Practical boat tours dominate the Ko Yao Yai travel scene, with options ranging from basic longtail adventures to upscale speedboat excursions. For the best value, the James Bond Island tours pack in multiple stops and include essential amenities like lunch and snorkel gear. I’m especially fond of the sunset longtail tours – they’re intimate, authentic, and offer spectacular photo opportunities away from the crowds. The Phang Nga Bay private speedboat tours, while pricier, provide flexibility and access to hidden lagoons most visitors miss.
Tours typically run $51 and up, covering transport, equipment, and meals. Most are suitable for average travelers, though some physical activity is required for kayaking and viewpoint hikes.
Let’s explore the standout boat tours that make Ko Yao Yai special.
Key Points
- Ko Yao Yai offers sunset tours by longtail boat that visit nearby islands like Koh Nok, Hong Island, Lading Island, and Pakbia Island.
- The tours include activities such as beach enjoyment, snorkeling, and plankton viewing, with hotel pickup and drop-off, a local guide, and essential amenities.
- Private and luxury boat tours in the Phang Nga Bay area provide a more exclusive experience, with options like the Phang Nga Bay Relaxing Sunset Cruise.
- Pricing for the Ko Yao Yai sunset tours starts from $92.14 per person, while private and luxury boat tours can cost upwards of $976.19 per group.
- Most tours are generally accessible to most travelers, except those with specific needs, and have an overall rating of 3.4 out of 5 based on customer feedback.
James Bond Island By Big Boat W/ Canoeing & Lunch
The James Bond Island by Big Boat with Canoeing & Lunch excursion offers a full-day adventure exploring the stunning islands of Phang Nga Bay.
Departing from Phuket, travelers will visit Koh Panak Cave, Hong Islands, and the famous James Bond Island, the filming location for “The Man with the Golden Gun.”
Activities include swimming, canoeing with a professional guide, and enjoying a traditional Thai lunch onboard.
The tour includes roundtrip transfers, meals, equipment, and insurance. Priced from $51.33 per person, it’s a great value for the experience.
With 94% of travelers recommending the tour, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking to discover Thailand’s natural beauty.
Read our full review: James Bond Island By Big Boat W/ Canoeing & Lunch Review
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Ko Yao Yai: Hong Island & Plankton Longtail Boat Sunset Tour
Although priced higher than some other tours, the Ko Yao Yai: Hong Island & Plankton Longtail Boat Sunset Tour offers a comprehensive 5-hour experience exploring the natural wonders of this picturesque region.
Highlights include visiting Koh Nok, Hong Island, Lading Island, and Pakbia Island, where travelers can enjoy the beaches, snorkel in clear waters, and witness the stunning sunset.
The tour also includes a unique plankton viewing experience, allowing guests to witness the bioluminescent glow.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, a local guide, and essential amenities provided, this tour is a great way to take in the beauty of the Andaman Sea.
Read our full review: Ko Yao Yai: Hong Island & Plankton Longtail Boat Sunset Tour Review
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Phang Nga Treasures Sunrise Trekking and No-Crowd James Bond by Longtailed Boat
For travelers seeking a captivating early-morning adventure in the stunning Phang Nga region, the Phang Nga Treasures Sunrise Trekking and No-crowd James Bond by Longtail Boat tour delivers an exceptional experience.
This small-group tour, limited to 8 participants, offers personalized service as you hike to the Samet Nangshe viewpoint for breathtaking sunrise views over Phang Nga Bay.
The itinerary also includes a visit to Koh Tapu, famous for its appearance in the James Bond film, as well as canoeing, cave exploration, and a visit to a 5,000-year-old shell cemetery.
With a boxed breakfast and lunch included, this tour provides a comprehensive and memorable adventure away from the crowds.
Read our full review: Phang Nga Treasures Sunrise Trekking and No-Crowd James Bond by Longtailed Boat Review
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Phuket: Boat Transfer to Koh Yao
From Phuket, travelers can conveniently reach Koh Yao Yai by booking a speed boat transfer. The journey takes 30 minutes to 2.5 hours, costing from Kč 662 per person.
Guests must check-in 30 minutes before departure and present their voucher to board. The transfer service is reliable, offering fast and hassle-free travel.
However, past customers have reported issues like poor communication and missed ferries, resulting in additional costs. The service is rated 4.1/5 based on 18 reviews, with high marks for the guide and transportation.
Travelers should confirm meeting point details and arrive on time to avoid any inconveniences.
Read our full review: Phuket: Boat Transfer to Koh Yao Review
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Luxury Small Group Phang Nga Bay Relaxing Sunset Cruise
The Luxury Small Group Phang Nga Bay Relaxing Sunset Cruise offers travelers a chance to explore the hidden gems of this renowned bay.
With a 98% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this 5-star rated tour allows guests to discover lagoons and caves around Koh Panak and Koh Hong.
The tour includes national park fees, a mini cooking class, and hassle-free round-trip transportation from Phuket hotels.
Amenities like refreshments, lunch, and dinner are provided, and the boat has a restroom and flotation devices.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour can accommodate most travelers, with a minimum of 6 seats required.
Travelers can enjoy a full refund for cancellations with 24-hour notice.
Read our full review: Luxury Small Group Phang Nga Bay Relaxing Sunset Cruise Review
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From Ko Yao Yai: Koh Khai Islands Private Boat Tour W/ Lunch
Travelers seeking a private boat tour to explore the picturesque Koh Khai Islands off the coast of Ko Yao Yai will find the Koh Khai Islands Private Boat Tour w/ Lunch an enticing option.
Priced from $161.02 per group (up to 2 participants), this 6-hour tour offers a chance to visit Koh Khai Nok, Koh Khai Nui, and Koh Khai Nai, each with its own unique attractions like white-sand beaches, vibrant coral, and scenic rock formations.
The tour includes a private long-tail boat, lunch, snorkeling gear, and more. Reviews praise the great snorkeling spots and beautiful scenery, though some note issues with transportation costs and shorter-than-advertised durations.
Read our full review: From Ko Yao Yai: Koh Khai Islands Private Boat Tour W/ Lunch Review
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Koh Yao Yai to Ao Nang by Koh Yao Sun Smile Speed Boat
Koh Yao Sun Smile Speed Boat offers a convenient one-way transfer service from Koh Yao Yai to the popular Ao Nang beach town.
The shared speedboat can accommodate up to 45 passengers, reducing costs. The service includes hotel pickup and basic travel insurance.
Departures operate daily year-round, with more frequent schedules during high season. The journey takes passengers to Nopparat Thara Pier in Ao Nang, where they can easily access taxis for hotel transfers.
While not recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions, the service has an average rating of 4.3 based on reviews.
Flexible cancellation and refund policies further enhance the experience.
Read our full review: Koh Yao Yai to Ao Nang by Koh Yao Sun Smile Speed Boat Review
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Phi Phi Early Bird Premium Tour by Speed Boat With Lunch
Offering an early morning start, the Phi Phi Early Bird Premium Tour by Speed Boat with Lunch allows visitors to explore the iconic Phi Phi Islands with fewer crowds.
This full-day tour takes travelers to must-see attractions like Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, and Koh Phi Phi Don. Activities include sunrise breakfast, swimming, snorkeling, and wildlife observation.
The tour includes lunch, unlimited drinks, and hotel pickup and drop-off. With a maximum group size of 25, this premium experience provides an intimate and efficient way to discover the Phi Phi Islands.
While not recommended for certain travelers, the tour does offer a vegetarian option and infant seats.
Positive reviews highlight the tour’s accurate timing, logistics, and friendly staff.
Read our full review: Phi Phi Early Bird Premium Tour by Speed Boat With Lunch Review
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Half Day Khai Island by Speed Boat
The Half Day Khai Island by Speed Boat takes travelers on a thrilling journey to the picturesque Khai Islands, located just off the coast of Ko Yao Yai.
Priced from $34.22 per person, the tour accommodates up to 40 travelers and includes round-trip transfers from select Phuket locations.
Highlights include snorkeling equipment, a tasty lunch, and accident insurance.
Travelers should note that while the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most can participate.
Reviews mention delays and crowded spots, but praise the friendly crew and snorkeling experience.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before, this tour offers a convenient way to explore the Khai Islands.
Read our full review: Half Day Khai Island by Speed Boat Review
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Koh Yao Yai to Phuket by Green Planet Speed Boat
Travelers looking to conveniently transfer between Koh Yao Yai and Phuket can opt for the Green Planet Speed Boat service.
This direct speedboat transfer departs from Chong Lad Pier on Koh Yao Yai and arrives at Bang Rong Pier in Phuket. Prices start from $14.97 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.
The speedboat provides ample space for passengers and luggage, and the service is rated 4.0 out of 5 based on positive customer feedback.
While not wheelchair accessible, the transfer is a smooth and organized option for those traveling between the two destinations.
Read our full review: Koh Yao Yai to Phuket by Green Planet Speed Boat Review
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Koh Hong 4 Island Trip on Private Longtail Boat From Koh Yao Yai
A private longtail boat tour allows visitors to explore the Koh Hong Islands from Koh Yao Yai, offering a chance to enjoy the region’s natural beauty away from crowded group tours.
The tour includes snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing, with lunch provided. Parking fees and the national park fee of 300 THB per person are covered in the $92.14 per person price.
Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with the boat departing from the main gate of the hotel. While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, most travelers can participate.
The tour has an overall rating of 3.4 out of 5 based on reviews, with positive feedback highlighting the organization and quality of the boat.
Read our full review: Koh Hong 4 Island Trip on Private Longtail Boat From Koh Yao Yai Review
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Private Exclusive Speed Boat Tours to Phang Nga Bay
Private Exclusive Speed Boat Tours to Phang Nga Bay offer visitors a chance to explore the stunning natural landscapes of this iconic Thai bay.
Operated by Phuket Private Boats – Day Cruise, the tours start from Ko Yao Yai and provide a private and customized experience for up to 10 people. Priced from $976.19 per group, the tours include an air-conditioned vehicle, coffee/tea, lunch, and national park fees.
While not recommended for pregnant travelers, the tours are accessible to most visitors, except those in wheelchairs.
With a 4-star rating based on reviews, these private speed boat tours provide an exciting way to discover the beauty of Phang Nga Bay.
Read our full review: Private Exclusive Speed Boat Tours to Phang Nga Bay Review
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Maiton and Coral Island by Catamaran Yacht Charter
One of the most popular day tours from Ko Yao Yai is the Maiton and Coral Island by Catamaran Yacht Charter.
This private tour, operated by Just For Tours, costs $958.22 per group of up to 15 people. The tour includes bottled water, snorkeling equipment, lunch, and an air-conditioned vehicle for transport.
Guests can bring their own food and alcoholic drinks without a corkage charge, though pork isn’t allowed. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available.
Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and guests can select their pickup point. The tour offers a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Maiton and Coral Island by Catamaran Yacht Charter Review
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Phuket James Bond 5 Islands Paddle Board Canoe Though The Clif by Speed Boat
The Phuket James Bond 5 Islands Paddle Board Canoe Though The Clif by Speed Boat tour offers an exhilarating way to explore the stunning islands off the coast of Ko Yao Yai.
Departing at 9:30 AM from Yamu Pier, the full-day tour includes canoeing, paddle boarding, and a speed boat ride.
Travelers will enjoy a Thai food buffet lunch and have access to coffee, tea, and travel insurance coverage up to 1 million THB.
Depending on the pickup location, roundtrip transfer fees range from 150 to 1200 THB.
This tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, and is non-refundable.
Prices start at $89.83 per person.
Read our full review: Phuket James Bond 5 Islands Paddle Board Canoe Though The Clif by Speed Boat Review
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Recap
Ko Yao Yai offers a variety of boat tours and cruises, from big boats to longtail boats, that allow visitors to explore nearby islands, view wildlife, and experience the stunning natural beauty of Phang Nga Bay. Whether seeking a relaxing sunset cruise or an adventure-filled day of canoeing and trekking, there’s a tour to suit every traveler’s interests and preferences.