ECO Premium Island Hopping to Hong Island Tour by Longtail Boat

If you’re planning a trip to Krabi, Thailand, and want to experience the stunning islands that surround this tropical paradise, the ECO Premium Island Hopping to Hong Island tour is a popular choice—and for good reason. Rated a perfect 5.0 based on 31 reviews, this full-day adventure offers a blend of snorkeling, relaxing on pristine beaches, and exploring geological wonders—all without breaking the bank at just around $87.58 per person.

What makes this tour stand out? Our favorite aspect is the seamless combination of guided exploration with plenty of time to just relax or snap photos. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes logistics easier, and the well-organized itinerary ensures you get the most out of your day. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that some travelers have experienced hiccups with booking platforms like Viator, so it’s wise to confirm your reservation directly if possible. This tour suits first-time visitors eager to see multiple islands or anyone who loves nature and underwater activities.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Food, park fees, insurance, and guide services are included, offering great value.
• Variety of Stops: From temples and waterfalls to island beaches, each stop adds a different flavor to your day.
• Comfort and Convenience: Pickup from your hotel and small group sizes (max 15) ensure a personal experience.
• Authentic Local Insights: Guides share knowledge about the area’s geology, flora, and fauna, enriching your visit.
• Flexible and Relaxed: Plenty of time for snorkeling, sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying seafood lunches.
• Potential Booking Hiccup: Some past reviews mention booking issues with third-party vendors, so be proactive in confirming your reservation.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Booking and Initial Impressions

This tour usually gets booked about 25 days in advance—highlighting its popularity. The process is straightforward with mobile tickets and hotel pickup starting bright and early around 8 am, with pickups from Klong Muang, Tub Kaek, and Ao Nang. The small group size—capped at 15 travelers—means you’ll likely enjoy a more intimate experience, which is a big plus for travelers who dread noisy, crowded excursions.

The Morning: Cultural and Natural Highlights

Your day kicks off with a brief stop at Krabi Spesialisten and Krabi Town, setting the tone for a well-rounded experience. Then, you’ll visit Wat Tham Sua (Tiger Cave Temple), which is a highlight for many. Climbing the 1,260 steps rewards you with breathtaking vistas over Krabi, making it an ideal spot for photos and soaking in local spiritual energy. Reviewers mention the “natural serenity of the caves” and recommend trying the climb for “one of the most breath-taking views in Thailand.”

Next, a walk through the lush tropical lowland rainforest of Khaopra Bangkhram leads to the Blue Lagoon and Emerald Pool, where crystal-clear waters beckon for a cooling dip. Although the Krabi Hot Springs are bypassed to avoid crowds, you still get a private spa experience, which many travelers appreciate.

The Lunch: Beachside Feast

After exploring these natural and spiritual attractions, it’s time for a buffet lunch on the beach at Pak Bia. The setting is relaxed, and the food—often described as enjoyable and plentiful—gives you fuel for the afternoon. Reviewers mention the setup as “nice and delicious,” perfect for refueling before heading back onto the boat.

The Island-Hopping: Paradise and Hong Islands

Post-lunch, the adventure shifts to the main event: island hopping. First stop is Paradise Island, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and snorkeling opportunities. You’ll have ample time here to snorkel and soak up the sun. The waters are so inviting that one reviewer calls it a “relaxing, snorkeling, swimming” paradise.

Then, the cruise takes you to Hong Islands, famed for their geological features and lagoons. On the way, a visit to the lagoon gives you a chance to snap photos of stunning rock formations and turquoise waters. The review mentions it as “beautiful and peaceful,” ideal for unwinding.

The Return Journey

Around 4:45 pm, the boat leaves Hong Island and heads back to Ao Nang, arriving by 5:30 pm. The day wraps up with comfortable transportation back to your hotel, ending a well-structured 9-hour journey.

What Travelers Appreciate Most

Many reviews highlight stunning views and good value for money as key reasons this tour is worth considering. The inclusion of park fees, guide services, and meals means no hidden costs, making it straightforward to budget. The professional guides are praised for their knowledge, sharing insights about the area’s geology and biodiversity, which adds depth to the experience.

One reviewer, Zoe_A, recounted a booking hiccup: “Never picked up—tour was not booked by Viator and tour operator rep said they no longer accept bookings with Viator.” This highlights the importance of confirming your reservation directly, especially if booking through third-party platforms.

Snorkeling & Relaxation

The waters around Paradise and Hong Islands are often praised for their clarity and vibrant marine life, making snorkeling a highlight. With plenty of free time to swim, snorkel, or just lounge on the beach, you’ll appreciate the perfect balance of activity and relaxation.

The Guides and Service

Guide professionalism is consistently mentioned as a positive aspect—prompt pickup, friendly demeanor, and helpful tips make the overall experience smoother. The small group size means more personalized attention and fewer crowds, particularly beneficial at popular stops like Tiger Cave Temple and Blue Lagoon.

Practicalities and Tips

Pricing: At $87.58 per person, this tour is priced competitively considering the inclusions—meals, park fees, insurance, and transfers—are all covered. This makes it a great value for travelers wanting a comprehensive day out.

Timing & Duration: An early start at 8 am allows for a full day of exploring without feeling rushed. The 9-hour duration is perfect for experiencing multiple highlights without fatigue.

Booking considerations: Given some past booking issues, it’s advisable to confirm your reservation directly with the provider, especially during peak seasons.

What to bring: Swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and waterproof camera or phone case are essentials. Light clothing for temple visits and sturdy shoes for climbing are also recommended.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits first-time visitors eager to see a variety of sites in one day, particularly those interested in nature, wildlife, and cultural sights. It’s ideal for travelers who value good organization, small group sizes, and inclusive pricing. It’s also suitable for families, as children can join, provided they’re accompanied by an adult.

If you’re seeking a relaxing, scenic day with plenty of opportunities for swimming and photography, this tour won’t disappoint. However, if you prefer a more adventure-focused or less structured experience, you might want to explore other options.

The Sum Up

The ECO Premium Island Hopping to Hong Island tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed way to experience the best of Krabi’s islands and natural attractions. The combination of cultural sights, natural beauty, and snorkeling gives a genuine taste of Thailand’s coastal charm. While there’s a small risk of booking issues, being proactive can ensure your day runs smoothly.

This tour is especially well-suited for travelers eager to cover a lot of ground in one day, with the comfort of transportation and guided insights. It’s a solid choice for those looking for an authentic, scenic, and fun experience without overspending.

If you love picturesque beaches, underwater adventures, and a bit of cultural exploration, this tour should definitely be on your Krabi itinerary.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered from Klong Muang, Tub Kaek, and Ao Nang hotels, starting around 8 am.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers round-trip transfers, park fees, professional guides, breakfast, snacks, bottled water, and a buffet lunch on the beach.

Can I snorkel at the islands?
Absolutely. The waters around Paradise and Hong Islands are known for clarity and marine life, making snorkeling a highlight.

Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if you advise at the time of booking.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, from pickup around 8 am to return by approximately 5:30 pm.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children can join if accompanied by an adult. It’s a flexible way for families to enjoy Krabi’s natural sights together.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, waterproof case for electronics, and comfortable shoes for temple visits and walks.

Are there any known issues with booking?
Some travelers have reported booking problems with third-party vendors like Viator. Confirm your reservation directly with the provider if possible.

In summary, this tour offers a genuine, well-organized way to see some of Krabi’s most scenic spots, with enough free time for swimming, relaxing, and taking photos. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a balanced mix of culture, nature, and beach life—delivered with good value and attention to detail.