Sunset Tour at Hong Islands by Speed Boat with BBQ Dinner

Exploring the Sunset Tour at Hong Islands by Speed Boat with BBQ Dinner – A Honest Review

Taking a tour around the renowned Hong Islands in Krabi offers a glimpse into Thailand’s less crowded, more serene side. This particular experience combines a speedboat adventure with stops at key spots, culminating in a sunset dinner amid breathtaking scenery. While the tour has its ups and downs, it might just be perfect for those looking for an affordable way to tick off multiple highlights in one go.

What we genuinely appreciate about this tour is the chance to see the islands’ secluded beaches and dramatic limestone formations without the usual crowds. The highlight for many is the opportunity to witness a spectacular Andaman sunset at Pakbia Island, paired with a halal BBQ dinner under the sky. However, some travelers face challenges with punctuality and booking logistics, which can impact the overall experience.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a cost-effective, guided island-hopping day that combines natural beauty with a bit of adventure. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic trip with a focus on stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere, this could be a good fit. Just be prepared for some potential hiccups along the way.

Key Points

• Secluded and scenic: You get to visit islands with fewer travelers, making for a more peaceful experience.
• Variety of stops: From lagoons to beaches to bioluminescent planktons, the tour offers diverse sights.
• Sunset experience: Pakbia Island provides a beautiful sunset setting, ideal for picturesque moments.
• Food and drinks: Enjoy a halal mini-buffet BBQ dinner with vegetarian options — a highlight for food-conscious travelers.
• Punctuality concerns: There are reviews mentioning long waits (up to 50 minutes) for pickup, which could impact your day.
• Limited admission info: Some attractions like Hong Island and lagoon require separate tickets, adding to costs.

Detailed Review of the Hong Islands Sunset Tour

Overview and What to Expect

This tour promises a 6 to 7-hour journey through some of the most striking parts of the Hong Islands and surrounding areas. For $51, you’re paying not just for transportation but also for multiple stops packed with photo opportunities, swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. The company, GR Rungtawan Co., Ltd., offers pickup options, although reviews reveal some issues with punctuality.

The trip starts around 9:00 am from the designated meeting point in Ao Nang, with transportation provided, though extra fees apply if you’re coming from certain locations like Krabi Town or Railay East. Once aboard the speedboat, you’ll immediately notice how the pace is quick, designed to maximize your time on the water and on the islands.

Hong Island and Lagoon: Natural Marvels

The first stop is Hong Island itself, famous for its white sandy beaches and limestone cliffs. Here, you’ll be able to snorkel or swim, although admission tickets to the island are not included, so budget extra if you want to explore the lagoon or the beaches thoroughly. The Hong Lagoon within the island is a highlight, accessible through a narrow passage flanked by limestone cliffs—imagine a hidden, peaceful pool surrounded by lush greenery. Many reviews note how tranquil and beautiful this spot is, a perfect setting for kayaking or just floating in the crystal waters.

Lao Lading Island – A Closer Look

Next, the tour moves to Lao Lading, often called Paradise Island, with a beach framed by cliffs and trees. During the roughly 50-minute stop, travelers can relax, swim, or take pictures of the picturesque backdrop including neighboring islands. It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy some quiet time away from the crowds, which is exactly what makes this tour appealing.

Pakbia Island and the Sunset

The highlight for many is Pakbia Island, especially during sunset. You’ll spend around 1 hour and 30 minutes here, giving ample time to explore, take photos, and enjoy a halal BBQ mini-buffet dinner served on the sandbar that connects to a neighboring island. The sunset views are described as spectacular, although the actual timing can vary with weather and tides—some reviewers mention that the boat might leave before the sunset is fully visible. Still, the setting sun casting a golden glow over this rocky, sandbar-studded island is undoubtedly a major draw.

Bioluminescence and Final Stop

The last visit is to Ko Khao Sam Nuai, where bioluminescent planktons can be observed. This part of the trip is brief—around 20 minutes—and offers a chance to see nature’s light show in the dark waters. It’s a unique experience, though dependent on weather and tide conditions, and some travelers might find it a fleeting glimpse.

Practical Aspects and Considerations

Transportation and Timing

The tour begins early, with pickup options available from various locations for an additional fee. The timing is tight, with most stops scheduled back-to-back, so punctuality is key. The total duration is approximately 6-7 hours, which includes transfers and island stops — a full day, but one that packs in a lot.

Cost and Value

At $51, the price is reasonable considering the multiple islands visited and the included BBQ dinner. However, note that entry fees for Hong Island and the lagoon are not included, and these can add a few hundred baht to your total expenses. The included snorkeling equipment is a nice touch, perfect for those who want to explore underwater riches without extra rental costs.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 35 travelers, the tour is fairly intimate, which helps with getting some space to relax. But reviews hint at some organizational issues, particularly with pickup times, which can lead to frustration.

Food and Dining

The BBQ dinner is a definite highlight, especially for those observing halal dietary restrictions. The mini buffet offers vegetarian options too, making it inclusive for different dietary needs. Sharing a meal on a sandy island while watching the sunset gives it a relaxed, communal vibe.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

One traveler shared, “I really wish I hadn’t booked this tour and spent time doing better things,” citing a 50-minute wait for pickup with no communication. This highlights that logistics can sometimes be a problem, so planning for potential delays is wise. Conversely, others enjoyed the stunning views, especially the sunset at Pakbia Island, describing it as “spectacular” and “worth the trip.”

The highlight for many is the peaceful lagoon and the bioluminescent planktons, which add an element of magic to the night swim. However, some reviews signal that the experience can feel rushed, especially if weather or tide conditions cause deviations from the planned schedule.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers seeking a budget-friendly, scenic day out with opportunities to see multiple islands and natural attractions. If you love sunset views, quiet beaches, and snorkeling, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also suitable for those with dietary restrictions, thanks to the included halal BBQ.

However, if punctuality and seamless logistics are critical for you, or if you prefer a more organized and less hurried experience, you might want to explore other options. The tour’s success heavily depends on weather and tide conditions, so flexibility is essential.

The Sum Up

The Sunset Tour at Hong Islands offers an authentic, reasonably priced way to explore some of Krabi’s most beautiful spots. The highlights—like the secluded lagoons, stunning sunset, and bioluminescent planktons—are memorable and well worth the price. The included BBQ dinner adds a relaxing communal element, perfect for winding down after a day of exploring.

That said, it’s not without its flaws. The logistical hiccups, such as delayed pickups and the need to pay extra for certain park entries, can detract from the overall experience. For travelers who are flexible, patient, and eager to see the natural beauty of the islands without the crowds, this tour is a solid choice.

In essence, if your priority is capturing beautiful views, enjoying a peaceful setting, and having a budget-friendly day in Krabi, this trip could be a good fit. Just keep in mind that some parts of the day might feel a little rushed or inconsistent, so approach with relaxed expectations and an adventurous spirit.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour price?
Pickup is offered but costs an extra 100 baht per person from certain locations like Krabi Town or Railay East.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 6 to 7 hours, including transfers and island stops.

Are the entrance fees to the islands included?
No, the entrance fees for Hong Island and the lagoon are not included and should be budgeted separately.

What food options are available?
A halal mini-buffet BBQ dinner is provided, with vegetarian options available upon request.

Can I see bioluminescent planktons during the tour?
Yes, the final stop at Ko Khao Sam Nuai is chosen for this, though the visibility depends on weather and tide conditions.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and a towel. A camera for sunset shots is highly recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to check with the operator if you have very young children or specific needs.