Phuket: Starlight Hong Sea Cave & Glowing Plankton by Kayak

Phuket’s "Starlight Hong Sea Cave & Glowing Plankton by Kayak" tour offers an unforgettable adventure. Over 10 hours, participants enjoy the island’s natural beauty. They’ll kayak through Panak Island, explore stunning caves, and witness the mesmerizing glow of plankton at night. With hotel pickup, meals, and expert guides, this tour provides a hassle-free experience. Whether traveling solo or with a group, adventure-seekers shouldn’t miss this chance to uncover Phuket’s hidden gems.

Key Points

• This 10-hour tour in Phuket offers a unique experience of exploring the Starlight Hong Sea Cave and witnessing glowing plankton while kayaking.
• The tour includes pickup, English-speaking guides, kayak equipment, and meals, with options for private or small group tours.
• The main activities include kayaking at Panak Island, visiting Bat Cave and Ice Cream Cave, and experiencing a sunset and night kayaking with glowing plankton.
• Necessary equipment and basic accident insurance are provided, and the tour caters to dietary preferences like seafood and vegan.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant individuals or those with certain medical conditions, and participants are advised to follow safety guidelines.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers a comprehensive 10-hour experience in Phuket, allowing visitors to explore the stunning Starlight Hong Sea Cave and witness the captivating glow of plankton.

Priced at $116.33 per person, the tour includes pickup, English-speaking guides, kayak equipment, and meals. Travelers can choose between private or small group options.

The itinerary features safety briefings, water transportation, kayaking at Panak Island, visits to cave formations, sunset viewing, and night kayaking with bioluminescent plankton.

The tour’s itinerary includes safety briefings, water transportation, kayaking at Panak Island, visits to cave formations, sunset viewing, and night kayaking with bioluminescent plankton.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance. Participants should bring appropriate gear and be aware of restrictions for pregnant individuals and those with certain medical conditions.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a pickup from the traveler’s hotel, followed by a 20-minute safety briefing.

Next, the journey includes various water transport segments totaling approximately 2 hours.

The main activities include:

• Kayaking at Panak Island for 115 minutes

• Visiting the Bat Cave and Ice Cream Cave for 15 minutes each

• Enjoying sunset views and wildlife observation

• Night kayaking with self-made "Kratong" and bioluminescent plankton

After these activities, the tour ends with a return to Phuket following a dinner onboard.

Included Amenities

The tour includes a variety of amenities to enhance the experience.

Meals such as lunch and dinner are provided onboard, catering to both seafood and vegan preferences. Beverages are available, including bottled water, herbal tea, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic options for purchase.

Onboard meals cater to seafood and vegan preferences, with beverages including bottled water, herbal tea, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic options available for purchase.

The necessary kayak equipment, including dry bags and SOTAR sea kayaks, is included. Basic accident insurance is provided for the participants’ safety.

Finally, knowledgeable and experienced tour guides will be on hand to ensure a smooth and informative journey.

Participant Guidelines

Participants will want to come prepared for the adventure with a few essential items. This includes comfortable, quick-drying swimwear, a sun hat, and sunglasses to shield from the glare.

Bringing a towel and camera is also recommended to capture the stunning scenery. Biodegradable sunscreen is a must to protect both skin and the delicate marine environment.

Participants should avoid bringing oversized luggage, drones, or planning to feed or touch the wildlife. This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or individuals with back or heart conditions.

Following these guidelines will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

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Customer Feedback

What do customers have to say about this tour? Based on 90 reviews, it has an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars.

Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and remarkable wildlife sightings, describing it as a "must-do experience." The relaxed atmosphere and delicious food also receive high marks.

One customer from Germany highlights the highlight of night kayaking with glowing plankton, while an Australian traveler complimented the friendly staff.

Kayaking at Panak Island

Kayaking at Panak Island starts with a safety briefing, where guides ensure participants know how to properly handle the kayaks.

The expedition then sets off, exploring the island’s hidden coves and mangrove forests. Key highlights include:

• Paddling through the Bat Cave, a limestone cavern teeming with bat colonies overhead.

• Gliding past the Ice Cream Cave, where the rock formations resemble dripping ice cream.

• Spotting diverse wildlife, from colourful birds to curious monkeys along the shoreline.

After the kayaking, the tour continues with sunset viewing and a night-time encounter with bioluminescent plankton.

Exploring Bat Cave and Ice Cream Cave

After exploring the mangrove forests and coves of Panak Island by kayak, the tour makes its way to two captivating caves.

First, the Bat Cave, where visitors can observe the colony of bats resting on the walls.

Then, the Ice Cream Cave, named for its distinctive white limestone formations.

Guests can disembark their kayaks and venture inside these natural wonders, marveling at the unique geological features.

The tour provides ample time to thoroughly explore these caves, immersing participants in the region’s diverse ecosystems and fostering a deeper appreciation for Phuket’s natural beauty.

Sunset Viewing and Night Kayaking

As the afternoon progresses, the tour shifts its focus to the enchanting sunset viewing and captivating night kayaking experience.

Guests are treated to a stunning sunset over the Andaman Sea, providing a breathtaking backdrop for wildlife observation.

The night kayaking portion is the highlight, as participants paddle through the bioluminescent plankton, creating a mesmerizing glow around their kayaks. This natural phenomenon is a magical sight to behold.

The tour concludes with a delicious dinner onboard, capping off an unforgettable day of adventure and exploration in Phuket’s enchanting sea caves and waterways.

• Witness a breathtaking sunset over the Andaman Sea

• Paddle through the mesmerizing glow of bioluminescent plankton

• Enjoy a delicious dinner onboard, completing the day’s adventure

Frequently Asked Questions

How Fit Do I Need to Be for This Kayaking Tour?

This kayaking tour doesn’t require extreme fitness. It’s suitable for most participants, though it’s not recommended for those with back or heart problems. Guests should be comfortable paddling for about 2 hours during the activity.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Guests are generally not allowed to bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. The tour provides lunch, dinner, bottled water, and alcoholic/non-alcoholic beverages for purchase. Outside food and drinks are typically not permitted to ensure the safety and smooth operation of the activity.

Is There an Age Limit for Participants?

There’s no specific age limit, but the tour may not be suitable for very young children. Participants should be able to get in and out of a kayak safely. The activity involves some physical exertion.

Can I Use My Camera During the Night Kayaking?

Yes, participants can use their cameras during the night kayaking portion of the tour. The tour includes guidance on photographing the bioluminescent plankton, ensuring a memorable experience capturing the natural phenomena.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, there is a private tour option available. The tour can be booked as a private group, allowing for a more personalized experience. Prices may vary compared to the small group option, but this offers flexibility and exclusivity.

The Sum Up

The "Starlight Hong Sea Cave & Glowing Plankton by Kayak" tour in Phuket offers a captivating adventure. Kayaking through stunning caves, witnessing the glow of plankton, and enjoying breathtaking scenery make this an unforgettable experience. With expert guides, safety measures, and included amenities, this tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts seeking an enchanting escape in Phuket.

You can check availability for your dates here: