Discover Phang Nga Bay on a Private Speedboat
Exploring Phang Nga Bay with 5 Star Marine was like rediscovering a hidden gem in style, reminding us why this natural wonder is so special. Located about 35 km northeast of Phuket, Phang Nga Bay is no secret to travellers, but if you want to escape the crowds and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the bay at an affordable price, a private cruise with 5 Star Marine is the way to go.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility and exclusivity. Unlike most day trips that start early in the morning, this one kicks off in the afternoon, allowing you to enjoy the bay at a quieter time. Plus, there’s no fixed itinerary! You can decide where you want to go or let the guide recommend hidden spots you might never have heard of.
Since the boat is yours for the day, you can visit iconic landmarks while discovering off-the-beaten-path gems that most tours skip. The crew also adapts the schedule to the tides and tourist traffic, making sure you have the best possible experience.
Our adventure started at 1 pm at Boat Lagoon Marina, where our private speedboat and friendly crew were waiting. After meeting the team and discussing our customized plan—which included both famous sites and lesser-known islands—we hopped aboard. The boat was comfortable, spotless and spacious, with plenty of room to relax and even a toilet on board (a must-ask question for trips like this!).
For those who’ve been to Phang Nga Bay before, you’ll know it’s a sprawling bay dotted with towering limestone islands, making it far more serene than the rougher seas around Phi Phi Island. If you are worried, you won’t get seasick if the weather is rainy or rough. The bay’s dramatic landscape is stunning and perfect for capturing amazing photos even on cloudy days.
We reached the first set of islands after a smooth 30-minute ride from the marina. It’s not uncommon to spot low-flying planes on their approach to Phuket Airport as you cruise along—a little unexpected sight that adds to the adventure! As we neared the islands, the warm breeze and breathtaking views reminded us how lucky we were to be in this tropical paradise.
Our first stop was an island with a hidden lagoon, only accessible through a narrow cave. The boat dropped us on a small beach, and after making sure we had nothing that couldn’t get wet, we entered the tunnel. Our guide, Alex, gave us helmets with lights and led the way, pointing out fascinating stalactites and glowing rock formations that we would have missed on our own.
While the cave was low and dark, it wasn’t long, so it wasn’t too overwhelming,g, even if you’re claustrophobic. Emerging into the lagoon felt like stepping into another world—tall cliffs encircled the space, with lush vegetation and mangrove trees in the centre. We had the place all to ourselves, the silence amplifying the beauty and tranquillity of the moment.
After exploring and spotting Thailand’s famous walking fish, we returned to the boat for our next stop: James Bond Island. This iconic spot, made famous by the 1974 movie The Man with the Golden Gun, still draws visitors worldwide. Luckily, because it was the afternoon, the island was quiet.
Next up was Koh Panyee, a remarkable floating village built on stilts in the middle of the bay, connected to an immense limestone cliff at one end. It’s a Muslim fishing village where you can stop for a seafood lunch and explore its narrow walkways afterwards. Wandering through the village felt like stepping into a truly unique world in scenery and culture.
After Koh Panyee, the crew took us to a hidden gem—an island with a secluded beach tucked inside a cave. It was magical, like something straight out of a movie. We swam, relaxed, and snacked on fresh fruit prepared by the crew, soaking in the atmosphere.
On our way back, the route took us through different scenery—mangroves nestled between towering cliffs, giving us a final taste of Phang Nga Bay’s raw beauty. It was the perfect ending to an unforgettable day.
Bioluminescent Tour
The Phang Nga Bay Private Bioluminescence and Sea Canoeing Tour is part of 5 Star Marine Phuket’s new collection of luxury afternoon tours, designed to fit your preferences and the sea conditions on the day. This tour takes you on a magical trip through the waters of Phang Nga Bay, where you can experience the incredible glow of bioluminescence. It’s a natural phenomenon where certain sea creatures emit light, creating a surreal, glowing effect in the water. These glowing organisms can be spotted in various forms around Phang Nga Bay, making the experience truly unforgettable. Read more
Great for a Family Day Out!
Hiring the whole boat for such a trip is a perfect way to spend a day with a family. The boat is yours to go anywhere, the team is attentive and competent, and the kids can enjoy canoeing and swimming with life jackets in amazing places.
Meals are up to the guests; you can bring your picnic if you ordered one at your hotel, or ask the team in advance to prepare one for you, then eat on one of the many beaches in Phang Nga. As mentioned, you can also stop at Koh Panyi Village to enjoy fresh seafood.
5 Star Marine Info
Location: Phuket Boat Lagoon
Address: 73, 20, Ko Kaeo, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000
Hours: 6 am – 8 pm
Phone: 093 720 6221
Website: https://5starmarinephuket.com/
More photos of Phang Nga Bay
