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How to Choose Between Longtail Boat and Speedboat in Phuket

Written by: Sunee Khamlue Published On Jul 02, 2025

Traditional longtail boat and modern speedboat floating near a Phuket island

{"time":1751435737225,"blocks":[{"id":"PFdciDf9PZ","type":"header","data":{"text":"How to Choose Between Longtail Boat and Speedboat in Phuket","level":1}},{"id":"AS493Yw7Zf","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Phuket offers some of the most breathtaking boat trips in Thailand, from visiting the iconic Phi Phi Islands to discovering hidden lagoons and secret beaches. But before you book, one big decision awaits: should you choose a longtail boat or a speedboat?<\/strong>"}},{"id":"3Td4t7tLfr","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know to make the right choice for your travel style, budget, and expectations. We'll also explore featured tours and share insider tips to help you plan an unforgettable day on the water."}},{"id":"0q5kh5uC4I","type":"delimiter","data":{}},{"id":"pv7P1rvr3O","type":"header","data":{"text":"What Are Longtail Boats and Speedboats?","level":2}},{"id":"G0K4WTK-XI","type":"header","data":{"text":"Longtail Boats: The Traditional Choice","level":3}},{"id":"hrVDjjN60k","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Longtail boats are the iconic wooden boats powered by a car engine mounted on a long propeller shaft. They are deeply rooted in Thai culture and commonly used by locals for fishing and transport."}},{"id":"Supb0EiSnQ","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","items":[{"content":"Style","items":[]},{"content":"Capacity","items":[]},{"content":"Speed","items":[]},{"content":"Best For","items":[]}]}},{"id":"oIWsjhA3vS","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Taking a longtail boat gives you an authentic Thai experience. You can hear the splash of waves against the hull, feel the breeze, and enjoy a slower pace that allows you to truly absorb the surroundings. These boats are also very photogenic, making them a favorite among travel influencers and couples seeking romantic backdrops. They're perfect for sunrise or sunset trips around less-traveled islands."}},{"id":"9LIdm5d4ck","type":"header","data":{"text":"Speedboats: The Modern Alternative","level":3}},{"id":"v5lLI9UXLY","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Speedboats are fast, sleek vessels designed for quick island hopping and covering longer distances. With fiberglass hulls and powerful engines, they allow travelers to cover multiple locations in a single day."}},{"id":"SwBjcKgEhU","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","items":[{"content":"Style","items":[]},{"content":"Capacity","items":[]},{"content":"Speed","items":[]},{"content":"Best For","items":[]}]}},{"id":"aWjV-N4uii","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Speedboats are ideal for those who want efficiency and comfort. They usually include amenities like cushioned seating, refreshments, onboard staff, and modern navigation. Many travelers prefer them for day trips to islands farther from Phuket, such as Phi Phi or Similan. Because of their speed, they\u2019re also great for avoiding crowds by reaching popular destinations early in the day."}},{"id":"KOxxl6vmX5","type":"delimiter","data":{}},{"id":"LlVW73D4zd","type":"header","data":{"text":"Longtail vs Speedboat: Side-by-Side Comparison","level":2}},{"id":"T3noS2JRrT","type":"table","data":{"withHeadings":true,"stretched":false,"content":[["Feature","Longtail Boat","Speedboat"],["Speed<\/strong>","Slow and scenic","Fast, can cover more islands"],["Comfort<\/strong>","Open air, limited shade","Covered, cushioned seats"],["Cost<\/strong>","Budget to mid-range","Mid-range to premium"],["Group Size<\/strong>","Best for 2\u20136 people","Ideal for larger groups (up to 45)"],["Noise Level<\/strong>","Louder (engine mounted at the back)","Quieter, smoother ride"],["Accessibility<\/strong>","Easier to dock on shallow beaches","May require piers or floating platforms"],["Photogenic Factor<\/strong>","Highly photogenic and unique","Modern and functional"],["Eco-Friendliness<\/strong>","Varies (some are low emission)","Less fuel-efficient at high speeds"]]}},{"id":"19Wsonujkk","type":"delimiter","data":{}},{"id":"aJDQoJf7KC","type":"header","data":{"text":"Best Experiences by Boat Type","level":2}},{"id":"hdsj90viAh","type":"header","data":{"text":"Top Longtail Boat Tours in Phuket","level":3}},{"id":"rvxGxc3xfp","type":"header","data":{"text":"Super-S Luxury Longtail Boat Charter","level":4}},{"id":"TVadrl65iY","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/app.tripcart.com\/storage\/YTlKTGtDRHBxeml2REpsNFNsYkxrYmc4SXl1djlmT0NBMm1nNVQxc1hvcz0\/SgGcWxY0A2wIJWVH2yZWqlYjhFGwHAQeOhQsWB2o.webp","caption":"The Super-S luxury longtail boat offers an exclusive and scenic journey to Coral Island, blending traditional charm with modern comfort.","alt":"Luxury longtail boat Super-S cruising toward Coral Island","width":1063,"height":709,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"iDDjp2ChDM","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"A premium version of the traditional longtail boat, Super-S offers comfort upgrades like sunshades, soft cushions, and professional guides."}},{"id":"mKSjVS-_F0","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","items":[{"content":"Destinations","items":[]},{"content":"Perfect For","items":[]},{"content":"Why Choose It?","items":[]}]}},{"id":"RQ-XcvNvM4","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"\ud83d\udc49 <a href=\"https:\/\/phukettravelstore.com\/tour\/luxury-longtail-boat-charter-super-s\/\">Book the Super-S Longtail Tour<\/a>"}},{"id":"KnKAV6AHf3","type":"header","data":{"text":"James Bond Island Longtail Tour","level":4}},{"id":"3sJbDCF81p","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/app.tripcart.com\/storage\/YTlKTGtDRHBxeml2REpsNFNsYkxrYmc4SXl1djlmT0NBMm1nNVQxc1hvcz0\/7dqD7CZ7N5A2m0RA9Yla3xJlnjpYNrfiiTnh0duB.webp","caption":"Experience iconic Phang Nga Bay aboard the Super-F longtail boat \u2014 a stylish and comfortable way to visit James Bond Island without the crowds.","alt":"Super-F luxury longtail boat approaching James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay","width":1063,"height":709,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"dTS94e1-kg","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Visit the famous limestone cliffs of Phang Nga Bay aboard a longtail boat. Avoid the crowds and enjoy personalized service."}},{"id":"eVwEG4WQek","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","items":[{"content":"Destinations","items":[]},{"content":"Ideal For","items":[]}]}},{"id":"JsrdumYikS","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"\ud83d\udc49 <a href=\"https:\/\/phukettravelstore.com\/tour\/luxury-longtail-boat-charter-super-f\/\">Explore the James Bond Island Tour<\/a>"}},{"id":"nQ0_GupIFq","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Longtail boats are also used for fishing experiences and hidden beach tours, perfect for those who enjoy quiet, off-the-beaten-path adventures."}},{"id":"seJxhxpSEx","type":"delimiter","data":{}},{"id":"ZPy5nsesN1","type":"header","data":{"text":"Top Speedboat Tours in Phuket","level":3}},{"id":"nloF9UgzEZ","type":"header","data":{"text":"Phi Phi &amp; Bamboo Island Speedboat Tour","level":4}},{"id":"yfmKmTwq5a","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/app.tripcart.com\/storage\/YTlKTGtDRHBxeml2REpsNFNsYkxrYmc4SXl1djlmT0NBMm1nNVQxc1hvcz0\/lUmiges1TomYfVYjB9QANBK1CHVKB6J3WG46DDza.webp","caption":"A speedboat arrives at the shores of Phi Phi Islands\u2014offering fast access to Thailand\u2019s most iconic island paradise.","alt":"Speedboat docked at a tropical beach near Phi Phi Islands with turquoise water and lush greenery","width":768,"height":512,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"Vol59tm0ch","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"A fast-paced tour that covers the best of Phi Phi, including snorkeling at Bamboo Island and Maya Bay."}},{"id":"nS-92GslKn","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","items":[{"content":"Destinations","items":[]},{"content":"Perfect For","items":[]},{"content":"Why Choose It?","items":[]}]}},{"id":"Mdonhe3h0H","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"\ud83d\udc49 <a href=\"https:\/\/phukettravelstore.com\/tour\/similan-island-tour-the-early-bird\/\">Explore the Phi Phi Speedboat Tour<\/a>"}},{"id":"UBPMDhbmWT","type":"header","data":{"text":"Similan Islands Speedboat Tour","level":4}},{"id":"ujdgncT136","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/app.tripcart.com\/storage\/YTlKTGtDRHBxeml2REpsNFNsYkxrYmc4SXl1djlmT0NBMm1nNVQxc1hvcz0\/z8rVhIDODO9mWRxnOFOEVyCeMKkb4yaoUyRvASgb.webp","caption":"A high-speed journey to the Similan Islands\u2014ideal for snorkelers and adventure seekers looking to explore Thailand\u2019s top marine paradise in comfort.","alt":"Speedboat gliding across turquoise waters en route to the Similan Islands","width":1063,"height":797,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"UpzF1PGyx6","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Perfect for snorkeling lovers, this speedboat tour takes you to some of the clearest waters and best coral reefs in Thailand."}},{"id":"5Ahv0tQr2k","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","items":[{"content":"Highlights","items":[]}]}},{"id":"kNZLb6I2lf","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"\ud83d\udc49 <a href=\"https:\/\/phukettravelstore.com\/tour\/similan-island-tour-the-early-bird\/\">Book the Similan Islands Tour<\/a>"}},{"id":"TC4T4-JYfQ","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Speedboats also operate full-day luxury tours, such as private charters and VIP island hopping with gourmet meals and onboard guides."}},{"id":"mppEwQbKKu","type":"delimiter","data":{}},{"id":"_UavUcX1yQ","type":"header","data":{"text":"When to Choose a Longtail Boat","level":2}},{"id":"gWcECycSce","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","items":[{"content":"You're seeking a ","items":[]},{"content":"You want ","items":[]},{"content":"You're exploring ","items":[]},{"content":"You prefer a ","items":[]},{"content":"You appreciate ","items":[]},{"content":"You're traveling during ","items":[]}]}},{"id":"7Q7G_n93KH","type":"header","data":{"text":"When to Choose a Speedboat","level":2}},{"id":"mibao-H5LH","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","items":[{"content":"You want to ","items":[]},{"content":"You're ","items":[]},{"content":"You're short on time but want maximum coverage","items":[]},{"content":"You want to reach ","items":[]},{"content":"You prefer ","items":[]},{"content":"You're prone to ","items":[]}]}},{"id":"4uNOj2hB9V","type":"delimiter","data":{}},{"id":"r_Z4KJ-pJg","type":"header","data":{"text":"Insider Tip: Mix Both!","level":2}},{"id":"-lCQWaxb-m","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"For a well-rounded experience, book a speedboat tour<\/strong> for island hopping and a longtail boat<\/strong> for a relaxed half-day at a quieter spot. Phuket Travel Store offers customizable packages to combine both."}},{"id":"tsfGPbG0BW","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"For example, you could explore the Phi Phi Islands by speedboat in the morning and enjoy a sunset tour to Hong Island by longtail boat in the evening. This allows you to experience the thrill of speed and the beauty of tradition in one day."}},{"id":"kL5WnzO3CO","type":"delimiter","data":{}},{"id":"WiK3tV9gaD","type":"header","data":{"text":"Final Thoughts","level":2}},{"id":"6oxQve0-Uh","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Choosing between a longtail boat and a speedboat in Phuket comes down to your travel priorities<\/strong>. If you crave speed, convenience, and covering more islands, speedboats win. But if you seek charm, intimacy, and traditional vibes, a longtail boat offers a memorable experience that feels like a scene from a postcard."}},{"id":"zMjwMhkWgj","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Whether you\u2019re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, Phuket Travel Store provides a wide selection of both longtail and speedboat tours to suit your dream adventure. Every trip is operated with licensed guides, safety equipment, and local knowledge."}},{"id":"PkxdSXaLaS","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Book early, travel smart, and enjoy the stunning seascapes of southern Thailand in the style that suits you best."}}],"version":"2.31.0-rc.7"}

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