Tucked away in the turquoise waters of Phang Nga Bay, the idyllic islands of Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi promise a private, immersive experience unlike any other. Hop aboard a traditional longtail boat and embark on a journey to uncover the bay’s most iconic destinations, from the limestone cliffs of James Bond Island to the unique floating village of Koh Panyi. With a local captain at the helm, you’ll witness the breathtaking natural beauty and cultural heritage that make this region truly captivating. But the real adventure is just about to begin…
Key Points
- Explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Phang Nga Bay with a private longtail boat tour from Koh Yao Yai or Koh Yao Noi.
- Visit the iconic James Bond Island and the floating village of Koh Panyi, which features a floating football field and mosque.
- Enjoy kayaking through the serene waters of Koh Hong and discover the unique Panak Cave.
- The tour includes a private longtail boat, local captain, snorkel gear, life jackets, food, and water, with hotel transfers for convenience.
- Additional costs may apply for optional activities like kayaking and the James Bond Island national park fee.
Tour Overview and Highlights
This private longtail boat experience takes visitors on an enchanting journey from Koh Yao Yai or Koh Yao Noi, lasting approximately 6 hours.
Highlights include a visit to the famous James Bond Island, where you can retake the iconic movie scene.
Explore the unique floating village of Koh Panyi, with its floating football field, mosque, and local restaurants.
Kayak through the serene waters of Koh Hong and discover the hidden wonders of Koh Panak’s unique cave.
This immersive tour offers a glimpse into the stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Phang Nga Bay region.
Pricing and Reservation Details
The private longtail boat tour from Koh Yao Yai or Koh Yao Noi is priced from $223.76 to $212.59 per group of up to 2 participants, offering a savings of up to 5%.
Booking is easy, with no upfront payment required. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, with the added convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible policy provides peace of mind for those planning their visit.
The tour includes a private longtail boat, local captain, snorkel gear, life jackets, water, fruit, hotel transfers, food, and the national park fee for James Bond Island.
Inclusions and Additional Costs
The tour package includes a private longtail boat, a local captain, snorkel masks, life jackets, water, fruit, hotel transfers, food, and the national park fee for James Bond Island.
Kayaking is an optional service available during the tour at an additional cost of 500 Baht per kayak, accommodating up to two people.
Guests should be aware that the national park entry fee of 300 Baht per person for James Bond Island isn’t included in the base price.
Participants are encouraged to bring sunglasses, swimwear, towels, snacks, and cash to cover any additional expenses they may incur during the tour.
Important Information and Recommendations
Meeting points for the tour are Chong Lard Pier or Manoh Pier, depending on the tour option booked.
Visitors should bring sunglasses, swimwear, towels, and cash. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, or those with back problems, mobility issues, or seasickness.
The local captain speaks basic English, and the travel time to Phang Nga Bay is around an hour each way. Access to Panak Cave is narrow and slippery, suitable only for fit individuals.
Rain is unpredictable, but tours continue in safe conditions, with no refunds for rain. Tour schedules may vary due to weather and sea conditions, and unsafe conditions may result in cancellation with options to reschedule or receive a full refund.
Safety and Conditions
The local captain speaks basic English, allowing smooth communication during the tour.
The travel time to Phang Nga Bay is about 1 hour each way, with the tour exploring various sites like the iconic Panak Cave.
Access to the cave is narrow and slippery, making it suitable only for fit individuals.
While rain is unpredictable, the tours generally continue in safe conditions, with no refunds issued for rain.
However, tour schedules may vary due to weather and sea conditions, and in case of unsafe conditions, the tour may be canceled, with options to reschedule or receive a full refund.
Meeting Points and Transfers
Depending on the tour option booked, travelers will be picked up from either Chong Lard Pier or Manoh Pier. These meeting points are conveniently located, allowing for smooth transfers to the starting point of the private longtail boat adventure.
| Meeting Point | Location |
|---|---|
| Chong Lard Pier | Koh Yao Yai |
| Manoh Pier | Koh Yao Noi |
Once at the pier, guests will board the longtail boat and set off on their journey to explore the stunning Phang Nga Bay, including James Bond Island, Koh Panyi, and other captivating destinations. The boat ride itself is part of the experience, with the local captain ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.
Kayaking and National Park Fees
During the private longtail boat tour, guests have the option to add a kayaking experience for an additional 500 Baht per kayak, with a maximum of 2 people per kayak. This allows visitors to explore the serene waterways and hidden coves of Phang Nga Bay up close.
Plus, there’s a 300 Baht national park fee per person required to visit James Bond Island. These fees cover the cost of park maintenance and conservation efforts.
Guests should ensure they’ve sufficient cash on hand to cover these optional and mandatory charges, as payment options may be limited in the remote locations visited during the tour.
Tour Schedule and Flexibility
The tour schedule is designed to be flexible, allowing for adjustments based on weather conditions and guest preferences.
The longtail boat journey to Phang Nga Bay takes around an hour each way, and the tour’s itinerary may vary depending on factors like sea and weather conditions.
While the typical route includes visiting James Bond Island, the floating village of Koh Panyi, and exploring the Koh Hong archipelago, the exact sequence and duration of activities can be adapted.
In the event of unsafe conditions, the tour may be cancelled, with options to reschedule or receive a full refund.
This flexibility ensures guests can enjoy the tour in comfort and safety, despite the unpredictable nature of the tropical environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snorkel Gear?
Yes, you can bring your own snorkel gear for this tour. The tour operator provides snorkel masks, but if you prefer to use your own equipment, you’re welcome to do so. Just be sure it’s in good condition.
Are There Any Restroom Facilities During the Tour?
The tour includes visits to various remote islands, so there are limited restroom facilities available during the day. Guests should plan accordingly and take advantage of restrooms at the starting and ending points of the tour.
Is There a Discount for Larger Groups?
Yes, there’s a group discount for this tour. Prices start from $223.76 for 2 participants and decrease by up to 5% for larger groups. The tour offers flexible booking and free cancellation options.
Can I Request a Specific Departure Time?
Customers can request a specific departure time for the tour, though it’s subject to availability and the tour operator’s schedule. The company will do its best to accommodate preferred departure times if possible.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Kayaking Activity?
The tour operator doesn’t specify any age restrictions for the kayaking activity. However, they note that the tour is not suitable for children under 3, so parents should use their discretion when deciding if their child can safely participate in the kayaking.
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Recap
Set out on a captivating journey through Phang Nga Bay‘s stunning landscapes. Witness the iconic James Bond Island, explore the unique floating village of Koh Panyi, and learn about the region’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. With a knowledgeable local guide and the flexibility to customize your experience, this private longtail boat tour promises an unforgettable adventure in the enchanting Koh Yao islands.