7 Islands Sunset tour by Speed boat

When exploring Krabi, Thailand, a trip to the nearby islands is almost a rite of passage. The 7 Islands Sunset Tour by speedboat promises a full day of scenic stops, snorkeling fun, and a magical sunset, all wrapped into about six and a half hours of tropical adventure. While this tour has mixed reviews, it’s clear that it appeals most to those seeking a balance between stunning scenery and lively group experiences.

What we love about this tour is its flexibility, the chance to snorkel among vibrant marine life, and the spectacular sunset views. The fact that it includes a BBQ dinner and bottled water is a bonus for travelers wanting value for money. On the flip side, some reviewers mention inconsistent guide service and issues with boat safety, so it’s worth weighing these considerations.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy social group tours, love snorkeling, and want a taste of Krabi’s island life without breaking the bank. If you’re after a peaceful, solo experience or a more luxurious setting, you might want to explore private options instead.

Key Points

• Value-packed experience at an affordable price of around $48.75 per person.
• Snorkeling gear included, making it easy to explore marine life.
• Diverse island stops, including Tup Island, Chicken Island, and Railay Bay.
• Includes BBQ dinner, perfect for a tropical feast after a day of exploring.
• Limited park fees, with entrance fees payable separately.
• Group size capped at 35, maintaining a lively but manageable atmosphere.

Introduction: The Real Deal Behind the 7 Islands Sunset Tour

We’ve looked into this popular speedboat tour in Krabi, and what immediately stands out is its promise of visiting seven distinct islands with a sunset backdrop. What’s appealing is the chance to snorkel and swim in crystal-clear waters, paired with the chance to witness bioluminescent plankton at dusk—an experience many travelers cherish.

One of the best parts? The cost—around $48.75 per person—is quite reasonable for a full day of island hopping in Thailand. The tour includes pickup, snorkeling gear, bottled water, snacks, and a BBQ dinner, making it a very value-oriented option. However, the reviews suggest that the guides and crew can be hit or miss, with some travelers praising their friendly and knowledgeable guides and others complaining about poor customer service and safety lapses.

If you love group adventures, are eager to snorkel in pristine waters, and want to finish your day with a sunset meal, this tour could be a great fit. Just remember to keep your expectations flexible, especially around guide quality and the potential for crowded spots.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Start at Ao Nang Beach in the early afternoon, with pickup between 13:00 and 13:45. From there, a speedboat whisks you away to six main stops, each offering a different slice of island life or natural beauty.

Tup Island & Chicken Island

These two sites often steal the spotlight. Tup Island is renowned for its sandbar, linking it to nearby islands at low tide, creating perfect opportunities for photos and walking barefoot across soft sands. Chicken Island gets its name from the rock formation resembling a chicken’s head—the kind of quirky feature that makes for memorable photos. Reviewers mention that the snorkelling here is quite good, with vibrant coral and fish.

Poda Island & Tang Ming

Poda Island is a favorite for its white sandy beaches and shallow waters, ideal for swimming and relaxing. Many guests appreciated the opportunity to unwind and enjoy the scenery. Tang Ming offers quieter, more secluded spots, perfect for some peaceful swimming.

Bioluminescent Plankton Site

Arriving at dusk, you’ll have the chance to snorkel among glowing plankton, a highlight for many. One reviewer described it as “just magical,” with the tiny creatures lighting up the water like tiny stars. It’s a rare experience that adds a touch of enchantment to the day.

Railay Bay & Phra Nang Cave

The last stops include Railay Bay, known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, and the famous Phra Nang Cave, often praised for its spiritual significance and stunning views. These spots are often bustling but offer fantastic photo ops and a chance to explore caves and hidden beaches.

Snorkeling and Marine Life: What You’ll See

The main draw of this tour is snorkeling. The reviews highlight that guides generally provide decent equipment, and many travelers enjoyed observing colorful coral reefs and schooling fish. One reviewer noted that the guides were very communicative and funny, making the snorkeling fun and safe.

However, some reviews mention inconsistent guide attitudes—some were very friendly, while others appeared disinterested. It’s worth noting that the boat captain has been criticized in some cases for swimming while snorkeling, which might concern safety-conscious travelers. Still, most guests find the marine environment to be vibrant and well worth exploring.

The Sunset & BBQ Experience

One of the tour’s biggest selling points is the sunset dinner. As the boat slowly makes its way back, you’ll witness the sky transforming into shades of orange and pink, a truly breathtaking sight. The BBQ dinner, including fresh fruits, snacks, and bottled water, helps round out the experience.

Reviewers loved the relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to unwind after a busy day. Some mentioned that the timing was perfect for capturing photos and just soaking in the peaceful views. A few noted that the dinner was simple but tasty, fitting well with the casual vibe of the trip.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Price & Value: At just under $50, this tour offers a lot—multiple island visits, snorkeling gear, dinner, and transport. It’s a budget-friendly way to cover several highlights in one day, especially for travelers who prioritize convenience and social experience.

Duration & Timing: With a start around 1:00 pm and wrapping up by 8:30 pm, the schedule is pretty packed but allows ample time on each stop. The pickup window gives flexibility, and the 6.5-hour length is manageable for most travelers.

Group Size: Limited to 35 travelers, the tour maintains a lively but not overcrowded atmosphere. This makes it easier to meet people or just enjoy the scenery without feeling overwhelmed.

Additional Fees: Be aware that the National Park entrance fee (200 THB for adults, 100 THB for children) isn’t included. Paying separately at each site adds to the overall cost but is standard for most island tours.

Booking & Cancellation: Confirmations come immediately after booking, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance—a helpful feature if your plans change unexpectedly.

Authentic Experiences and Review Insights

The experience varies widely depending on the guide and crew. Some travelers have raved about friendly, English-speaking guides like Ms. C, who kept the group entertained and informed. One reviewer called her “outstanding” and a key part of the tour’s enjoyment.

Others, however, shared negative experiences, criticizing the lack of professionalism and even unsafe behavior such as the captain swimming while snorkeling. These reviews underscore the importance of choosing a reputable provider and staying vigilant.

The stunning views, especially during sunset and at the bioluminescent plankton site, seem to be the universal highlight. Many mention that the snorkeling spots offered colorful reefs and a good variety of marine life, making the experience worthwhile for snorkelers of all levels.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 7 Islands Sunset Tour offers a lively, scenic, and affordable way to explore Krabi’s most iconic islands. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers, especially those eager to snorkel, take memorable photos, and enjoy a relaxed beachside dinner at sunset. If you’re traveling in a group, on a budget, and don’t mind a bit of crowding or variable guide service, this tour hits the right notes.

However, if you prioritize luxury, privacy, or personalized attention, or if safety is your top concern, you might want to explore private tours or smaller operators. Still, for a fun, social experience with plenty of snorkeling, stunning views, and island highlights, this trip delivers quite well.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup, with a pick-up window between 13:00 and 13:45 to suit your schedule.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, from early afternoon to early evening.

What islands will I visit?
You’ll visit Tup Island, Chicken Island, Poda Island, Tang Ming, Railay Bay, and Phra Nang Cave.

Are snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included in the package, allowing you to explore the underwater world comfortably.

Do I need to pay the national park entrance fee separately?
Yes, the fee (200 THB for adults, 100 THB for children) is not included and is payable at each site.

Is the BBQ dinner included?
Absolutely. A BBQ dinner, along with bottled water, snacks, and fresh fruits, is part of the package.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled earlier, you’ll receive a full refund.

This tour offers a great way to tick off multiple island visits and enjoy a leisurely sunset in Krabi. With a little planning and awareness of the variability in guide service, it can be an enjoyable and memorable part of your Thailand adventure.