A Complete Look at the Snorkeling 5 Island Tour Around Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan
Imagine a full day of swimming in crystal-clear waters, floating over vibrant coral reefs, and spotting sea turtles and tiny sharks, all included in a well-organized, affordable package. For about $26.57 per person, you can join a 7-hour adventure that takes you to six of Koh Tao’s best snorkeling spots, with hotel pickup, lunch, and all gear included. This tour is ideal for those wanting to explore the marine life and stunning scenery without the hassle of planning logistics themselves.
What we really appreciate about this trip is the convenience — with transfers from your hotel and the chance to snorkel at multiple sites, you can focus on enjoying the water rather than worrying about transportation or gear. Plus, the lunch and fresh fruit add a tasty break to the day. On the flip side, keep in mind that entry to Nang Yuan Island costs an additional 250 THB per adult, which is worth considering if you’re on a tight budget.
This tour suits travelers who love marine environments, want a hassle-free experience, and value good food and friendly guides. It’s especially popular among first-time visitors to Koh Tao or families, as reviews consistently praise the helpful staff and the variety of snorkeling locations. If you’re after a relaxed, well-organized day with plenty of chances to see sea turtles and vibrant fish, this could be a perfect fit.
Key Points
- All-inclusive convenience: Transfers, gear, lunch, and drinks are covered, making it simple to relax and enjoy.
- Multiple snorkeling sites: You’ll visit Mango Bay, Hin Wong Bay, Aow Leuk Beach, Shark Bay, and more, each offering unique underwater scenery.
- Great value for money: At around $26.57, it’s a budget-friendly way to pack a full day with marine adventures and good food.
- Expert guides and friendly staff: Reviews mention the crew as helpful, funny, and attentive, adding to the experience.
- Beautiful scenery and marine life: Expect to see sea turtles, reef sharks, schools of sardines, and coral gardens.
- Included amenities: Snorkeling equipment, flotation devices, fresh fruit, coffee, and underwater photography are included, adding to the value.
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In-Depth Review of the Koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan Snorkeling Tour
The Itinerary Explained
Your day begins with a hotel pickup, usually around 9:00 am, which is a real convenience for travelers staying in Koh Tao. You’ll be driven to Mae Haad Pier, where the crew of Sangthong Tours will greet you and prepare for the adventure ahead.
First stop: Nang Yuan Island — the iconic trio of connected islands with their famous beach linking them together. Here, you can walk along the sand and climb the viewpoint to enjoy sweeping views of the islands and surrounding sea. The snorkeling here is top-notch, with a reef called the Japanese Garden that’s perfect for spotting tropical fish. You’ll have about two hours at this stop, giving you plenty of time to relax, swim, and snap photos. Keep in mind, the admission fee of 250 THB isn’t included in the tour price, so budget accordingly if you want to hike the viewpoint.
Next, the boat heads to Mango Bay, named after the abundance of mango trees that once shaded the area. Here, you’re treated to a delicious Thai-style lunch served on board, which is a highlight for many travelers. The bay’s shallow waters and sandy seafloor create picture-perfect turquoise waters that teem with marine life, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling.
The tour continues to Hin Wong Bay, known for its big boulders and fertile coral pinnacles. Under the surface, you might see colorful fish, anemones, and schools of sardines chased by trevally. The water is crystal-clear, and you’ll typically have about 40 minutes here to explore the underwater world.
Aow Leuk Beach is next, famous for its white sandy beach and beautiful blue waters. It’s an ideal spot for snorkeling at low tide, with Shark Island visible in the background. Expect to see a variety of marine life, and enjoy the scenic setting of this peaceful cove.
The final stop before heading back to the pier is Shark Bay, where you can swim with blacktip reef sharks and sea turtles—a major highlight that’s often mentioned in reviews. This part of the trip is especially popular, with many guests raving about the chance to see these creatures so close.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The package provides snorkeling gear, life jackets, and underwater photography, allowing you to focus on the fun. The lunch is a generous Thai meal, and the fresh fruit, bottled water, coffee, and cookies keep everyone energized. You’ll also have access to restrooms onboard, which is a nice touch on a full day trip.
However, the entry fee to Nang Yuan isn’t included, so be prepared for that small extra expense if you want to explore the viewpoints or walk on the beach there.
The Experience and Review Highlights
Multiple travelers emphasize the professionalism and friendliness of the crew. One reviewer, Govind, mentioned that the staff was “absolutely wonderful”, going the extra mile by preparing a birthday cake for a guest, which adds a personal touch often missed on budget tours.
The marine life appears to be a big draw, with many guests commenting on encounters with sea turtles, baby sharks, and schools of colorful fish. Poom_C calls it the “most incredible tour,” praising the views, snorkel spots, staff, and food. Meanwhile, even critics noted the importance of good weather for the trip, as cloudy or rough conditions could impact visibility and overall enjoyment.
Travelers also appreciate the value for money. For a little over twenty-six dollars, you’re getting an entire day of guided snorkeling, meals, gear, and transfers — a package that would cost more if booked separately.
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Practical Tips for Your Trip
- Book in advance — the tour is popular and often booked 10 days ahead.
- Bring cash for Nang Yuan entry — it’s cash-only at the island.
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen — you’ll be in the water often.
- Don’t forget your underwater camera — the included photography is a fun bonus.
- Arrive early for pickup, especially if you’re staying off the main areas.
- Tide times matter — some spots are better at low tide, so check local conditions if you can.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip is perfect for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike who want to see the best marine spots with minimal fuss. It’s especially well-suited for families, first-time visitors, or anyone seeking a relaxing day on the water. The group size is capped at 50, so it’s not overly crowded. If your priority is seeing sea turtles and sharks in a safe, friendly environment, and you value good food and hassle-free logistics, this tour ticks all those boxes.
It’s also a fantastic choice if you’re looking for great value — the all-day experience at this price point is hard to beat, especially with the positive reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and delicious Thai lunch.
Final Thoughts
This Koh Tao snorkeling trip offers a well-rounded experience: it combines stunning scenery, diverse marine life, and friendly service, all at a reasonable price. The inclusion of transfers, gear, and lunch means you can relax and focus on enjoying your time in the water — which is exactly what a memorable snorkeling day should be.
Travelers who love seeing turtles and small sharks, appreciate beautiful beaches, and want a stress-free, organized tour will find this trip particularly rewarding. While the extra fee for Nang Yuan’s entry is something to consider, many guests believe the views and photo opportunities are worth it.
If you’re after a full day of aquatic adventure with the comforts of good organization and tasty food, this tour will not disappoint.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting around 9 am with hotel pickup and returning in the late afternoon.
Is snorkeling gear included?
Yes, snorkeling equipment and life jackets are included, so you don’t need to bring your own unless you prefer.
How much does Nang Yuan Island entry cost?
The entry fee is 250 THB per adult, payable on arrival, and is not included in the tour price.
What is the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 10 days in advance to secure their spot, especially during peak seasons.
Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, most travelers of all ages participate, and the tour is suitable for most with reasonable swimming ability.
What should I bring?
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, towel, waterproof camera, and cash for the Nang Yuan entry fee.
Can I swim with sharks?
You might see blacktip reef sharks at Shark Bay, but they are generally harmless and part of the natural marine environment.
Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Since it’s a snorkeling-focused trip, a basic comfort in water is recommended, but flotation devices are provided for extra support.
Final Words
If you’re looking for a balanced, enjoyable, and value-packed way to explore Koh Tao’s underwater treasures, this 5 Island Snorkeling Tour hits all the right notes. With friendly guides, stunning vistas, and a variety of marine life, it’s perfect for those wanting a hassle-free, memorable day under the Thai sun. Just remember to plan for the extra Nang Yuan island fee, and you’re all set to make some wonderful aquatic memories.