Krabi’s beaches are the doorstep of a much more grandiose adventure: the numerous islands and archipelagos of the Andaman Sea. As one of the best cruising grounds, the Andaman holds many of these uninhabited jewels of the sea, all of which available for your adventure and enjoyment. At the same time, several of these islands are regularly visited by many as a part of the popular tourist routes from Phuket and Krabi.
Finding your way to one of these tours is a definite must, but there is more than one way to enjoy the beauty of the Andaman Sea’s islands. While many choose to join the flock of people who want to travel by tour boats, there are those with more wits (and some extra pocket money) who prefer to charter a private boat! For the price of a few extra Thai Baht, not only can you avoid the droves of people filling the big tour boats, but you could travel at a pace more fitting your desires!
The Longtail Boat Charter
You’ve finally decided that your best option to travel is by chartering a boat, but how exactly do you do that? Lucky for you, most of the tourist beaches have boat drivers with traditional longtail boats on standby—all you have to do is ask!
There is no need to advance book a boat, but if you need some time to prepare, it might be a wise choice to do so. There are no messy negotiations and bargaining here because the local boat club has fixed the rates for each season, and have posted it on big boards across the beach. Make sure to check out the prices first to ensure that you have enough money!
Chartering your own private boat does require a bit more planning. Before you venture out on your chartered boat, make sure that you have enough food and water to last the duration of your boat tour. If you wish to snorkel or swim, you even can bring your own gear or rent from the boat driver’s own stock.
Aside from this, knowing a bit more about the islands you wish to go to may help with planning your route, otherwise, you can ask the boat driver for the best options for your day trip. By giving them an overview of what you expect to do, they can suggest the simplest and safest route, all while giving you the most time possible for you to enjoy each island.
Take note that National Marine Park entrance fees are collected in most of the popular islands, so having lots of pocket money is a necessity. Also, James Bond Island and beyond are not accessible through longtail boats, but not all is lost just yet!
The Speedboat Charter
To visit the James Bond Island, Ko Phi Phi island, and beyond, chartering a speedboat will be your best bet! As these particular islands are quite a distance from the beach, the power of the speedboat is necessary to have enough time to enjoy your trip. Please note, however, that it is not possible to travel to James Bond Island and Ko Phi Phi in one day! Be sure to contact a speedboat for charter and ask the best routes possible to maximize your time.
Speed boat chartering, unlike the longboat charter, has to be booked at least a day in advance. Nevertheless, there are multiple companies to assist you with this, so make sure to contact one for an easier transition. The cost of chartering a private speedboat is quite expensive (between 9000 to 25,000 baht, depending on the number of people), so make sure you plan this trip wisely.
Conclusion
With these options in mind, your vacation can be much more leisurely and relaxing. Plan ahead, charter a boat, and enjoy your time in the wonders of the Andaman Sea!
If you’re looking for the most relaxing beach resort in Ao Nang, get in touch with Pakasai Resort and book your reservation today!
