Phuket: James Bond, Hong & Panyee Islands Speedboat Day Trip

Summary

James Bond Island day trip from Phuket with kayaking, floating village lunch and hidden caves

You’ll speed across Phang Nga Bay by boat, kayak through Hong Island’s limestone caves, explore Panak’s mysterious grottos, eat fresh seafood in Panyee’s floating village, and stand where James Bond once did—each moment feels both cinematic and quietly personal in its own way.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if those movie islands look as wild up close as they do on screen? I did too, until we zipped across Phang Nga Bay from Phuket, salt spray in my hair and a guide named Somchai grinning at the wheel. The speedboat ride was louder than I expected—engines humming, everyone clutching their hats or phones. We stopped first at Hong Island. The water there had this glassy green color that almost didn’t look real. Kayaking into the limestone caves felt like sneaking into some secret place; it smelled damp and earthy inside, and our paddles echoed off the walls. I tried to pronounce “Hong” right—Li laughed at me, so I just gave up and floated along.

Next was Panak Island. There’s a cave called Diamond Cave but honestly, it was the bats that got all my attention (I’m not sure if they were more scared of us or vice versa). The light coming through little cracks made these patterns on the rocks—kind of hypnotic if you stared too long. After that, we reached Koh Panyee for lunch. The whole village floats on stilts and smells like grilled fish and sweet chili sauce. Our guide pointed out his cousin’s house (everyone seems related here), and we ate fried rice while watching kids play soccer on a wobbly wooden pitch. Simple food but honestly, after all that sea air, it tasted perfect.

I’ll admit—I’d seen photos of James Bond Island before but standing there with those weirdly vertical rocks jutting out of emerald water is something else entirely. It’s smaller than I thought but busy with people snapping photos and bargaining for souvenirs (I bought a coconut bowl I didn’t need). Walking through the mangroves felt quiet compared to the crowds; you could hear insects buzzing and little waves lapping at the shore. At some point I just stopped trying to take pictures because none of them really matched how it felt to be there.

The last stop was Naka Noi Island—just sand, sun, and a bit of time to let everything sink in before heading back to Phuket. My skin still smelled faintly salty hours later. If you’re thinking about a James Bond Island day trip from Phuket, go for the people-watching as much as the scenery. I still think about that view from the boat when dusk started falling over Phang Nga Bay—it’s kind of stuck with me now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Speedboat tour to islands and sightseeing

• Hotel pickup to Royal Phuket Marina
• Speedboat to Phang Nga Bay
• Explore Phanak Island caves
• Kayak around Hong Island lagoon
• Visit James Bond Island
• Stroll mangrove forest and see paintings
• Lunch on Panyee Island
• Relax on Naka Noi Island beach
• Return to hotel

Top questions

How long is the James Bond Island day trip from Phuket?

The total duration covers pickup and drop-off; expect a full-day tour including all stops.

Is lunch included on this tour?

Yes, lunch is served in the floating fishing village on Panyee Island.

Are hotel transfers provided?

Round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off are included for guests staying in Phuket.

Can you kayak during this tour?

Yes, kayaking around Hong Island’s caves is part of the itinerary with equipment provided.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Children aged 4-11 can join with a child ticket; infants under 4 are not recommended.

Are there any health restrictions?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart or spinal conditions.

What should I bring for this speedboat trip?

Bring swimwear, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera/phone (with waterproof case), and some cash for souvenirs or drinks.

Which islands are visited during this day trip?

The main stops are Hong Island, Panak Island, Panyee Island (for lunch), James Bond Island (Khao Phing Kan), and Naka Noi Island or Palm Beach Club depending on conditions.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip hotel pickup from Phuket, English-speaking local guide throughout the journey, travel insurance coverage for peace of mind, all entry fees to islands and caves along Phang Nga Bay by speedboat with refreshments onboard (soft drinks, water, fresh fruit), kayaking equipment at Hong Island provided free of charge, plus a buffet lunch served at Panyee’s floating village before returning late afternoon.