Phang Nga Bay Canoe Tours

Paddle through hidden limestone sea caves and emerald lagoons in Thailand's most spectacular marine park

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5 to 10 hours
1 Languages
Small groups & private options
Free Cancellation
Everything You Need to Know

Complete Experience Guide

All the details about your upcoming adventure in one place

Experience

Experience the Magic of the 'Hongs'

Phang Nga Bay offers one of the world's most unique kayaking experiences: the exploration of 'Hongs' (Thai for 'rooms'). These are secret lagoons hidden inside the bay's towering limestone islands, accessible only through narrow sea caves that can be traversed by small canoes during specific tidal windows. Unlike open-ocean kayaking, this experience takes you into the heart of the earth, gliding under low-hanging stalactites before emerging into roofless, silence-filled chambers surrounded by vertical cliffs and lush jungle vegetation. Whether you choose a sun-drenched day trip to see the famous James Bond Island or a mystical twilight tour to witness bioluminescent plankton, paddling these calm, emerald waters reveals a prehistoric world that larger boats simply cannot reach.

4.9/5
Average Rating
100+
Daily Departures
8 Hours
Avg Duration
All Year
Availability

Why Book With Us

Verified Operators

We partner exclusively with top-rated local companies like John Gray's Sea Canoe and reputable speedboat operators

Real Reviews

Make decisions based on thousands of recent, verified guest reviews from travelers just like you

Best Price Guarantee

Get the best rates for everything from budget big-boat cruises to luxury private charters

Instant Confirmation

Secure your spot immediately for popular twilight and sunrise tours that sell out fast

Expert Guides

All tours include experienced local paddle guides who know the tides and hidden cave entrances safely

Flexible Booking

Most options offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, keeping your travel plans flexible

Guided sea kayaking at Panak Island
Twilight visit to James Bond Island
Exploring Hong Island sea caves
Personalized paddle guide experience
Afternoon and evening boat tour

Essential Information

Know Before You Go

What to Expect
Paddle guides usually included
Wet entries/exits
Tropical humidity
Logistics
Pickup from Phuket hotels
National Park fees may apply
Vegetarian options available

Not Allowed

Large bags or luggage
Pets (except service animals)
Food and drinks
Essential Information

Booking Tips

  • Book the 'Twilight' options for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
  • Ensure your tour includes hotel transfers for a hassle-free day
  • Check if the National Park fee is included or payable in cash

What to Bring

  • Waterproof Bag
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Swimwear
  • Towel
  • Camera
  • Small Cash for Tips

Best Seasons to Visit

November to April (Dry Season)|Year-round availability (Monsoon affects sea conditions slightly)

What to Wear

Swimwear|T-shirt/Rash guard|Sunglasses|Sun hat|Waterproof shoes/sandals

Planning

Historical Context

Limestone karsts formed over 250 million years ago|Area was a pirate hideout in previous centuries

Photography Tips

  • Use a polarizing filter for water glare
  • GoPro is ideal for the canoe
  • Low light capability needed for caves

Insider Tips

  • Bring a waterproof phone case
  • Sit at the front of the canoe for best views
  • Don't feed the monkeys at the caves

Our Partners

  • Tours operated by John Gray's Sea Canoe, Simba Sea Trips, and other verified partners

Fun Facts

  • James Bond Island was featured in 'The Man with the Golden Gun' (1974)
  • Some 'hongs' were only discovered from the air recently
  • Koh Panyee has a floating football pitch

Cancellation Policy

Most tours offer full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance|Weather-related cancellations are fully refunded

Social Media

Share your experience: #PhangNgaBay #JamesBondIsland #ThailandTravel #SeaCanoe #PhuketActivities

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Customer Reviews

What Our Guests Say

Real experiences from real travelers

S
Sarah Jenkins
UK • 2024-02-10

Highlight of our trip!

The twilight tour was absolutely magical. Entering the caves when it was pitch black and seeing the bioluminescence was like something out of Avatar. Our guide was so skilled at navigating the tight spots. Highly recommend!

M
Michael Chen
USA • 2024-01-25

Great value day out

We did the big boat tour to James Bond Island. It was a bit crowded at the island itself, but the canoeing part was peaceful. The buffet lunch was surprisingly good with plenty of options. Well organized from pickup to drop off.

L
Lars Mueller
Germany • 2023-12-15

Beautiful scenery, long day

The landscape is stunning. The canoe guides do all the hard work so you can just take photos. The transfer from our hotel in Phuket took about 90 minutes each way, so be prepared for a long day, but it is worth it.

P
Priya Patel
India • 2024-03-02

Vegetarian friendly

I was worried about food but the lunch at the floating village had great vegetarian options. The canoeing through the mangroves was so serene. A must-do if you are in Phuket.

D
David Wilson
Australia • 2024-01-05

John Gray tour is the best

We paid a bit more for the John Gray Hong by Starlight tour and it was worth every penny. The guides are hilarious and the food was gourmet level. Making the Kratong and floating it in the cave was a special moment.

E
Emma Dubois
France • 2023-11-20

Impressive caves

The limestone formations are incredible. We went by speedboat which was fast and fun. The stop at Koh Panyee was fascinating to see how people live on the water.

Y
Yuki Tanaka
Japan • 2024-02-18

Safe and fun

I can't swim well but felt very safe. The life jackets are good quality and the water is very calm. The guide took great photos of us in the canoe.

C
Carlos Rodriguez
Spain • 2024-01-12

Good but busy

James Bond island is very popular so expect crowds. The canoeing part away from the main island was much quieter and more enjoyable. The sunset dinner on the boat was a nice touch.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know for your journey

Experience

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