Island hopping is one of the most requested add-ons for any Phuket programme, and for travel agents it represents both an upsell opportunity and a potential service failure if the product is poorly managed. The range of options — from packed SIC speedboat tours to private sunset longtail charters — requires careful product selection based on client profile, budget, and group size.
The Core Island Products
Phi Phi Islands (Ko Phi Phi Don and Leh) remain the flagship day excursion from Phuket. By speedboat, the journey takes roughly 45 minutes from Ao Chalong pier. SIC speedboat tours depart daily, typically picking up from hotels around 7:30–8:00 a.m. and returning by 5:00 p.m. These products work well for independent travellers and small groups that don't mind sharing boats with 25–30 other passengers.
For agents wanting to upgrade the experience, private speedboat charters provide dedicated departure times, route flexibility, and a higher comfort level. Private charters for a 10-person speedboat typically run THB 18,000–25,000 per day depending on the vessel size and itinerary complexity.
Phang Nga Bay (James Bond Island) is a half-day or full-day product with distinct appeal. The bay's limestone karsts, sea caves, and floating village at Ko Panyi make it suitable for a broader age range including families and older clients who may find the Phi Phi journey too rough in certain weather conditions. The bay is more sheltered, making it operable more days of the year.
Racha Islands (Ko Racha Yai and Noi) are closer to Phuket and suit half-day programmes. Clear water and established snorkelling sites make these popular for families and cruise-ship day visitors. Transfer time from Chalong is 20–30 minutes.
Similan Islands and Surin Islands require a longer transit (90+ minutes) and are best positioned as liveaboard or overnight products rather than day trips. For dive-oriented clients, these are the premium offering. Dive liveaboards departing from Phuket can be pre-booked through specialist operators at net rates for groups of 4+ divers.
Pricing Structure for Travel Agents
Agents should understand the three pricing tiers in this market:
1. SIC (Seat-in-Coach / Shared) tours — THB 1,200–1,800 per person retail. Net to agents typically 20–25% below retail depending on volume agreement. 2. Private day charters — THB 15,000–35,000 per boat depending on vessel class, duration, and fuel surcharges. Best value for groups of 8+. 3. Luxury private yacht/catamaran — THB 40,000–80,000 per vessel per day for sailing catamarans or motor yachts. Luxury and celebrations clients and honeymooners are the primary market.
Weather and Seasonal Considerations
The Andaman Sea has two distinct seasons. November through April is the dry season — calm seas, reliable visibility, and consistent speedboat operations. May through October brings the southwest monsoon: Phi Phi and Similan tours are frequently cancelled or modified, and operators sometimes issue full-day cancellations with little notice.
For summer departures, agents should flag to clients that specific island excursions cannot be guaranteed, and build in alternative activity plans. Phang Nga Bay is more sheltered and cancels less frequently. Transfers and transport logistics to piers also need weather contingency planning.
B2B Booking Lead Times
SIC tours can usually be confirmed 48–72 hours in advance outside peak season. December through February peak season requires 5–7 days minimum for SIC and 10–14 days for private charters.
Visit https://www.explera.co.th for current island product sheets with net rate schedules available for qualified travel trade partners.
