How long is the James Bond Island tour?

Most full-day tours last between **7 to 10 hours**, depending on your itinerary and chosen departure time. Some sunset or bioluminescent tours may return a little later in the evening.

Do tours include hotel pickup and drop-off?

Yes, **round-trip hotel transfers from Phuket** are included in all tours.

Can I bring young children or elderly travelers?

This tour is **not recommended for infants under 1 year, seniors over 65**, or anyone with recent surgery, bone conditions, heart issues, or respiratory concerns. Check with your doctor if unsure.

What should I wear or bring?

Wear **light, quick-dry clothing** and bring **swimwear, a change of clothes, beach shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses**, and a **towel**. A **dry bag** and waterproof phone case are also useful.

Are meals included in the tour price?

Yes. Depending on the tour, you’ll get a **Thai buffet lunch**, **sunset seafood dinner**, or **canapés and snacks** onboard. **Halal and vegetarian options** are available on most tours.

Do I need to know how to swim?

Not necessarily. **Life jackets are provided**, and canoeing is done with trained guides. If you're joining swimming activities, basic water confidence is helpful.

Are National Park fees included?

Yes, all the tours listed here **include National Park fees** in the price—no need to carry extra cash for that.

Will we enter the actual James Bond Island cave?

You'll visit **Khao Phing Kan and Ko Ta Pu**, the famous filming site. However, cave access may vary based on tides and safety conditions.

Are tours available year-round?

Yes, but **November to April** offers the best weather. Tours still operate during the wet season, but itineraries may adjust for safety.

Is there a guide on board?

Yes, all tours include an **English-speaking guide**, and some also offer **Chinese-speaking guides** depending on the operator.

James Bond Island Tours | Best Day Trips from Phuket

What to expect on your James Bond Island tour

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Easy hotel transfers

Start your day hassle-free with convenient round-trip transport from your Phuket hotel to the pier.

Scenic boat ride through Phang Nga Bay

Sail across emerald waters surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs, with photo-worthy views at every turn.

Visit the iconic site

Step onto James Bond Island (Khao Phing Kan) and admire Ko Tapu, the slender rock featured in The Man with the Golden Gun.

Canoeing and cave exploration

Glide through Panak or Hong Island’s lagoons and sea caves, guided by experts who paddle while you take in the scenery.

Cultural and scenic stops

Depending on your tour, visit Koh Panyee floating village for a Thai lunch or unwind at Naka or Lawa Island with swimming and beach time.

Unique tour options

Choose between a full-day big boat adventure, a bioluminescent speedboat tour, or a luxury catamaran sunset cruise with dinner.

Return in comfort

End your trip with a relaxing cruise back to the pier and an easy hotel drop-off after a day of sightseeing, adventure, and great food.

Choose your boat to explore Phang Nga Bay

Big boat

Speed & style: Steady and relaxed
Comfort level: Spacious decks with shaded seating
Best for: Families and groups
What to expect: A smooth cruise with plenty of room to move around, buffet lunch on board, and scenic views of Phang Nga Bay’s cliffs and caves.

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Speedboat

Speed & style: Fast and efficient
Comfort level: Padded seating and smaller groups
Best for: Time-conscious and active travelers
What to expect: Quick transfers between islands, early arrivals at top spots, and more time for swimming, canoeing, and sightseeing.

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Longtail boat

Speed & style: Traditional and slow-paced
Comfort level: Simple, open-air seating
Best for: Small groups and culture seekers
What to expect: A classic Thai boating experience that lets you glide through mangroves and narrow lagoons with a personal, authentic touch.

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Luxury catamaran

Speed & style: Smooth and upscale
Comfort level: Premium lounges and panoramic decks
Best for: Couples and those seeking comfort
What to expect: A refined cruise featuring sunset views, gourmet meals, and spacious decks designed for relaxation and photo-worthy moments.

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Phang Nga Bay map

Check the detailed map description here

Find your best James Bond Island tour match here

Experience	Duration	Attractions covered	Inclusions	Boat type	Book now
James Bond & Hong Islands Sunset Dinner Cruise	7 hr 30 min	James Bond & Hong Islands	English-speaking guide, hotel transfers, dinner (canapé, Magnum ice cream & seasonal fruits), life jacket, national park fee, & travel insurance	Luxury catamaran	From ฿3,300
James Bond Island & Phang Nga Bay Canoeing Tour	10 hr	James Bond, Hong & Naka Islands, Koh Panyee	English-speaking guide, hotel transfers, buffet lunch (halal), fresh fruits & beverages, snorkeling equipment (life jacket, snorkel & mask), national park fee, & travel insurance	Speedboat	From ฿1,800
James Bond & Hong Islands CanoeingTour	10 hr 40 min	James Bond, Hong & Panak Islands	English/Chinese-speaking guide, hotel transfers, onboard lunch, Thai seafood buffet dinner, life jacket & all safety equipment, national park fee, & travel insurance	Speedboat	From ฿3,805.11
James Bond & Hong Islands Sunset Party Cruise	10 hr	James Bond & Hong Islands	English-speaking guide, hotel transfers, Thai lunch & dinner buffet, free-flow soft drinks, fruits, a shot, life jacket, towel, resident DJ, open-air showers, national park fee, & travel insurance	Luxury catamaran	From ฿4,200
James Bond & Hong Islands Bioluminescent Tour	11 hr 10 min	James Bond, Hong & Panak Islands	English-speaking guide, hotel transfers, Thai light lunch & buffet dinner, life jacket, national park fee, & travel insurance	Escort boat + canoe	From ฿3,280
James Bond & Hong Islands Big Boat Canoeing Tour	7 hr	James Bond, Hong & Panak Islands	English-speaking guide (Mandarin support available), hotel transfers, Thai buffet lunch, fruits & beverages, life jacket & safety equipment, & travel insurance	Big boat	From ฿1,665
James Bond Island Twilight Sea Canoeing Tour	10 hr 30 min	James Bond & Panak Islands	English-speaking guide, hotel transfers, Thai light lunch & buffet dinner, canoe, paddle & life jacket, & national Park fee	Big boat	From ฿3,390

Sights to see on your James Bond Island tour

James Bond Island (Khao Phing Kan & Ko Tapu)

🔥 Popular

These iconic limestone karst formations became world-famous after starring in The Man with the Golden Gun (1974). Towering Ko Tapu rises 20 m above emerald waters.

Ideal time required: ⏱ 30–45 minutes

Best time to visit: 🌤 Morning (before day-trip crowds arrive)

Things to do:
• Hike the short trail on Khao Phing Kan for that perfect Bond-style photo
• Stroll along the sandy beach beneath towering cliffs
• Admire the unique needle-shaped Ko Tapu from multiple viewpoints

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Hong Island

💎 Hidden gem

A serene lagoon hidden behind a narrow cave entrance, a peaceful natural sanctuary in Phang Nga Bay.

Ideal time required: ⏱ 30–45 minutes

Best time to visit: 🌤 Late morning (for bright turquoise waters)

Things to do:
• Kayak through the cave into a calm inner lagoon
• Watch birds nesting along limestone walls
• Enjoy a quiet paddle away from the crowds

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Koh Panyee (Floating Village)

🔥 Popular

A unique stilted Muslim fishing village built entirely over water and home to about 1,600 residents.

Ideal time required: ⏱ 45 minutes–1 hour

Best time to visit: 🌤 Midday to early afternoon

Things to do:
• Stroll along wooden walkways and local shops
• Have lunch at a floating seafood restaurant
• Visit the floating football pitch and village mosque

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Naka Island (Naka Noi or Yai)

💎 Hidden gem

A small island known for its clear waters, sandy beaches, and laid-back vibe, perfect for swimming or relaxing.

Ideal time required: ⏱ 1–2 hours

Best time to visit: 🌤 Afternoon (for swimming and snorkeling)

Things to do:
• Take a refreshing dip in calm turquoise waters
• Snorkel near coral patches close to shore
• Relax under shady palms with sea views

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Ice Cream Cave (Talu Cave)

💎 Hidden gem

A fascinating limestone cavern filled with stalactites resembling dripping ice cream, accessible by canoe.

Ideal time required: ⏱ 20–30 minutes

Best time to visit: 🌤 Morning

Things to do:
• Canoe through the cave’s winding passage
• Admire unusual rock formations and light beams
• Snap photos of the “melting” stone textures

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Panak Island (Diamond & Bat Caves)

💎 Hidden gem

An island of dramatic cliffs and mangrove-lined caves, it is home to Diamond Cave and Bat Cave.

Ideal time required: ⏱ 30–45 minutes

Best time to visit: 🌤 Morning or early afternoon

Things to do:
• Explore sparkling calcite formations inside Diamond Cave
• Spot bats and limestone shapes in the darker chambers
• Look for monkeys along the rocky shoreline

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Talu Island (Thalu Island)

💎 Hidden gem

Known for its needle-like limestone spires and secret paddle-through cave systems.

Ideal time required: ⏱ 30–45 minutes

Best time to visit: 🌤 Late morning

Things to do:
• Canoe through hidden tunnels beneath towering cliffs
• Marvel at natural rock formations and sea arches
• Enjoy peaceful scenery away from busy tour stops

Monkey Cave (Wat Suwan Kuha Temple)

💎 Hidden gem

A cave temple featuring a 15 m golden reclining Buddha and a lively troop of macaques.

Ideal time required: ⏱ 30 minutes

Best time to visit: 🌤 Morning

Things to do:
• View the impressive reclining Buddha inside the grotto
• Observe monkeys around the temple grounds
• Appreciate the cultural and spiritual contrast to the island scenery

Know before you go for your James Bond Island tour

Canoeing tour participant on dock with view of Phang Nga Bay and limestone cliffs, Thailand.

Depending on the tour you choose, you’ll typically spend 7.5 to 11 hours exploring Phang Nga Bay’s key highlights like James Bond Island, Hong Island, and hidden sea caves.
Most tours begin between 7:30am and 12:00pm, with sunset and bioluminescent tours returning as late as 9:30pm.

Best time to visit

Time of day: Early departures are ideal to beat the crowds and enjoy calm waters, while later tours offer stunning sunset views and nighttime canoeing.
Time of week: Weekdays (Monday to Thursday) are typically less crowded than weekends, offering a more peaceful touring experience.
Time of year: The dry season from November to April brings the best weather, with clear skies and calm seas. The shoulder months of May and October are a great alternative for fewer crowds and mild conditions.

Tourists on a boat viewing James Bond Island and Phang Nga Bay, Thailand.

The only way to explore James Bond Island and the surrounding Phang Nga Bay is by boat.

All James Bond Island tours include round-trip hotel transfers from Phuket (and even the airport for some tours), making the whole experience seamless from start to finish. Here’s why opting for a tour with transfers is a no-brainer:

Convenience: Skip the stress of arranging transport—your pickup and drop-off are already taken care of.
Time-saving: Tours ensure you reach the pier on time, without needing to navigate unfamiliar routes or schedules.
Peace of mind: Just focus on enjoying the day. Everything from hotel pickup to the return journey is handled for you.
Local knowledge: With expert coordination, your tour follows the most efficient routes and timing for smooth sailing—literally.

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Applying sunscreen on arm under clear Sydney sky.

James Bond Island tours are not suitable for pregnant women, infants under 1 year, or seniors over 65.
Guests with high blood pressure, heart conditions, asthma, bone diseases, or those who’ve had surgery in the past 1–2 years are not allowed to join.
This tour is not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for those with impaired physical mobility.
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
The itinerary may change based on weather, sea conditions, or local factors.
Be sure to pack swimwear, beach shoes, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, a waterproof phone case, and a change of clothes.
Meal options may vary by tour and season. Some tours offer halal, seafood, or vegetarian-friendly menus.

Traveler tip: Prepare for splashes! Waterproof your gear and dress light for a carefree cruise around the bay.

Thai lunch buffet with a variety of dishes being served by a woman at a restaurant.

All tours include meals and refreshments, but offerings vary depending on your boat type and itinerary. Here’s what you can typically expect:

Speedboat tours usually include a Thai buffet lunch (often halal) onboard, along with fresh fruits, soft drinks, coffee, and tea.
Luxury catamaran tours offer premium experiences like canapés, seasonal fruits, soft drinks, and even Magnum ice cream, with a sunset dinner buffet or light Thai meal depending on the cruise.
Bioluminescent tours include both lunch and a seafood buffet dinner, especially curated to complement the evening’s glowing water experience.
Canoe-based tours typically provide a Thai-style light lunch and buffet dinner, with refreshments served throughout.
Most tours also offer vegetarian and halal-friendly options, but specific menus may vary depending on the season and tour operator.

Snorkeling gear, life jackets, and canoeing equipment are provided, but you’ll want to pack a few personal items for a smooth and comfortable day:

Swimwear
Change of clothes
Beach towel
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Beach shoes or sandals (especially for canoeing or cave visits)
Waterproof phone case (for photos and protection)
Cash (for souvenirs, extra drinks, or park fees if not included)
Hat or cap
Light cover-up (like a sarong or shawl)
Personal medication, if needed

Beach essentials for snorkeling including a hat, towel, sunglasses, flip-flops, and sunscreen.

Time it right: Weekday or mid-morning departures help you avoid the biggest crowds at key spots like James Bond Island and Hong Island.
Carry some cash: Small vendors at places like Koh Panyee may not accept cards, so bring cash for souvenirs, snacks, or drinks.
Be eco-wise: Use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching marine life, and keep sacred sites like Monkey Cave clean and respectful.
Dress the part: Lightweight clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and non-slip waterproof shoes will keep you comfortable throughout the tour.
Prepare for tropical weather: Sudden showers are common, so pack a poncho or a quick-dry top just in case.
Protect your valuables: Bring a dry bag or waterproof phone case to keep your electronics safe during canoeing or boat transfers.
Prevent seasickness: If you’re sensitive to motion, take medication before boarding—especially on speedboat tours.

James Bond Island tour: Your visual guide

Speed boats near limestone cliffs at James Bond Island, Phang Nga, Thailand.

Arriving at James Bond Island (Khao Phing Kan)

Walk across the beach to the iconic viewpoint where Ko Ta Pu rises dramatically from the sea—an unforgettable photo spot from The Man with the Golden Gun.

Kayakers explore limestone caves on James Bond Island, Phuket, during sunset tour.

Buffet spread on yacht with skewers, shrimp, rice, and vegetables for James Bond Sunset Tour, Phuket.

Woman enjoying sunset on yacht deck during James Bond tour from Phuket.

Bioluminescent waves glowing on a beach at night.

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