Krabi Islands by Big Boat and Speedboat from Phuket

Introduction

If you’re considering a day trip from Phuket to explore the stunning islands of Krabi, this tour offers a quick water escape with visits to some of the region’s most iconic spots. It combines speedboat adventures, relaxing beach stops, and opportunities to snorkel among vibrant coral reefs. While the experience is convenient and offers good value, it’s not perfect and some details may fall short of expectations.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is the hassle-free pickup and drop-off from Phuket hotels, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transfers. Plus, the inclusion of lunch, snacks, and safety gear adds to its value. However, some reviews point out the limited island amenities and a few surprises in what’s included versus what’s advertised. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a straightforward, scenic day on the water without a lot of fuss — perfect for those short on time or seeking a guided overview of Krabi’s highlights.

Key Points

• Convenient Transfers: Pickups from Phuket hotels make the early start manageable.
• Variety of Islands: Visit Koh Gai (Chicken Island), Koh Poda, and Koh Mor, with optional walkways at low tide.
• Snorkeling and Beach Time: Plenty of opportunity for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on the white sands.
• Limited Amenities: No showers or changing facilities on some islands, which may be inconvenient.
• Tour Group Size: Small group experience with a maximum of 15 travelers for a more personalized journey.
• Value for Money: Includes most essentials like lunch, snacks, snorkeling gear, and park fees, making it a competitive choice.

Overview of the Experience

This 10-hour tour from Phuket takes you out on both a big boat and a speedboat, giving you a well-rounded water adventure. The day begins early with hotel pickups around 7 a.m., easing into the trip with a transfer to Rassada Harbor. From there, a scenic boat ride to Nopparat Thara Pier kicks off what promises to be a day of island hopping, snorkeling, and relaxing on beaches.

The tour’s core appeal lies in its selection of three main stops—each offering something unique. You get a taste of the famous Chicken Island, known for its peculiar-shaped rock formation, and the chance to walk the narrow sandbank connecting Koh Mor and Koh Tub at low tide. Plus, snorkeling at Koh Poda offers colorful coral reefs and a chance to swim in clear waters.

One of the highlights according to reviews is how smoothly the transfers run, though some mention initial confusion at the port due to language barriers. The inclusion of lunch on Chicken Island gives you a break to refuel and enjoy some local flavors.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Morning Transfer & Departure

Your day begins around 7 a.m. with hotel pickup, an important detail for travelers eager to maximize their time. The transfer to Rassada Harbor is straightforward, and once there, you board a larger vessel heading towards Nopparat Thara Pier. The boat ride offers scenic views and gets you into the island mood early.

First Stop: Tup Island

At around 10:30 a.m., you arrive at Tup Island, famed for its white sandy linkage that appears at low tide, connecting it to Chicken Island. Here, you can walk across the sandbank—a fun photo op and a chance to experience a classic Thai island spectacle. When the tide rises, this connection disappears, so timing is key. One reviewer noted, “The islands were very tropical with beautiful beaches,” but also mentioned that the view of the sandbank at low tide was a highlight.

Second Stop: Chicken Island

Next, you’ll visit Chicken Island, famous for its quirky rock formation resembling a chicken’s head. The highlight here is snorkeling among coral reefs, where you can see a variety of fishes and marine life. The tour includes snorkel masks and life jackets, making it accessible even for beginners. Tour guides, like “Nong” and “Oat,” are generally praised for their friendliness and safety instructions.

Lunch on Chicken Island is included, allowing you to enjoy some local Thai fare in a relaxed setting before heading to the next island.

Third Stop: Poda Island

After lunch, you’ll visit Poda Island, renowned for its white sandy beaches and clear waters—ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or just lounging with a good book. The island’s tranquil atmosphere makes it a perfect chill-out spot after the morning’s adventures. One reviewer loved the beaches, describing them as “very tropical,” though some noted the limited amenities like showers or changing facilities.

Afternoon Return & Transfer Back

By around 3:30 p.m., it’s time to leave the islands and head back to Phuket via a big boat. The journey takes approximately two hours, giving you some downtime to relax and reflect on a day filled with sun, sand, and sea. Arriving back in Phuket around 5:45 p.m., you’re then transferred to your hotel, completing the circle of your island adventure.

What to Expect from the Experience

Transportation: The tour involves multiple boats—initially a larger vessel for the transfer, then a speedboat for island-hopping, and finally a big boat for the return trip. This variety ensures you get the thrill of speed and the comfort of larger vessels, though some may find the boat rides bumpy or crowded depending on the day.

Timing: The schedule is fairly tight, with around an hour at each island, so don’t expect long, leisurely stays. This makes it ideal for travelers who want a quick but diverse snapshot of Krabi’s highlights.

Group Size: With a maximum of 15 travelers, expect a more intimate experience, but note that this small group might feel crowded during busy periods, especially on popular islands.

Inclusions & Extras: The tour covers most basics—snorkeling gear, snacks, water, lunch, insurance, and park fees. However, the absence of shower facilities on the islands could be a downside, especially after swimming. A reviewer mentioned there were no showers or bathrooms for changing, which might be inconvenient for some.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many comments highlight the stunning views and close proximity of the islands, making for excellent photo opportunities. One traveler praised the “splendid” scenery, while another appreciated the smooth logistics despite initial communication hurdles at the port.

However, there are some notable criticisms. A reviewer pointed out that the tour was misrepresented, claiming that only three islands were visited instead of four, and that some attractions (like caves and Railay) were removed without prior notice. This highlights the importance of managing expectations, especially regarding the scope of the tour.

Another reviewer called the experience “average,” citing a lack of organization and some minor health issues like jellyfish stings. Despite that, many found the guides friendly and the islands beautiful, emphasizing the value of the snorkeling and beach time.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay protected and hydrated.
• Pack a towel and a change of clothes if you plan to shower or change after swimming.
• Don’t forget your underwater camera or phone in a waterproof case—the snorkeling spots are worth capturing.
• Arrive early for the pick-up and be prepared for a busy boat ride.
• Be aware of the tide schedule if you want to walk the sandbank between Koh Mor and Koh Tub—timing is everything.
• Tip the guides if you enjoyed their service; they work hard to make the trip enjoyable.

The Sum Up

This Krabi Islands tour from Phuket offers a convenient and scenic escape to some of Thailand’s most iconic islands. It balances adventure and relaxation, with snorkeling, beach lounging, and a quick walkable sandbank—perfect for travelers short on time but wanting a taste of Krabi’s natural beauty. While some reviews point out disorganization or missing attractions, many travelers appreciate the stunning views and smooth logistics.

If you’re looking for an affordable, guided day on the water with included lunch and snorkeling gear, this tour hits many right notes. It’s especially suited for first-timers, families, or anyone eager to experience the highlights without a complicated or lengthy arrangement.

However, if you’re after a more in-depth or exclusive experience, or a tour with more amenities, you might want to explore alternative options. Overall, it’s a solid choice for a well-organized, picture-perfect day that offers a glimpse of Krabi’s captivating islands—flaws and all.

FAQ

What islands will I visit on this tour?
You’ll visit Koh Gai (Chicken Island), Koh Poda, and Koh Mor. The tour mentions three main stops, with the option to walk the sandbank between Koh Mor and Koh Tub at low tide.

Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the small group size makes it more comfortable. Just be aware of the boat transfers and the limited amenities on some islands, which may be less convenient for those with mobility issues.

Are snorkeling masks included?
Yes, the tour provides masks and snorkels, making it easy for beginners or experienced snorkelers to enjoy the coral reefs.

How long do we spend on each island?
Expect about an hour per stop, which is enough to relax, snorkel, or take photos, but not for extensive exploring.

What’s the food like during the tour?
Lunch is included on Chicken Island and offers local Thai dishes. There are also seasonal fruits and water to keep you refreshed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you some flexibility if needed.

In summary, this tour is a reliable, scenic water-based adventure that showcases the best of Krabi’s islands with good value and practical logistics. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a straightforward, fun-filled day with plenty of photo opportunities and snorkeling. Just keep in mind the limitations noted in reviews, and you’ll likely have a memorable trip.