Phang Nga Bay: James Bond Island Canoe & Kayak Day Trip

Summary

Canoeing caves to lagoons, James Bond Island & quiet swims

You’ll paddle through hidden sea caves at Panak Island, float into Hong Island’s silent lagoon, and stand where James Bond once did at Khao Ta Pu—all with a local guide leading you between islands by canoe or kayak. Lunch is included, plus fresh fruit after swimming, so you finish salty-haired and sun-warmed.

What’s the experience like?

We slipped into the canoes just off Panak Island—my first time paddling under those dripping limestone cliffs. The air was thick and salty, and our guide, Somchai, grinned as he pointed out tiny crabs scuttling over tangled mangrove roots. I tried to keep my balance while ducking into the cave; the light changed so fast inside, cool shadows and then suddenly that bright “Diamond Cave” shimmer people talk about. It smelled a bit like wet stone and seaweed. I remember thinking: this is way quieter than I expected—just the sound of paddles tapping water and someone laughing behind me when I almost dropped my phone.

Hong Island was next. They call it “Room Island” because you squeeze through a cave and pop out into this still lagoon—sky showing through like a chimney. Our group floated there for a minute without saying much; even Somchai went quiet. The water was greenish-clear and warm on my hands. Then we drifted toward James Bond Island itself (yeah, the one from the movie), with that weirdly vertical rock sticking up alone in the bay. There were more people here, everyone snapping photos or trying to pronounce Khao Ta Pu right (Li laughed when I tried to say it in Mandarin—probably butchered it).

After wandering around Khao Ping Kan’s leaning rocks—felt almost staged how perfectly they fit together—we cooled off with watermelon slices on the boat deck. Sun was sharp by then but there was shade under the awning. Some folks swam or just lay back listening to water slap against the hull. I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed after all that moving around; maybe it’s something about salt air and being ferried from one wild spot to another with no real rush.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Canoeing and sightseeing at islands

• Meet up with tour guide
• Explore Panak Island by canoe
• Canoe through cave at Hong Island
• Visit James Bond Island
• See leaning rocks at Khao Ping Kan

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this James Bond Island day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

Can infants join the canoeing tour?

Infants can ride in a pram or stroller but must sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

Is lunch provided during the day trip?

Yes, lunch is included along with bottled water, coffee or tea, soft drinks, and fresh fruit.

Are there restrooms available during the tour?

Yes, there is a restroom on board the boat for guest use.

Do I need previous kayaking experience?

No prior experience is needed; guides help you paddle through caves and lagoons.

Is snorkeling part of this tour?

No snorkeling services are provided on this trip.

How long does it take to reach James Bond Island from Phuket?

The journey includes several stops but typically takes most of the day round-trip from Phuket.

What should I bring for this canoeing tour?

You should bring sun protection, swimwear, a camera (ideally waterproof), and sandals or flip-flops.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Phuket accommodations, all admission fees for islands visited, bottled water throughout the trip, halal food options for lunch onboard, unlimited coffee or tea plus soft drinks like Coke or Pepsi all day long, use of canoe with paddle (and guidance), as well as restroom access on board—and fresh watermelon and pineapple served after swimming before heading back home salty but happy.