Where do James Bond Island tours depart from in Phuket?

James Bond Island tours from Phuket typically depart from several main piers on the island’s east coast:

1.     Royal Phuket Marina – A popular and upscale departure point often used for speedboat tours to Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island.

2.     Ao Po Grand Marina – Located in the northeast of Phuket, this marina is commonly used for both private charters and group tours by speedboat.

3.     Seastar Pier (Leam Nga Pier) – A frequently used departure point for both big boat and speedboat tours, known for its organized tour operations.

4.     Ao Makham Deep Sea Port – Mainly used by cruise ship passengers for shore excursions, including James Bond Island tours.

Most tour operators include hotel pickup from major areas around Phuket, such as Patong, Karon, Kata, and Phuket Town, and transport guests to one of these departure points.

Top Tips for Visiting James Bond Island in 2025

Visiting James Bond Island (Ko Tapu) in Phang Nga Bay, Thailand, is an unforgettable experience. Here are the top tips to make the most of your trip:

1. Go Early or Late

Avoid crowds by visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Most tour boats arrive mid-morning to midday, so timing your visit helps you enjoy the scenery peacefully.

2. Choose the Right Tour

Private boat tours are pricier but offer flexibility and fewer crowds. Group tours (longtail boats or speedboats) are cheaper and usually include lunch and stops at other islands like Koh Panyee or sea caves.

3. Dress for Water & Sun

Wear quick-drying clothes and bring a swimsuit if kayaking or swimming. Use reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses—the sun can be intense.

4. Try Sea Canoeing

Kayaking through the nearby limestone caves and hidden lagoons (like in Hong Island) is a highlight. It’s often included in tours and gives you a close-up of the stunning karst formations.

5. Respect the Environment

Don’t litter or touch wildlife. The area is a protected marine national park. Avoid buying items made from coral or shells.

6. Bring Cash

Some tours stop at Koh Panyee, a floating village with food and souvenirs. Small local stalls on James Bond Island also sell trinkets and drinks, but credit cards are rarely accepted.

7. Be Prepared for a Quick Stop

Most tours don’t spend long on the island—around 30 minutes is typical. Use that time to explore, take photos, and soak in the scenery.

 

James Bond Island in the Rain or Shine?

Phang Nga Bay Weather Conditions

The tropical marine climate of Phuket, Krabi and Phang Nga Bay can be split into two distinct seasons: sunny and rainy (also widely referred to as the high and low seasons). 

This is the key information to know about the different weather conditions for your visit:

High Season – Sunny, Warm and Fun

High season runs from November until April and the weather is pretty darn nice with lots of sun and temperatures of 32°C or 90 °F. It rains a lot less so more people visit to enjoy the sunshine and tour James Bond Island. The main downsides are the higher hotel prices and larger crowds.

Low Season – Rainy, Warm and Fun

Low season starts from May until October and there’s no denying that the rains increase quite a bit. However, some days have heavy downpours while other days get only a few drops. If there is a storm then tour operators will wait until the sky clears up first so just keep your schedule flexible.

Conclusion – Visit in Rainy or Sunny Season?

Any time of year is good to visit James Bond Island as long as you check the weather forecasts and plan your trip sensibly. If you’re on a budget and prefer to avoid larger crowds then rainy season is absolutely a suitable option.

Have a great time visiting James Bond Island!

How to Visit James Bond Island from Krabi

Taking a day trip to James Bond Island and Phang Nga Bay is an increasingly popular option for visitors at the beautiful beach resorts in Krabi.

The tours run all year round and are easy to book once you arrive and are ready to explore a little more of Thailand. Here’s all you need to know to for a top trip:

Krabi to James Bond Island Tour 101

How Far is Krabi from Phang Nga Bay?

The total distance is 60 miles by road and boat between Krabi and James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay. Great views and scenery all the way.

What is the Tour Duration and Transfer Time?

Tours from Krabi are usually a full day trip lasting 8 hours. They usually start at 8am when you are picked up at the hotel by air-conditioned minivan or bus and return by around 5pm in the evening.

How Much Do Island Tours from Krabi Cost?

Tickets for a traditional longtail boat tour can be purchased at your hotel or nearby travel agents 1 to 2 days in advance at a cost of 1,300 to 1,400 Thai Baht ($40 to $45 US dollars per person).

What Sights Will You See on Your Day Trip?

Most itineraries take you from Krabi through the countryside to Ao Phang Nga National Park, the most impressive marine area in Thailand due to the vast bay with its many islands, lagoons and awesome limestone formations.

From Phang Nga Pier the boat departs for a scenic cruise by the mangroves then exploring Lot Noi Sea Cave at Thalu Island (also possible kayaking).

This is followed by lunch at the floating fishing village at Koh Panyee Island or directly to the top attraction famously dubbed ‘James Bond Island’ (aka Khao Ping Khan and Koh Tapu Islands).

Before heading back to Krabi many tours include a stop to experience Wat Suwankuha Temple, which has been nicknamed the ‘Monkey Cave’ after the proliferation of (relatively) tame monkeys tourists can buy food for and take photos of.

Then it’s time to return to Krabi with a day full of unforgettable memories.

Have a great time visiting James Bond Island!

What To Pack For James Bond Island Tour

If you are planning a visit to James Bond Island then there are some important things to consider packing for your upcoming trip.

Whether you decide to take a tour to the islands in Phang Nga Bay by speedboat, kayak, junk or longtail boat these are the essential items you should bring to ensure your visit is a smooth and comfortable experience.

James Bond Island Packing List

1. Bottle of Sun Lotion (spray-on is best, factor 40)
2. Decent Pair of Shades (be cool, don’t squint)
3. Bathing Suit (no skinny dipping allowed...)
4. Hat or Cap (to protect from the sun and/or rain) 
5. Change of Clothes (in case you get wet)
6. Energy Drink (it is usually an early start)
7. Phone or Camera (do try not to drop in the sea)
8. Backpack (ideally water resistant or splash proof)
9. Medication (there’s no hospitals in the ocean)
10. Big Smile and Sense of Fun (no grumpy please!)

Pack well and have a great time at James Bond Island!