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Enjoy a Relaxing Vacation at the Everglades Cruise Port

The Everglades Cruise Port is the perfect destination for a relaxing vacation. Located in South Florida, the port offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. From boat tours to fishing trips, there is something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure-filled family vacation, the Everglades Cruise Port has it all. Here are some of the reasons why you should plan your next vacation at the Everglades Cruise Port.

Experience Nature’s Beauty

The Everglades Cruise Port is home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in South Florida. Visitors can take boat tours through the mangroves and see wildlife such as alligators, turtles, and birds. There are also plenty of opportunities to explore nature on foot with hiking trails and nature walks. The port also offers kayaking and canoeing trips so visitors can get up close and personal with the wildlife and scenery of the area.

Take Part in Exciting Activities

The Everglades Cruise Port also offers a variety of exciting activities for visitors to enjoy. Fishing trips are available for those looking to catch some of Florida’s famous fish such as snook, tarpon, and redfish. Visitors can also take part in airboat rides that take them through the wetlands and swamps of the area. For those looking for something more relaxing, there are sunset cruises that provide stunning views of the area’s natural beauty.

Relax in Comfort

When it’s time to relax after a day of exploring, visitors can stay at one of the many hotels located near the port. These hotels offer comfortable accommodations with amenities such as swimming pools, spas, restaurants, and bars. Visitors can also enjoy shopping at nearby stores or dining at one of many restaurants located within walking distance from the port.

No matter what type of vacation you are looking for, you can find it at the Everglades Cruise Port. With its stunning natural scenery and variety of activities, it is sure to be an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed when you return home.

This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.

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Top 14 Best Cruise and Boat Tours in Portland

There’s nothing quite like messing about on the river, even better if it’s an organised trip where you can really relax, let go and just soak up the incredible scenery.

From stylish champagne brunches to something more high octane, here are the best cruise and boat tours in Portland, Oregon (in no particular order, they’re all awesome trips) …

1. Columbia River Gorge Dinner Cruise – a great way to explore this part of the river

Columbia River Gorge Dinner Cruise is a 2-hour cruise along the Columbia River in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States.

The tour starts from Cascade Locks and takes you across the Columbia River Gorge, allowing you to indulge in the picturesque landscapes of the river. 

As you sit on the expansive patio of the cruise ship, you get to explore all corners of the Historic Scenic Area while eating a fine meal.

They offer an excellent selection of appetizers, entrees, and desserts prepared with local ingredients with vegan and gluten-free options. You can also enjoy a wide range of craft beers, wines, and cocktails, although you’ll be charged an add-on for that. 

From live narration from the captain to a private candlelit table, the Columbia River Gorge Dinner Cruise offers everything to make your night special. 

Cruise Timing: 6:00pm – 8:00pm (May to October)

• To book, check prices or dates for this Dinner Cruise

2. Champagne Brunch Cruise Through Downtown Portland

Champagne Brunch Cruise is a 2-hour brunch cruise that takes you along a major tributary of the Columbia River, the Willamette River. It is offered by Portland Spirit Cruises and Events.

Starting from Salmon Springs in downtown Portland, Champagne Brunch Cruise takes you across the Willamette River watershed. 

The 2-hour cruise offers a delicious brunch featuring authentic Northwest cuisine. They have a curated selection of beverages, including champagne, mimosas, and sparkling ciders.

From historical narration on outer patios to live piano and entertainment, Champagne Brunch Cruise comes with a wide range of features to offer you a wonderful brunch experience. The timing of the cruise varies depending on the season. 

• To book, check prices or dates for the Champagne Brunch Cruise

3. Dinner Cruise Through Downtown Portland

Dinner Cruise by Portland Spirit Cruises and Events offers a sunset dinner along the beautiful landscapes of the Willamette River.

As you cruise down the Willamette River, you get to revel in the mesmerizing views of Portland’s skyline and its major landmarks. 

Dinner Cruise by Portland Spirit Cruises and Events continues for two and a half hours. You are served a freshly cooked Pacific Northwest meal prepared with local ingredients. The cruise also comes with live music and entertainment and narration of the sights by the captain on outdoor patios. 

The cruise takes you through many iconic landmarks of Portland, including Hawthorne Bridge, Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, Oaks Amusement Park, Tom McCall Waterfront Park, and Portland Oregon Sign.

Cruise Timing: 7 pm – 9:30 pm

• To book, check prices or dates for the Dinner Cruise Through Downtown

4. Heart of Portland Sightseeing Cruise

Heart of Portland Sightseeing Cruise by Portland Spirit Cruises and Events is a sightseeing tour along the Willamette River that takes you through the major sites of Portland.

They have two departure points, Caruthers Landing in SE Portland and Salmon Springs in downtown Portland. 

As you travel northward between the Oregon Coast Range and the Cascade Range, you get to enjoy the picturesque cityscape and historical narration by the captain. You learn about the historical significance of every landmark that you pass by. 

Indoor seating is not guaranteed on this sightseeing tour, although you can enjoy a broad array of food and beverages on the vessel’s patios. They have an onboard bistro specializing in diverse cuisine, however food and beverages are not complementary. 

Cruise Timing: 3:30 pm – 5 pm

• To book, check prices or dates for Heart of Portland Sightseeing Cruise

Columbia Gorge Jet-Boat Adventure

Columbia Gorge Jet-Boat Adventure offers two cruises, a full-day trip and half-day trip. Full-day cruise starts from downtown Portland and ends at Cascade Locks.

Half-day cruise starts from downtown Portland and ends at Multnomah Falls. Both cruises take you through countless landmarks and over 12 bridges. 

As you travel along the Columbia River, you get to see Beacon Rock, Vista House, Bonneville Locks and Dam, and Bridge of the Gods among many other iconic landmarks. 

• To book, check prices or dates for Columbia Gorge Jet-Boat Adventure

5. Year-Round Sightseeing

Year-Round Sightseeing is a sightseeing cruise along the Willamette River by Portland Spirit Cruises and Events, one of the best boat tour agencies in Portland. The cruise takes you through all major tributaries of the Willamette River, including the Willamette Valley. 

If you want to explore all of Sauvie Island, you must have this sight-seeing cruise in summer. The captain ferries you under some of the famous bridges of Portland, including Fremont Bridge, Broadway Bridge, and Hawthorne Bridge. 

As it is a sightseeing-specific cruise, it does not offer complimentary food. However, the vessel has a full service bar with food available for purchases.

You can take this cruise both in bright daylight and after sunset. 

Cruise Timing: 11:30 am – 1:30 pm or 7 pm – 9:30 pm

• To book, check prices or dates for Portland Spirit Cruises and Events

6. Gorgeous Brunch Cruise

Gorgeous Brunch Cruise is a 2-hour cruise that takes you across the exquisite canyon stretches of the Columbia River.

As you sit on the outer deck of the sternwheeler, you get to revel in the spectacular views of the Columbia Gorge while eating a fine meal and listening to the captain’s narration of the rich history of the river. 

The sternwheeler takes you westward through the Cascade Range, from where you can enjoy a few glimpses of the state of Washington.

The cruise comes with a delicious plated northwestern brunch prepared with local ingredients. You can take the cruise on any Sunday between May and October. 

Cruise Timing: 10:00am – 12:00pm 

• To book, check prices or dates for the Portland Lunch Cruise

7. BrewBarge Cruise

BrewBarge Cruise by Brew Group is an adult-only cruise along the Willamette River. As you cruise across the major tributaries of the river, you get to see the leaves of the recent ice age. You are only allowed on board if you are over the age of 21. 

While you can bring your own beer on board, the vessel has a classy beer shop offering a great selection of craft beers. You can take BrewBarge Cruise only on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

They have a small seating capacity with only 14 people allowed on board. The timing of the cruise varies depending on the season.

• To book, check prices or dates for this BrewBarge Cruise

8. Lunch Cruise by Willamette Jetboat Excursions

Lunch Cruise by Willamette Jetboat Excursions is a 3-hour cruise across the Columbia River. It is a 40-mile journey that starts on the Willamette River and takes you to the north of the Columbia River.

You get to have a perfect lunch at The Deck, a casual floating restaurant specializing in American seafood and seasonal cuisine. 

From St. Johns Bridge to Mt. St. Helens to Mt. Hood, you get to enjoy striking views of many iconic landmarks near Portland. The cruise ship takes you so close to big cargo ships that you can almost touch them. You can take this cruise on Tuesday and Wednesday. 

• To book, check prices or dates for this Lunch Cruise  

9. 1-Hour Shipyards

1-Hour Shipyards by Willamette Jetboat Excursions is a boat tour that takes you to Swan Island. It is a 14-mile journey that takes you through shipyards and beautiful bridges of Portland, including Hawthorne Bridge, Steel Bridge, Tilikum Crossing Bridge, and Marquam Bridge. 

From iconic bridges to historical monuments to shipyards, you get to see many landmarks during this one-hour tour. It is a kid-friendly tour that does not charge any fare for children aged 3 or below.

The timing of the tour varies every year. The tour is only available between June and September. 

• To book, check prices or dates for Willamette Jetboat Excursion

10. Portland Christmas Ship Parade 

Portland Christmas Ship Parade is an annual boat tour along the Willamette River during the Christmas holidays. The tour starts in the first week of December and runs through the third week. 

As you travel around Lake Washington and the Puget Sound, you get to see more than 65 waterfront communities.

It is the only boat tour in Portland that takes you around a complex estuarine network of marine waterways and basins. 

• To book, check prices or dates for this Portland Christmas Ship Parade

11. Kayak on Willamette River

Kayak on Willamette River is a kayaking tour by Salem Kayak Rentals. The tour is available from late Spring to mid October. It involves about 30 minutes of paddling.

The tour starts from the West Linn and ends at the Willamette Narrows. 

As you kayak across the Willamette River, you get to explore the unique geology of its tributaries. Children below the age of 13 cannot take this tour. 

• To book, check prices or dates for Salem Kayak Rentals

13. Portland Skyline & Bridges Night Photo Tour

Portland Skyline & Bridges Night Photo Tour is a 2-hour night tour along the Willamette River at night. This is the ultimate tour for shutterbugs that allows passengers to capture the dramatic night lights of the cityscape. 

This photo tour takes you to many major bridges and landmarks of Portland, including the Eastbank Esplanade, Hawthorne Bridge, OMSI, and Tilikum Crossing among others. 

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Gaby Maia – writer and photographer

Born and raised in Brazil, Gaby has always had a taste for the intriguing, the off-beat and the far flung. After traveling around most of South America, living in Spain and Italy and then moving to England, her feet have stayed continually twitchy. Studying for a degree in Spanish translation and then learning five more languages only poured more fuel onto her traveling ardor. Gaby likes nothing better than discovering new destinations in her spare time and meeting the locals, tasting the cuisine and then writing about her favourite places. Her other indulgences include French cinema, boxing, photography, colourful manicures and soaking up the rays on a sun-infused beach. The places she loves the most include Rio de Janeiro, Rome, Turkey, Barcelona, Lisbon and Cornwall. Find Gaby on Linkedin or Twitter .

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How To Experience the Magic of Puerto Rico’s Surreal Bioluminescent Bays

T he docks of Lajas, Puerto Rico feel more like a tourist trap than a gateway to a natural world wonder. Reggaeton music blasts, vendors sell keychains and light-up jewelry, and posters tout the dazzling magic of the neon blue bioluminescent bay — yours to discover through dozens of tour guides and boat rentals. For a glow allegedly so bright, it’s nowhere to be seen on the shoreline.

I hop into a sizeable motorboat manned by a small crew with my island tour guides, and my skepticism is dulled by an ice-cold Medalla Light. The engine purrs and we pull away from the docks, the music and crowds quickly fading away and the stars beginning to show themselves. Some 20 minutes later, I audibly gasp. Our boat is leaving a trail on the surface of the water that can only be described as fairy dust.

It’s not radiating nuclear blue like the advertisements, but the effect is actually more astounding. The water twinkles a bright, greenish-blue and disappears so quickly that you’d think you imagined it. Silhouettes of fish appear briefly as they swim by the boat, and leave arcs of light if they hop out of the water. When the boat comes to a stop in the middle of the bay, it’s dead silent — the water is large enough that other boats need not disturb their neighbors. The captain beckons me to the stern of the boat.

I laugh, considering I’m wearing skinny jeans, a sequined top, and a few layers of mascara. “Wish I could. I was told I didn’t need to wear a bathing suit.”

“So? This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You came all this way. When will you be here again? Just jump in.”

To someone with a deep-seated case of FOMO, that’s all you need to say. That, and an offer to borrow the burly deckhand’s spare swimming trunks.

So I take the plunge, hands clasped tightly on my waistband, into water that feels like a warm bathtub and looks like Pandora. Sparkling specks follow my every movement, twirling around my legs as I’m flapping them like a mermaid’s tail. If I reach above the surface, blue dots catch in the hairs on my arm like glowing beads of sweat. My Puerto Rican companions laugh at my childlike glee, and the captain continues to explain the science in great detail. But I’m hardly listening. I’m too busy moving my hands under the water in rapid circles, creating fleeting orbs of glistening light and pretending I’m a wizard.

What are bioluminescent bays?

Photo: Isabella Miller /Shutterstock

Though it’d be quite easy to convince someone that the glowing effect was from some magic sea creature of the deep, the glittering specks are dinoflagellates, single-celled microorganisms that illuminate when agitated. Any movement, be it the tail of a fish, the stroke of a paddle, or — most spectacularly — a swimming body, will make the water appear as if it’s glowing. While these microorganisms are found throughout the ocean, they need to be in extremely high concentration in order to appear visible to the naked eye. As in, thousands upon thousands in a single gallon. There are only five proper bioluminescent bays in the world where the concentration of dinoflagellates is high enough, and a whopping three of them are found in Puerto Rico (the other two are in Jamaica and Vietnam), each offering different worthwhile experiences.

Whether you can extend your San Juan trip with a nearby night excursion or are able to journey all the way across the island, visiting a bioluminescent bay is something you shouldn’t leave Puerto Rico without doing. Here’s everything you need to know about the bio bays in advance to make the most of your experience.

The three bio bays of Puerto Rico

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Caveman (@cave_manpr) on Jun 20, 2019 at 4:18pm PDT

1. La Parguera, Lajas

Located in the southwest corner of Puerto Rico near Cabo Rojo, La Parguera is the only bay that allows motorboats. While that could seem like a drawback as it means more noise disturbance, the motorboats allow you to get really far from the docks very quickly and deep into the bay. A world away from the thudding dance parties of Lajas, the boats shut off their engines and immerse you in complete silence. La Parguera is also the only bay that allows swimming, which is something you simply cannot pass up no matter your fears about diving into pitch-black water and thousands of microorganisms. If you’re willing to splurge for a glass-bottomed boat, all the more magical.

2. Laguna Grande, Fajardo

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Anita Abedian (@anitasavior) on Mar 30, 2019 at 9:41pm PDT

If your trip to Puerto Rico is based around San Juan, you can still squeeze in a visit to bioluminescent waters at Laguna Grande, located about an hour outside of the capital city. While not technically a bay, but a lagoon, Laguna Grande is best experienced by kayak. A round-trip journey down a narrow canal to the lagoon takes about two hours. While swimming isn’t permitted, no one will scold you for running your fingers through the water and creating swirling patterns. If you’re not comfortable kayaking, you can also peek at the waters from afar by walking along a boardwalk through a mangrove swamp.

3. Mosquito Bay, Vieques

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Vieques – Ready When You Are (@discovervieques) on Mar 12, 2019 at 4:15pm PDT

Reaching the island of Vieques seven miles off the east coast of Puerto Rico will take advance planning. Being that you need to visit the bio bay at night for maximum darkness and ferries don’t run that late, you’ll need to stay overnight on the island. It’s absolutely worth it, though, as Mosquito Bay has the honor of being the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world, according to a 2006 Guinness World Record. It has not only held onto that title, but doubled down on it, after Hurricane Maria unexpectedly doubled the concentration of dinoflagellates in the water. Mosquito Bay also has the least light pollution, thanks to its remote location, so you’ll enjoy spectacular stargazing in addition to glowing water. Like Laguna Grande, Mosquito Bay doesn’t allow motorboats or swimming, so kayaking is your best option. And don’t worry about the unpleasant name — Mosquito Bay has no more flying pests than any other body of water in Puerto Rico.

Everything you need to know before visiting a bio bay

Photo: Discover Puerto Rico

1. Visit during the new moon for minimal light pollution.

Absolute darkness is a must for seeing the bio bays in all their glowing glory. For optimal viewing, plan your visit around a new moon. The bioluminescence will still be visible during a full moon, but it will be significantly dimmer. A cloudy evening is ideal for nights when the moon is out, but don’t despair if it’s a clear night — the stargazing will be phenomenal.

2. Book tours in advance.

Most of the time you shouldn’t have a problem walking up to a rental kiosk and getting a kayak or boat, but rather than risking disappointment or waiting for hours, book a tour in advance. This is especially crucial at La Parguera, where you can take a glass-bottomed motorboat onto the water. Booking a tour also means you’ll have a guide who can explain the science behind the bioluminescence, take you straight to the spots with the highest concentrations of dinoflagellates, and make sure you get back ashore safely and within a reasonable amount of time. You can also call in advance to request an English-speaking guide.

3. Minimize your environmental impact.

The ecosystem of the bio bays is very fragile, and the more you can do to mitigate the impact of tourism, the better. Avoid wearing sunscreen (it is night, after all) or lotions that contain chemicals that may harm the bays, especially at La Parguera where you can swim. If you’re especially concerned about not disturbing the ecosystem, opt for a kayak instead of a motorboat if given the choice, and respect any rules against swimming. And, of course, be a good human and don’t litter, spill any food or drink into the waters, or try to take a sample of the water back with you.

4. Bring a camera capable of ultra-long exposure.

Let’s make one thing perfectly clear: You will NOT get a photo of the bioluminescence on your phone. Or most digital cameras. If you’re dead set on getting a jaw-dropping shot for Instagram, you’d better have a professional camera capable of long-exposure photography, similar to what you would need for capturing the Milky Way. You’ll need to stabilize the camera as best as possible (ideally with a tripod, which could prove difficult on a kayak), use manual focus, a high ISO setting, and a wide aperture. If this means nothing to you, that’s fine. Relax, put the camera away, and just enjoy the moment.

5. Manage your expectations.

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THE 10 BEST Phang Nga Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in phang nga.

• Speed Boats Tours
• Scuba & Snorkeling
• River Rafting & Tubing
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Free cancellation
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• Similan Islands
• Similan Islands National Park
• Trip Store Krabi
• James Bond Island
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Similan Islands Tour from Phuket

2. Phang Nga Bay Premium Trip Speed Boat Tour

3. 5 in 1 James Bond Tour by Long Tail Boat

4. Wow Andaman Day Trip to Similan Islands from Phuket

5. Phuket Adventure with White Water Rafting, Monkey cave and Zip Line+Optional ATV

6. Wow Andaman Day Trip to Similan Islands from Khao Lak

7. Private Tour of James Bond Island and Phang Na Bay on Long Tail Boat

8. Hype Yacht : VIP tour Krabi Islands & Phang Nga Bay from Phuket

9. Similan Islands Snorkel Tour by SeaStar Andaman from Phuket

10. James Bond Island Day Trip BY Speed Boat all inclusive

11. James Bond Island by Longtail Boat

12. Private VIP Speed Boat to Phang Nga Bay

13. The Otherworldly Beauty of the Similans

14. Full-day Tour to the Similan Islands by Speedboat from Khao Lak

15. Similan Islands Snorkel Tour by Fantastic Similan Travel from Phuket

16. Similan Islands Snorkel Tour by Fantastic Similan Travel from Khao Lak

17. Similan Islands Snorkel Tour by SeaStar Andaman from Khao Lak

18. Private Speedboat Charters to Phang Nga Bay, James Bond Island

19. Similan Islands Full-Day Tour from Phuket with Lunch

20. Similan Islands Excursion by Speedboat from Phuket

21. The Best of the Similans from Khao Lak

22. Adventure Off Road Safari to Khao Lak National Park

23. Adventure Off Road Safari to Khao Lak National Park

24. Southern Thailand: See & Experience it ALL in 11 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours

25. An Inundation in Khao Sok’s Natural Splendour

26. James Bond Island Sunrise Early Bird Tour by Speed Boat

What travelers are saying.

• Similan Islands Tour from Phuket
• Hype Yacht : VIP tour Krabi Islands & Phang Nga Bay from Phuket
• Phang Nga Bay Premium Trip Speed Boat Tour
• Wow Andaman Day Trip to Similan Islands from Khao Lak
• Wow Andaman Day Trip to Similan Islands from Phuket
• Exotic Fishing Thailand
• Thai Adventure Club
• Khlongcharern Village
• Phang Nga Bay and Jamesbond island by Thailand Andaman Trip
• Hosanna Rafture
• Blue Guru Dive Centre

Phang Nga: Boat Tours Information

Simba Sea Trips

• Join In Tour
• Private Charters

🌴 Discover the Magic of Phuket! 🌴

Phang nga bay & beyond.

from 46 reviews

Description

Explore the awe-inspiring beauty of Phang Nga Bay’s limestone cliffs and emerald waters, travelling on Phuket’s smallest group sizes. Discover hidden caves, kayak through mangrove forests, and unwind on stunning beaches. A nature lover’s paradise!

Like all of our day trips, ‘the early bird catches the worm’… and most importantly avoids the crowds!

Price shown excludes 7% Vat tax and 3% booking fee.

A minimum of 6 passengers is required (across all bookings) for the tour to run as scheduled.

• James Bond Island without the crowds
• Travel in comfort on a spacious big boat
• Explore hidden caves and lagoons
• Kayak through and around amazing caves

Included/Excluded

• Pickup and drop-off
• Light breakfast, buffet lunch, coffee, and tea on the beach
• Soft drinks and water, fresh fruit and snacks
• Floating aids and life jackets
• National park fees
• Alcohol (available for purchase)

Tour's Location

Phi Phi Sunrise Tour

Luxury Private Speed boat Charter – Coral Delight

Phang Nga Bay ECO tour by Two Sea Tours

Luxury Phuket MotorYacht Private Charter- Phang Nga Bay Sunset

Most flexible free refund policy.

Simba offer the most flexible cancellation policy available. Receive a full refund up to 24 hours before your tour commences.

Lowest Price Guarantee

Book here with Simba to receive the lowest prices available online. Guaranteed.

Small Group Tours, Beat the Crowds

Simba operates the lowest passenger numbers of all operators to Phang Nga Bay with an average of 14 passengers and max 18 Adults. Our tours are planned specifically to avoid the large crowds in the National Parks.

Koh Phanak is often our first Phang Nga Bay stop for some intriguing cave exploration. Like Swiss cheese, Phanak is full of hidden caves, lagoons and hongs. We aim to select the very best location depending on the tide and weather on your day. So fire up your torches and step into a prehistoric world! Sightseeing is a strong suit of our tours since you will have the chance to see exclusive sights that not many people have seen in their lives.

Sea Canoeing

Koh Hong is a stunning location for a scenic canoe trip. It is simply the best way to see these Phang Nga Bay geological wonders up close and personal. Let the Thai guide take you into hongs and limestone caves only accessible by canoe. Cruise the waters on the canoes and marvel in the real beauty that has formed over hundreds of years, creating an amazing Thailand spectacle that will remain forever in your memory.

Koh Phing Kan and Koh Tapu (James Bond Island)

Arguably the most famous spot in Phang Nga Bay, it’s been a Mecca for Thailand and Western tourists for over four decades, is the James Bond Island stop. You’ve come all this way and as Simba generally arrives well before the masses, we make a quick stop to see what all the fuss is about. This limestone marvel is perfect for you to take pictures.

Treasure Island / Secret Hong or Kadu Beach

Depending on weather conditions and currents we will stop at either Secret Hong (a fantastic hidden cave, only accessible by swimming through a narrow passage) or enjoy the peaceful surrounds of Kadu, a small secluded bay and beach near the top of Koh Yao Noi. It’s the perfect opportunity to cool off before we move across Phang Nga Bay to our lunch stop.

Koh Yao Noi

As described, a truly unique Thailand location, still holding fast to a traditional existence in the face of it’s bustling brother, Phuket. Our Phang Nga Bay journey includes a visit to a stunning local Thai restaurant for a delicious Thai lunch.

Tropical Beach

The afternoon will allow us to guide you to any number of beautiful beaches depending on tide and weather conditions. This is a chance to swim, relax, read a book, or enjoy a light afternoon tea and sample the Phang Nga Bay limestone scenery before heading home.

Pickup from hotel at approx 6am for a 7am DEPARTURE FROM MARINA and return to hotel at approx 3:30pm. Hotel pickup complimentary to all areas in Phuket only.

On arrival at our office enjoy some light breakfast snacks and coffee. On tour all your culinary needs are provided by us. A yummy breakfast on the beach, snacks and soft refreshments throughout the day, and finally an authentic Thai lunch at a stunning, rustic beach restaurant.

Explore ancient caves and their geological wonders.

Get up close to the wonderful limestone Karsts this region is famous for and take in the magnificent scenery around you whilst being paddled around by local Thai paddlers in absolute serenity.

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James Bond Island Thailand: Phang Nga Bay Tour (Phuket)

Thailand’s Phang Nga Bay is loaded with exotic island scenery, and one of the best things to see in the bay would have to be the famous James Bond Island, with its unusual balanced rock.

Also known as Nail Island or ‘Ko Ta Pu’ in the Thai language, James Bond Island got its current nickname when the location was featured in the 1974 Bond movie ‘The Man with the Golden Gun.’

Nowadays, Phang Nga Bay is a national park in Thailand where you can go kayaking and see dozens of amazing islands with caves, mangroves, wildlife, and even a floating village called Koh Panyee.

It’s easy to visit Phang Nga Bay on a day trip (by boat) from Phuket, Krabi, or Khao Lak, and that gives you enough time to see James Bond Island and the other main sights in the bay.

This travel guide for Phang Nga Bay will explain how to get there, top things to see and do, best tour packages to use, where to stay, and everything else you need to know before you go!

Best Phang Nga Bay Tour Packages

The only way to visit James Bond Island is with a tour, and GetYourGuide has prearranged day tours from Phuket or similar day trips from Khao Lak or Krabi , complete with hotel transfers, boat ride, lunch, shared tour of the islands, and same day return.

These day tours visit all of the top sights in Phang Nga Bay, including James Bond Island, Hong island, and the Koh Panyee floating village, and you can also use a canoe or kayak to explore some of the limestone caves up close.

They also have private tours or semi-private tours if you prefer that, although the prices are higher. We’ve used GetYourGuide for lots of day tours and activities around the world, and they’re great. Highly recommended!

Book Now: James Bond Island Tour From Phuket / Khao Lak / Krabi

Where Is James Bond Island?

James Bond Island is located in Phang Nga Bay, in southern Thailand.

There’s no airport, hotels, or accommodation in the bay since it’s a national park, but you can easily visit from other places in Thailand.

Phang Nga Bay is full of nice islands and caves

How To Get To James Bond Island Thailand

The only way to get to James Bond Island is to book a tour of Phang Nga Bay by boat. You can choose between a Thai longtail boat, big wooden boat, or speedboat, and any of these are good options.

The speedboat is fastest and you’re usually in a smaller and more private tour group, but it costs more. We’ve done the James Bond Island tour with all kinds of boats, and always had a good experience with each of them.

The closest place to fly for this is the international airport in Phuket (HKT) or the one in Krabi (KBV). Both of these airports have cheap flights from Bangkok. You can shop for flights to Thailand on Skyscanner.

There are a bunch of boat companies making the trip to James Bond Island daily from Phuket, Krabi, or Khao Lak, and they usually include hotel pickup and drop-off. Again, we recommend GetYourGuide for their shared or private tours !

The boat journey through Phang Nga Bay is stunning in its own right, with dozens of rocky islands rising out of the sea in all directions. However, one of the best parts of the trip is kayaking through the limestone caves. It’s probably one of the most amazing kayaking experiences I’ve had anywhere in the world!

The unusual balanced rock at James Bond Island Thailand

Drone view of Phang Nga Bay

Visiting James Bond Island: What To Expect

When you first arrive at James Bond Island, the boat will park on the back side of the main island (Khao Phing Kan) and then you can disembark and walk around on the island for awhile.

Khao Phing Kan is a very unusual island covered with limestone hills, and the main attraction is the pointy balanced rock, which seems to float on the sea. Unlike other places in Thailand, the snorkeling isn’t any good at Phang Nga Bay because the water is murky and there’s no coral.

However, if you’re lucky, you still might see some wildlife here. We saw a hawk flying around, and later on we spotted a baby monitor lizard near the beach. We took a few pictures of him before he climbed a tree and disappeared.

Most Phang Nga tour packages give you 1 hour at James Bond Island, which is plenty of time to swim at the beach, see the famous floating rock, and attempt your best James Bond pose for photos.

We saw a baby monitor lizard at Khao Phing Kan

The only way to reach James Bond Island is by tour boat

The floating rock — Ko Ta Pu — also known as Nail Island

Of course, because of its scenery, James Bond Island has become one of the most famous spots in Thailand, so it’s very crowded with tourists at most times of the day unless you arrive early in the morning.

There are a bunch of makeshift souvenir stalls on the island taking advantage of this, but the prices are a bit higher than normal so it’s not a good idea to do any shopping here.

If you want to escape the crowds and take some nice pictures, you can walk up the concrete steps and there are usually less people at the viewpoints above the rock, while the area close to the beach always tends to be the busiest and most crowded part of the island.

James Bond Island was popularized and got its current nickname after being featured as the villain’s hideout in the 1974 Bond movie ‘The Man with the Golden Gun.’ The movie bombed with critics, but the location became a hit.

In spite of the crowds, we were happy to see that the island has been kept pretty clean, and we didn’t notice any garbage on the ground or in the water. Overall, it’s an amazing place and you have to see it at least once!

The 1974 movie scene that got James Bond Island its nickname (© United Artists)

The majestic islands of Phang Nga Bay from above

Visiting Phang Nga Bay – Tourist Fees

The Phang Nga Bay is a national park in Thailand, so they charge a tourist fee of 300 Baht (~$9 USD) for adults, and 150 baht for kids 3-14 years old.

Some Phang Nga Bay tours may already include these fees in the total price when you book, but usually you pay them separately in cash when you first start the tour, or else when you get off the boat at James Bond Island.  

More Things To See In Phang Nga Bay

Here’s a list of some of the top sights in Phang Nga Bay. You can see most of these places (along with James Bond Island) in a single day tour:

• Koh Hong Island: Not to be confused with the Koh Hong island in the Krabi province, this is a beautiful island in Phang Nga with a sandy beach and several limestone caves that you can explore by kayak. It’s one of the most spectacular kayaking spots in Thailand, so don’t miss it!
• Koh Phanak Island: Another big limestone island with several caves, including the Bat Cave and Ice Cream Cave, which got its name from the bright white stalactite rocks inside. You can also see mangroves and wild monkeys here.
• Koh Panyee Floating Village: A very interesting little fishing village with a population of about 1,700 people. This floating village was founded about 200 years ago by Malay muslims, and the spot often serves as a lunch stop on James Bond boat tours.
• Samet Nangshe Viewpoint : This amazing viewpoint is technically located outside of the national park, and you can only visit it by land (not on the James Bond boat tour). However, it has jaw dropping views of Phang Nga Bay, along with its many mangroves and islands. It’s one of the best views I’ve seen anywhere in the world, and the sunrise is also impressive. I wrote a separate travel guide for this viewpoint, which you can read here !

Samet Nangshe Viewpoint can only be reached by land (not on the James Bond boat tour), but it has incredible views of Phang Nga Bay.

1-Day Itinerary For The James Bond Island Tour

Here’s a sample itinerary for what the James Bond Island tour generally looks like:

• 7:30 AM – Hotel pickup and drive to the pier by bus or minivan
• 8:30 AM – Transfer to boat and start the journey to Phang Nga Bay
• 9:30 AM – Start sightseeing in Phang Nga Bay
• 12:00 PM – Lunch at the boat or on the floating village (Koh Panyee)
• 1:00 PM – More sightseeing in Phang Nga Bay
• 5:00 PM – Arrive at the pier and transfer back to your hotel by bus or minivan

Keep in mind every tour is different, so your schedule may not follow this exactly. You can check with your tour provider about the itinerary before you go.

Is James Bond Island Open / Closed?

Yes, James Bond Island is OPEN for tourists as of 2023!

The Thai government likes to close some of their islands for conservation during the rainy season, but Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island generally stays open all year.  

Endless scenery of Phang Nga Bay

Best Time To Visit James Bond Island Thailand

Any time is good to visit James Bond Island, although there are some seasonal differences.

The weather in the Andaman Sea area of Thailand (including Phang Nga Bay) is best from November to April, when it’s more dry and sunny. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so it’s a bit more crowded with day tours.

The weather is not as good from May to October. There are more rainy days, and there are frequent storms in the evenings. However, there are less tourists in these months and it’s still possible to have a great trip.

It’s very unusual for boat tours to be canceled at James Bond Island because it’s inside of a large bay that protects it from rough waves coming from the sea.

We witnessed some big storms in the rainy season, but these were usually in the evenings when we were back at our hotel, so it wasn’t a problem. Most of the pictures in this James Bond Island travel guide were actually taken in July, during the rainy season.

We’ve visited Phang Nga Bay in the dry season and also in the rainy season, on separate trips. In both cases, we had an amazing time and the weather was mostly great for weeks.

So in conclusion, there’s really no bad time to visit James Bond Island!

One of our first times visiting James Bond Island Thailand!

What To Bring To Phang Nga Bay

Here are some packing suggestions for your visit to James Bond Island Thailand:

• Waterproof Bag . Essential for keeping your electronics safe on the boats around Ko Ta Pu and Koh Hong island. I brought a 30 liter bag and was able to fit my drone, tablet, camera, phone, and a bunch of other stuff inside. Everything was kept dry, even when I took the bag swimming a few times!
• Waterproof Phone Pouch . Same as above, but these are for your phone only. Great if you don’t have other electronics and just need something small to protect your phone.
• Sunscreen. There is usually some shade in the speedboats and longtail boats, but you can still get roasted while swimming or walking on the beach at Ko Ta Pu, so you’ll want to bring a hat and sunscreen for the boat tours.
• Snacks & Drinks. You might want to pack some snacks and drinks in the boat when touring the islands. You can bring these from Phuket or Krabi. There are also snacks and drinks available to buy in the national park, but the prices are higher.

See the tiny boat in the bottom left corner?

Can You Fly A Drone At Phang Nga Bay?

Yes and no. Thailand is pretty relaxed about drones, and you can fly them in most of the islands, but you aren’t allowed to fly in the national parks.

That includes James Bond Island, which is patrolled by park rangers who will fine you if you’re caught flying a drone. They’re especially strict there, and the rangers are watching all areas of the island constantly.

However, if you’re discreet it’s still possible to fly from other locations in or near the bay. The best place to do this is at the Samet Nangshe Viewpoint , which has great visibility of Phang Nga Bay. You’ll still want to be considerate and only fly in places where it won’t bother people, of course.  

Other Tips For Phang Nga Bay

• Bathrooms: There are bathrooms on James Bond Island, although you may have to pay a small fee in Thai baht (bring some cash for that). If you book the tour with a big wooden boat, those also have toilets in the boat, although the Thai longtail boats and speedboats usually do not.
• Cell Service: We had good phone reception on the boat while touring all over Phang Nga Bay, but you may lose signal when you go ashore on James Bond Island because of the steep mountains surrounding Ko Ta Pu.
• Mosquitoes: We didn’t really see any mosquitoes in Phang Nga Bay or James Bond Island, but you can buy bug repellent in Phuket, Krabi, or other places in Thailand if you want it. Malaria isn’t present in this area.

Phang Nga Bay as seen from Samet Nangshe

Phi Phi Or James Bond Island: Which Is Better?

So which is better, Phi Phi or James Bond Island? That’s an important question.

They’re both great, but I have to say Phi Phi island is better. No offense to James Bond island, but Phi Phi has the best scenery above and below the ocean, with clear blue water and lots of fish and coral to see while snorkeling or scuba diving.

There’s also more to see and do in Phi Phi overall. Even if you don’t care about snorkeling, it’s hard to beat Maya Bay , Pileh Lagoon, and the other epic sights in the Phi Phi islands. They are truly world class.

Don’t get me wrong, Phang Nga Bay is still amazing and you should definitely see James Bond island if you’re able. Try to see both Phi Phi and James Bond if you have time! Unfortunately you can’t see them both in one day since they’re located in opposite directions from Phuket (north vs south), but it’s possible to see both places in two days!

Read More: Phi Phi Island

Phi Phi Island is another amazing day tour near Phuket Thailand

Is James Bond Island Worth It?

Yes, James Bond Island is absolutely worth it in my book! There is loads of amazing scenery in Phang Nga Bay, and the prices for everything are very affordable.

In spite of the crowds, this is still one of the best day trips in Thailand, and it’s very accessible because of its location between Phuket and Krabi.  

Phuket Hotels

Katathani Resort

The Sea Galleri

Tea Tree Resort

Peranakan Boutique

More Thailand Travel Guides

Thanks for looking! I hope you enjoyed this travel guide for Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island Thailand.

Don’t forget to check out my complete Thailand travel guide for more tips on Phuket, Krabi, Koh Tao, and the other Thai islands.

Happy travels!  

• Samet Nangshe Viewpoint – Best Sunrise Spot In Thailand
• Phi Phi Island Travel Guide – Best Things To Do In The Koh Phi Phi Islands
• Maya Bay Thailand – What To Expect On The Beach
• Thailand Travel Guide – Info, Pictures, & Blog

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Honest Travellers

Honest travel tips & stories

All you need to know about Phang Nga Bay boat tour

One of the most recommended activities to do while in Phuket is island hopping. There are many tour operators that offer boat tours to Phi Phi Island or the famous James Bond island. While these two popular options for day trips are both worth doing, we only had time to do one during our week in Phuket.

We weren’t sure which one to pick so we approached one of the many stalls on the street in front of Patong Beach. The saleswoman recommended Phang Nga Bay boat tour since the sea is calmer in the bay, even in bad weather, compared with Phi Phi Islands that are out at sea. The weather forecast was not very promising for the day of our trip and Andre suffers from sea-sickness, so we took her advice and booked a trip for the next day with Sea Star Andaman . 

The tour was all inclusive of pick-up and drop off in a minivan, all the entries to the islands, experiences like kayaking or snorkeling, breakfast, lunch, water and snacks on the boat. At $65 pp we found the package very reasonable.

Phang Nga Bay Boat Tour Itinerary

We were picked up by a private min-van from our hotel, Banyan Tree , early in the morning and drove for about an hour to the other side of the island to start the boat tour. After an initial briefing and breakfast, we boarded a speed boat which takes around 20 people. 

The Phang Nga Bay boat tour lasted around 8 hours and took us to the most interesting attractions in the area.

• Panak Island, where you board a canoe with a local guide that will bring you inside the island lagoon
• James Bond Island, made famous by 007 movie “The Man with the Golden Gun”
• Puddle Rock and cave paintings
• Hong island 
• Panyee island, the suspended muslim village
• Khai island, where you can do snorkeling or simply relax at the beach

We really liked the canoeing experience around and inside the island. It gives visitors a unique point of view, being in close contact with nature. 

The James Bond island is quite interesting, with the uniquely shaped vertical rock appearing in the 007 movie. There are few souvenir shops on the island but we found them to be pricey. There is also a cave you can explore by yourself. 

The highlight of the Phang Nga Boat Tour was the suspended muslim village. Built on stilts above the sea-level, its colorful houses are beautiful. We had lunch there and then some free time to buy some souvenirs.  Prices are high but you can bargain for discounts. 

Sea Star Andaman Team

There are many tour companies in Phuket that offer boat trips, so we did some research and Sea Star seemed to have good reviews and reasonable rates. We were not disappointed and we would definitely recommend their services. The boats were in good condition, they have their own pier and facilities, and the organization was spot on. The entire staff was polite and attentive. 

In this kind of experience, the guides assigned to you can make a huge difference. Our guides, Coco and Bella, were loads of fun and very helpful, and we highly recommend you to choose their tour if you can. 

They transformed the day trip into a memorable experience we’ll remember fondly. Coco is a great entertainer, with deep knowledge of the area and Bella is a super photographer. She helped us out with many photos and videos.

Formalities

When you arrive at Seastar pier in Leam Nga, you will be asked to do some formalities by following a simple procedure: 

• identify yourself to confirm the booking
• provide copy of your Thai Pass if you haven’t shared it earlier
• pay the agreed price (you can pay by card)
• sign the usual liability form
• take a photo for insurance and authorities approval

While waiting for everybody to complete the paperwork, you can relax and enjoy the complimentary breakfast included in the package.

What to pack for Phang Nga Bay boat tour

The speed boat taking you around is covered, protecting from sun and rain. However, there are periods spent on land, where you’ll be exposed to the weather. 

We recommend you to take with you, at least the following items:

• Sunscreen protection and a hat
• Sea sickness pills (they offer pills before departure if have forgotten yours)
• Waterproof camera or waterproof case for your phone
• Beach footwear
• A beach towel 
• Snorkeling gear
• Small change to buy souvenirs
• Copy of your Thai Pass

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Secrets Of Phang Nga Bay Sea Cave Canoe Tour From Phuket

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Kayaking Tour From Phuket - Sea Canoe Tour Details

Max People On This Boat Trip – 20 people

Availability: Please Get In Touch With Us For An Up To Date Availability

NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED. Full payment on the day, accepted in cash or credit card. But hey, if you prefer to pay in advance, we won’t say no. 😉 *conditions applied*

Who would love this kayaking trip from Phuket? If you are looking to see and do unusual activities while in Phuket and discover untouched places, then this is the trip for you. Enjoy a day out away from overcrowded places, a pleasant sea cave canoe experience, delicious local delicacies, and great wildlife company. The boat trip is suitable for all ages and abilities.

On this kayaking day trip, you will get to visit Elephant Cave, Mangrove Forest, James Bond Island, Boomerang Hong Island, Phanak Island and hidden lagoons.

If you have very small children you can bring a stroller aboard for them to sleep in.

If you are looking for a private charter, please drop us a message here for more prices and information. 

Departure & Return Location

Ao Por Public Pier ( Google Map )

Pickup Time from your Hotel

7.00 AM in the Lobby

Price Includes

• Transfers from anywhere in Phuket
• National Park Fees
• Light Breakfast (Our Meals Are Halal)
• Lunch (Our Meals Are Halal)
• Water, Soft Drinks, Snacks

Price Excludes

• Alcoholic Beverages (beer is available at 80 Baht a can)

Pricing effective Aug 1, 2018

• Adult: 4,400 Baht
• Child (4-14 years old): 2,000 Baht
• Infants (3 and younger): FREE

RESERVE YOUR SPOT - DON'T MISS OUT ON THIS TRIP

Boat trip itinerary.

Please note: It is not necessary to get up before dawn to see the best of the bay without crowds. With our many years’ experience in the bay, and by avoiding tourist hot spots like James Bond Island, we know we can provide you with a great day out without a very early start to the day.

• 7.00 am pick up (depending upon the location of your resort).
• 8.30 am, at our office in Ao Por. Register for the tour, meet your guide, sort any payment issues, light breakfast and toilet break. Leave for Phang Nga Bay.
• Canoe through the mangrove forest at a quiet location no other tour boats visit.
• Visit the Elephant Cave with dramatic and beautiful stalagmite and stalactite formations.
• Have lunch as we cruise by James Bond Island, and take your photos with the iconic rock. We do not go ashore on this trip as the island is too crowded during the day.
• Visit another island, maybe the Boomerang Hong, for canoeing through a beautiful landscape or swimming and relaxing on the beach. Jumping from the boat if you want.
• Phanak Island. Canoe or walk through a cave to see the hidden lagoon, depending upon the tide. We often see wild monkeys here.
• Arrive back at the pier around 4.30 pm, and return to your resort.

Lunch is a genuine Thai feast , all freshly cooked aboard. Massaman curry, Tom Yum Gai, stir-fried vegetables, green chicken curry, tempura vegetables, steamed rice, and fresh seafood. Platters of fresh local fruit. Chicken and chips are served in the morning to get you going.

For those who wish to take a break from any activities, such as canoeing, it is fine to relax on a boat, enjoy a few refreshments and soak up the beautiful scenery. You can take your time to enjoy the tour the way you want to.

Please note: The program on the day of your tour will depend upon the weather and tide. The description herein is the tour we most often provide our guests, but there may be variations on the day.

Highlights of this boat trip are:

• Very smooth ride
• Caves and lagoons
• Lunch on the boat
• View James Bond Island

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