Khai island snorkeling tour by long tail boat from Koh Yao Yai

Traveling to Thailand often means seeking out those picture-perfect beaches and colorful underwater scenes. This Khai Island snorkeling tour from Koh Yao Yai promises a quick escape to a trio of small islands in Phang Nga Bay, where stunning waters and tropical fish await. While we’ve not done it ourselves, the descriptions and reviews suggest it’s a fantastic choice for anyone craving a laid-back day on the water, especially families and couples looking for safe, shallow swimming spots.

What we’re drawn to are the easy access to crystal-clear waters, the chance to see dolphins in season, and how well it caters to all ages. Plus, the inclusion of lunch and snorkeling gear makes it seem like a smooth, hassle-free experience. That said, a potential consideration is the entrance fee, which isn’t included in the ticket price, so budget accordingly. This tour looks perfect for those wanting a relaxing, scenic, and family-friendly adventure.

Key Points

• Accessible islands just 20 minutes from Koh Yao Yai by long tail boat.
• Ideal for families and children due to shallow, safe waters.
• Includes essentials like snorkeling gear and lunch for great value.
• Flexible activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and optional jet skiing.
• Seasonal dolphin sightings make it extra special in certain months.
• Private transport and small group feel enhance comfort and personalized service.

Why Choose the Khai Island Snorkeling Tour?

If you’re spending time on Koh Yao Yai and are craving an easy day trip that combines beach relaxation with underwater exploration, this tour checks many boxes. We loved the convenience of hotel pickup and the quick 20-minute boat ride—meaning minimal transit fatigue and more time actually enjoying the water. The focus on family-friendly activities means kids can safely splash around in shallow waters, while adults will appreciate the chance to snorkel and feed the fish.

The inclusion of lunch and snorkeling equipment at the listed price of around $97.79 per person makes it a solid deal, especially considering the round-trip transfer and boat ride are part of the package. That said, the entrance fee isn’t included, so you’ll want to set aside a bit extra for that.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

09:00 AM – Pick-up from Koh Yao Yai

The tour kicks off with a convenient hotel pickup—something that many travelers find invaluable in a new place. You’ll be greeted by Gembira Tour’s staff, who are known for their organized approach and friendly service. Expect a comfortable, private transportation that gets you to the pier smoothly.

09:30 AM – Boarding the Long Tail Boat

Once at the pier, you’ll board a traditional long tail boat, a classic Thailand experience. The boat ride itself is short—just around 20 minutes—so your anticipation builds quickly. During the ride, you’ll get to enjoy scenic views of Koh Yao Yai and the surrounding waters.

Khai Nok Island – First Stop

Your first destination is Khai Nok Island, famous for its shallow waters and calm conditions. This is the perfect spot for swimming, feeding fishes, and snorkeling. Many reviews mention how safe and shallow the waters are, making it especially suitable for children or less confident swimmers. One reviewer pointed out, “The shallow water around the island is safe for kids to enjoy swimming and feeding fishes,” which truly highlights its family-friendly appeal.

Second Stop – Khai Nai Island

Next, you’ll sail over to Khai Nai Island, where you can relax, sunbathe, or engage in optional activities like jet skiing (additional cost). The island’s tranquil atmosphere and beautiful scenery make it an excellent spot for unwinding. Reviewers appreciated the free time to relax or swim — one even mentioned, “We loved the way we could just sit back and enjoy the stunning views.”

Lunch Break

A simple yet satisfying picnic lunch is provided on the island. Expect fresh, casual fare, perfect for refueling after some water fun. Many travelers find the lunch to be a highlight, providing a good balance of convenience and local flavor.

Snorkeling at Khai Nui Island

The day concludes with snorkeling and swimming at Khai Nui Island. Its clear waters and abundant fish make it a favorite among guests. One reviewer praised the experience, saying, “Seeing the colorful fish and coral was one of the best parts of the trip.” Expect to see tropical fish swimming close to the surface, making it ideal for beginners and children.

1:00 PM – Return to Koh Yao Yai

After a relaxed afternoon, you’ll board the boat back to Koh Yao Yai, arriving around 1:00 PM. You’ll then be transferred back to your hotel, ending a well-paced, scenic day.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation: The tour offers private hotel pickup, which is a huge plus for comfort and ease. The boats are traditional long tail vessels, which add a charming local touch but also mean the ride is straightforward and not overly crowded.

Duration: Just about 3 hours from pickup to drop-off, making it a perfect half-day escape.

Cost & Value: At roughly $97.79 per person, including snorkeling gear and lunch, this trip offers good value. Extra costs like entrance fees are not included, so plan for a bit more cash for those.

Weather & Cancellation: Since the tour depends on good weather, it’s worth noting that cancellations are possible if conditions are poor. Fortunately, the policy offers free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

Who it suits: This experience is best for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a relaxed day with straightforward activities. It’s particularly appealing for those new to snorkeling or looking for a safe, shallow environment.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer noted, “The shallow water is perfect for kids, and the fish feeding was so much fun.” Another mentioned, “We loved the scenic boat ride and the chance to spot dolphins in season,” highlighting the seasonal allure. The simplicity of the tour and the friendly staff seem to leave a lasting positive impression, especially with the focus on safety and comfort.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

In a nutshell, this Khai Island snorkeling tour is a gentle yet beautiful introduction to Thailand’s marine life without the hassle of complicated logistics. You’ll get to enjoy tranquil waters, colorful fish, and a taste of local island life in just a few hours. Perfect for families, beginners, or anyone wanting a low-key day at sea, it offers good value with included gear, food, and private transfers.

While it’s not a full-day adventure, it packs enough highlights to make it a memorable part of your trip. The scenic boat ride, safe shallow waters, and opportunities for snorkeling and relaxing on the beach all contribute to a well-rounded experience.

If you’re after a relaxed, family-friendly trip that balances scenery, water fun, and comfort, this tour might just be the perfect fit.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes private transportation from your hotel on Koh Yao Yai, making the start of your day smooth and stress-free.

How long is the boat ride between islands?
The boat ride from Koh Yao Yai to Khai Nai Island takes about 20 minutes, providing quick access to the islands with minimal travel time.

Are snorkeling masks and gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included in the package, so you don’t need to bring your own unless you prefer.

What is the best time of year to see dolphins?
Dolphins are often seen near Khai Islands, especially in November and January, but sightings are not guaranteed and depend on seasonal conditions.

Is the water safe for children?
Absolutely. The shallow waters around Khai Islands are considered safe for children to swim, feed fish, and enjoy snorkeling.

Are there any additional costs I should know about?
While the tour price covers most activities, entrance fees to the islands are not included and will need to be paid separately on-site. Optional activities like jet skiing also cost extra.

This snorkeling tour offers an authentic, relaxed way to experience Thailand’s stunning waters. Perfect for those who value comfort, safety, and scenic beauty in a short, enjoyable trip.