7 Islands Sunset Tour with Buffet Dinner & Night Snorkeling

Taking a boat trip around Krabi’s iconic islands is a classic way to experience Thailand’s natural beauty, and the 7 Islands Sunset Tour with Buffet Dinner & Night Snorkeling aims to combine the best of daytime adventures with a romantic sunset and nighttime surprises. This tour, run by Trip Store Krabi, offers a well-rounded experience that promises stunning views, snorkeling, and a delicious beachside dinner—all wrapped into around 7 hours of fun.

What really stands out about this experience is its balance of active moments—like snorkeling and walking on sandbars—with relaxing sights, especially as the sun dips below the horizon. We especially love the way this tour includes plenty of time on each island, so you’re not rushed or squeezed into a whirlwind visit. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour’s schedule is weather-dependent, which can sometimes cause last-minute changes or delays.

If you’re someone who enjoys a mix of adventure, scenic landscapes, and good food, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a taste of multiple islands without the hassle of planning each transfer themselves, and for those who enjoy a little evening magic with bioluminescent plankton as a bonus.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Hotel pickup, snorkeling gear, a beach buffet, and professional guides make this tour a convenient package.
• Variety of Activities: From snorkeling, walking on sandbars, to sunset views and night swimming with plankton, there’s no shortage of things to do.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Longtail boats and beach dinners give a genuine, local feel to the adventure.
• Value for Money: At around $37.56 per person, it offers a lot for the price—especially considering the variety of stops and included meals.
• Weather Flexibility: The schedule is weather-dependent, so be prepared for potential changes, especially during monsoon season.
• Group Size: Limited to 30 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience with attentive guides.

The Itinerary: A Deep Dive into the Day

Starting Point and First Stops

The tour kicks off with hotel pickups in Krabi around noon, which is quite convenient for those staying in Ao Nang. The small group is then taken to Nopparat Thara Pier, where the longtail boat awaits. The initial short health check-up by the crew ensures safety, and the boat ride itself is an authentic Thai experience—long, slow, and charmingly rustic.

The first stop is Koh Yawasam (Yawasam Island), which we loved for its sprawling coral gardens and shallow waters. According to reviews, snorkelers will find plenty to see with vibrant fish and clear visibility. It’s a perfect warm-up for those new to snorkeling, and the shallow waters mean it’s accessible for all skill levels.

Next, the boat cruises around Chicken Island (Koh Kai), famous for its chicken-shaped rock formation. It’s a quick stop, but enough for some fun photos of that quirky natural sculpture. The guides are helpful in pointing out the features to snap a memorable shot.

Sandbars and Snorkeling

One of the most talked-about parts is Koh Tup and Mor Islets, where at low tide, you can walk across the spectacular sandbar connecting the two islands. This is a favorite for many travelers, offering a chance to walk between islands and take stunning photos. Reviewers mention that the sandbar is accessible only during low tide, so timing is key—something to keep in mind if you’re eager to walk across.

The next snorkeling stop is Koh Tan Ming (Koh Ma Tang Ming), often praised for its azure waters and coral gardens. Snorkelers report good visibility and plenty of colorful fish, making it a highlight for underwater lovers.

The Day’s Feast: Poda Island and Sunset Dinner

After some water activities, everyone heads to Poda Island for a buffet dinner at sunset. The food is described as plentiful, fresh, and well-prepared, offering a decent selection of seafood, meats, and tropical fruits. The beachfront setting makes the meal particularly enjoyable as the sky turns orange. Multiple reviews praise the quality and abundance of the buffet, considering it excellent value after a day of exploring.

During dinner, you’ll witness a spectacular sunset, which many describe as truly romantic. The atmosphere is relaxed, with groups chatting and enjoying the view. This part of the tour is appreciated for its combination of good food and stunning scenery, creating a memorable moment.

Evening and Night Adventures

As the sun sets, the tour continues with night snorkeling at Koh Raeng to see bioluminescent plankton. Travelers often find this to be a magical experience—swimming in the glowing waters, watching the tiny creatures light up with every movement. It’s a peaceful way to end the day, and guides are attentive in ensuring safety during these late-night swims.

The final stop involves a short swim among bioluminescent plankton, which reviewers describe as a “magical” and “surreal” moment. The tour wraps up with the boat returning to the pier in Ao Nang around 8 pm, ending a full day of island hopping.

What We Love About This Tour

Authentic and Diverse Experience: The combination of snorkeling, sandbars, and sunset views is well-structured, giving you a taste of multiple aspects of island life without feeling rushed. The stops are thoughtfully chosen for their natural beauty and photo potential.

Guides and Safety: Multiple reviews highlight the helpfulness and safety consciousness of guides like Sila and Pong. Wearing life jackets at all times is strongly recommended, and guides are quick to assist with snorkeling tips or photos.

Value for Money: At around $37.56 per person, including meals, transfers, and equipment, the tour offers strong value. The quality of food and the variety of activities mean you’re getting a lot for the price.

Stunning Scenery: The sunset at Poda Island and the glow of plankton at night are highlights that stay with travelers long after the trip ends. These moments make the tour memorable.

Authentic Thai Atmosphere: The longtail boats, beach dinners, and casual pace contribute to an experience that feels genuine rather than overly commercialized.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

Weather Dependence: As with all sea-based tours, the schedule is subject to weather and sea conditions. During the monsoon season, pickup and drop-off services to Railay Beach might be suspended, which could impact your plans.

Timing and Duration: The tour is planned for 7 hours, but some reviews mention waiting times—such as an hour at Railay Beach or delays due to weather. Planning flexible itineraries or extra time might be wise.

Limited Island Time: While there are several stops, the time on each island is relatively short—around 30 minutes to an hour. If you’re a slow snorkeler or wish for longer beach relaxation, you might find the schedule a bit rushed.

Group Size: Limited to 30 travelers, which is generally good for a personalized experience but still sizable enough that the boat can feel crowded at peak times.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This 7 Islands Sunset Tour is an excellent choice for travelers craving a well-rounded day of island hopping, snorkeling, and sunset views—all at a reasonable price. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a mix of active pursuits and relaxing scenery, with a touch of local flavor from authentic longtail boats and beachside dinners.

If you’re after a laid-back, picturesque experience that includes snorkeling and a sunset, you’ll find plenty to love here. The tour’s knowledgeable guides and carefully curated stops make it a dependable option, especially for first-time visitors looking to tick off multiple highlights in one day.

However, if you prefer a very slow pace or more dedicated beach time, you might find the limited hours at each spot a bit rushed. Likewise, if bad weather is forecasted, be prepared for possible rescheduling. This tour provides good value, authentic experiences, and enough variety to keep everyone engaged.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel round-trip transfer, snorkeling equipment, life jackets, a buffet dinner at Poda Island, water, soft drinks, seasonal fruits, a professional guide, and basic accident insurance.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and a towel for snorkeling, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a waterproof camera to capture the scenery. It’s also wise to have some cash for optional extras or tips.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, it’s best for children comfortable in water and able to handle boat rides. The short snorkeling sessions and walking on sandbars are generally suitable for kids in good health.

How long are the stops on each island?
Most stops last between 15 to 30 minutes, with the longest being about an hour at Poda Island for dinner and sunset viewing.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour program is subject to change based on weather and sea conditions. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. During heavy monsoon seasons, pickups to Railay Beach might be suspended.

Can I customize the experience?
The itinerary is fixed, but guides are helpful and friendly. If you have special requests or concerns, it’s best to communicate with the tour provider beforehand.

To sum it up, the 7 Islands Sunset Tour offers a vibrant mix of natural beauty, local charm, and fun activities at a fair price point. It’s perfect for those who want a memorable day with stunning scenery, snorkeling adventures, and a romantic sunset, all under the guidance of attentive locals. Just keep an eye on the weather, and you’ll likely walk away with some fantastic photos and stories to tell.