One of the most recommended activities to do while in Phuket is island hopping. There are many tour operators that offer boat tours to Phi Phi Island or the famous James Bond island. While these two popular options for day trips are both worth doing, we only had time to do one during our week in Phuket.
We weren’t sure which one to pick so we approached one of the many stalls on the street in front of Patong Beach. The saleswoman recommended Phang Nga Bay boat tour since the sea is calmer in the bay, even in bad weather, compared with Phi Phi Islands that are out at sea. The weather forecast was not very promising for the day of our trip and Andre suffers from sea-sickness, so we took her advice and booked a trip for the next day with Sea Star Andaman.
The tour was all inclusive of pick-up and drop off in a minivan, all the entries to the islands, experiences like kayaking or snorkeling, breakfast, lunch, water and snacks on the boat. At $65 pp we found the package very reasonable.
Phang Nga Bay Boat Tour Itinerary
We were picked up by a private min-van from our hotel, Banyan Tree, early in the morning and drove for about an hour to the other side of the island to start the boat tour. After an initial briefing and breakfast, we boarded a speed boat which takes around 20 people.
The Phang Nga Bay boat tour lasted around 8 hours and took us to the most interesting attractions in the area.
- Panak Island, where you board a canoe with a local guide that will bring you inside the island lagoon
- James Bond Island, made famous by 007 movie “The Man with the Golden Gun”
- Puddle Rock and cave paintings
- Hong island
- Panyee island, the suspended muslim village
- Khai island, where you can do snorkeling or simply relax at the beach
We really liked the canoeing experience around and inside the island. It gives visitors a unique point of view, being in close contact with nature.
The James Bond island is quite interesting, with the uniquely shaped vertical rock appearing in the 007 movie. There are few souvenir shops on the island but we found them to be pricey. There is also a cave you can explore by yourself.
The highlight of the Phang Nga Boat Tour was the suspended muslim village. Built on stilts above the sea-level, its colorful houses are beautiful. We had lunch there and then some free time to buy some souvenirs. Prices are high but you can bargain for discounts.
Sea Star Andaman Team
There are many tour companies in Phuket that offer boat trips, so we did some research and Sea Star seemed to have good reviews and reasonable rates. We were not disappointed and we would definitely recommend their services. The boats were in good condition, they have their own pier and facilities, and the organization was spot on. The entire staff was polite and attentive.
In this kind of experience, the guides assigned to you can make a huge difference. Our guides, Coco and Bella, were loads of fun and very helpful, and we highly recommend you to choose their tour if you can.
They transformed the day trip into a memorable experience we’ll remember fondly. Coco is a great entertainer, with deep knowledge of the area and Bella is a super photographer. She helped us out with many photos and videos.
Formalities
When you arrive at Seastar pier in Leam Nga, you will be asked to do some formalities by following a simple procedure:
- identify yourself to confirm the booking
- provide copy of your Thai Pass if you haven’t shared it earlier
- pay the agreed price (you can pay by card)
- sign the usual liability form
- take a photo for insurance and authorities approval
While waiting for everybody to complete the paperwork, you can relax and enjoy the complimentary breakfast included in the package.
What to pack for Phang Nga Bay boat tour
The speed boat taking you around is covered, protecting from sun and rain. However, there are periods spent on land, where you’ll be exposed to the weather.
We recommend you to take with you, at least the following items:
- Sunscreen protection and a hat
- Sea sickness pills (they offer pills before departure if have forgotten yours)
- Waterproof camera or waterproof case for your phone
- Beach footwear
- A beach towel
- Snorkeling gear
- Small change to buy souvenirs
- Copy of your Thai Pass
