Koh Tao & Koh Nangyuan by Speed Boat (Snorkeling trip from Koh Samui)

Imagine zipping across the turquoise waters of Thailand on a speedboat, with the wind in your hair and a promise of vibrant coral reefs and white sandy beaches ahead. For around $63, you can join this 8-hour snorkeling adventure from Koh Samui, heading to Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan—two of the most photogenic and lively islands in the Gulf of Thailand. The trip includes round-trip transfers, snorkeling gear, a buffet lunch, and insider tips from friendly crew members, making it a pretty appealing value for travelers eager to explore without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we love about this tour is how convenient it is—no need to rent gear separately or worry about transportation, as everything’s included. Plus, the stunning stop at Koh Nang Yuan, with its long sandy beaches connecting three tiny islands, offers endless opportunities for relaxing, swimming, or climbing up to panoramic viewpoints. That said, keep in mind that entrance fees for some sites, like Koh Nang Yuan (THB 250 per adult), aren’t included, which could catch some travelers off guard if they aren’t prepared.

This tour suits those who appreciate organized convenience combined with authentic snorkeling experiences. It’s especially good for first-timers to Koh Tao or those looking for a relaxed day away from Koh Samui’s busy coastline. However, if you prefer smaller groups and more personalized attention, the larger boat size and crowd might be a consideration.

Key Points

• Quick access to Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan via speedboat saves hours compared to local ferry options.
• All-inclusive gear rental and lunch mean fewer logistics to worry about during the day.
• Multiple snorkeling stops provide variety and chances to see colorful marine life.
• The organized pickup and drop-off make the day stress-free, especially for those staying on Koh Samui.
• Entrance fees not included for Koh Nang Yuan and other sites; budget extra.
• Tours may be busier (up to 75 travelers), but reviews suggest the guides and crew work hard to keep the experience enjoyable.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Getting Started and the Morning Routine

The day begins early—with a pickup from your hotel (or a designated meeting point at Bangrak Seatran Pier) around 8:00 am. From there, it’s a short check-in process and a quick briefing about the day ahead. The crew, often praised for their friendliness and professionalism, makes sure everyone is comfortable before boarding the speedboat, a vessel that’s designed to handle the distance to Koh Tao efficiently.

While some might find the group size on the larger side (up to 75 travelers), the reviews reveal that the crew’s attentiveness often makes up for it. The ride takes approximately 1.5 hours, giving you a chance to enjoy the breeze and views of Koh Samui fading in the distance.

First Stop: Snorkeling at Mango Bay (Ao Muang)

Once you arrive at Mango Bay, you’ll be encouraged to put on your included snorkeling gear and dive into the spectacular coral reef. Expect to see brightly colored fish darting around and coral formations that are both fascinating and vibrant. Several reviews highlight how “beautiful” the underwater scenery is, with Pleun_P noting, “We went to 3 different spots,” indicating the variety of snorkeling locations on this trip.

The crew often offers insider tips, pointing out the best spots for spotting larger fish or interesting coral structures. For many, this is the highlight of the day—a chance to float over a living mosaic of marine life.

Lunch by the Beach

After a couple of hours in the water, everyone reconvenes for a buffet lunch at a beachside restaurant. The food is generally described as hearty and satisfying, giving you ample energy for the afternoon. The inclusion of soft drinks adds a relaxed, casual vibe that many travelers appreciate. Irene_C describes the experience as “great lunch” that’s “worth going very relaxed not rushed,” emphasizing the leisurely pace of the day.

The Iconic Koh Nang Yuan and Its Surroundings

Post-lunch, the trip heads to Koh Nang Yuan, famous for its long sandy beaches connecting three tiny islands—a perfect spot for both relaxation and exploration. Here, visitors often spend hours snorkeling from the beach, soaking up the scenery, or trekking to the viewpoint for stunning panoramas. Several reviews mention how quiet and pristine the area felt, with Uwe_H noting the “clear waters with breathtaking species diversity”.

Keep in mind there’s a THB 250 per adult entrance fee (not included in the tour price), payable on arrival. For those interested in a bit of adventure, a short trek to the viewpoint is highly recommended—though it’s worth noting that some reviews suggest the group size can make the atmosphere more hectic, especially if large crowds gather.

Returning to Koh Samui

The journey back takes roughly 1.5 hours, and the boat makes a few quick stops depending on weather and time. The tour ends back at the Bangrak Pier, with a drop-off at your hotel. Most travelers find this smooth and well-organized, though some mention the larger group size might make the trip feel a bit busier than a more intimate tour.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides. Irene_C mentions, “Great team, lots of food and drinks. They really cared for your,” encapsulating how well the crew maintains a relaxed, attentive environment. Pleun_P notes, “Good staff and perfect pickup services,” which underscores the convenience aspect.

On the flip side, some travelers express a desire for a smaller group or more personalized guides. Josh_g comments, “Islands were okay, but the large group made it more hectic,” suggesting that if you prefer a quieter, more tailored experience, you might find this tour a bit crowded.

Other feedback highlights the quality of the snorkeling—with many saying the water clarity and marine life exceeded expectations. Uwe_H points out the “best clear waters with stunning coral reefs,” making it clear that the snorkeling is the main draw.

Practical Considerations

• Transport & Timing: The early start and roughly 8-hour duration suit travelers with a full day to spare. The pickup service adds comfort but confirm your hotel is within the pickup zone.
• Group Size: With up to 75 travelers, expect a busy boat, but the guides seem committed to maintaining a fun, manageable atmosphere.
• Cost & Value: At around $62.96, including gear, lunch, and insurance, this trip offers solid value, especially when you consider the cost of renting equipment and eating out separately.
• Site Fees: Remember, site entrance fees are extra, notably at Koh Nang Yuan. Budget around THB 250 per adult for this.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for first-time visitors to Koh Tao or those who want a no-hassle, organized day of snorkeling and island exploring. If you’re comfortable with larger groups and enjoy well-structured tours, you’ll find this to be a good balance of convenience and scenic beauty.

It’s also a great option if you’re coming from Koh Samui and want to maximize your time in the water without worrying about logistics. However, if you’re after a more intimate, quiet experience, or prefer small groups, you might want to consider other options or private charters.

The Sum Up

This Koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan speedboat tour from Koh Samui offers a practical and enjoyable way to experience some of Thailand’s most beautiful islands and reefs. It balances value and scenic variety, with inclusive snorkeling gear and a hearty buffet lunch making for a relaxed and fun day. The larger group size might not suit everyone, but the knowledgeable guides, stunning underwater scenery, and easy logistics make it a solid choice for most travelers.

Whether you’re a first-timer eager to explore coral reefs or simply looking for a day of sun, sea, and sand, this trip delivers a wholesome, well-organized experience that captures the essence of Thailand’s island-hopping charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup services are offered from Koh Samui hotels, usually starting at 8:00 am, making the start of your day smooth and stress-free.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride to Koh Tao takes approximately 1.5 hours, providing a comfortable window to enjoy the ocean breeze and scenery.

Are snorkeling gear and equipment provided?
Absolutely, snorkeling gear is included in the tour, so you don’t need to rent anything separately. You can just focus on enjoying the marine life.

What is the best part of the tour?
Most travelers highlight snorkeling at Mango Bay and relaxing on the beaches of Koh Nang Yuan as the standout moments, with vivid underwater scenes and beautiful beaches.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, entrance fees for Koh Nang Yuan (THB 250 per adult) and Koh Raham (THB 80) are not included. Be prepared for these extra expenses if you plan to explore further or trek up to viewpoints.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, most reviews suggest the tour is family-friendly, with many noting the inclusive, relaxed environment. However, keep in mind the group size and pace when planning for younger children.