Similan Islands Snorkeling Tour By Seastar Andaman From Phuket

Discover the Similan Islands Snorkeling Tour from Phuket: An Authentic Marine Adventure

If you’re after a day away from the busy streets of Phuket to explore some of Thailand’s most celebrated underwater landscapes, this Similan Islands snorkeling tour by Seastar Andaman might be just what you need. For around $125 per person, you’ll spend about 11 to 12 hours cruising through crystal-clear waters and visiting several key snorkeling spots across the protected Mu Ko Similan National Park. Expect a full day of snorkeling, scenic views, and a chance to spot dolphins and sea turtles, all while enjoying local Thai cuisine and hassle-free hotel transfers.

What we particularly like about this tour is its multi-destination approach, allowing you to see more in one day without the hassle of multiple bookings. The speedboat whips you across the islands, saving hours on travel time and maximizing your fun in the water. Plus, the included Thai-style lunch and snorkeling gear mean you can focus entirely on enjoying your aquatic adventure.

However, a potential drawback is that, according to some reviews, you might not visit as many snorkeling spots as initially expected. For travelers who are eager to snorkel at numerous locations, this is worth considering. This tour suits those who appreciate a well-organized, guided day with good food, scenic stops, and a focus on relaxed snorkeling rather than intense diving experiences.

If you love marine scenery, easy access to islands, and guided comfort, this tour could be a great fit. It’s also ideal for those who value hassle-free hotel pickup and want a full experience that combines sightseeing with snacking in paradise.

Key Points

• Multiple snorkeling spots allow for a variety of underwater scenery.
• Speedboat transfer maximizes water time and reduces travel fatigue.
• All-inclusive options like gear, food, and insurance simplify the day.
• Hassle-free pickup and drop-off from Phuket hotels.
• Limited snorkeling stops noted by some guests, so expectations should be realistic.
• Suitable for most travelers, with some restrictions for pregnant women or those with certain health conditions.

An In-Depth Look at the Similan Islands Snorkeling Experience

What’s Included and What’s Not?

This tour offers a comprehensive package—your guide, insurance, round-trip speedboat, and snorkeling equipment are all covered. The Thai traditional lunch and fresh fruits are included, giving you a taste of local flavors amid the tropical scenery. On the downside, you’ll need to pay the national park fee of 400 THB per adult (or 200 THB for children), which is not included in the ticket price. This fee is standard for entry into the Mu Ko Similan National Park, making it an important consideration for your overall budget.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting early at 6:00 am with hotel pickup, the tour begins with a brief meet-and-greet with your friendly guide, often someone like “John” or “Preecha,” who helps set the tone for a relaxed yet organized adventure. After a scenic minivan ride, you arrive at Seastar’s base, where you’ll enjoy a light breakfast and select your snorkeling gear. The gear includes a mask, snorkel, fins, and a life jacket, so you can focus on floating and observing rather than fussing with equipment.

Your first snorkeling stop is Island No. 5 in Mu Ko Similan, where you can admire colorful corals and a lively array of fish. This is often highlighted as a particularly beautiful spot, with some reviews mentioning “two nice snorkeling spots” — a bit less than the four promised, but still rewarding. You’ll then visit Ko Miang, the largest in the group, where you can walk, snorkel, or simply relax on the picturesque beaches. The lunch buffet here is served at a shaded area, offering a variety of Thai dishes, tropical fruits, and refreshing drinks.

Next, the boat takes you to Bangu Island (Koh 9) for another swim, followed by Ko Pa Yu (Ko Jed), which promises more snorkel and swimming opportunities. As the day progresses, you’ll stop at West of Eden and Sailboat Rock, where you can climb the Sailing Rock for panoramic views or relax at the beach.

The last major stop is Ao Kuerk Bucht, a popular spot that features the iconic Sailing Rock, a landmark of the island. Here, you can take photos, relax, or climb up to the viewpoint. The tour concludes with a return to Phuket, often around 6:00 pm, after a full day of water, sun, and scenic island vistas.

What Travelers Say

Reviews give us useful insights into what to expect. One traveler noted, “Two nice snorkeling spots and also visiting the national parks on the island,” which aligns with the tour’s focus on multiple stops. However, another guest mentioned, “Less snorkeling spots than provided in the description,” indicating that the actual experience might sometimes fall slightly short of expectations. This discrepancy highlights the importance of clear communication about the number of stops.

The guide’s knowledge and friendliness receive praise, making the day more enjoyable. The delicious Thai lunch and refreshing fruits are consistently appreciated, providing a much-needed energy boost after hours in the water.

The Value of the Tour

At around $125, this tour offers a good value considering the full-day experience—including hotel pickup, multiple snorkeling stops, lunch, and insurance. It’s especially convenient for travelers who prefer a guided experience with everything organized for them, reducing logistical stress.

For those who aren’t avid snorkelers or are traveling with children aged 4-11, the tour’s moderate pace and inclusion of snorkeling gear and food make it accessible and enjoyable. Still, it’s worth noting that pregnant women or those with certain health issues are advised against participating, as per the safety guidelines.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring passport or ID for the park entry.
• Pack swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, hat, and camera to capture moments.
• Expect early start and long day, so comfortable clothing and a hat are recommended.
• Be aware of the national park fee that you’ll need to pay on arrival.
• Confirm your passport details promptly after booking to secure park entry.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This snorkeling tour is best suited for travelers who want a well-organized, full-day marine adventure without the fuss of planning each detail. It’s perfect for families, groups, or solo travelers eager to see a variety of coral reefs and marine life in a single day, with the safety net of guided support and included gear. If you’re looking for more snorkeling stops or a more secluded experience, you might find this tour a bit limited, but for most visitors, it hits a sweet spot of comfort, scenery, and fun.

Keep in mind, this tour emphasizes scenic island visits and snorkeling rather than diving deep into marine exploration. So, if your primary goal is to snorkel at diverse locations while enjoying Thai hospitality, this experience will serve you well.

FAQ: Your Questions About the Similan Islands Snorkeling Tour

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pickups begin early, around 6:00 am, so plan to be ready at your hotel in plenty of time to catch the minivan.

What’s included in the tour price?
Your tour includes a guide, insurance, round-trip speedboat transfer, snorkeling gear, Thai lunch, and fruits. The only extra is the national park fee.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children aged 4-11 can join, but keep in mind the tour is physically active and involves snorkeling, so consider their comfort and safety.

Is the snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, masks, snorkels, fins, and life jackets are included, so you don’t need to bring your own unless you prefer.

What about the weather?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

How long is each snorkeling stop?
Most stops last around 30 to 60 minutes, enough time to enjoy the marine scenery but not so long that you get cold or tired.

Do I need to send my passport details?
Yes, due to park policies, you’ll need to send your passport or ID details after booking to secure park entry tickets.

Final Thoughts

The Similan Islands snorkeling tour from Phuket offers a full-day escape into Thailand’s vibrant marine world. Its well-planned itinerary, including multiple snorkeling stops and a delicious Thai buffet, provides good value for those eager to see the underwater splendors without diving deep into the logistics. The hotel pickup and drop-off remove much of the hassle, making this a stress-free way to enjoy the islands.

If you’re someone who delights in crystal-clear waters, scenic islands, and lively coral reefs—and you don’t mind a packed schedule—this tour will likely meet your expectations. The knowledgeable guides, combined with the local flavors and stunning views, make it a memorable day.

While it might fall slightly short of the four snorkeling spots some travelers hoped for—and isn’t suited for those with certain health issues—this experience remains a solid choice for most looking for a guided, comfortable, and scenic marine adventure from Phuket.

Whether you’re in Phuket for a week or just passing through, this tour provides a fantastic way to enjoy Thailand’s incredible underwater world without straying too far from the island. It’s an experience filled with sun, sea, and the promise of discovering vibrant coral reefs and friendly sea creatures, all served up with the warmth of Thai hospitality.