Krabi 4 Islands Tour: My Longtail Boat Adventure Detailed Review

Thinking of doing a tour to the 4 Islands in Krabi? Well, let’s talk about that, since a private longtail boat excursion to those islands is very much the thing lots of folks do. Getting away from those regular tour boats and seeing these great spots at my own speed felt great. So, this piece shares my thoughts and what happened when I checked out this adventure. Hope you will find the details that help you plan yours!

Why Go With a Private Longtail Boat Tour?

Okay, first off, a private tour seems a bit extravagant, possibly? Is that something you are also thinking? I totally thought that way until I tried it. Rather than being packed into a speedboat that feels almost like public transit on water, a longtail boat gave us plenty of room to stretch. More importantly, you aren’t running on someone else’s timetable. Spending that bit more dough turned the trip from just seeing stuff to creating memories. That said, it is about freedom. It meant stopping where we wanted and hanging out at those places longer without rushing. Want to find some out-of-the-way snorkeling spots that weren’t crowded? Yup, the freedom allowed our longtail driver to take us there! It turned the day into something that’s hard to get when you are on those bigger group tours that are, often, less money and less customized. So, maybe start asking yourself if it is the way you want to enjoy your vacation.

Choosing the Islands: Which Gems Should Be on Your List?

The usual “4 Islands” that almost all tours check out are these: Chicken Island, Tup Island, Poda Island, and Phra Nang Cave Beach. The thing is that each is pretty special and different.

First, Chicken Island: Well, it does look a whole lot like a chicken. Honestly, though, that bit of geology gives a heck of an impact on the horizon. Also, it’s perfect for grabbing a quick photo. A little further from shore it is surprisingly good snorkeling too. A lot of folks pass this off as something to look at, and yes, it has some charm. However, it also delivers an experience if you take that snorkeling chance.

Then, Tup Island: The sandbar here is way cool. When the tide drops a bit, you can actually walk from one island over to another one! Check when low tide happens; seeing that “walking beach” is very, very unforgettable.

Of course, there is Poda Island: This one is very relaxing and pretty. The sand feels almost like powder, plus you can enjoy some of the yummiest Thai eats from the local sellers. Is a day on a beach something you could do for a long time? Maybe spend the bulk of your tour on Poda!

And then you get Phra Nang Cave Beach: You may have heard it is amazing, and that assessment is right! The views here are pretty special and you will find great climbing. You will also find a cave that gives you some neat history that is tied to the water. Very much worth seeing.

Each of these islands seems to bring a slightly different flavor. It is worth chatting with your longtail driver so you are sure that the places you are at most align with what your vacation dreams are!

The Longtail Boat Experience: Slow Travel at Its Finest

Going on a longtail boat isn’t really quick; more like very chill and slow. You can really hear that engine working away behind you, which might bug you or just fit with the natural sounds. The benches aren’t very fancy, so maybe think about bringing some cushioning along; in that case, you might want a small pillow, or to wear something comfy. That said, with the quiet wind, splashing of water, and all those horizons to watch, you might just enjoy the slower pace! So, that’s the thing. Getting places takes a little bit. However, is being on the water really part of the goal? These longtail boats give you lots of feel for the water as you chug along.

Snorkeling and Swimming: Making the Most of the Turquoise Waters

Basically, if you’re into snorkeling, a heads up. Check your gear before you leave the beach. Most tours provide basic masks and snorkels, but I’d suggest maybe taking your own that fits you well to make sure you can actually see everything when you are swimming around! The best views? You might want to find out about that at Chicken Island; lots of very colorful fish are over there. Then, if you just like paddling around, Poda gives you soft, almost powdery sand and the water’s very easy to deal with, that being really clear most days. So, if the water is calling you, these are the spots that should be on your radar. Do not be shy when asking your driver, they are, actually, pretty clued-in as to when and where the best spots of the day are!

Food on Board and Ashore: Savoring Local Flavors

Generally, the tour comes with water and some fruit, very yummy when it’s cold, and really hits the spot. Having your own goodies will mean you aren’t stuck with just the basics, if that might be something you would be into. Once you get to Poda Island, there are people cooking all sorts of food and there are a ton of flavors. It can be pretty affordable, which is a plus, but it also feels right to be eating right where it’s cooked! As such, being resourceful about how you eat during the tour just elevates the whole experience a little.

Things to Bring: Packing for a Perfect Island Getaway

To make that tour something awesome, there are things to think of to bring along with you. Okay? Sunscreen? Yup, something super strong. Shades are not an option. A hat might come in handy too, since that sun really will zap you if you’re not careful. Then, since you will be going on and off boats and getting wet, think about shoes that handle water just fine, so that’s water shoes or flip-flops. Having a dry bag is also a good thing, since that will keep all your things dry while the boat splashes a bit. Getting everything ready means those little nuisances won’t bum you out. Very, very important.

Best Times to Visit: Weather and Crowd Considerations

To get the best out of your trip to Krabi and those 4 Islands, the time you go is really very critical. The months from November through March, you know, when it is turning cold everywhere else, provide clearer skies and calmer waters here; so, very ideal conditions to enjoy those beaches! Okay? You will not be all alone, very much for sure, and it is often the busier part of the year. Coming at either end of that busy time? You’re more likely to deal with very manageable crowds. So, you get great times without that squeezed feeling! If you end up traveling in the wet times of the year, bear in mind that those tours often are running. So, very possible, but sometimes the plans will alter depending on the day and how the waters are.

Really, you’ll get the trip you imagined by looking ahead just a little to pick dates.