Guide to Longtail Boats

Longtail boats -- fast, colorful, wooden boats with outboard motors, are used all over Thailand. You'll find longtail boats on rivers and canals as well as in the open sea. Here's what you need to know about them.

Longtail boats got their name because they have long drive shafts that stick out from the back of the boat and into the water, sort of like tails.

Longtails, whether for rivers or the open sea, are almost always made of wood with plank seating across the hull.

In certain parts of Thailand, longtail boats are used as commuter boats and there is a set fare from one place to another.

If you are using a longtail boat for sightseeing or island hopping, you will have to negotiate a price with the boat captain.

Smaller longtail boats often do not have life preservers on board. Ask for one.

Longtail boats are very sensitive to weight distribution and movement. Be careful boarding as these boats can be very wobbly. Sit where you are instructed to sit and try to keep movement to a minimum while you're on the boat.