CONFESSIONS OF A POP TART

Next step was to stop under some sheer cliffs and go snorkelling. It looked and on seeing the size and colour of some of these creatures, decided that erring on the side of caution was the best plan of action!

Whilst we could hear a storm rattling around the bay, we were all quite surprised at the speed that it hit. Fortunately, we were on the leeward side of Ko Kai island but, despite the roof, it was a scramble to place everything in the dry bag. Our Captain was unfazed and decided to go swimming- I guess

Ko Kai is dominated by a rather curiously shaped natural rock chimney shaped a little like a chicken’s head, hence the name Chicken Island. Almost as a signal from the weather gods, lightning struck the chicken head, and some sizable lumps of rock could be seen falling into the sea. A reminder as to how fragile the ecology is here.

When the rain stopped and the skies cleared our captain offered us an extra excursion with a visit to Koh Ya Wa was a small, idyllic cove with a beach where boats were allowed to stop. The water was warm and clear - this was more our style of island! After this enjoyable stop we then re-traced our route across the bay back to Ao Nang.

was an enjoyable trip. However I found the choice of some of the islands we visited quite poor especially due to the high tide. When taking a private boat trip like this you can before my next trip I will certainly research some alternative islands to cruise around. We did love the spectacular views though!.

To read more from Kim go to his website meaderingtales.com.