Group Tour in Hong Island by Long Tail Boat

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and lush scenery in Krabi, Thailand, a day trip to Hong Island might just be what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, compiled insights from travelers and detailed information suggest it offers a well-rounded taste of island life. Expect scenic boat rides, water activities, delicious food, and plenty of photo-worthy moments.

What we love about this experience: the stunning views from the boat, the chance to snorkel among colorful coral and fish, and the inclusion of a traditional Thai lunch make it a true value.

One thing to consider: the national park fee isn’t included in the tour price and needs to be paid on the spot, so budget for that extra expense.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a manageable, enjoyable day out with plenty of opportunities to relax, explore, and get a taste of local culture without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and crystal-clear waters make this a photogenic adventure.
• All-inclusive pricing covers snorkel gear, lunch, and transfers, offering good value.
• Experienced guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Flexible water activities like swimming and snorkeling are perfect for water lovers.
• Comfortable transport with hotel pickup and return simplifies logistics.
• Moderate group size ensures a friendly, less crowded atmosphere.

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This group tour in Hong Island is designed to introduce travelers to some of Krabi’s most stunning coastal scenery, all within an approximately 8-hour window. The tour is priced at around $43.57 per person, making it accessible for most budgets. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup, boat rides, lunch, and snorkeling equipment makes it a convenient choice for a day full of adventure.

The tour runs on a fixed schedule, starting with a hotel pickup between 8:00 and 8:30 am. This early start means you’ll beat some of the crowds and enjoy the scenery in a more peaceful setting. It’s a well-organized outing, with most travelers noting that confirmation arrives quickly after booking, and the group size is capped at 30, providing a balance between social atmosphere and personal space.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Krabi Town and Nopparat Thara Pier

The day begins with a hotel pickup in Krabi or Ao Nang, with the exact time specified on your voucher. The convenience of roundtrip hotel transfer means you won’t need to worry about logistics. Afterward, you’ll head to the Nopparat Thara pier, where the adventure truly begins with a longtail boat ride.

Traveling on this traditional boat, you get a real sense of local transportation and can enjoy the sights of Krabi’s coastline. The boat ride lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the sea and islands. Travelers mention that the ride offers “stunning views,” making it a highlight for many.

Stop 2: Hong Island and Paradise Island (Koh Lading)

Once at Hong Island, you’ll have around five hours to explore. This part of the trip offers multiple options:

• Walk along the serene white beaches or relax under the sun
• Swim or snorkel to observe vibrant coral reefs and colorful marine life
• Visit the bird caves or enjoy the famous Hong Lagoon, where cliffs frame the scenery beautifully

The tour includes snorkeling equipment, which many travelers appreciate because it allows them to get close to the abundant aquatic creatures. You’ll also get a chance to indulge in a traditional Thai buffet at a beachside restaurant, offering local flavors in a beautiful setting.

Some reviews point out that guides are very knowledgeable, helping you spot marine life and explaining the history of the islands. One guest shared, “The guides made everything fun and informative, which added so much to the day.”

Stop 3: Return to Krabi

After a relaxed afternoon on the island, you’ll hop back on the longtail boat around 3:00 pm for the journey back to Nopparat Thara Pier. The return trip offers further scenic views of Krabi’s coastline and islands.

By around 4:00 pm, your air-conditioned minivan will whisk you back to your hotel, ending a day full of sun, sea, and new experiences.

What to Expect During the Tour

Transportation: The tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies the day. The boat ride itself provides a scenic and authentic way to travel between islands, with most travelers describing it as “fun” and “picturesque.”

Guides: The English-speaking guides play a significant role in enriching the experience. They’re praised for their local insights and friendly attitude, making the journey more engaging and informative.

Water activities: You’ll have access to snorkeling gear, allowing you to see vibrant corals and schools of colorful fish. Swimming is easy and safe, with shallow spots ideal for families or less confident swimmers.

Food and facilities: The included lunch is a traditional Thai buffet served at a beachside restaurant, which many consider both delicious and authentic. Fresh fruit is also provided during the day, providing a refreshing break from the sun.

Group size: Keeping the group to a maximum of 30 travelers means it’s not overly crowded, fostering a friendly atmosphere. Some reviews mention that guides are attentive and approachable, making it a comfortable experience.

The Value and Considerations

In terms of value, for approximately $43.57, you’re getting a full-day experience that covers transportation, snorkeling gear, lunch, and insurance. The cost of the national park fee (300 Baht per adult, 200 Baht per child) is not included, so travelers should remember to budget for this additional expense.

The tour’s duration of about 8 hours makes it a full but manageable day—you’ll experience the best parts of Hong Island without feeling rushed. However, some might find the boat ride a tad long if prone to seasickness, so bringing motion sickness remedies might be wise.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for water lovers and beach enthusiasts who want to explore Krabi’s islands in a relaxed, guided setting. It’s also suitable for families, couples, or groups of friends eager to enjoy snorkelling, sunbathing, and tropical scenery without the hassle of planning multiple transfers or meals.

If you’re looking for an authentic, fun day out that emphasizes scenic beauty and local cuisine, this tour offers a well-balanced experience. It’s particularly good if you enjoy guided tours with knowledgeable hosts and appreciate good value for money.

Final Thoughts

This group tour to Hong Island by long tail boat offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to see some of Krabi’s most captivating sights. With scenic boat rides, opportunities for water activities, and a flavorful Thai lunch, it packs a lot into one day, making it a great choice for travelers seeking a relaxed yet adventurous escape.

While it’s not the most exclusive or luxurious option, the focus on authentic experiences, friendly guides, and stunning views makes it a memorable and worthwhile outing. If you’re after a day filled with natural beauty, fun water activities, and local culture, this tour checks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour provides roundtrip hotel transfer from Krabi, Ao Nang, and nearby areas. The pickup time is between 8:00 and 8:30 am, as specified on your voucher.

What is the duration of the tour? The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, from pickup in the morning to return in the late afternoon.

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

Do I need to pay extra for park entrance? Yes, the national park fee of 300 Baht for adults (200 Baht for children) is not included and must be paid on-site.

What does the lunch consist of? You’ll enjoy a traditional Thai buffet served at a beachside restaurant, with fresh fruits and local dishes.

Is this tour suitable for children? Most likely, yes, especially since snorkeling gear is provided, and the tour is designed to be family-friendly. However, check with the operator if you have very young children or specific needs.

What if I cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible in case your plans change.

How many people will be on the tour? The group is limited to 30 travelers, ensuring a friendly atmosphere without feeling crowded.

Can I expect to see marine life? Yes, snorkeling offers a good chance to see vibrant fish and corals, as noted by previous travelers who enjoyed the aquatic biodiversity.

This tour provides a well-rounded, authentic slice of island life and coastal beauty, perfect for those looking to explore Krabi’s iconic scenery without stress or excessive expense. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, it’s a reliable option for a memorable day on the water.