Packing list & etiquette – perfectly prepared for your Krabi boat day

Less is more – but these things should come along:

Expensive jewellery, unnecessary valuables and large suitcases have no place on a speedboat. Glass bottles are impractical too and unwelcome in national parks. Avoid plastic bags and single-use packaging where possible – whatever comes on board has to go back with you.

The captain has the final say on the boat – especially on safety matters such as weather, seating during the ride or swim stops. Sit down and hold on during fast runs. The bow takes the hardest hits in waves.

In Thailand, people often take their shoes off on boats. If in doubt, just ask. Tipping the crew is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service.

Many islands around Krabi lie in marine national parks. The usual rules are: don’t touch or stand on coral, don’t feed fish, don’t take shells, coral or sand, and leave no rubbish. Smoking is banned on many beaches. Violations can result in fines.

An entrance fee is charged for landing on many park islands. Keep your ticket in case it is checked on other islands within the same park.

The sun in Krabi is often underestimated, especially on the water, where the surface reflects extra light and the breeze from the ride hides the heat. Shoulders, neck, the tops of the feet and the backs of the knees get hit hardest while snorkelling.

The best solution is clothing: a long-sleeved UV shirt, light trousers for the ride and a hat with a chin strap. Add reef-safe sunscreen and let it soak in well before swimming. That way you protect your skin and the reef at the same time.

Drink more than you think – at least one to two litres of water per person for half a day, more in the heat. Water is included on many boats, but ask. Light snacks like fruit, nuts or biscuits help against seasickness better than an empty stomach.

Alcohol and swimming don’t mix well. The sunset beer tastes best once the last snorkel is over.

Ask other guests and the crew before filming them. Drones must be registered in Thailand, and national parks often have additional rules – agree on flights with the captain in advance so take-off and landing go safely.

Fishing villages like Koh Panyee are predominantly Muslim. Cover shoulders and knees when walking through the village and don’t wear swimwear there. Ask before photographing people. At places like Phra Nang Cave the same applies: touch nothing, take nothing.