Day Tour from Phuket to 4 Islands in Krabi by Ferry & Speedboat

If you’re planning a day trip from Phuket to explore the stunning islands of Krabi, this ferry and speedboat tour offers an accessible way to see some of Thailand’s most iconic spots. It packs in plenty of snorkeling, beach lounging, and island hopping into roughly nine hours—perfect for those eager to squeeze every bit of tropical magic into a single day.

What we like most about this experience is the well-organized transportation—from hotel pickups to the seamless switch from ferry to speedboat—that helps keep things smooth despite the busy schedule. Plus, the guides have earned praise for their professionalism and friendliness, making the trip more enjoyable. A potential drawback is the long transit time from Phuket, which means a good chunk of your day is spent on boats rather than on the islands themselves.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value convenience, scenic views, and snorkeling but don’t mind a lengthy day filled with boat rides. If you’re craving a relaxed, guided adventure with plenty of opportunities to swim and sunbathe, this could be a solid pick. However, those looking for an ultra-exclusive or very in-depth cultural experience might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• All snorkeling gear is provided, making it easy to jump right into the water without extra planning.
• The itinerary involves multiple boat transfers that can be lengthy; prepare for around 2 hours of ferry travel from Phuket.
• Lunch and fruit are included, offering refreshing breaks and sustenance for a full day.
• Guides like Tony are recognized for their helpfulness and professionalism, adding a layer of comfort.
• The tour visits three islands—Koh Poda, Chicken Island, and Tup Islets—but some reviews mention only visiting three instead of four due to current restrictions.
• Timing can vary, with some travelers noting early pickups and slightly extended days, so packing patience is key.

The Full Experience: What to Expect

Getting Started: Hotel Pickup and Initial Transfers

The adventure begins early, with hotel pickups from various locations in Phuket—including Phuket Town, Patong, Kata, Karon, and Chalong. The exact timing is confirmed via email after booking, but most start around 8:30 am. Expect a smooth ride to Rassada Pier, where you’ll meet the crew from Ao Nang Travel & Tour. This initial leg involves a ferry ride from Phuket to Ao Nang, lasting about an hour and a half, a key detail to note because it’s a significant part of the day.

Some reviews hint that this long ferry trip can feel a bit taxing, especially on hot days or if you’re not a fan of boat travel. Yet, the boat rides are generally described as comfortable and well-coordinated, with many travelers appreciating the scenic views of limestone formations along the way.

Transition to Speedboat and First Islands

After arriving at the pier in Ao Nang, you’ll switch to a speedboat—a smaller, more nimble vessel perfect for island-hopping. Expect to be on the water for around 15 minutes before reaching Tup Island. Here, the low tide walk to the sandbar is a highlight, giving you a fun chance to wade across a shallow strip of sand connecting Tup Island to nearby rocks, weather permitting.

Tup Island and the Sandbar Experience

Tup Island, with its expansive sandbar, is often praised for the unique photo opportunities and relaxed vibe. Visitors can walk across the sand at low tide, an experience that many find memorable. Reviews mention about 45 minutes at Tup Island—just enough time to enjoy some swimming, take pictures, and soak up the sun.

Snorkeling at Chicken Island

Next, the boat heads to Chicken Island, famous for its rocky “head” and excellent snorkeling. Guests often comment on the crystal-clear waters and the vibrant marine life. The tour provides snorkeling equipment and life jackets, so everyone can safely enjoy the underwater scenery without extra hassle. Some reviewers specifically highlight the helpful guides, like Tony, who took care of everyone and made sure even first-timers felt comfortable in the water.

Lunch with a View

Around midday, you’ll stop for lunch on Chicken Island. The meal is typically served at a beachside restaurant, with options that include Thai dishes and the possibility of special diets like vegetarian or halal accommodations. While some mention the lunch as decent, others suggest it’s simple but satisfying—a good break after a busy morning. The lunch setting, right on the beach, is often appreciated for its relaxed atmosphere and scenic backdrop.

Koh Poda: Sun, Sand, and Snorkeling

After lunch, the group proceeds to Koh Poda, one of the most popular spots for sunbathing and swimming. With about 1.5 hours allocated here, you’ll have a chance to lounge on white sands, swim in clear waters, or explore the rocky outcrops. Many reviewers highlight how beautiful and calm Poda Island is—perfect for those looking to unwind. Some mention that the snorkeling time at Poda could be longer, but overall, it’s a favorite for pictures and relaxing.

Return Journey and Final Stops

The tour wraps up with a return to Nopparat Thara Pier, where you’ll switch back to the ferry and head back to Phuket. The entire day is approximately nine hours from start to finish, including transfers, making it a full but manageable day trip.

Authentic Traveler Insights

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides, particularly Tony and his team, are a highlight. They’re known for being attentive, helpful, and ensuring guests feel safe and cared for. Many mention how the crew took excellent care of them—especially during snorkeling and transfers—making the whole experience smoother.

However, some travelers found the long ferry rides a bit tedious, especially considering time spent on boats rather than on the islands. One reviewer noted that the trip actually only visited three islands instead of four, due to current restrictions, which is an important detail if you’re expecting to see all four listed in the itinerary.

Another point to consider is the timing. Early pickups and the length of transit mean that this is a tour best suited for those happy to spend a full day on boats and beaches rather than a quick, half-day outing.

What Works Well

The scenic views, especially of limestone karsts and crystal waters, are consistently praised. The snorkeling gear provided is of good quality, and the lunch is both convenient and tasty for a beachside meal. The small-group atmosphere (max 45 travelers) helps keep the experience intimate, and the professional guides make a real difference.

Areas for Improvement

Several reviews mention the discrepancy in the number of islands visited, with some only going to three instead of four. Others note that timing could be tighter, and the snorkeling sections could be longer—especially at Poda Island. Some guests also wish for better changing facilities on Poda, and clearer info about the trip’s actual duration and stops.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This outing is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy snorkeling, scenic boat rides, and beach lounging. It offers good value for money, considering the inclusion of lunch, snorkeling gear, and hotel transfers. If you like guided tours with knowledgeable staff, you’ll appreciate the professionalism of the crew, particularly guides like Tony.

However, if you prefer more time on land or islands rather than boat transit, or if you’re sensitive to long ferry rides, you might find the trip a bit tiring. It’s also perfect for those staying in Phuket and wanting a full day of island discovery without the hassle of organizing transport, since hotel pickups are included.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early do I need to wake up for this trip?
Most pickups start around 8:30 am, so plan to be ready early. Exact times are confirmed via email after booking.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, the tour supplies snorkeling gear and life jackets, so you can jump right into the water without extra hassle.

How many islands will I visit?
Typically three islands—Chicken Island, Tup Islets, and Koh Poda. Some reviews mention only visiting three instead of four because of current restrictions.

Does the tour include lunch?
Yes, a Thai lunch is included, served at a beachside restaurant. Vegetarian and halal options are available on request.

How long is the ferry ride from Phuket?
The ferry from Rassada Pier to Nopparat Thara Pier in Ao Nang takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, so prepare for a lengthy transit.

Are hotel pickups available everywhere in Phuket?
Pickups are available from most central locations like Phuket Town, Patong, Kata, Karon, and Chalong, but not from remote villas or private residences.

What is the tour’s maximum group size?
Up to 45 travelers, which balances comfort and social atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the trip, offering full refunds if canceled in time.

Final Thoughts

This Day Tour from Phuket to 4 Islands in Krabi offers a solid value for travelers looking to enjoy beautiful scenery, snorkeling, and beaches without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves. The experience is enhanced by professional guides and the convenience of hotel transfers. While some may find the long boat rides and limited island time a bit tiring, the stunning views, friendly staff, and laid-back vibe make it a worthwhile adventure.

It’s best suited for active, curious travelers who don’t mind a full day on the water and want a guided, hassle-free way to see some of Thailand’s most picturesque spots. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic escape with plenty of opportunities to snorkel and sunbathe, this tour is a good choice, especially considering the included lunch and snorkeling gear.

• Book in advance (most travelers do so about three weeks ahead) to secure your spot and plan accordingly.
• Prepare for a long day with plenty of boat time—bring water, snacks, and sun protection.
• Be aware that the island stops may vary slightly due to restrictions, so remain flexible.
• Consider this tour if you want a guided, all-in-one day trip that balances sightseeing with relaxation—and if you’re okay with the transit time involved.

Enjoy your trip through some of Thailand’s most beautiful islands—trust us, the views and snorkeling are more than worth the journey!