Krabi/Ao Nang: Island Hopping Tour by Private Longtail Boat

Highlights

• Enjoy Krabi at your own pace with a private longtail boat, local captain and simple fruit snacks on board.
• Choose from a few suggested routes that can include Hong Island, Pak Bia, Lao Lading, Poda, Chicken Island and sandbar stops.
• Swim and snorkel in clear water away from the biggest crowds, especially if you start early in the morning.
• Discover hidden coves, lagoons and viewpoints such as the Hong Island 360° lookout on selected options.
• Relax on quiet beaches where you can swim, take photos and spend more time at the places you like most.
• Have a flexible day that can be shaped around your group’s energy, weather and available time.

Tour Overview

This private longtail experience is built for guests who prefer a simple, flexible day on the water instead of a fixed group schedule. You meet your captain near Nopparat Thara Pier in Ao Nang and discuss your chosen route, which may focus on closer islands like Poda and Chicken, or extend to Hong Island and its lagoon depending on the option and sea conditions.

The boat is reserved for your group only, so you can decide how long to stay at each stop within the overall tour time. Most options include a mix of swimming, snorkeling, sandbar walks and beach time, with the captain suggesting the best sequence based on tides and weather. Snorkel masks, life jackets and a simple fruit set with drinking water are provided on board.

Because the trip is private, you can start earlier to enjoy quieter spots in the morning or choose an afternoon schedule to catch softer light and sunset colors on the islands. National park fees vary slightly by route, and your captain or booking team can confirm which fees apply to your chosen option.

Typical Itinerary Options

1. Meeting at Nopparat Thara Pier - Make your own way or arrange a transfer to the meeting point near the National Park building at Nopparat Thara Pier, where you meet your captain.
2. Board your private longtail boat - Receive a short safety explanation, put on life jackets if you wish and settle in for the cruise out of Ao Nang bay.
3. Option 1: Poda, Tub and Chicken Islands - Visit Poda Island, the sandbar at Thale Waek and Chicken Island for swimming, photos and easy snorkeling near the reef.
4. Option 2: 4 Islands plus Railay and Phra Nang - Combine the classic 4 Islands with extra time at Railay Beach and Phra Nang Beach for views, cave visits and a relaxed swim.
5. Option 3: Hong Island route - Head further out to Hong Island, Hong Lagoon, Pak Bia and Lao Lading, where you can swim in lagoons, rest on small coves and, if you wish, hike to the Hong 360° viewpoint.
6. Option 4: Extended mixed route - Spend more time and visit a larger mix of islands from the above options, trading longer ride times for more variety and shorter stays at each place.
7. Flexible stop durations - At each island, discuss with your captain how long you would like to stay, keeping in mind the overall tour length and sea conditions.
8. Return cruise to Ao Nang - After your last swim or beach walk, relax on the boat as you head back toward Nopparat Thara Pier to finish your private tour.

Routes, included islands and stop times depend on the option you choose, weather, tides and park rules. Your captain will always aim for safe, comfortable conditions and may adjust the plan on the day.

What's Included

• Private longtail boat hire in Ao Nang for the selected tour duration.
• Local Thai captain to operate the boat and advise on safe swimming and snorkeling spots.
• Snorkel masks and life jackets for use during the trip.
• Fresh seasonal fruit and drinking water served on board.
• Hotel transfers from selected areas when included in your chosen option.
• National park fees for certain routes, typically from 200 ฿ to 500 ฿ per person depending on the option.
• Basic accident insurance from the local operator.

Not Included

• Lunch or full meals, unless arranged separately. You can bring your own food or buy snacks before departure.
• Alcoholic drinks, soft drinks beyond the standard water and fruit set, and personal snacks not listed above.
• Taxi or own transfers to Nopparat Thara Pier if hotel pickup is not part of your option.
• Beach towels, beachwear, hats, sunglasses and other personal gear.
• Tips for the captain, which are optional and based on your satisfaction with the day.

Accessibility & Practical Info

• This experience is not suitable for children under 3 years, pregnant guests, people with serious back problems or anyone with very limited mobility.
• You should be comfortable stepping into and out of a longtail boat at the pier and sometimes from the beach, often using a small ladder.
• Bring sunglasses, a towel, beachwear, sunscreen and enough cash in Thai Baht for any extra snacks, drinks or park fees not included.
• If you are prone to seasickness, consider taking motion sickness tablets before boarding, as the Andaman Sea can be choppy at times.
• Rain is common in southern Thailand and can appear suddenly. Tours continue in light rain if it is safe, but strong wind or storms can lead to changes or cancellations.
• The captain speaks basic English, so simple questions and requests are fine. For more detailed explanations, written notes or translation apps can help.
• Tour duration represents the maximum total time. If you move quickly between stops, you may return a little earlier than the full stated hours.