Krabi Private Snorkeling Cruise: Sunset, Sandbars & Bioluminescent Night Swim
Set sail from Ao Nang aboard a classic junk to snorkel coral gardens, stroll a temporary sandbar, and end the night floating through blue bioluminescence at Phra Nang. This private eight-hour cruise blends easy water time with dramatic karst scenery and practical comforts.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
The tour spends hours over coral; choose mineral-based sunscreen to protect marine life and reapply after swimming.
Time your bioluminescence
For the brightest glow, book on a new-moon night and avoid bright lights—ask the crew about the moon phase when you book.
Watch the tide for Talay Waek
The sandbar at Chicken Island appears only at low tide—ask guides for timing if you want to walk it.
Bring motion-sickness remedies
The boat is stable but open-water stretches can be choppy—take preventative meds if you get seasick.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Koh Ya Wa Sam’s quieter snorkeling channels where anemones host shy clownfish
- •Early evening paddle around Poda’s west side for silhouette shots of karst cliffs
Wildlife
- •Blacktip reef shark (occasionally in shallow reefs)
- •Parrotfish and butterflyfish schooling around coral heads
Conservation Note
Operators encourage reef-friendly behavior and provide freshwater showers to remove sunscreen; visitors should avoid touching coral and use reef-safe products to minimize impact.
The limestone karsts are part of a larger geological uplift formed from ancient coral reefs; local coastal communities historically used these islands for fishing and shelter.
Photographer's Notes
- • Boat rooftop facing Poda Island during sunset
- • Low-tide sandbar between Chicken and Tup Island (Talay Waek)
- • Shallow water at Phra Nang for bioluminescent close-ups
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects your skin and the coral ecosystems during long sun exposure on deck and in the water.
Light quick-dry towel and change of clothesEssential
Useful for the patchwork of snorkeling, meals and evening bioluminescent swim.
Water shoes
Helpful for rocky shore entries, sandbar walks and climbing in and out of shallow surf.
Small dry bag or waterproof phone caseEssential
Keeps valuables and electronics safe from spray and while moving between islands.
Common Questions
Do I need to be a strong swimmer to join?
No. The trip provides life jackets and the reefs visited are shallow; non-swimmers can comfortably float, paddleboard or stay on deck while others snorkel.
Is the national park fee included?
Yes—national park fees are included in the tour price, as are snorkeling gear, a Thai buffet dinner and soft drinks.
When is the best time of year for this cruise?
November–April typically offers the calmest seas and best visibility; however, the bioluminescence can be visible year-round depending on conditions and moon phase.
Can the itinerary change on the day?
Yes. Routes are adjusted for weather, tides and sea conditions to maximize safety and visibility for snorkeling and the sunset view.
Is the boat wheelchair or stroller accessible?
Infants and small children can use strollers, but the boat’s access may be challenging for wheelchairs; contact the operator ahead for specific assistance needs.
How private is the private tour option?
The cruise is offered as a private charter and can accommodate groups up to 33 people though booking widgets may show lower limits—confirm final headcount with the operator after booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Ao Nang, Krabi Province
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be comfortable entering and exiting water and able to swim short distances or wear a provided life jacket.
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