Description
ITINERARY: This unique trip is more about the experience than the sightseeing – though the sights themselves are pretty spectacular! Transfer from the shore via longtail boat ( 2- 7 mins) to the Pla Luang, a beautifully restored, 100 year-old trading junk, with distinctive red sails. Get comfortable on deck – there are both sunbathing and covered areas, benches and floor cushions – and then set off for the 4 Islands area. You’ll cruise slowly around Koh Poda, Chicken, Tub and Si, taking in the scenery in the late afternoon light.
There’ll be stops for snorkeling – the exact spots will depend on the sea and crowd conditions, but Captain Maan will ensure you get to enjoy the best available and least busy reefs. Koh Yawasam is a favourite. There’s also opportunities to get out on the water with a paddle board or kayak. There are 4 stand-up paddle boards and 1 kayak available for guests. And while the boat is moored, a must-try is jumping from the roof into the emerald water below.
The less active can hang out on deck sipping a cool drink (soft drinks are included in the ticket price; cocktails, wine and beer are available for an additional charge).
Finally it’s time to head back to Railay. A laidback Thai dinner is served, buffet style, while the sun sets over the islands. Vegetarian options are available. After dinner, there’s the opportunity to take a swim with the bioluminescent plankton. You’ll reach the shore in darkness, around 7.30 – 8pm.
This trip is the exact opposite of the whistle-stop speedboat island tours: it’s about relaxing, feeling the breeze and spending quality time with your travel companions. It’s not for people who want to visit beaches, as the junk is not able to moor near the shore (all time is spent on board or in the water); nor is it for those who are looking for luxury – the junk has basic facilities and you may have to sit on the floor.
Pla Luang is also available for private hire; please contact us with your requirements.
Expected group size: 8 – 30 pax, depending on the day and time of year.
Important: At non-peak times (April – November), there is a possibility that the tour may not go out on your chosen day, due to rough seas and / or minimum numbers (8) not being met. We will be able to inform you the evening before; if the tour is not going out, you can either reschedule (if possible), choose another tour, or receive a refund.
There is a toilet and fresh water shower on board the boat.
Further reading:
– More info on the 4 Islands in Krabi.
Gina G –
The cruise was AMAZING! The boat was the perfect size for our crew of 21 to move around comfortably while being intimate enough for everyone to be introduced to each other. Everyone was thoroughly impressed with the quality of the boat and its sails, the natural beauty of the sandstone cliffs and swimming with the phosphorescent plankton topped it off with a day that we will all remember.
The food was also delicious and with smooth waters we ate (and drank) comfortably. Thanks again for all your help in making our wedding trip truly unique and special!