Koh Yao Yai/Noi: Private Longtail Boat Island Hopping Tour

Planning a day on the water in Thailand can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so many options, it’s hard to know which tour offers authenticity, value, and a personal touch. The Koh Yao Yai/Noi: Private Longtail Boat Island Hopping Tour strikes a great balance, providing a flexible, intimate experience around the gorgeous islands of the Gulf of Thailand. With a 4.9-star rating from over 220 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this trip both memorable and worthwhile.

What truly sets this tour apart? It’s the private boat experience with a local captain, the chance to customize your stops, and the opportunity to explore hidden gems that are often missed by larger groups. The magnificent 360° view from Hong Island’s viewpoint is a highlight, alongside the chance to swim, snorkel, and relax on pristine beaches. One thing to keep in mind: the English spoken by the Thai captain can be quite basic, but that doesn’t seem to detract from the friendly and attentive service.

This tour is perfect for those who want control over their day, enjoy quiet, less crowded beaches, and love the idea of having a personal guide to help navigate the islands. It’s less suited for very young children, pregnant women, or anyone prone to seasickness, given the open longtail boat and sea conditions.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with a private longtail boat and local captain
• Flexible itinerary allows you to stay longer or shorter at each stop
• Visit hidden spots like Lao Lading and Pakbia Island
• Hike to Hong Island’s viewpoint for spectacular panoramic views
• Snorkel and swim in tranquil lagoons and turquoise waters
• Early start recommended to avoid crowds and enjoy peaceful beaches

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic and Flexible Island Adventure

This tour offers an authentic look at the islands around Phang Nga, far from the hustle and bustle of large group trips. You’ll meet your local captain at either Chong Lard Pier or Manoh Pier—both easy to find with clear directions—and then set off on your adventure. The boat itself is described as well-maintained, with reviewers noting the comfortable setup including mattresses, pillows, and towels, making the journey relaxing.

One of the most popular aspects is the ability to customize how long you stay at each stop. Unlike fixed itineraries, you’re in charge of your time, whether that’s a quick swim or a long snorkel session. Reviewers appreciate this, with one noting, “the guides made sure our every comfort was attended to,” and another praising the “beautiful boat and the peace of having it all to ourselves.”

The Stops and Highlights

Koh Pak Bia is often a favorite for swimming and snorkeling. Reviewers mention the clear waters and abundant fish, making it an ideal spot for underwater exploration. One traveler raved, “Snorkel with beautiful fish and relax on the beach—it felt like our own private paradise.” Because the tour is private, you won’t be rushed, and the captain can tailor the pace based on your preferences.

Hong Lagoon is another standout location, offering a chance to take photos, swim, and enjoy the serenity. The lagoon’s emerald waters are described as calm and inviting, perfect for a quick dip or some quiet lounging. Plus, the hike to Hong Island’s 360° viewpoint is a must-do, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding islands. Multiple reviews laud this view as breathtaking—certainly a highlight for nature lovers and photography buffs alike.

Lao Lading is praised as one of the most beautiful spots in Thailand, with reviewers noting the turquoise waters and peaceful vibe. It’s an excellent place for relaxing and swimming, and some even mention arriving early enough to enjoy the beaches with minimal footprints—an underrated perk.

Hong Island itself is another of the tour’s star attractions. Besides swimming, many choose to sunbathe or snorkel in the rich waters. The viewpoint hike is often described as worth the effort, with magnificent 360° views over the landscape. One reviewer even said, “Loved it all,” after summiting the hill.

The Experience and Crew

What truly makes this tour special are the friendly guides and the attentiveness. Many reviews mention the captain’s kindness and helpfulness, and the guides’ willingness to go the extra mile—like cutting fresh pineapple or sharing photos. One reviewer said, “We appreciated the extra touches like the decorations on the boat and the aesthetic cutting of pineapple.” Despite the language barrier, travelers felt well taken care of, citing the guides’ helpful nature and the captain’s skill at navigating the sometimes choppy waters of the Andaman Sea.

Practical Details and Value

The tour lasts 5 hours, which is ample time to explore multiple spots without feeling rushed. It’s a private group experience, so it’s ideal for couples, families, or small groups wanting exclusivity. The cost is a good value considering the personalized service, private boat, and variety of stops—and with the option to reserve now and pay later, travelers can plan flexibly.

What to bring? Light essentials such as sunscreen, sunglasses, a towel, snacks, and cash for souvenirs or extra drinks. The tour providers emphasize the importance of arriving early if you want to beat crowds, especially at popular spots like Hong Island.

Weather can influence the day, with rain possible, but reviews show the crew adapts well, and safety is prioritized. Many travelers recommend the early morning departure (around 6-6:15 am) for fewer crowds and more peaceful beaches, which is echoed in the reviews praising the quiet, serene experience.

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Limitations to Consider

The English spoken by the captain is described as “very basic,” which might pose a communication challenge on some occasions. If you’re seeking detailed commentary or historical info, this might not be the best fit. Also, seasickness could be an issue due to the open longtail boat and sometimes rough sea conditions. It’s not suitable for small children or pregnant women, as per the tour’s guidelines.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private island-hopping trip is perfect for adventurous couples, small groups of friends, or families with older children who appreciate flexibility and peaceful scenery. If you love snorkeling, hiking, and scenic view-points, and want to avoid the crowds, this tour offers a personal, relaxed way to see Thailand’s stunning islands. It’s especially suited for those who value authentic experiences over cookie-cutter group tours.

The Sum Up

This Koh Yao Yai/Noi longtail boat tour offers a beautiful blend of tranquility, adventure, and personalized service. With the ability to customize your stops, enjoy quiet beaches, and hike to panoramic viewpoints, it provides a unique way to explore the islands without feeling rushed or overcrowded. The friendly crew and the well-maintained boat contribute significantly to a safe and comfortable experience, making it well worth the price for those seeking intimacy and flexibility.

If you’re after authentic Thai island scenery, love snorkeling in clear lagoons, and want the freedom to spend extra time at your favorite spots, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s especially ideal for travelers who prefer early starts to beat the crowds and enjoy the islands in peace.

FAQ

How early should I start the tour?
Most reviews recommend starting around 6:00-6:15 am to avoid crowds and enjoy the beaches with minimal visitors.

What locations does the tour visit?
You will go to Koh Pak Bia, Hong Lagoon, Lao Lading, and Hong Island, among others, with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing.

Is the tour suitable for families with children?
It’s not suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, especially due to the open boat and sea conditions.

How much time do I get at each stop?
You can choose how long to stay at each location, making the experience highly customizable. Most stops allow enough time for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a towel, snacks, cash, and beachwear. Extra water and fruit are often provided, but it’s good to have your own just in case.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, reviewers mention the boat is well-kept with mattresses, pillows, and towels, ensuring a comfortable ride.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour will still go ahead if conditions are safe; however, in unsafe weather, it may be canceled for safety, with options to reschedule or get a full refund.

This private longtail boat tour around Koh Yao Yai and Noi promises a peaceful, authentic, and customizable escape into Thailand’s stunning island scenery—perfect for explorers craving both adventure and tranquility.

You can check availability for your dates here: