Snorkeling Khai Islands from Koh Yao Yai: private boat tour

Three islands, one boat, lunch on the sand

A full-day snorkeling tour from Koh Yao Yai to the Khai Islands—a group of three small islands in Phang Nga Bay—by private long tail boat with hotel pickup, lunch and snorkeling gear included. The shallow water around the islands is safe for children and beginners; dolphins are sometimes spotted in November and January. The boat departs at 9:30 am and returns by 1 pm.

The Experience

Hotel pickup starts at 9 am from your accommodation on Koh Yao Yai. The long tail boat leaves the pier at 9:30 am and reaches Khai Nai island in about 20 minutes. The water here is shallow enough for kids to wade and feed fish by hand, and the reef holds thousands of tropical fish. You snorkel at Khai Nai, then the boat moves to Khai Nok island where you can swim, sunbathe or rest between stops. Lunch is a picnic on the island itself—no restaurant visit, no time lost to transport.

The final stop is Khai Nui island for a last snorkel before the return journey. All snorkeling gear is provided; you bring only a towel and sunscreen. The boat heads back to Koh Yao Yai pier by 1 pm, and the driver transfers you to your hotel. Jet ski rentals are available at the islands for an extra fee paid on the spot, but they are optional. November and January sometimes bring dolphin sightings near the islands, though this is never guaranteed.

What’s included

• Private long tail boat with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• snorkeling equipment.
• picnic lunch on the island.
• access to all three Khai Islands for swimming and snorkeling.

Good to know

Easy physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Gembira Tour

Is this one for you?Book this if you want to snorkel multiple islands in one morning with a 20-minute boat ride—short enough to suit young children, and shallow waters let them swim and feed fish safely alongside you.

Top questions

How far is it from Koh Yao Yai to the Khai Islands by boat?

The long tail boat reaches the Khai Islands in about 20 minutes from Koh Yao Yai pier, so the crossing is short and the day maximizes time in the water rather than in transit.

Is the snorkeling safe for young children?

Yes—the water around the Khai Islands is shallow, which makes it safe for kids to swim and snorkel without deep water nearby; the tour is suitable for all ages from age 1 and up.

What happens if I want to try a jet ski?

Jet ski rentals are available at the islands, but they cost extra and you pay on the spot; they are not part of the included package.

When are dolphins most likely to appear?

Dolphins are sometimes spotted swimming near the islands, usually in November or January, but sightings are not guaranteed and depend on seasonal migration patterns.