4 Island Full Day Krabi Tour: Longtail Boat & Lunch

Exploring Krabi’s famous 4 Islands with a day tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Thailand’s most picturesque beaches and coves without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. With an itinerary that includes Railay Beach, Tub Island, Chicken Island, and Poda Island, this tour promises breathtaking scenery, a chance to snorkel in warm waters, and a delicious buffet lunch on a pristine beach. It’s a popular choice for travelers who love island-hopping, natural beauty, and a relaxed, guided experience.

One of the best aspects of this tour is the small group size and professional staff. With a maximum of nine travelers and an English-speaking guide, you get personalized attention and insider tips on the best spots to explore. Plus, the longtail boat journey adds a traditional Thai touch that enhances the whole experience. A potential drawback is that the tour starts early—around 8 am—and involves a lot of moving around, which might be a challenge if you prefer more leisurely mornings or are prone to seasickness.

This experience works well for those who want a full day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and beach relaxation without breaking the bank. It’s suitable for first-timers eager to tick off iconic spots and seasoned travelers seeking a reliable, well-organized day on the water.

Key Points

Beautiful island scenery and crystal-clear waters make this tour visually stunning.
Snorkeling opportunities allow you to see vibrant coral and marine life close up.
Small group size ensures a more intimate, less crowded experience.
Inclusive features like lunch, snorkeling gear, and park fees add value.
Convenient hotel transfer (in Ao Nang) simplifies logistics.
Early start means getting the most out of your day, but requires readiness for a full adventure.

An In-Depth Look at the 4 Island Krabi Tour

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and limestone cliffs, this tour hits all those highlights. We’ll break down what you can expect at each of the stops, plus share insights that make this option stand out.

The Booking and Price Point

At $34 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. The price covers transportation, meals, snorkeling equipment, national park fees, and accident insurance—pretty comprehensive for a full-day island excursion. Booking about six days in advance is typical, which is helpful if you’re planning your trip in advance or during peak season.

The Pickup and Transportation

The tour starts with a hotel pickup in Ao Nang, with additional pickups in Krabi Town and Klong Muang (additional surcharge applies). This convenience saves you from navigating local transport and allows for a smooth start at the pier. The transfer to the pier is comfortable, and the small group size keeps the journey intimate.

The Longtail Boat Experience

The iconic longtail boat ride is an integral part of the adventure, offering a nostalgic glimpse into traditional Thai boat design. It’s a fun way to travel between islands, and the open-air aspect lets you enjoy the sea breeze and scenery along the way.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Pranang Beach and Spirit House

Your day kicks off at Pranang Beach, an accessible, secluded spot away from crowds. This beach features clear waters perfect for swimming and relaxing. Nearby, you’ll find the Princess Cave with its decorative spirit house—a quirky cultural detour that’s worth a quick look.

Travelers have noted that “the free time here lets you sunbathe, take photos, or just dip your toes in the water.” Expect about an hour here, giving you enough time to explore, take a few selfies, or just enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

Stop 2: Tup Island

Next, you’ll visit Tup Island, famed for its white sandy causeway that emerges during low tide, connecting it with Chicken Island. If you’re lucky with the timing, you can walk across the sandbank—an experience that feels surreal, like walking on water. Snorkeling here is straightforward, and the waters are teeming with colorful fish and coral.

Reviews mention that “the snorkeling was surprisingly good, with plenty of marine life just a few meters from the boat.” Travelers appreciate that this island is ideal for those who want an easy, no-fuss snorkeling experience.

Stop 3: Chicken Island

The highlight here is the limestone rock formation that resembles a chicken’s head, giving the island its name. This landmark is fun to photograph, and the waters around it offer excellent snorkeling. The coral reefs are vibrant, and the warm water makes for comfortable swimming.

One reviewer noted, “It’s a great spot to take photos with the chicken-shaped rock, and the snorkeling in warm waters was a real highlight.” Expect about an hour here, plenty of time for a swim and some pictures.

Stop 4: Poda Island

The final stop is Poda Island, often called the jewel of the Andaman Sea. It boasts a long, pristine beach lined with palm trees and impressive rocky cliffs. The island also has bamboo plantations adding to its tropical charm.

Here, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch on the beach—an appreciated touch for many travelers. The lunch includes water, fruit, and snacks, providing energy for more beach lounging or swimming. Reviewers say, “The buffet lunch on Poda Island was simple but satisfying, with plenty of space to relax.”

Snorkeling and Marine Life

Snorkeling is included and accessible at multiple stops. The waters are warm, inviting, and rich in coral life—perfect for beginners or those who want a relaxed underwater experience. Many reviews highlight the vibrant coral and abundant fish just a short swim from the boat.

The Beach and Relaxation

The tour balances sightseeing and downtime well. After a morning of travel and exploration, the beach time on Poda Island is a true highlight. The soft sands and clear waters make it a perfect spot to unwind, take photos, or simply listen to the waves.

The Lunch Experience

The buffet lunch is a thoughtful addition, offering a break from all the activity. While not gourmet, it’s practical and satisfying—ideal for replenishing energy before the afternoon. Some travelers appreciated the variety and the chance to relax on the beach while enjoying a meal.

The Return and Organizing Transfers

After a full day, the tour concludes with the boat ride back to the pier, followed by a transfer to your hotel if you’re in Ao Nang. The entire trip wraps up around 3 pm, leaving you with plenty of time to explore more or unwind.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

• Bring sunscreen and a hat—the sun can be intense, especially mid-morning to early afternoon.
• Pack a waterproof camera or phone case to capture the stunning scenery and underwater moments.
• Snorkeling gear is provided, but if you prefer your own equipment, bring it along.
• Wear comfortable swimwear and bring a towel for lounging on the beaches.
• Consider bringing some cash for optional souvenirs or additional snacks.
• The early start means you’ll beat some of the crowds but also requires waking up early. Plan your evening accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a full day of island hopping with a mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and beach relaxation. It’s suitable for first-time visitors to Krabi or those looking for a reliable, well-organized day out. If you’re traveling with kids or prefer a small, intimate group, the limited group size enhances the experience.

It’s perfect if you’re after stunning views, warm waters, and a taste of authentic Thai island life without the complexity of independent travel logistics. However, if you’re prone to seasickness or not comfortable with early mornings, it may require some extra preparation.

Final Thoughts

This 4 Islands tour from Krabi delivers a scenic, laid-back day filled with iconic landscapes, snorkeling, and beachside dining—all at an affordable price point. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, lunch, and national park fees makes it a straightforward, stress-free option for those eager to soak in Krabi’s natural beauty.

The small group size and professional staff ensure a more personalized experience, and the early start allows you to maximize your time on the water. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a balanced mix of activity and relaxation, with plenty of opportunities for photos and underwater discovery.

While it’s not the most luxurious tour out there, it offers authentic scenery and uncomplicated fun—making it a memorable part of any Krabi itinerary.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes shared transfer, lunch, water, fruit, snacks, snorkeling equipment, guide services in English, and national park fees. Insurance is also covered.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs for approximately 7 hours, starting around 8 am and ending in the early afternoon.

Are hotel pickups available?
Yes, pickups are available in Ao Nang, with a surcharge for Krabi Town, Klong Muang, and Tub Kaek areas.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, waterproof camera, swimwear, towel, and some cash if you want to buy souvenirs or extra snacks.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included and available for use at each snorkel stop.

Can I walk between Tup Island and Chicken Island?
Yes, if the tide is low, you can walk across the sandy causeway connecting Tup Island and Chicken Island.

What is the lunch like?
A buffet lunch is served on Poda Island, offering water, fruit, and snacks—practical and satisfying, though not gourmet.

How many people are in the group?
The tour typically has a maximum of 9 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers, including families, especially those comfortable with boat rides and snorkeling.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour depends on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from the 4 Island Full Day Krabi Tour, helping you decide if it’s the right fit for your travel style. Whether you’re seeking stunning viewpoints, underwater adventures, or just some quality beach time, this tour packs in plenty of memorable moments.