quick exploration. This stop offers a quieter, less crowded environment, perfect for those who like to snorkel or relax without a guide rushing them.

Railay Beach and Pranang Cave

The final stop is Railay Beach, famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs and the nearby Pranang Cave. A short walk takes you to the cave, where you can marvel at the stalactites and the local legend that surrounds it. This area is popular but still retains a natural charm. The flexibility of the tour means you can either relax on the sandy beach or explore the caves at your own pace.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What sets this experience apart is the personalized nature of the private boat. Unlike large group tours, you have the freedom to linger at your favorite spots or move on quickly. The snorkeling equipment included means you can jump into the water whenever a good spot appears. Plus, the hotel pickup makes it convenient, especially in a busy tourist town like Ao Nang.

The feedback from travelers like Lucy who mentioned her “lovely relaxing day” and the attentive captain shows how much the personal touch adds to the experience. Her comment about her glasses being returned the same day also highlights the attention to detail and genuine care from the crew.

While the entrance fees are not included, they are a small additional cost, and the overall value remains high given the intimate setting, beautiful scenery, and flexibility.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for independent-minded travelers who want to craft their own day on the water without the constraints of rigid schedules. It suits families, couples, or small groups seeking a relaxed, scenic outing with opportunities to snorkel and explore at their own pace. If you’re someone who worries about crowds or long bus rides and prefers a personalized adventure, this private tour will fit the bill.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a private longtail boat tour to Krabi’s stunning islands offers a blend of authenticity, comfort, and flexibility that many larger tours can’t match. You’ll enjoy the visual drama of limestone formations like Chicken Head, the soft sands of Poda Island, and the quiet elegance of Railay Beach, all while having the freedom to move as you please.

For those looking to escape the crowds, snorkel freely, and take in some of Thailand’s most beautiful scenery, this tour provides excellent value. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate a personal touch and want to tailor their day to their pace and interests.

Whether you’re after picture-perfect beaches, unique rock formations, or peaceful snorkeling spots, this private boat experience is an excellent choice for a memorable day along the iconic Krabi coast.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes free hotel pickup from Ao Nang. If you’re staying in Krabi Town or Klong Muang, there is an extra charge for private transfer.

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 2 hours, but you can spend longer at your favorite stops since it’s flexible.

What islands will we visit?
You’ll visit Chicken Island (known for its rock formation), Poda Island (famous for its white sands), Tub Islands (smaller with good snorkeling), and Railay Beach with Pranang Cave.

Are snorkeling masks provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included in the tour.

What’s the cost of entrance fees?
Entrance fees are not included. Expect to pay 200 baht for adults and 100 baht for children aged 4-11.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to bad weather, a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

In all, this private tour offers a relaxed yet adventurous way to experience the natural beauty of Krabi’s islands, making it a strong choice for anyone eager to see quiet beaches, unique rock formations, and crystal waters at their own pace.