Phuket: 2 Days Itinerary Similan & James Bond Islands Tour

Travelers often look for experiences that combine natural beauty, adventure, and a touch of Hollywood glamour — this 2-day tour of the Similan Islands and James Bond Island in Phuket offers just that. While we haven’t personally joined this trip, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a clear picture of what to expect, making it an appealing choice for those craving turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and iconic limestone formations.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the knowledgeable local guides who bring the islands’ stories to life, second, the chance to swim and relax on pristine beaches, and third, the opportunity to snorkel in surprisingly untouched underwater environments. However, a potential drawback is the schedule’s intensity — with early mornings and back-to-back excursions, this may not suit travelers seeking a more leisurely pace.

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers, nature lovers, and those who are eager to see Phuket’s top island highlights in a compact, well-organized format. If you’re after a mix of stunning scenery, cultural icons, and lively group energy, this tour might just be your perfect fit.

Key Points

• Two-day adventure exploring Similan Islands and James Bond Island.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Snorkeling opportunities at vibrant coral reefs and scenic underwater spots.
• Scenic viewpoints like Sailing Rock and towering limestone formations.
• Food and drinks included, with options for vegetarian meals upon request.
• Timing and logistics are tight but well-organized for maximum sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: What to Expect from the Tour

This 2-day Phuket experience offers a well-rounded way to see some of Thailand’s most famous islands with the convenience of organized transport and guides. The itinerary balances sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxation, making it ideal for travelers wanting to pack a lot into a short time.

We love that the tour provides professional local guides who make navigating the islands easier and more insightful. The inclusion of timely pickup and drop-off means you won’t need to worry about logistics, and the use of speed boats allows you to cover large distances quickly—perfect for maximizing your island time.

One thing to keep in mind? The schedule is quite packed, starting early each day, which means you’ll need to be prepared for some long days with minimal downtime. Nonetheless, this approach suits those eager to tick off major sights without missing out.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: Similan Islands by Speed Boat

Your adventure kicks off early, with hotel pickups between 5:30 am and 6:30 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the day ahead. After a quick breakfast at the pier, you’ll meet your guide — who’s often praised for their friendly demeanor and local knowledge — and set off toward the Similan Islands.

The first stop is Island No.8 to visit “Sailing Rock.” This viewpoint provides some of the most iconic photos of the tour, with panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the chance to stroll, swim, or just soak up the scenery. Reviewers mention that the views are stunning and worth the early wake-up call, especially when the weather cooperates.

Next, the snorkeling begins with two prime spots: Island No.9 and No.7. The reviews note that these snorkeling sites offer beautiful turquoise waters and a chance to see vibrant coral reefs. However, some travelers, like Cintia from Argentina, pointed out that the coral reef at these spots might not be as lively or full of fish as those at Phi Phi, with currents making diving a bit challenging. Still, many find the underwater scenery worthwhile.

Midday brings a Thai Lunch Box Set on Island No.4, where the relaxed atmosphere allows you to unwind and enjoy the surroundings. After eating, you can walk around the two beaches nearby, swim, or snorkel. Reviewers highlight that the beaches are clean and inviting, perfect for a quick break.

The afternoon is dedicated to more snorkeling and sightseeing on Island No.4, before heading back to the pier around 4:30 pm. Guests often mention the smooth organization and that the trip felt well-paced, with snacks and drinks served during the return journey.

Day 2: James Bond Island and Phang Nga Bay

Day two starts between 7:00 am and 8:30 am with hotel pickups, followed by a light breakfast at the lounge. The guide introduces the day’s itinerary, which promises a variety of sights and activities. The use of a speed boat again ensures quick travel between sites.

The first exploration is of Panak Island, famous for its Ice Cream Cave and Mangrove Cave. Travelers describe these caves as unique natural formations that are fun to explore, especially from a canoe or kayak. The calm, scenic environment allows for good photos and quiet moments amid limestone cliffs.

Next, at Hong Island, visitors have a chance to canoe around impressive sea caves and enjoy the view of limestone mountains. Reviewers mention that the canoeing experience enhances the trip, giving a closer look at the island’s landscape.

Lunch is served on Panyee Island, with a buffet offering both Thai and Western dishes, including halal options. Reviewers appreciate the generous spread and the opportunity to relax on the beach while enjoying the food. Some mention that the food quality exceeded expectations for a tour meal.

The highlight of the day is a visit to Khao Pink Kan and Khao Tapoo (James Bond Island). The towering limestone formations are famous for their role in “The Man With The Golden Gun.” Reviewers describe these as spectacular, with the impressive 66-foot-tall Khao Tapoo providing a perfect photo backdrop.

Finally, travelers can unwind at Yao Yai Island’s Palm Beach Club, enjoying the tranquil environment and the chance to relax before heading back to the pier around 5:30 pm.

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What Makes This Tour a Great Choice

Knowledgeable guides are often praised for their friendly, informative approach, making complex island stories accessible and engaging. They also handle logistics smoothly, which is crucial given the early start and busy schedule.

The inclusion of snorkeling at designated spots is a definite highlight, especially for those who enjoy underwater activities. While some reviewers noted that the coral may not be as vibrant as other sites like Phi Phi, the crystal-clear waters and chance to see coral reefs are still enjoyable.

The scenic viewpoints, such as Sailing Rock and the limestone cliffs of James Bond Island, deliver picture-perfect moments that make the early mornings worthwhile. Plus, the meals provided are generally well-received, with vegetarian options available upon request, adding to the overall value.

Pricing, which covers transportation, guides, meals, and activities, is considered fair, especially given the organization and the inclusion of multiple stops. For travelers wanting to see numerous iconic sites without the hassle of planning each detail, this tour offers convenience and variety.

Practical Information and Tips

• Transportation: Modern speed boats ensure quick transfers, but expect some boat noise and movement. The group size tends to be manageable, keeping the experience intimate yet lively.
• Timing: Early mornings mean you should prepare to wake up early, but it’s a small price for full days of sightseeing.
• What to Bring: Pack your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, and sunscreen. A camera is a must for those stunning vistas.
• Restrictions: Not suitable for pregnant women, or travelers with back or neck problems, due to boat rides and walking. Drones and pets are not allowed.
• Meal Options: Vegetarian meals are available on request, ensuring dietary needs are accommodated.

Authentic Reviews Highlighting the Experience

Alceu from Brazil called the Similan Islands “fantastic,” emphasizing the beauty of the scenery. Hugo from France enjoyed the “day with adorable staff” and praised the snorkeling spots with turquoise waters. Olivia from France even highlighted their guide, Lili, calling her “super,” which underscores the importance of good guides in making the trip memorable.

Cintia’s review pointed out that the coral reef at snorkel sites might not be as lively as some expect, but she appreciated the excellent food and friendly staff. This honest insight helps manage expectations and reminds travelers to appreciate the overall experience, not just the snorkeling.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This 2-day Phuket trip is perfect for those who want a full-on island experience with minimal planning. It’s a good fit for adventurous spirits eager to explore underwater worlds, see iconic limestone formations, and enjoy local Thai cuisine in a relaxed island setting.

Travelers who appreciate organized tours with knowledgeable guides will find this experience adds value through expert commentary and seamless logistics. The inclusion of popular stops like Similan Islands’ viewpoints and the famous James Bond Island ensures a variety of photo opportunities and memorable moments.

However, if you prefer slow-paced exploration or have mobility restrictions, the early mornings and packed schedule might be less ideal. Still, for those wanting a balanced mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural icons, this tour offers solid value and authentic island charm.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickups are included and arranged based on your location, with confirmation of exact times provided a day before.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and a camera for capturing memories.

Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be requested, and the lunch is generally a Thai Western Halal buffet.

How long are the boat rides?
The boat rides are quick enough to maximize island time, but exact durations depend on weather and sea conditions.

Is snorkeling included at specific sites?
Yes, snorkeling is offered at Island No.9 and No.7 in the Similan Islands, with many reviewers enjoying the underwater scenery despite some noting coral reef conditions.

What are the main sights on James Bond Island?
You’ll see the towering limestone Khao Tapoo and Pink Kan, famous for their appearance in a James Bond film, along with the scenic limestone cliffs.

Can I request a vegetarian meal?
Yes, vegetarian options are available upon request, ensuring dietary needs are accommodated.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While suitable for most, the early mornings and boat transfers may be tiring for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What is the tour duration?
Each day’s activities are scheduled from early morning to late afternoon, roughly 12-13 hours including transportation.

How much does the tour cost?
Pricing covers transportation, guides, meals, and activities. It’s considered good value given the number of sites visited and included amenities.

In summary, this 2-day tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience of some of Phuket’s most recognizable islands. It balances adventure, scenic beauty, and convenient organization, making it a solid choice for travelers eager to explore with ease and confidence.

You can check availability for your dates here: