Thailand Island Hopping Basics
What first-time visitors should know before island boats in Thailand — seasickness, national park fees, weather, and reading product inclusions.
What an island day actually involves
The photos show turquoise water and white sand. The reality includes an early hotel pickup, a minibus ride to a pier, a check-in queue, a safety briefing, time at sea, several stops of varying length, lunch somewhere, and a late-afternoon return followed by another minibus. A full-day trip often takes you out of the hotel from early morning until late afternoon or evening.
None of that is a reason not to go. Island days are some of the best parts of a Thailand trip. Knowing the shape of the day helps you pick the right one and enjoy it.
Where trips leave from
Phuket
The main departure point for Phi Phi, Maya Bay, Khai Island, Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island. Options include:
- Phi Phi island tour by big boat with lunch, also available with silver and gold seating
- Phi Phi island day tour by luxury big boat
- Phi Phi and Maya Beach by speedboat, national park fee included
- Phi Phi, Maya Beach and Bamboo Island by speedboat
- Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island
- James Bond Island by big cruise boat with canoeing
Krabi
Ao Nang and nearby piers are the base for the 4 islands route, Hong Islands and Phi Phi.
Pattaya
Short trips to Koh Larn (Coral Island) and nearby islands.
- Coral Island (Koh Larn) day tour
- Kahung Beach and Coral Island by speedboat, full day
- 3 Miracle Islands tour with water activities
Speedboat or big boat?
This is the most common question.
Speedboat:
- Faster, so more stops or more time at each
- Can reach smaller beaches
- Bumpy, especially in swell. Not great for people with back problems, pregnant travellers or those prone to seasickness
- Seats in the front take the most impact
Big boat:
- Slower, steadier, with shade, toilets and room to move
- Fewer stops, larger groups
- Often better value for families and older travellers
Our Phi Phi big boat tour guide goes deeper on that specific trip.
Read the inclusions
Before booking, check the product page for:
- Hotel pickup area. Some areas cost extra or are not covered
- National park fees. Some tours include them, others ask for cash at the pier. The product title or description says which
- Lunch, drinks and snacks
- Snorkel gear and life jackets
- Insurance
- Which beaches and stops are in the route
Not knowing about the national park fee is the most common surprise. Bring cash in case it is not included.
Comfort and safety
- Take motion sickness tablets before departure if you are prone. They do not work well once you already feel sick
- Sit towards the back on speedboats for a smoother ride
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen and reapply. Sun reflects off the water
- Bring a dry bag for phone, wallet and a passport copy
- Wear the life jacket when told. Crew follow rules from the marine department
- Do not touch or stand on coral
- Drink water throughout the day
Weather and seasons
On the Andaman side (Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi), the calmer months are usually from around November to April. From roughly May to October, seas can be rough, and some sailings are cancelled or rerouted. Some sites close for a period each year to let the environment recover, independent of weather.
The Gulf side (Samui, Phangan, Tao) has a different pattern. See Thailand monsoon and outdoor tours for the seasons.
If an operator cancels for safety, you are offered another date or a full refund under the product's rules. Contact support with your Booking ID. If you want to move the date yourself, date changes are allowed up to 72 hours before the start on most products, sometimes with a fee. The free cancellation cut-off, usually 24 to 48 hours before the start, is on each product page. Full details are in the refund policy and help center.
Planning tips
- Do island days early in your stay so there is time to reschedule
- Do not plan an island day on the same day as a flight
- Book the earliest departure for calmer water and fewer crowds at popular beaches
- Pack light, as you climb in and out of boats
- If staying on Phi Phi, take the Phuket to Phi Phi ferry instead of a day tour
What to bring
- Swimwear under your clothes
- Towel
- Hat with a strap, sunglasses
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Dry bag
- Cash for park fees and extras
- Motion sickness tablets
- A light long-sleeved top for sun protection
More in what to pack for Thailand.
FAQ
Can children go on speedboats?
Usually yes, with age limits on some tours. Big boats are more comfortable for small children.
Can non-swimmers join?
Yes. Life jackets are provided. Snorkelling is optional.
How early is pickup?
Often early morning. The exact time is confirmed on your voucher.
Is Maya Bay always open?
No. It has closed for periods for environmental recovery. Check the current status.
Related reading
- First day in Phuket
- Browse the Phuket, Krabi and Pattaya pages for all trips