There are four groups of islands accessible from the mainland coast in Krabi: the Phi Phi Islands; the Hong Islands; the 4 Islands; and James Bond Island. Each group can be covered in a one day tour – either with a private boat, or as part of an organised tour. Tours combining 2 island groups are available but, due to the distances involved, do cost more and see less of each place.

The Phi Phi Islands (Koh Phi Phi Don, Koh Phi Phi Leh, Bamboo Island, Bida Nok, Bida Nai and Koh Yung) are the Krabi “must-see” – though this also means they are the most crowded, especially as they are also a Phuket “must-see” – their midway location means they also get thousands of day trippers from across the water.

The Hong Islands (Koh Hong, Koh Pakbia, Koh Rai, Koh Lahding) are a must for nature lovers as this area offers the best wildlife and snorkeling close to the coast.

The 4 Islands (Koh Poda, Chicken Island, Koh Tub, Koh Mor) are a good, shorter trip for families with younger children, or for anyone if the weather is looking dodgy – they are the most sheltered of the groups. Decent snorkeling is almost impossible here, however, unless you go on a specific snorkeling trip that will take you away from the high traffic spots.

James Bond Island (Koh Khao Ping Kan, Koh Tapu, Koh Panyi, Khao Kian, Tam Lod), in Phang Nga, is probably the most overrated of the the four, though may be worth it if you are in a group and take the speedboat tour, so you can enjoy a wider cruise of Phang Nga Bay.

Which vessel you choose to visit the Krabi islands is a crucial decision. Aside from your own personal preference – sitting on a wooden bench in a longtail; banging up and down in a speed boat; or relaxing on the deck of a fishing or dive boat – the type of boat will also determine where you can go, how long you spend in each place and, in some cases, what you can see on the way.

Each has its advantages and disadvantages, as outlined below:

Longtail boat
Pros:
– Usually a small group size on organised tours
– Relatively cheap to charter privately
– Relatively smooth ride
– Can park up on all beaches
Cons:
– Most can only go short distances (not, for example, to Phi Phi)
– Noisy / splashy
– Possibly difficult to get in and out for those with limited mobility

Speed boat
Pros:
– Fast, can save travel time over long distances
– Can park up on all beaches
Cons:
– Very bumpy, uncomfortable ride – not suitable for infants under 18 months, pregnant women or anyone with back problems
– Larger boats (40 seater +) do not allow you to see out during travel
– Expensive to charter

Cruise / dive boat
Pros:
– Very smooth ride
– Superior comfort on board (usually has a covered deck and a sun deck, kitchen, toilet)
– Tour itineraries for fishing / diving usually go to less visited sites
Cons:
– Can’t park up on any beaches, only cruise around (may be possible to go ashore by transferring to longtail boat)
– Relatively more expensive
– Is usually more focused on activities (fishing, diving) than sightseeing