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At Andaman Sea Kayak, we take priority in keeping “the HONG” as we found them. To enter the sea caves (the “HONG”) is one of the most beautiful experiences you can imagine. An untouched world, created by nature through millions of year.
You can visit this fantastic PHANG-NGA Bay National Marine Park by boat. The only problem is that you will have to be happy only by seeing these bizarre islands from the distance. With Andaman Sea Kayak it becomes a lot more exciting. You will have the opportunity to explore those islands closer and may be this sound a bit strange, not only outside but inside also. It is a matter of fact that some of them have the hidden lagoon and mangrove swamps inside.
To enter into the sea caves or tunnels, it is almost as a dream and far behind the reality, you feel yourself pretty small. You are driven into silence to the deep respect just like by entering old cathedral, your kayak is slowly turning 360 degrees and all around you see the wonders of nature. Sky-high rocks scrape in blue sky. Pieces of rocks are packed below with thousands of mussels and oysters caressed by the internal tide. You do not observe only naked gray rocks but it’s brilliant.
AO PO Pier (Google Map)
08.30 AM – 19.00 PM
A comfortable air-conditioned minivan will drive you from your PHUKET hotel to AO POR Pier where you will board a cruise ship by 11:00am to take you to PHANG NGA Bay. There the friendly staff will brief you on your sea kayaking adventure.
On the cruise you will pass by breathtakingly beautiful limestone rock formations until you reach HONG Island.
Hop aboard inflatable canoes built for three people. The guide, who sits at the rear and does all the paddling for you.
Explore the many caves and lagoons of this heritage park, taking in spectacular views of HONG Island and PANAK Island and marveling at the beauty of the surrounding nature. ‘HONG’ is the Thai word for ‘room’. These hongs are inland open-air tidal lagoons surrounded by sheer cliffs up to 1000 feet high. The only way in or out is through caves at certain times of the day when the tides are suitable. These lagoons were only recently discovered and must be preserved for future generations to enjoy, therefore all visitors must remain environmentally conscious by respecting the nature accordingly.
Entering into the sea cave is more like a dream than reality. It is normal to feel very small as you travel through or beside these huge rocks. Some tunnels (due the sea tide) are so narrow and low that you must lay down flat to avoid hitting the roof top.
In the caves and tunnels you will see magnificent stalactite, stalagmites and rocks in different colors as you are paddled through in an atmosphere of silent mysticism.
Return back to the cruise ship to enjoy a buffet lunch on board before cruising past KHAO PHING KAN, the popular ‘James Bond Island’. Stop for a refreshing break on a secluded shore and take time to relax on the pristine white-sand beaches. After your paddling adventure, head back to AO POR Pier where your return transfer to the hotel awaits.
9.30-10.30 AM Hotel pick-up by the A/C minibus or bus
11.00 AM Arrive at AO POR pier, north east of PHUKET, Once on the boat, please don’t argue about putting on the life preservers; it’s apparently required by law and the crew will be monitored by officials while at or near the pier. Depart for The National Park PHANG NGA Bay, fun, safety presentation. Inflatable canoes designed for 3 people: the guide, who does all the paddling, sits in the back, with 2 guests in front. 3G or 4G connection coverage in most of the bay.
11.40 AM Cruise to the beach, There will be plenty of drinking water and snacks. This is also a good time to apply that sunscreen. Also a good time to get your “sea legs”, practice walking on the boat This was an opportunity to take out the canoes and paddle for ourselves, or simply to swim on the beach for a bit.
12.20 PM Arrive PHANG-NGA Bay, Paddle and explore the 2 most famous Islands (PANAK Island), enter caves 20-150 m. (dark, long) navigate you through the caves and to the lagoons, show you the monkeys, bats, walking fish, and notable rock formations.
13.30 PM Buffet Lunch served on board included a variety of Thai options and fresh fruit but nothing too spicy, our trip included a drive-by of the iconic James Bond Island, stopping several minutes for a photo opportunity (No visiting due to it always very crowded)
15.30 PM Arrive to HONG Islands, the most popular island is a circle of rocks in to the sea surrounding the lagoon. There are also BBQ Chickens served on the final trip back to the pier.
18.00 PM Arrival AO POR pier and transfer to hotel.
18.30 PM – 19.00 PM Arrival at hotel.
Conditions
*This program is subject to change without prior notice according to the weather and sea conditions.
