Krabi 4 Islands Tour Review: Longtail Boat & Picnic Adventure
The Krabi 4 Islands tour by longtail boat is often touted as one of those can’t-miss things if you find yourself in Thailand, that’s often splashed all over travel blogs and brochures. So, too when my time came to experience the southern Thai islands, I just knew I had to try it, and let me tell you all about it, complete with that picture-perfect picnic you see all over Instagram.
Setting Sail on a Traditional Longtail Boat
Picture this: a clear, sparkling turquoise sea, a boat that’s really something like a local work of art, plus the promise of island exploration ahead, basically, it’s what awaits you at the start of the Krabi 4 Islands Tour. That distinct longtail boat, it’s not just a mode of transportation, as a matter of fact, it’s quite a cultural icon. Usually, the boats are brilliantly decorated, often sporting colorful ribbons and sometimes even small shrines. So, too the experience of chugging across the waves in one of these is an adventure all by itself, especially as the boat really puts you in touch with the sea and the surrounding natural beauty.
First Stop: Phra Nang Cave Beach
Phra Nang Cave Beach is sometimes your first stop on this island tour, and what a way to begin, really. As a matter of fact, you’re instantly greeted by imposing limestone cliffs that rise majestically from the water, so too pristine white sand that seems to stretch on forever. That beach is not only stunningly beautiful, since it’s also steeped in local lore. Often the Phra Nang Cave itself is home to a shrine dedicated to a sea princess, and it’s a very reverent place where fishermen traditionally make offerings in the hopes of good fortune. Basically, feel free to soak in the sun, perhaps take a dip in those unbelievably clear waters, plus don’t forget to explore the cave and its offerings, alright?
Chicken Island: More Than Just a Funny Name
Chicken Island, or Koh Gai, is that next stop and yes, that’s certainly its real name, thanks to a rock formation that genuinely resembles a chicken’s head. More or less, the island is quite well known for its clear waters and excellent snorkeling. Now, you can plunge into the sea and discover the teeming marine life below, like vibrant coral reefs, plus a rainbow of fish species. Of course, I suggest that you bring an underwater camera if you want to capture the stunning views, after all, it’s something you’ll want to keep to remember your little trip.
Tup Island: Walking on Water?
That’s the wonderful thing about Tup Island – during low tide, as a matter of fact, a sandbar emerges, linking it to Chicken Island and another small islet. That’s when you are free to take a walk on this natural bridge, really, with the ocean on either side, as a matter of fact, it’s an truly remarkable experience. More or less, Tup Island is perfect for a little bit of sunbathing and some paddling. Obviously, do remember to check the tide times, especially since you won’t want to miss this awesome natural phenomenon, ok?
Poda Island: Relaxation and a Beach Picnic
Poda Island often serves as a nice serene finale for the tour, because of the way its inviting beaches beckon for relaxation. Often the powdery sand and the peaceful setting here make it really ideal for that Instagram-worthy picnic, I mentioned. Now, you’ll want to arrange with your tour operator, or sometimes bring your own supplies to dine with a spectacular view. As a matter of fact, it’s all about enjoying those tasty Thai snacks, listening to the gentle waves, and generally basking in island serenity.
The Longtail Boat Picnic: A Highlight of the Tour
Alright, the longtail boat picnic, for me, might be the one element that really sets this tour apart, especially because, who doesn’t love a meal with a view, really? Basically, packing a nice picnic is something I definitely see as crucial. Basically, here are some tips to really get the most out of it:
- Plan Your Menu: Pack some really tasty, easy-to-eat dishes like sandwiches, fresh fruit, spring rolls, plus some local Thai snacks.
- Stay Hydrated: So, too it’s crucial to bring lots of water, that, after all, you’re under the tropical sun. Really, other refreshing options include coconut water, plus some iced tea.
- Pack Smart: Alright, you need a cooler to keep your food and drinks refreshingly cool, alright, don’t forget utensils, plates, and napkins.
- Choose the Right Spot: So, too, finding a shady spot on Poda Island, for example, can provide you with a very picturesque and cozy setting for your picnic.
- Be Mindful of the Environment: Always clean up after you’re done, right, and make sure to take all of your trash with you, just to help preserve the natural beauty.
What to Bring on Your Krabi 4 Islands Tour
Getting ready for the Krabi 4 Islands Tour actually takes a little prep, mostly, this is so that you enjoy your trip as much as you can, as a matter of fact, that’s why it’s worthwhile to have everything you might need on hand.
- Swimwear: Pretty much this one’s a no-brainer, if you’re planning to swim, right? So, too make sure you have a really comfy swimsuit.
- Sun Protection: You’ll definitely need a good sunscreen (high SPF, actually), a wide-brimmed hat, plus some sunglasses, alright, since the sun here can be pretty intense.
- Towel: Make sure to bring a fast-drying travel towel, alright, since they’re practical and they won’t take up much space.
- Comfortable Shoes: Typically, you’ll be doing a lot of walking, whether its over sand or sometimes slippery surfaces, that’s the nature of the island, and so too you’re best off wearing some comfy sandals or water shoes.
- Waterproof Bag: Sometimes, this is an actually good investment to protect your electronic devices, and sometimes other valuables from getting wet, too it’s almost a must.
- Camera: So, too, you should have your camera in order to capture all those incredible memories, and sometimes, bringing a waterproof one isn’t the worst idea for underwater shots.
- Snorkeling Gear: Some tours will offer these, and sometimes, it can be far more hygienic to actually bring your own mask and snorkel set.
- Cash: If you’re looking to get some refreshments, rent equipment, or basically just tip your tour guides, cash might be quite necessary since most of the smaller places don’t really take cards.
Choosing the Right Tour Operator
As you might guess, there are many tour operators out there, anyway, that actually offer the Krabi 4 Islands Tour, plus picking one actually depends on your personal preferences, that being said, doing a bit of research and considering a few factors is key.
- Check Reviews: Alright, you should be looking up other travelers’ reviews on sites like TripAdvisor, and also on travel blogs in order to gauge the reputation, especially, plus the quality of the tour operator.
- Compare Itineraries: Some tours may vary slightly, for example in terms of the specific islands they visit, right, or how much time they actually spend at each place. So, too make sure you’re choosing one that matches your needs and expectations.
- Consider the Boat Type: So, too some people might actually like that traditional longtail boat experience, but you should also know that speedboats sometimes offer you faster travel times, and they are potentially a bit more comfort.
- Check Inclusions: Basically, most tours should include hotel transfers, and often the lunch, or sometimes, even the snorkeling gear.
- Price: The prices tend to vary, of course, depending on the operator and also what’s included. Make sure to get quotes from a couple of different operators, just to compare. Now, be wary of the unbelievably low prices, alright, since they could suggest compromised service.
- Eco-Friendliness: Look into those operators that follow responsible tourism practices, usually by respecting the environment, and then supporting local communities.
A Few Tips for a Great Tour Experience
In the end, it is about the experience, and sometimes the prep and expectations can make a whole lot of a difference, so too keep these few things in mind when planning and during the tour.
- Go Early: Sometimes, it is very worthwhile, as in absolutely worth it, to start your tour early. Less people around usually tends to mean less crowds. So, too that really enables you to better enjoy the islands.
- Respect Local Customs: Basically, always dress modestly when visiting temples or other religious sites, usually, listen to your guide, plus definitely respect the local traditions.
- Stay Aware of the Environment: Typically, don’t touch or step on the coral, also, avoid feeding the fish, usually, be conscious about waste management.
- Be Prepared for the Sun: Basically, the tropical sun is absolutely nothing to joke about, so, always apply sunscreen regularly, and too it’s almost worth it to seek shade whenever possible.
- Enjoy the Moment: Obviously, put your phone down sometimes, and really be present in those awesome natural surroundings. Like, allow yourself to completely soak it all in.