Most tourists get herded onto awful speedboat tours from Chalong, but Bangrong Pier up north has proper long-tail boats to Phang Nga Bay without crowds. Same limestone cliffs, no competing with 50 other boats.

Bus from Phuket Terminal: 40 thb hourly from 8am, or taxi 600 thb. Long-tail boats 2000-2500 thb whole boat (up to 6 people) so split it. They'll take you to Koh Panyee floating village and hidden lagoons speedboats can't access.

Book directly with captains at pier. Better prices, customize your route. Avoid hotel tour desks.