Thailand’s coastline and islands are a sailor’s dream—crystal-clear waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and vibrant marine life make every boat trip memorable. Whether you’re after a relaxing sunset cruise, an action-packed day exploring sea caves, or snorkeling with tropical fish, Thailand offers a boat tour for every taste. We especially love tours like the Phi Phi: 7 Island Longtail Boat Snorkeling Tour with Sunset for its combination of iconic scenery and personalized experience, or the Krabi: 4 Islands Day Tour for a quick but comprehensive island hop. Each offers a unique window into Thailand’s spectacular maritime environment. If you’re planning your trip, check out these options and see which one suits your style.
Quick Overview
Our list covers full-day tours, half-day adventures, speedboat excursions, and luxury sailing cruises. Some tours focus on snorkeling and marine life at famous sites like Maya Bay and Shark Point, while others add activities like sea cave kayaking or dolphin watching. Prices range from budget-friendly options around $23 to premium experiences at $62, often including lunch, hotel transfers, and equipment. For detailed info, see the Phi Phi: 7 Island Longtail Boat Snorkeling Tour with Sunset or the Phuket: Phang Nga, Hong & James Bond Islands by Big Boat.
1. Phi Phi: 7 Island Longtail Boat Snorkeling Tour with Sunset
At number 1 on our list, this full-day tour offers a classic Thai longtail boat experience exploring seven different islands around Phi Phi. Starting at the meeting point in front of McDonald’s inside Phi Phi Market, you’ll visit highlights like Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon, and Maya Bay. This tour is perfect if you enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on pristine beaches, all with a chance to witness a magical sunset over the Andaman Sea. The small-group limit (maximum 20) ensures a more intimate experience.
What makes this tour stand out is the inclusion of Snorkeling at Shark Point, where vibrant coral reefs teem with marine life, and the chance to relax on Koh Phai’s quiet beaches. Guests consistently praise the friendly guides and the well-organized schedule. The 400 THB national park fee for Maya Bay and Koh Phai is an extra expense but worthwhile for the scenery.
Bottom line: This tour offers a balanced mix of iconic sights and underwater adventures, ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive Phi Phi experience with a sunset finale.
2. Krabi: 4 Islands Day Tour by Speedboat or Longtail Boat
Number 2 is perfect for those who want to see multiple islands in a short time. This 4-hour tour from Krabi takes you to Phra Nang Cave Beach, Railay Beach, Koh Poda, and Chicken Island. Whether you choose a speedboat or longtail, the trip offers crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and opportunities for snorkeling.
What sets this apart are the lesser-known areas like Thale Waek (the “Separated Sea”) and Koh Kai, which give a taste of untouched Thailand. Reviewers rave about the smooth organization and the tasty Thai lunch included. This trip is best for travelers short on time yet eager to pack in some tropical paradise.
Bottom line: An excellent option for a quick, diverse island experience with reliable reviews and great value.
3. Phi Phi: Early Morning Speed Boat to Maya Bay
Number 3 offers an early start to beat the crowds at the famous Maya Bay. This 4-hour trip begins from Krabi Province and visits Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, and Pileh Lagoon. Arriving early means you enjoy the iconic Maya Bay with fewer travelers, making for perfect photos and peaceful strolls.
The tour includes snorkeling, sightseeing, and time at Loh Samah Bay, with the vibrant Viking Cave providing cultural interest. The small group size enhances the experience, and the price of $63 is justified by the exclusive access and fewer crowds.
Bottom line: Ideal for early risers who want to enjoy Maya Bay at its quietest, with an added bonus of snorkeling in stunning waters.
4. Phi Phi: Sunset and Plankton by Speed Boat with Snorkeling
At number 4, this 4-hour evening tour combines snorkeling, sunset watching, and the chance to see glowing plankton in the water. Starting from Monkey Beach, you’ll visit Viking Cave, Shark Point, and Pileh Lagoon, finishing with a spectacular sunset.
What makes this tour special is the unique plankton sighting, which creates a surreal blue glow underwater—a must-do for travelers interested in nature’s little miracles. The friendly crew and flexible schedule make it a popular choice, especially for those who want a serene ending to their day.
Bottom line: Perfect for sunset lovers and underwater explorers wanting to witness glowing plankton in a comfortable, small-group setting.
5. Phi Phi: 7 Island Day Tour by Longtail Boat
Number 5 focuses on a comprehensive 9-hour exploration of seven islands associated with Phi Phi. Starting at McDonald’s Krabi, it includes Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, Maya Bay, and Bamboo Island. This tour balances relaxation and adventure, with plenty of snorkeling stops and beach time.
The tour’s value for money is solid, given the lengthy itinerary and inclusion of snorkeling gear. Reviewers mention good organization and the ability to see famous spots like Shark Point and Bamboo Island. The shorter stops mean you need to be prepared for a full day, but it’s ideal if you want to maximize island visits.
Bottom line: A great all-in-one trip for travelers eager to explore multiple islands with a relaxed pace.
6. Phuket: Phang Nga, Hong & James Bond Islands by Big Boat
Number 6 delivers a luxury cruise through Phang Nga Bay. This full-day big boat experience includes James Bond Island, sea cave kayaking, and Hong Island, with lunch and snorkeling included.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of adventure and comfort—paddle through caves, explore limestone karsts, and relax on Hong Island’s quiet beaches. The multi-activity itinerary appeals to travelers who want a bit of everything, especially the kayaking in the sea caves. The price reflects the inclusions and size of the boat.
Bottom line: Best suited for active travelers seeking a luxurious and multi-faceted day on the water.
7. Koh Phi Phi: Longtail Boat to Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon
Number 7 is a shorter, budget-friendly tour focusing on Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon. Starting from Krabi Province, it provides intimate visits to vibrant marine spots and scenic beaches.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want quality snorkeling and scenic photography without a full-day commitment. Reviewers mention the friendly guides and beautiful sites, though the shorter duration might not suit those wanting a comprehensive experience.
Bottom line: A good choice for budget-conscious travelers who want to see the highlights without spending a whole day.
8. Lanta’s Hidden Gems: 4 Islands by Traditional Longtail Boat
Number 8 explores Koh Lanta’s best-kept secrets. This 7-hour tour takes you to Koh Mook, Koh Ngai, Koh Chueak, and Koh Maa—each with its own charm. Highlights include Emerald Cave, snorkeling, and beachside lunch.
Reviewers appreciate the friendly guide and the less crowded beaches, although the coral reefs are somewhat depleted, per some comments. It’s ideal if you want to explore beyond the usual spots at a relaxed pace.
Bottom line: Great for travelers who prefer smaller crowds and a mix of adventure and relaxation.
9. Koh Lanta: Kayaking and Longtail Boat Tour (Half day)
Number 9 combines kayaking and longtail boat rides in Koh Phee and Koh Talabeng. Starting from Thung Yee Peng Pier, you’ll paddle through mangroves and explore caves.
Reviewers mention the stunning scenery and easy kayaking, but some note that marine life is less abundant. This tour suits those who want a balance of paddling and boat exploration, especially if environmental appreciation is your thing.
Bottom line: A good pick for paddlers and nature lovers seeking a half-day activity.
10. Koh Phi Phi: One Day Tour by Longtail Boat with Sunset
Number 10 offers an 8-hour journey similar to the #1 tour but with a focus on daylight and sunset. It includes Maya Bay, Shark Point, Bamboo Island, and finishes with a spectacular sunset over Phi Phi.
The itinerary includes snorkeling, wildlife spotting, and free time at each stop. With a price of $34, it’s quite accessible, and reviews note the beautiful landscapes and smooth organization.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a full-day island tour capped with a stunning sunset.
How to Choose Your Ideal Boat Tour
When selecting your boat trip, consider your budget, interests, and available time. If snorkeling and marine life are your focus, tours like Phi Phi: 7 Island Longtail Boat Snorkeling or the Maya Bay speed boat offer excellent options. For those craving a luxury experience, the Phuket: Phang Nga, Hong & James Bond Islands provides comfort along with adventure.
Budget travelers can look at shorter tours like the Koh Phi Phi budget trip or the Koh Chuek snorkeling options. If you have limited time, a half-day tour like the Krabi: 4 Islands will give a quick but satisfying taste of Thailand’s waters.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak season (November to April), and always verify what’s included—such as lunch, snorkeling gear, or park fees—to avoid surprises.
Final Thoughts
Thailand offers an incredible variety of boat tours and cruises that suit different interests and travel styles. Whether you’re after a relaxing sunset cruise, an adventure-packed day of exploration, or a snorkeling safari, you’ll find a trip that fits your needs. For a balanced experience, the Phi Phi: 7 Island Longtail Boat Snorkeling Tour with Sunset remains a top pick, while luxury lovers might prefer the Phang Nga Bay Big Boat Cruise.
Remember, boat trips fill quickly during high season, so booking early ensures your spot on the water. No matter which tour you choose, these adventures will give you a fresh appreciation for Thailand’s stunning coastal scenery. Pack your sunscreen, bring your sense of curiosity, and get ready to enjoy the best of Thailand’s waters.