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FR Planning a boat trip in Thailand? Chances are, you’ve typed something like “longtail boat Thailand” or “Thai boats” into Google, dreaming of the turquoise waters and iconic cliffs that you’ve seen on social media. From Instagram-worthy longtail boats to luxurious sunset cruises, there’s no shortage of ways to explore Thailand by water. All we’re missing are those fun looking coconut boat rides from Vietnam!
But which boat is right for you?
This guide breaks down the different types of Thai boats you’ll come across and explains which might be the best choice for your itinerary.
What are Thai boats?
You’d be surprised by how much we see this question in local travel forums, but “Thai boats” is a broad term. In reality, it can refer to everything from traditional wooden longtail boats to modern catamarans (and where you are in Thailand can often dictate which one you’ll find more of). Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:
- Longtail boats – The most iconic of Thai boats (visit any boat Thailand boat tour website and you’ll probably find a dreamy longtail shot), usually handmade from wood with a loud diesel engine on a long shaft. They’re common in places like Krabi, Phi Phi, and Phuket.
- Junk boats – These larger, often beautifully restored, wooden vessels offer a more comfortable ride (due to their spacious decks), and are perfect for group tours or sunset sails. Why are they called Junk boats? The word “junk” comes from Portuguese junco from Malay jong. It originally referred to the Javanese djong (very large trading ships that the Portuguese first encountered in Southeast Asia.)
- Speedboats – Built for getting to the islands fast, these are less scenic but practical for day-trippers. They’re particularly handy for longer-distance tours to the likes of Hong Island.
- Catamarans – Double-hulled and spacious, ideal for private charters or family groups. They’re popular in more built-up areas like Phuket, Koh Samui, and Pattaya. It’s not unusual to see groups of young professionals from Bangkok heading out of the city for a weekend of sunbathing and partying on a catamaran.
Longtail boat Thailand. Pros and cons
Longtail boats are often what people imagine when they picture a Thailand boat trip. Swiping through Instagram and TikTok, you’ll come across plenty of dreamy videos of them gliding past mangroves or limestone mountains. With their colourful bows and loud engines, they’re part of the charm of Thai island life. But are they the best option for you?
Pros:
- Authentic, local experience
- Access to small beaches and caves
- Affordable to rent (especially if shared)
Cons:
- Little shade and no toilets
- Can be bumpy and noisy (especially on wet weather days – plenty of times, we’ve arrived at the pier, absolutely soaked following a longtail ride from Ao Nang to Railay!)
- Not ideal for long journeys or sunset dining
- It’s not recommended that guests eat on board. From a H&S perspective, tour teams can’t cook on these little boats, and dinner is often taken to a nearby beach)
If you’re planning a full-day trip or want something a bit more relaxing, you may want to consider an alternative.
Thailand boat tours – what are your options?
Whether you’re travelling solo, with a partner, or in a group, there’s a Thai boat experience that suits your style. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Junk Boat
- Best for: Groups or couples looking for a scenic and slow-paced cruise. However, the larger boat size lends itself to solo travellers looking to meet people in a relaxed environment.
- Pros: Spacious, photogenic, luxury (but authentic) feel, usually includes food and drinks
- Pros: Wheelchair accessible boat tour in Krabi
Catamaran
- Best for: Families or private groups wanting space and comfort
- Pros: Stable ride, luxurious feel, often private or semi-private
- Cons: Higher price point
Speedboat
- Best for: Day trips where time is tight
- Pros: Fast travel between islands, efficient use of time
- Cons: Less scenic, loud, limited shade
Looking for a scenic, comfortable way to spend your day at sea? That brings us to one of the best-kept secrets in the south of Thailand.
Why take a Krabi Sunset Cruise?
While many visitors start with the idea of taking a longtail boat in Thailand, more and more are choosing a Krabi Sunset Cruise as a highlight of their trip.
Our tours offer a relaxing afternoon on the water, visiting islands like Poda and Chicken, with time for swimming and snorkeling before dining on deck while the sun goes down. The boat also comes with paddleboards and a kayak, for those who want to try exploring a little further.
Unlike the typical Thai boat trip, these cruises focus on the full experience: soft cushions, onboard meals, real toilets, an on-board bar, state-of the-art music system, and a peaceful vibe without the hum of a diesel engine in your ear.
What to expect on a Krabi Sunset Cruise
Cruises depart in the afternoon and last around 7 hours. Here’s what you can expect:
- Island stops at spots like Koh Ya Wa Sam, Chicken, Si & Poda
- Swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding
- Dinner served onboard (Thai buffet-style)
- Cocktail bar
- Sunset views from the deck – climb to the top deck for uninterrupted photos!
- Night swim option with bioluminescent plankton
Our cruises leave from Ao Nang, Ao Nam Mao, and Railay Beach, with guests taking a short longtail boat ride out to our main junk ship.
Tips for booking the best Thailand boat trip
- Book early during peak season (Dec–March). Tours often book up over a month in advance, so plan accordingly.
- Check inclusions – some tours include snorkeling gear, drinks, and dinner
- Check National Park fees – some longtail boat tours don’t include your National Park access fee
- Read recent reviews on Google and TripAdvisor
- Pack smart – bring reef-safe sunscreen, a towel, and dry bag for your phone. Be sure to ask your operator what they include – Krabi Sunset Cruise guides carry a GoPro and capture each day so that guests can look back on the experience without the hassle of carrying their own photo equipment. Take a look at our Gallery.
