Snorkeling and Kayaking Tour at Angthong Marine Park by Speedboat from Koh Samui

Experience the Beauty of Angthong Marine Park with Snorkeling and Kayaking from Koh Samui

If you’re craving a day packed with adventure, spectacular scenery, and marine wonders, this tour offers a compelling escape from the island crowds. For around $62 per person, you’ll spend 7 to 8 hours exploring 42 uniquely-shaped islands in Thailand’s second national marine park. With a speedboat ride out of Koh Samui, you’ll visit beaches and viewpoints, snorkel in crystal-clear lagoons, and paddle around lush islands in your kayak.

What we really love about this trip is the combination of activities—each provides a different way to experience the park’s natural beauty. We especially enjoyed the hike up to Wua Ta Lap’s viewpoint, which delivers breathtaking panoramic vistas, and the fresh seafood buffet lunch that fuels your afternoon adventures. Another highlight is the chance to see wild monkeys and snorkel in vibrant reefs—these are moments packed with authentic charm and connection to nature.

Of course, no trip is perfect—the boat can be a bit bumpy, and the crowds at popular spots might limit your peaceful moments. It’s worth considering if you’re comfortable with a busy itinerary and some turbulence on the water.

This tour works best for adventure-minded travelers who appreciate stunning landscapes, marine life, and don’t mind a bit of physical activity, like hiking or paddling. Families with kids over 4 might enjoy it, but keep in mind that the hikes are steep. Overall, if you’re looking for a full day of exploration in Thailand’s beautiful marine environment, this trip hits many of the right notes.

Key Points

• Diverse activities: snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, and sightseeing.
• Beautiful scenery: islands, viewpoints, lagoons, and wildlife.
• Well-organized tour: includes hotel transfers, breakfast, and lunch.
• Natural beauty and wildlife: chance to see monkeys and coral reefs.
• Crowd factor: popular spots can be busy; some reviews mention crowded snorkeling sites.
• Environmental awareness: some feedback on coral and park cleanliness highlights that responsible tourism is key.

Exploring Angthong Marine Park: A Deep Dive

When you book this tour, you’re signing up for a full day of marine exploration and island hopping. From Koh Samui, you’ll depart early in the morning—around 9:00 am—on a speedboat that whisks you across the water to Wua Island and beyond. The excitement begins with the cruise, where we loved the way the boat cuts through the waters, offering spectacular views of the islands and the chance to relax with a cold drink in hand.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour splits into several stops, each delivering something unique:

First Stop: Ko Samui Departure and Check-in
You’ll be picked up from your hotel—an aspect that adds convenience but also means an early start. Many reviews mention early pickups and some waiting time, so be prepared for a potentially long morning. The check-in process begins at the tour office, where you’ll receive snorkeling gear and a light breakfast. The emphasis on safety and equipment checks, such as ensuring your snorkel is in good shape, is reassuring.

Second Stop: Bophut Pier & Speedboat Ride
From here, it’s a scenic one-hour boat ride to Angthong Marine Park. The ride itself is a highlight—speeding across the water with views of the islands’ jagged silhouettes and lush greenery.

Third Stop: Wua Island & Emerald Lake
This is where the adventure really kicks in. You’ll snorkel at the vibrant reefs, with many reviewers praising the healthy coral and colorful fish—some even mention snorkeling into caves. One reviewer raved, “the snorkeling site was one of the better ones I’ve seen,” emphasizing the clear waters and marine diversity.

The hike up to the Emerald Lake is steep and challenging but offers rewarding views and the chance for memorable photos. As one guest noted, “the hike is hard but so worth it,” highlighting why this part of the tour is popular among active travelers.

Fourth Stop: Wua Ta Lap & Lunch
The lunch on Wua Ta Lap is a major highlight—a buffet with fresh seafood and seasonal fruits. Multiple reviews praised the quality of the meal, describing it as generous and delicious. After lunch, you can kayak around the island or relax on the beach. The kayaking experience is described as fun and accessible; some reviewers highlight the helpful staff carrying waters to the top of the viewpoint.

Fifth Stop: Mu Ko Ang Thong & Monkeys
Your final stop offers the chance to kayak around the islands or hike to a viewpoint, with guests often mentioning wild monkeys making an appearance—adding a bit of wild Thailand to your day. You’ll then head back to Koh Samui, ending a busy but rewarding experience.

Authentic Experiences and Real Feedback

From the enthusiastic reviews, we see a pattern of admiration for the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. Several mention the guides by name, and many appreciate the helpfulness and safety measures—like checking snorkel equipment and offering motion sickness pills. One reviewer called the guides “kind and knowledgeable,” emphasizing that the crew makes a difference.

However, the tour isn’t without its criticisms. Some guests talk about crowded snorkeling sites, where multiple boats are at the same stops, which can diminish the chances of a peaceful swim. “The reef was so healthy and beautiful,” one says, but “there were several boats at the same time,” which could impact the experience.

Others mention long wait times—both for pickup and at some of the stops—and poor food quality. A few reviews express discontent with the breakfast cookies and bland lunch, suggesting that bringing your own snacks might be a good idea.

The weather can also be unpredictable; some guests report rough water or rain delays. For example, kayak trips were sometimes cut short due to weather, and some felt the organization could be better—especially in managing crowds and environmental concerns.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re active and love outdoor pursuits, this trip offers a lot. Hiking steep stairs, paddling in calm waters, and snorkeling in clear reefs appeal to those who enjoy physical activity and natural beauty. The views and wildlife sightings are genuinely memorable, and the buffet lunch adds value, making this more than just a boat ride.

However, if peace and solitude are your priority, or if you prefer less crowded spots, this tour might feel hectic. It’s also worth noting that the boat ride can be bumpy, and some stops are crowded with other boats, which might affect the quality of your experience.

The price point—around $62—reflects the inclusion of transfers, lunch, equipment, and multiple activities, offering good value for an active day out in a stunning setting. But, as some reviews suggest, bringing your own snacks or extra gear could enhance your comfort and enjoyment.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for those seeking a full day of adventure—with snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking all bundled into one trip. It’s best suited for active travelers who value natural beauty and wildlife, and don’t mind sharing popular spots with others. If you’re comfortable with group excursions, enjoy well-organized tours, and want a cost-effective way to see some of Thailand’s most beautiful islands, you’ll find plenty to love here.

But if peace and quiet are your main goal, or if you’re looking for a more luxurious or exclusive experience, you might want to consider alternatives. Still, for the budget-conscious adventurer eager to explore the marine park’s highlights, this tour offers a solid, memorable day out that captures the essence of Thailand’s island paradise.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup from Koh Samui’s main areas, including Lamai, Chaweng, Bophut, and others.

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 9:00 am, so expect to be ready for an early start.

How long is the boat ride?
The speedboat ride to Angthong Marine Park takes about one hour each way, offering scenic views on the way.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes transfers, safety equipment (snorkel masks, life jackets), breakfast, lunch, seasonal fruits, and water.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, the National Park fee (around 300 THB per adult) is payable on the day. There are also optional private transfers from farther locations for an additional fee.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 4-10 can join, but be aware that hikes involve steep stairs and some activities require a reasonable level of fitness.

What about the crowds?
Popular spots like snorkeling sites can be busy due to multiple boats, potentially affecting your experience.

Is the tour flexible?
The itinerary is fixed, and some reviews mention waiting times and weather-related delays. Bringing snacks and being patient can help.

Can I expect good snorkeling?
Yes, many reviewers praise the reefs and the clarity of the water. However, some mention murky waters at times or crowded sites.

To sum it up, this Angthong Marine Park tour from Koh Samui offers a lively, activity-packed day in some of Thailand’s most scenic islands. It’s perfect for adventurers who love a mix of hiking, paddling, and snorkeling, and who are happy sharing the experience with fellow travelers. While it may not be the most serene or exclusive trip available, it delivers great value and unforgettable views—a truly authentic way to explore Thailand’s natural marine beauty.