Snorkeling and Sunset to Krabi 7 Islands by Longtail Boat + Buffet BBQ Dinner

Imagine gliding across the Andaman Sea on a traditional longtail boat, visiting seven diverse islands, and ending your day with a barbecue dinner at sunset. This tour, priced at around $40.36 per person, lasts about 6 to 7 hours, making it an excellent way to explore Krabi’s best coastal gems without breaking the bank.

Our guide, often a friendly local with a wealth of knowledge, takes us to highlights like Chicken Island, Poda Island, and Tup Island. Along the way, you’ll snorkel in crystal-clear waters, relax on pristine beaches, and marvel at towering limestone cliffs. After sunset, the adventure continues as we swim among glowing bioluminescent waters, a surreal experience not to be missed.

Two things we particularly love about this trip are the small-group setting—which fosters a relaxed, personable atmosphere—and the variety of stops that showcase the diversity of Krabi’s coastal environment. The most significant consideration? The national park fee of 200 THB per adult, which is paid separately at entry, and a possible extra transfer charge for some pick-up locations.

If you enjoy a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and authentic local experiences, this tour is perfect for you. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate small-group tours, are comfortable with water activities, and want a balanced day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and leisure.

Key Points

• Seven islands in one day offer a comprehensive glimpse of Krabi’s coastline.
• Snorkeling gear and life jackets are provided, making the experience accessible.
• Sunset barbecue dinner adds a relaxing and flavorful end to the day.
• Bioluminescence at night is a rare and magical highlight.
• Round-trip transfers from Krabi town and Ao Nang simplify logistics.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, with some exceptions like pregnant women or those with certain health conditions.

Exploring the Krabi Island-Hopping Experience

Venturing out on this small-group tour by longtail boat is a fantastic way to maximize your time in Krabi. It offers a nicely balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and local flavor, all wrapped into one day. The average booking window of 23 days in advance shows how popular this experience is, which speaks to its appeal.

The Itinerary and What to Expect at Each Stop

Poda Island kicks off the journey with a white sandy beach, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or snorkeling. Our guide, often noted for being knowledgeable, helps us appreciate this paradise-like spot. It’s a favorite among reviewers—Suzanne_L even shared, “It rained most of the time which was helped keep us cool and the travelers down. The entire trip was fantastic,” highlighting how even less-than-perfect weather can’t take away from the beauty.

Next, we head to Ko Ma Tang Ming, where snorkeling takes center stage. The vibrant fish and coral here offer plenty of underwater photo opportunities. One reviewer called it “a lot of fish, definitely Nemo!” making it clear this spot is a snorkeling highlight.

Ko Kai (Chicken Island) is famous for its distinctive rock formation that resembles a chicken’s head. It’s not just fun to look at but also a prime snorkeling spot. We spend about an hour here, enjoying the picturesque scenery and the chance to swim among numerous colorful fish.

Ko Mor offers a more relaxing pace—there’s a natural sandbank connecting Tub Island, Mor Island, and Chicken Island, which you can walk across during low tide. Many appreciate this quiet stop for taking in the scenery or relaxing on the golden sands.

Tup Island is a true highlight, where the sea recedes at low tide, exposing a white sand caused by limestone formations that connect three islands. As Suzanne_L noted, “The sea is gradually separated by the white sand and limestone beach that will appear to connect the 3 islands at low tide,” making it a photographer’s dream and a must-see for nature lovers.

Finally, Ko Ya Wa Sam is famed for its colorful marine life and vibrant coral reefs. It’s a favorite for snorkeling and diving and offers a peaceful, unspoiled environment to end our island-hopping.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s inclusion of snorkeling gear, life jackets, and a guide makes it easy for first-timers or less experienced snorkelers to enjoy the water. The round-trip transfers from Krabi town and Ao Nang reduce logistical headaches, and the buffet-style BBQ dinner at sunset offers a delightful way to unwind after a day in the sun.

However, there’s a separate national park fee of 200 THB per adult, payable at the entry, which can be easily overlooked. Also, some locations might incur an extra transfer fee of 100 THB for certain pick-up points like Klong Muang or Tub Kaek.

Reviews and Authentic Perspectives

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery. Suzanne_L’s review captures the essence: “The entire trip was fantastic,” despite some rain, emphasizing the resilient beauty of the islands. Morgan_W appreciated the timely pickup and was surprised by how much they enjoyed the snorkeling, even if they had initial doubts.

Some reviews point out organizational hiccups—like queues or late pickups—but travelers generally agree that the value for money and authentic island experience outweigh these minor inconveniences. The small group size (max 15) creates a more personal atmosphere, which many found enjoyable.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring cash for the national park fee or extra charges.
• Pack sunscreen, a hat, and a waterproof camera to capture the underwater moments.
• Wear comfortable swimwear—you’ll be snorkeling and swimming a lot.
• If you’re pregnant or have health concerns, check with your doctor, as some activities might not be recommended.
• Arrive early for pickup—the tour is known for punctuality, and early arrival helps keep the schedule smooth.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour suits adventure lovers who enjoy snorkeling and scenic boat rides. It’s great for families, couples, or small groups wanting a relaxed but activity-rich day. If you’re after stunning views, authentic island hopping, and a lively yet manageable group size, this tour checks all those boxes.

Travelers who appreciate local guides sharing insights about the islands and limestone formations** will find this especially rewarding. It’s a wonderful way to see less commercialized beaches and experience Thai island life up close.

Final Thoughts

This Krabi 7 Islands snorkeling tour offers a well-rounded day of natural beauty, aquatic adventure, and cultural charm. The small-group setting, combined with diverse stops and authentic local elements, makes it a standout choice for travelers eager to explore beyond the typical tourist spots.

While there are some minor organizational quirks, the overall value, stunning scenery, and memorable bioluminescent swim at night make this tour worth considering. If you’re seeking a cost-effective, engaging, and scenic way to spend a day in Krabi, this experience is likely to leave you with plenty of wonderful memories—and perhaps a few stories about swimming among glowing waters.

FAQ

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, including stops, meals, and transfers.

Are snorkeling masks and life jackets provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment and life jackets are included, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the underwater sights.

What is the meeting point and start time?
The tour begins at Mariam Travel and Tour, with pickup starting around 2:00 pm. It’s advisable to arrive early for a prompt departure.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 4-11 years can participate, but some activities may be less suitable for very young children or those with health issues.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet BBQ dinner, drinking water, and fruit are part of the package, served as the sunset approaches.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
Yes, you’ll need to pay a 200 THB per adult national park fee at entry, and some locations may have an extra transfer fee of 100 THB for certain pick-up points.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Embark on this small-group island-hopping adventure in Krabi, and you’ll not only see some of Thailand’s most beautiful islands but also create memories of snorkeling, stunning sunsets, and magical bioluminescent waters.