13 Awesome Private Boat Tours in Phuket for an Unforgettable Day on the Water
Looking to book the best private boat tours in Phuket for an amazing day out at sea?
From catamaran and luxury yacht charters to destination-specific itineraries to party boats, Phuket is filled with great private tours for families, couples, and groups of friends. And here are 13 of the best private boat tours in Phuket, all carefully evaluated to make sure they’re highly rated with great feedback.
I’ve been to Thailand so many times now and recently declared it my winter home. Among all the incredible places in Thailand, Phuket is famous for a reason. There are just so many beautiful islands, and the best way to explore Phuket is by boat.
Just want to pick the best? Reserve this SANYATI – Leopard 51 Power Cat Luxury Cruise for a 5-star catamaran experience to wherever you want to go. And this is all-inclusive for up to 15 people.
We’ve rounded up the 13 best private Phuket boat tours for an unforgettable day out at sea. Let’s dive into what each tour has to offer!
My Top 3 Picks: Private Boat Tours in Phuket
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SANYATI – Leopard 51 Power Cat Luxury Cruise
✅ Private Catamaran Charter
✅ Choose your own Sailing Route
✅ Watertoys Onboard
Phi Phi Island Private Boat Tour
✅ Private Speedboat
✅ 7 Destinations around Phi Phi Island
✅ 15 People Group Flat Rate
James Bond Island Private Boat Tour
✅ Private Speedboat
✅ 5 Destinations around Phang Nga Bay
✅ Mangrove Canoe Ride
Top Private Boat Tours in Phuket
We’ve handpicked these 13 tours for their amazing itineraries and great feedback.
Each tour is unique, but if you want complete flexibility, you can select a boat that allows you to customize your schedule to the fullest here (Catamaran Day Charter | Private Speedboat)
Tip! For most tours, the 400 baht per person national park fee and lunch is not included in the price.
1. SANYATI – Leopard 51 Power Cat Luxury Cruise
Best All-inclusive Private Boat Tour in Phuket
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 Hours | 🏝 Book it!
Charter your own private luxury catamaran and choose your sailing route with this 8 hour cruise around Phuket. The pristine Leopard 51 Power Cat can hold up to 15 people, has a powerful sound system, and comes with a three-man professional crew to pamper you.
Enjoy the flexibility of choosing where to swim, fish, or snorkel. Some popular options are visiting the dolphins at Koh Maithon Island or going to Phang Nga Bay National Park.
Along with fishing and snorkeling gear onboard, play on water toys like the inflatable water slide, floating sofas, and go sea kayaking.
For lunch, dine on a delicious seafood BBQ prepared by your crew. Beverages are also provided for the entire duration of the tour, including 6 complimentary beers per adult. All trips also come with round-trip transfers from your hotel.
This catamaran sailing tour is a 5-star experience, so you’ll surely have a fantastic day out jetting around Phuket Island!
2. Phi Phi Island Private Boat Tour
Best Private Speed Boat Phuket Ko Phi Phi Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6-8 Hours | 🏝 Book it!
Experience the magic of Thailand all for just you and your group with this private Phi Phi Island boat tour from Phuket. This private excursion guarantees 6-8 hours of customizable adventure cruising by the region’s breathtaking beauty, all at a flat fee for up to 15 people.
Beat the crowds with an early stop at Maya Bay, giving you a serene experience in this iconic location.
Snorkeling in Pileh Bay’s mesmerizing blue lagoon is next, surrounded by towering cliff faces, with all snorkeling equipment provided. Then learn about the history behind Viking Cave and witness the natural habitats of the residents at Monkey Beach.
Break for lunch at Koh Phi Phi Don, the main island. Your local tour guide will provide top-notch restaurant recommendations for your meal, or you can choose a spot yourself.
In the afternoon, set sail to Nui Beach and Koh Rang Yai. With the sun setting, it’s the perfect opportunity for a final snorkel or to relax on the white sandy beach.
Included in the tour is snorkeling gear, drinks, and transport, with the option to store any unneeded luggage.
3. James Bond Island Private Boat Tour
Best Private Phang Nga Bay Tour from Phuket
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4-10 Hours | 🏝 Book it!
This private James Bond Island boat tour is the perfect way to explore Phang Nga Bay. Get ready to swim through hidden lagoons and past towering rock formations while discovering where “The Man with the Golden Gun” was filmed – James Bond Island!
You will stop at other points of interest, including Monkey Island, for hidden cave systems and to watch the curious simians. Then a canoe ride at Phang Nga Bay’s Hong Island through mangrove forests and caves.
Choose a lunch spot at the local floating village, Koh Panyi, before heading to Koh Rang Yai to relax on sandy beaches and watch the sunset.
Lunch is not included in this tour; however, drinks are provided throughout the day as well as snorkeling equipment. Round-trip transfers from your hotel are included in the price, or you can meet at the pier.
4. Phi Phi and James Bond Private Boat Tour
Best Combination James Bond and Phi Phi Island Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6-8 Hours | 🏝 Book it!
Can’t decide between two awesome national parks? With this private Phi Phi and James Bond Private Boat Tour, you’ll get a taste of both, cruising through not one but two national parks exclusively for you and your group.
This full-day itinerary lasts 6-8 hours, accommodating up to 15 attendees for a flat fee booking.
Your itinerary will start with a ride to the famous Phi Phi spots first, like Maya Beach, Pileh Lagoon, and the Viking Cave.
Pause at Phi Phi Don for a local lunch before setting out to Phang Nga Bay. Here, you’ll witness the filming location for “The Man with the Golden Gun” at James Bond Island.
Then, glide around Hong Island in a complimentary canoe ride, ending your adventure lounging on the unspoiled beaches of Ko Rang Yai.
Your package includes perks such as beverages, WiFi, private transportation, and snacks. Just a heads up, National Park Fees are not included in this trip, and the fee is going up to 700 baht per adult since you’ll be visiting multiple national parks.
5. Hype Yacht : VIP Tour Phi Phi Island & Maya Bay from Phuket
Best Private Phuket Yacht Charter to Phi Phi
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 Hours | 🏝 Book it!
This VIP Hype Yacht – Phi Phi Island & Maya Bay Tour from Phuket is your golden ticket to the best of the best.
With 8.5 hours of exclusive use of your own private yacht, grab up to 15 of your best friends to make this dream come true. Be whisked away to places like Pileh Cove, Maya Bay, and Monkey Beach.
But this isn’t just a sightseeing boat trip. It’s a floating party! Chill to cool beats spun by your own private DJ as you feast on tasty gourmet lunch at Maya Bay. Oh, and there are loads of yummy snacks and refreshing complimentary drinks for you to enjoy all day.
Packed onboard is other exciting stuff, like snorkeling gear to explore the incredible underwater world. And guess what? Everything’s included on this Phuket private yacht tour. Yes, even the National Park Fee and your ride to and from the hotel (if you’re in Phuket).
The only downside? This private Phi Phi Island tour from Phuket is only bookable 3 times a week from November through April.
But for the other half a year, you can opt instead to hire the same Hype boat tour to Krabi and Phang Nga Bay from Phuket.
6. Private Boat Tour in Phuket
Most Flexible Speed Boat Charter Phuket
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6-8 Hours | 🏝 Book it!
Experience a unique side of the Andaman Sea with this fully customizable private speed boat charter designed especially for those who have ticked off Phuket’s main attractions and islands. This adventure lets you completely chart your own course, venturing beyond the beaten path.
Your experienced boat captain will tailor an itinerary based on your interests. Whether you are drawn to the allure of untouched islands, swim with flourishing marine life, or simply sail on calm emerald waters, the choice is yours.
The tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment and life jackets. Snacks, bottled water, and sodas are provided to keep you refreshed during the journey, and there’s also an air-conditioned vehicle for comfortable private transportation.
This journey can accommodate a group of up to 15 people, with a flat fee covering 6 to 8 hours of adventure.
7. Private James Bond Island Canoeing Long-tail Boat Tour w/ Lunch
Best Private Long-Tail Boat Tours Experience
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6 Hours | 🏝 Book it!
Experience James Bond Island in local style with this private longtail boat tour, traveling through the stunning Phang Nga Bay.
With multiple packages offering different group sizes, you’ll find the perfect deal that works for you and your group.
Your day starts with a scenic boat ride on a traditional Thai vessel through Phang Nga Bay National Park, viewing the golden reclining Buddha at the Cave Temple, before stopping for lunch at a local Muslim village on Panyee Island.
Once fueled up, it’s time to paddle through the mangrove forests and caves of Talu Island. Get up close with the hidden wildlife in this secluded bay before making your final stop at James Bond Island.
On this full-day tour, you’ll receive drinks and refreshments while an English-speaking guide takes you around the local sights.
8. Krabi Islands Private Tour
Best Private Krabi Island Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6-8 Hours | 🏝 Book it!
Explore the best of Krabi in this full-day private island tour! Step away from the more popular James Bond and Phi Phi islands for an alternative experience in a way less crowded area.
This tour can accommodate up to 15 people, island hopping from Phuket to Krabi’s best beaches, islands, lagoons, and more.
Start the day at Chicken Island—so named for its rock formation that looks like a chicken head. Snorkel in the crystal clear waters here before heading off to Koh Yao Yai for some sunbathing on a white sandy beach featured in the movie The Mechanic.
After lunch, walk on the amazing Railay Beach and marvel at its integrated limestone rock formations. (Psst…this is absolutely one of my favorite places in Thailand).
Then, make your way to Hong Islands for a hidden lagoon swim before catching the sunset at Ko Rang Yai beach.
Transfers from your hotel are included in the price of the tour, so you can sit back and relax as your guide takes you on an adventure of a lifetime.
9. Similan Islands Private Tour
Best Private Similan Island Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6-8 Hours | 🏝 Book it!
Set out for this Similan Islands private tour for a full day of snorkeling and exploration, but mainly snorkeling. This is the place to go to if you want to experience some of the best coral reefs and marine life in the country.
Your first snorkel site is the fantastic Koh Miang. Then take a break for lunch at Koh Payu before heading to Christmas Point at Koh Bangu.
Your adventure will have you snorkeling in clear waters, over massive healthy corals, and among abundant sea life all the way.
Next up is Donald Duck Bay on Koh Similan, where you can hike up to the island’s viewpoint for a view of the surrounding islands. End your day with a beautiful sunset at Ko Rang Yai. This tour package includes snacks and drinks.
You’ll also be provided snorkeling equipment and private transportation from your hotel in Phuket to the Similan Islands.
Please note that the national park fee is not included in the price and is set a bit higher, at 500 baht per person.
10. Raya Island / Mai Ton Island Private Boat Tour
Best Private Raya Island Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6-8 Hours | 🏝 Book it!
The Racha Islands are a pair of idyllic islands off the coast of Phuket, more commonly known as the “Raya Islands.” Its immaculate ivory-sand shores and incredible marine biodiversity make it ideal for a laid-back outing.
On this private Raya boat tour, you’ll cruise along the coastline of Racha Noi and Racha Yai, snorkeling at Patok and Siam Bay. You’ll lunch on the beach at one of the many restaurants onsite.
Once you’re done exploring the island, stop at Mai Ton Private Island (aka “Honeymoon Island”), well-known for its dolphin spotting. You may even see them play near the boat’s wake if you’re lucky!
This tour is inclusive of snacks, drinks, and snorkeling equipment. Private transportation from your hotel in Phuket to Racha Islands is also included.
11. Koh Rok and Koh Ha Private Boat Tour
Unique Itinerary to Lesser-Known Phuket Islands
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6-8 Hours | 🏝 Book it!
For a double dose of natural beauty, you can’t go wrong with this private boat tour to the two islands of Ko Rok and Ko Haa.
If you’re looking for something less crowded than Similan Islands yet just as beautiful, this is definitely the place to go!
Situated in Mu Ko Lanta National Park, these two islands offer clear waters and diverse marine life for some of the best snorkeling in Thailand. In season, turtles, whale sharks, and manta rays are regularly found here.
Your day starts with a 90-minute transfer to Koh Haa Island, where you can snorkel and climb up a spectacular panorama viewpoint of limestone cliffs. You’ll then continue to Koh Rok Island for a picnic lunch on the soft, white sandy beach before snorkeling some more.
This tour package includes snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear. Private transportation to and from your hotel in Phuket is also included.
12. Koh Ngai, Koh Mook and Koh Kradan Private Boat Tour
Unique Itinerary to Lesser-Known Phuket Islands
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6-8 Hours | 🏝 Book it!
Head out on this private boat tour to Koh Ngai, Koh Mook and Koh Kradan, a trifecta of southern Thailand’s dreamiest tropical islands.
Start your day at Nui Beach, where you can snorkel around this “Camel Rock” figure, before heading to Koh Ngai, a beautiful island located in the Krabi Province.
Next stop is Koh Mook, home to Emerald Cave, where you can swim through a narrow 20-metre long tunnel!
Finally, head off to Koh Kradan, arguably one of southern Thailand’s most beautiful and quietest beaches. Here you can swim, sunbathe and stroll down its powdery white sand beaches.
Your day includes snacks, beverages, snorkeling equipment, and private transportation from your hotel in Phuket, Thailand.
13. Coral Island Private Boat Tour
Best Private Coral Island Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4-6 Hours | 🏝 Book it!
Koh Hae, better known as Coral Island, is one of the closest and shortest boat trips from Phuket. This half-day private boat tour is one of the cheaper options.
This is the only shorter tour on our list, lasting 4 to 6 hours. They will take you around Coral Island’s two main beaches, Long Beach and Banana Beach. You can lounge around, explore the island’s amenities and restaurants, and snorkel in its crystal-clear waters.
After a leisurely morning at the beach, eat lunch at the Banana Beach Club at your own expense or any other island eateries.
This tour takes you to places with much more “civilization” than many other options on this list.
Your experienced captain will provide snorkeling gear, snacks and bottled water, onboard WiFi hotspot, and hotel transfers.
Where to Stay in Phuket, Thailand
Phuket is gigantic, and being the popular tourist hub that it is, you’ll find every kind of accommodation option. From luxurious beachfront resorts to cozy guesthouses and budget-friendly hostels, here are some of the best neighborhoods to stay in
- Patong: Endless entertainment options and nightlife, but a bit sleazy.
- Kata & Karon: Touristy but long, beautiful beaches nearby
- Phuket Town: Relatively cheaper and a hub of local markets, but further from the beach
- Kamala & Surin: Home to boutique resorts and some of the best beaches
Twinpalms Hotel
⭐ RATING: 8.9 out of 10 Stars | Surin | $$$
Book a stay at Twinpalms Hotel, a 5-star resort that blends Thai hospitality, modern amenities, and world-class service. Located in Surin, guests can enjoy private terraces with magnificent lagoon pool views, an expansive saltwater pool, and three onsite restaurants. Uber-ing around Phuket gets expensive and you have to watch for cops with Phuket scooter rentals, so Twinpalms complimentary “Take me to” shuttle service connecting you to all of the nearby beaches is a definite plus.
Shunli Hotel
⭐ RATING: 9.8 out of 10 Stars | Phuket Town | $
Shunli Hotel is a great place for travelers looking for a low-cost, yet comfortable stay right in the middle of Phuket Town. This 2-star hotel has an impressive 9.8/10 rating from over 500 satisfied guest reviews! People here love their complimentary breakfast and the peaceful green garden that surrounds the hotel.
Slumber Party Surf Hostel Kata Phuket
⭐ RATING: 8.3 out of 10 Stars | Kata | $
I stayed at Slumber Party Surf Kata Phuket, and as a backpacker for the first time in Phuket, I couldn’t really ask for more. They have capsule-style DOUBLE size beds, and it was super easy to meet people. They have a DJ spinning techno x house every night and a community bar, fun games, and big hang-out space. Plus, it is pretty close to the beaches and right next to a night market with plenty of food.
What are Some Island Tours that I can Take from Phuket?
If you’re looking to hit the best attractions, here are the most popular island tours from Phuket:
- Phi Phi Island Tours from Phuket: Embark on a day trip or overnight tour to the Phi Phi Islands, known for their crystal-clear waters, partying, and stunning beaches like Maya Bay.
- James Bond Island: Thailand is famous for its limestone formations, like the unique James Bond Island, featured in the movie “The Man with the Golden Gun” in the Phang Nga Bay area.
- Similan Islands: Take a speedboat or liveaboard tour of the Similan Islands, renowned for their pristine white sandy beaches, colorful coral reefs, and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
- Racha Islands: Day trip to the Racha Islands, where you can relax on beautiful beaches, go snorkeling, or try exciting water sports like jet-skiing and parasailing.
- Coral Island: Coral Island (Koh Hae) is just a short boat ride from Phuket. Relax on more populated beaches and eat delicious seafood.
FAQs About Private Boat Trips in Phuket
Absolutely! For most of these tours above, you are actually booking a private boat in Phuket. It’s a fantastic way to have a tailor-made experience to explore the surrounding islands at your own pace. You can book online, or many tour operators in Phuket offer a private day trip out on the sea.
The cost of a private Phuket boat charter can vary depending on the type of boat, trip, and the number of people in your group. Generally, prices start around $500 for closer destinations to $1,500 or more per day and typically charge a flat group fee. Note that lunch and national park fees (if applicable) are usually not included in the package price.
Phuket tours start from various ports and marinas along the island’s coastline, including Chalong Pier, Ao Por Grand Marina, and Rassada Pier. These ports are easily accessible from different parts of Phuket. Most tour operators provide hotel transfers to and from the port.
Getting a boat from Phuket to Phi Phi is easy. Multiple ferry and speedboat services operate daily, with the journey taking around 1-2 hours, depending on the boat type and sea conditions. Ferry services are budget-friendly, while speedboats offer a quicker and more private experience. Check 12Go Asia, Thailand’s best public transportation aggregator, for your preferred method of transportation.
You can easily do a day trip to Phi Phi Island from Phuket. Many tour operators offer day trips that include hotel pick-up, round-trip transportation by boat, snorkeling, visits to popular landmarks like Maya Bay, and time to relax on stunning beaches. While a day trip gives you a taste of Phi Phi Island, I highly recommend staying at least one overnight.
For exploring the main attractions, 3-4 days should is enough to visit popular destinations, like Patong Beach, Old Phuket Town, and Big Buddha, and take day trips to nearby islands. If you prefer a more relaxed vacation with time for island hopping and off-the-beaten-path exploration, consider extending your stay to 5-7 days or more.
When Phuket and Krabi, island hop to amazing places. In Krabi, visit Ao Nang Beach and take a long-tail boat to Railay Beach. Railay Beaches offer beautiful outdoor activities like hidden lagoon hikes, caves, and rock climbing. Koh Poda, Emerald Pool, and Koh Hong are also worth exploring. In Phuket, go to Phang Nga Bay and Phi Phi Island for limestone cliffs and azure waters. For nightlife, head to Patong.
While it’s not possible to take a direct boat from Bangkok to Phuket, travel from Bangkok to Phuket by air is affordable and convenient. Alternatively, you can take a train or bus from Bangkok to Phuket, but these options involve longer travel times and multiple transfers. Check 12Go Asia, Thailand’s best public transportation aggregator, for your preferred method of transportation.
Final Thoughts: Best Phuket Private Boat Tours
The mesmerizing region surrounding Phuket, including Phi Phi, Railay Beach, Khao Lak, Khao Sok National Park, and smaller islands like Koh Phayam, is an absolute treasure trove of Southeast Asia.
With imposing karst cliffs and crystal-clear turquoise waters, these destinations are a must on your Thailand itinerary. Aside from main islands like Phi Phi Don, Krabi, and Koh Lanta, you’ll need to join a boat tour to explore the lesser-known islands.
Many tours also come with added bonuses like hotel transfers, tasty lunches and drinks, and snorkel gear, making these experiences an exceptional value for your money.
In case you’re still not sure which private tour to pick:
- To choose where you want to go on a private catamaran, charter this SANYATI – Leopard 51 Power Cat Luxury Cruise
- For the best Phi Phi Island itinerary and service, sign up for this Phi Phi Island Private Boat Tour.
- To visit one of Phuket’s other most famous spots, book this James Bond Island Private Boat Tour.
No matter which tour or package you choose, I’m sure you’ll love your time around the islands of Phuket!
Where Next in South Thailand?
I’ve been to Thailand 10+ times in my life and now spend my winters there. Check out these other posts to see if any of these destinations pique your interest.
- Phuket To Krabi: 7 Ways To Get There Via Land & Sea
- 7 Best Phi Phi Island Tours from Phuket
- Koh Phayam, Thailand: A No FOMO Guide To One Of The Best Thai Islands
- To Phi Phi Island From Phuket: How To Get There Via Ferry & Speedboat
- Bangkok To Ayutthaya: How To Get There Via Train, Minibus, & Tour
Have Travel Questions About Thailand? Maybe I’ve Answered Them
- Languages Spoken In Thailand: Do They Speak English In Thailand?
- Motorbike Rental In Phuket: 9 Quick Tips Before You Sign
- Is There Uber In Thailand? (Uber In Bangkok And Beyond)
- 30 Day Tourist Visa Extension Thailand: Step-By-Step Guide
- Price Of Massages In Thailand: Honest Rates For All Types Of Massages
- Chiang Khong To Huay Xai: How To Cross The Thailand-Laos Border
- Bangkok vs Chiang Mai: Thai-Ing To Decide Which City Is Better?
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Catherine Xu is the founder and author of Nomadicated, an adventure travel blog that helps travelers cross off their bucket list. Since discovering traveling in 2015, she has lived and journeyed to 65 countries across 5 continents and vanlifed the west coast USA for 2+ years. These days, she splits her time in Southeast Asia and California while sharing her travel stories and resources based on first-hand experiences. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.