Private Long Tail Boat Charter to Hong Islands or Phi Phi Islands

Planning a day exploring Krabi’s stunning islands can feel overwhelming—there are so many options, and trying to pick the best routes can be tricky. This private long-tail boat tour offers a tailored experience that covers Krabi’s most popular islands, giving you flexibility and comfort while avoiding the crowds. Whether you want to visit the famous Phi Phi Islands or explore hidden gems like Hong Island, this service lets you customize your day with a private boat and a certified guide.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is the customizability—it’s designed for your group, with the freedom to change schedules and destinations if needed. The private setting means fewer strangers and more personal space, perfect for families, romantic getaways, or small groups of friends.

A potential consideration is the additional costs involved, like national park fees and guides, which can quickly add up. Also, the tour’s success depends on weather conditions, which is common for island trips but worth keeping in mind.

This experience is best suited for travelers who crave a personalized, relaxed day on the water, want to snorkel, and appreciate the comfort of a private boat. It’s ideal for those looking to avoid crowded tours and want to explore the islands at their own pace.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: You choose your preferred itinerary, with flexible scheduling.
• All-in-one experience: Includes snorkeling gear, life jackets, and a local professional guide.
• Comfort options: VIP boats provide snacks, drinks, and more comfortable seating.
• Additional costs: National park fees and guides are extra, so budget accordingly.
• Pick-up & drop-off: Free from Ao Nang; surcharge applies for other areas.
• Ideal for small groups: Up to 6 people, making it intimate and personal.

Exploring the Itineraries: What You Can Expect

This tour offers three main routes, each packed with picture-perfect stops and opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on pristine beaches. Here’s what each includes and what you might love or need to prepare for.

Krabi 4 Islands: Chicken Island, Poda Island, Tup Island, and Phra Nang Cave Beach

This classic route showcases some of Krabi’s most iconic spots. Chicken Island gets its name from the rocky head resembling a chicken’s beak—perfect for photos and coral snorkeling. Poda Island is a tiny island with powdery sand and crystal-clear water, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Tup Island, sometimes called Thale Waek, is famous for its sandbar that appears during low tide—an extraordinary walk connecting islands. Phra Nang Cave Beach offers stunning limestone cliffs, caves, and the famous Princess Cave with its shrines.

Travelers have expressed appreciation for the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to customize the time spent at each stop, with one reviewer noting that they appreciated the flexibility to stay longer at their favorite spots. The overall experience offers a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure, with snorkel equipment included for exploring underwater life.

Hong Island + 3 Islands: Phak Bia Island, Lao La Ding Island, and Hong Lagoon

This route is perfect for snorkelers and nature lovers. Hong Lagoon is the highlight, with calm, shallow waters ideal for snorkeling and relaxing. The surrounding islands, including Phak Bia and Lao La Ding, offer lush scenery, secluded beaches, and vibrant coral reefs.

Reviewers mention that Hong Island’s snorkeling was fantastic, with many seeing colorful fish and coral just minutes from the boat. The calm waters make it accessible for beginners or those preferring a relaxed swim. The route provides a mix of quiet beaches and snorkeling spots, making it a favorite among nature enthusiasts.

Phi Phi Islands + 3 Islands: Bamboo Island, Phi Phi Don, Phi Phi Le, and Viking Caves

This is the most famous route, and for good reason. The Phi Phi Islands are world-renowned for their towering limestone cliffs, crystal waters, and vibrant marine life. Bamboo Island offers a tranquil beach with excellent snorkeling, while Phi Phi Don is the main hub—busy but lively, with options to explore or relax. Phi Phi Le is home to the iconic Maya Bay (currently sometimes closed for restoration), and Viking Caves are a fascinating site with ancient cave paintings and swiftlet nests.

Multiple reviews highlight that travelers appreciated the more comprehensive itinerary, especially those wanting to see the highlights of the Phi Phi Archipelago. The tour’s flexibility allows for swimming, snorkeling, and even taking photos of the stunning scenery without feeling rushed.

The Boat Experience: Comfort, Flexibility, and Extras

Since this is a private tour, you’ll generally be on either a Normal or VIP boat. The VIP option notably includes snacks, drinks, and seasonal fruits, along with comfortable seats and cushions—making longer rides more comfortable. The regular boat offers snorkeling gear, life jackets, and a local guide, ensuring you’re well-equipped for underwater adventures.

The pickup service is available for free in Ao Nang, but if you’re staying further out like Krabi Town or Klong Muang Beach, there’s a surcharge. The tour starts early at 9 a.m., giving you a full day to explore, and wraps around 4 p.m., with a smooth return to your hotel.

Practical Details and Additional Costs

While the tour price is quite reasonable for a private experience at $317.37 for up to six people, it’s essential to account for additional costs. National park entrance fees vary depending on the island, ranging from 200 to 400 Baht per adult. If you opt for a professional guide, expect to pay around 1,500 Baht extra, which can be worthwhile for navigating the islands and learning about their history.

Snacks and drinks on the VIP boat add comfort, but if you prefer a full meal, packed lunches are available at an extra 1,000 Baht for six people. This might be a good idea if you want to spend more time snorkeling and less in queues for food.

The Real Benefits of a Private Tour

Travelers value the flexibility to skip or linger at certain islands. One reviewer specifically appreciated that the schedule is flexible unless otherwise requested, which meant they could spend extra time snorkeling at their favorite spots without feeling hurried.

The small group size (up to 6) ensures a personal experience, with the guide often sharing insider tips and insights on the islands’ best photo spots and hidden corners. Many reviews also point out that the snorkeling equipment was well-maintained and easy to use, making underwater exploration accessible even for beginners.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private long-tail boat experience is best suited for small groups or families who want the comfort and flexibility of a tailor-made day on the water. It’s ideal for travelers who value privacy, personalized service, and the chance to avoid large tour groups. If snorkeling is high on your list, you’ll appreciate the included gear and the calm, clear waters of Hong Lagoon or the Phi Phi Islands.

Those looking for an authentic experience with a knowledgeable local guide will find this tour rewarding. Keep in mind, extra costs for park fees and guides should be factored into your budget, but the overall value is high considering the exclusivity and customization.

The Sum Up

Choosing a private long-tail boat tour in Krabi means gaining a flexible, personalized way to explore some of Thailand’s most stunning islands. It’s perfect for those who want to set their own pace, snorkel in less crowded waters, and enjoy a comfortable trip with all the essentials included. The ability to customize your itinerary and avoid the hustle of larger group tours makes this an appealing option for small groups, families, or couples seeking a more intimate adventure.

While additional costs like national park fees and guides can add up, the overall value of this experience is strong, especially given the comfort and flexibility offered. If you’re after a tailored, relaxed day out that lets you explore the best of Krabi’s islands without the crowds, this private boat experience ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes snorkeling equipment, life jackets, a local certified guide, and pickup services in Ao Nang. VIP boats also provide snacks, seasonal fruits, drinks, and comfortable seats.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, this is a private tour, so you can change the schedule or destinations unless you prefer that the guide proceeds with the best schedule. Flexibility is one of the main benefits.

Are there any additional costs I should expect?
Yes, national park entrance fees vary per island, ranging from 200 to 400 Baht for adults. Guides cost around 1,500 Baht if you choose to hire one. Packed lunches are also extra if you want a full meal.

What is the pickup area?
The tour picks up for free from Ao Nang. For other locations like Krabi Town, Klong Muang, or Tub Kaek Beach, there is a surcharge of 500 Baht.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 8 hours, starting at 9 a.m. and returning around 4 p.m., giving ample time to explore multiple islands and enjoy snorkeling.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included and is suitable for underwater exploration at various stops, including Hong Lagoon and Phi Phi Islands.

Who should consider this tour?
It’s perfect for small groups, families, or couples looking for an intimate, flexible island adventure with the comfort of a private boat. If you prefer a personalized experience and want to avoid crowded tours, this is an excellent choice.