The most spectacular natural scenery in Thailand
The karst islands of Phang Nga (these limestone sugar loaves which emerge vertically from the water) are listed as part of the natural heritage of South-East Asia. They are home to unique ecosystems: interior mangroves, birds, macaques, protected marine fauna.
The interest of the excursion is not so much James Bond Island itself (3 minutes is enough) as the hidden hongs around it. This is where canoeing really comes into its own: you enter a secret lagoon where no big boat can go.
To prepare well
- Outfit that can get wet (canoe splashes)
- Water shoes (some boardings are on wet sand)
- Hat ++ (little shade in canoe)
- Mosquito repellent for visiting Koh Panyee
- THB cash for paddle tips and possible souvenirs
Our tip: ask your guide for "alternative" hongs (off the classic route). Some paddlers accept a 15-minute detour to a little-known hong if the group agrees — an experience 10x better.
Detailed programme
8h00
Phuket hotel pickup
Shuttle to the Ao Por pontoon (north-east of the island).
9h00
Big boat departure
Navigation towards Phang Nga Bay, stopping at karst islands.
10h00
Canoeing in the hongs
Entrance to the secret lagoon caves, accessible only at low tide.
12h00
Koh Panyee — lunch
Muslim village on stilts, lunch and self-guided tour.
13h30
James Bond Island (Koh Tapu)
The iconic rock from The Man with the Golden Gun, souvenir market.
15h00
Final swim
Stop at Koh Hong beach for swimming.
16h00
Return pontoon + hotel
Disembarkation and return transfer.
Included / Not included
Included
- Phuket hotel transfer ↔ pontoon
- Big boat + inflatable canoes
- Dedicated paddler per canoe (2 pax max per canoe)
- Thai lunch on Koh Panyee
- Phang Nga National Park Fees
- Water, fruit, coffee/tea on board
- English-speaking guide (French-speaking optional)
Not included
- Paddler tips (recommended: 100-200 THB / canoe)
- Alcoholic drinks
- Krabi / Phi Phi return hotel transfer (optional)