In short
- Tours visit Koh Poda, Koh Tub, Chicken Island, and Phra Nang Cave Beach.
- Independent visits cost 300 THB for boat fare from Ao Nang.
- Many tours do not include the 400 THB National Park fee.
In this article
A Krabi 4 island tour is the most popular way to see the local archipelago. These trips package transport, food, and activities into a single booking. However, traveling independently to Koh Poda gives you total control over your schedule. Here is how to decide which option works best for your trip.
What does a Krabi 4-island tour include?
Organized tours visit Koh Poda, Koh Tub, Chicken Island, and often Phra Nang Cave Beach.
Tours take 4 to 7 hours using either a speedboat or a traditional longtail boat. They typically include hotel pickup, lunch, and snorkeling gear. Prices range from 800 to 2,500 THB per person.
This option is highly convenient. The guides handle the boat schedules, food, and navigation.
How does an independent trip work?
You buy a shared longtail boat ticket at Ao Nang beach for 300 THB return.
Boats depart only when 6 to 8 passengers gather. The ride takes 25 to 30 minutes each way. You must keep your ticket and agree on a specific return time with your boat driver.
Going independently means you bring your own food and snorkeling gear. It gives you the freedom to stay on Koh Poda all day.
Which option is better for avoiding crowds?
An independent trip on a private longtail boat helps you beat the tour groups.
Most organized tours arrive at Koh Poda in the middle of the day. If you charter a private longtail boat, you can arrive early in the morning. Private charters cost 2,000 to 2,500 THB per boat.
Do 4-island tours include the National Park fee?
Many tours exclude the National Park entrance fee from their base price.
The fee is 400 THB for foreign adults and 200 THB for children. Some operators include it, but many require you to pay this directly to park rangers. You must pay the fee in cash upon arrival.
Always check the inclusions list on your specific tour booking.
Should I book a speedboat or longtail boat tour?
Speedboats are faster and more stable, while longtail boats offer a traditional experience.
Speedboats cut down the travel time between islands, giving you slightly more time on the beaches. They are better if you get seasick easily. Longtail boats move slower but offer classic photo opportunities and a lower price tag.
Questions travellers ask
Can I visit Koh Poda without a tour?
Yes. You can purchase a shared longtail boat ticket directly from the booths at Ao Nang beach. The trip takes 25 to 30 minutes each way.
How long does the 4-island tour take?
Most group tours run for 4 to 7 hours. You can choose between half-day or full-day itineraries depending on the operator.
Does the 4-island tour provide lunch?
Yes, structured tours usually provide a packed lunch or a buffet meal. They also supply drinking water and fresh fruit.
