Travelling with young children or prefer a short crossing? Coral Island and the Khai Islands are the easiest choices. Here mainly to snorkel? Racha Yai is a good fit, while Similan usually has the clearest visibility when the park is open. Maya Bay is a priority? Choose Phi Phi, but note that swimming in Maya Bay is not allowed. For limestone cliffs, kayaking and mangroves, look at James Bond Island or Hong. Koh Yao is the quieter option, with villages rather than beach clubs.
Every tour page shows the journey time, itinerary and what is included. Hotel transfer, a guide, snorkeling equipment and life jackets are normally provided. Each island page clearly states whether a national park fee is included.
| Name | Duration | From |
|---|---|---|
| Khai Islands | about 5–7 hours | from ฿1,490 |
| Racha Island | 7 hours | from ฿1,890 |
| Coral Island | Half day: about 4.5 hrs · Full day: about 7 hrs | from ฿1,990 |
| Koh Yao Yai & Noi | 7 hours | from ฿2,190 |
| James Bond Island | 7 hours | from ฿2,290 |
| Hong Islands | 7 hours | from ฿2,390 |
| Phi Phi Islands | 7 hours | from ฿2,490 |
| Similan Islands | 8 hours · Oct–May | from ฿3,290 |
Which boat suits you? A speedboat saves time, but can be wet and bumpy in swell. A catamaran has more room and is usually a steadier ride. A big boat is the most stable and often the best-value option. For toddlers, sensitive stomachs or rougher conditions, Coral Island or a big boat is the calmer choice. Phi Phi and Similan generally only make sense as day trips by speedboat.
November to April usually brings calmer seas, but fuller boats. May to October can mean showers and route changes; Coral, Khai and Racha are often the more dependable options. The captain makes the final call on the morning of the trip, based on local conditions.
The sea is usually calmer and underwater visibility is often better. In high season, especially December to March, booking ahead is wise.
Expect short showers and changeable conditions. Coral, Khai and Racha are often the better fit; Phi Phi may be rerouted or cancelled. Similan National Park is closed.
Earlier departures often mean fewer boats in the bays. Later on, the higher sun can help for snorkeling, though the bays are usually busier.
We know the local operators and help you make a realistic choice – including when another island is a better fit for your group. You can reach us on WhatsApp in English or German.
No young children and Maya Bay matters: Phi Phi. Children under six: Coral or Khai. Snorkeling: Racha. Limestone photos: James Bond. For especially clear water: Similan, when the park is open.
Khai starts at ฿1,490, Racha at ฿1,890, Coral at ฿1,990, James Bond at ฿2,290, Phi Phi at ฿2,490 and Similan at ฿3,290 per adult. Transfer is usually included. Ages 4–11 often pay 30–40% less; check the individual tour page for park fees.
Coral and Khai are the most relaxed choices for little ones because the crossings are short. We would generally suggest a Phi Phi or James Bond speedboat from around age six or seven. A big boat is often more comfortable for sensitive stomachs.
Not across the board. Coral Island is not a national park. Fees are common at Phi Phi, Similan and parts of Phang Nga Bay and Hong; the individual tour page tells you whether they are included.
From May to October, Coral, Khai and Racha are often the more reliable options. Phi Phi may be rerouted or cancelled in heavy swell. Similan is closed roughly from mid-May to mid-October.
A speedboat is quick but feels the waves. A catamaran has more space and is often steadier. A big boat is stable and usually cheaper, but takes longer. For Phi Phi in one day, a speedboat is normally the practical choice.
Racha and Similan are the stronger reef choices; Coral is shallow and ideal for beginners. Swimming is not allowed in Maya Bay, but snorkeling is usually possible at other stops on a Phi Phi trip.
Maya Bay closes annually from 1 August to 30 September. At other times visits are limited, entry is via Loh Samah, and swimming is not allowed.
Light rain does not normally stop a tour. In heavy swell, the captain may change the route or cancel. You can usually rebook or receive a full refund.
Book on the tour page with card or PayPal, or message us on WhatsApp. We can advise in English or German and send confirmation by email. Cancellation is free up to 48 hours before departure.
