Ko Samet 5 or 6 Islands Snorkeling Tour with Lunch option

Exploring Ko Samet’s 5 or 6 Islands Snorkeling Tour: A Practical Overview

If you’re looking to combine a day of island-hopping, snorkeling, and some well-deserved beach relaxation, this tour offers a solid, budget-friendly option for around $34. Starting from Ko Samet, you’ll visit up to six islands, including Koh Kudi, Koh Tham Tai Khao, Koh Khame, Koh Krawai, Koh Thalu, and a scenic cruise around Koh Plai Tin. The tour, lasting about 6 hours, is packed with opportunities to snorkel in clear waters, enjoy beach activities, and snap some pictures of natural phenomena like the sea split.

What we like most about this experience are the convenient hotel pickup, which saves you the hassle of finding a meeting point, and the free underwater photos that let you capture your aquatic adventures without extra cost. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling equipment, life jackets, and floating boards makes it easy for most travelers to participate, regardless of their skill level.

However, a key point to consider is that some reviews suggest the islands may not be as captivating onshore as they appear from the boat, and the snorkeling may sometimes fall short of expectations. This tour is probably best suited for budget travelers or those seeking a relaxed, scenic day rather than a highly adventurous or pristine wilderness experience.

If you appreciate stunning views and good value for money, this tour could fit nicely into your Thailand itinerary, especially if you’re eager to see multiple islands in a single day. Just keep your expectations in check with the mixed reviews about island beauty and snorkeling quality.

Key Points

• Affordable price point around $34 offers good value for multiple island stops.
• Inclusion of snorkeling gear and photos enhances the experience without extra costs.
• Multiple stops cover scenic islands with varied attractions, from coral reefs to natural phenomena.
• Tour duration of around 6 hours balances sightseeing and relaxation, though it can feel long if islands are underwhelming.
• Hotel pickup convenience is perfect for travelers staying nearby, though some may prefer to meet at the start point.
• Mixed reviews highlight that onshore island scenery may not match the boat views, and snorkeling might be average.

The Full Breakdown: What to Expect on This Island-Hopping Adventure

Starting with Convenience and Comfort

The tour’s pickup service is a definite plus. If you’re staying in or near Ko Samet, you won’t need to worry about finding your way to a meeting point—your transport will come to you. From there, you’ll be whisked away on a comfortable boat that will be your home for most of the day. The group size is capped at 50 travelers, so expect a lively but manageable crowd.

The cost of about $34 is quite reasonable considering the number of stops, snorkeling gear, and included refreshments. It’s clear the tour aims to offer good value rather than luxury.

Detailed Itinerary and What You’ll See

Stop 1: Koh Kudi
This small, hidden island is a perfect first stop for snorkelers. Its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs promise a peaceful, scenic introduction to the day. Reviewers mention it’s an excellent spot for relaxing and enjoying nature without the crowds. The 45-minute snorkeling here gives you enough time to explore the underwater world, and with free admission, it’s a great way to kick off.

Stop 2: Koh Tham Tai Khao
Next, you’ll visit this island for more snorkeling. It reportedly offers diverse and colorful reefs, making it a highlight for those wanting underwater views. We loved the way this stop allows you to see what’s beneath the surface—a favorite aspect for many travelers.

Stop 3: Koh Khame & Koh Krawai
These islands are known for their beach activities and the “sea split,” a natural phenomenon that adds an interesting photo opportunity. The tour allocates 1 hour and 30 minutes here, giving plenty of time for beach relaxation, swimming, or just soaking up the scenery. It’s a popular part of the trip, though some review comments imply shore activities may be less impressive than the views from the boat.

Stop 4: Koh Thalu
This picturesque island with beautiful beaches is another chance to unwind. It’s a quieter stop, perfect for those wanting a peaceful moment amid the day’s excitement. Expect 45 minutes for lounging or taking photos.

Stop 5: Koh Plai Tin
A scenic cruise around this island offers breathtaking panoramas. It’s more about the views than physical activities but adds a relaxing ending to your island-hopping adventure.

Snorkeling & Beach Activities

The tour offers snorkel spots at 2-3 locations on the 6-island option, or 2 spots if you opt for the 5-island trip, depending on weather. The provided snorkeling equipment, life jackets, and floating boards make it accessible for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.

Reviewers mention the snorkeling quality as “below average” at times, which might be disappointing if underwater exploration is your priority. Still, the vibrant reefs are often appreciated for their crisp clarity and colorful marine life.

Food and Refreshments

A small selection of snacks, fruits, and drinks keeps everyone refreshed, and the lunch included in the 6-islands trip is a straightforward meal, though some reviews describe it as “sad” or uninspiring. The free underwater photos are a nice touch, allowing you to relive your marine moments without extra cost.

Overall Experience: The Good and the Not-So-Good

What travelers seem to enjoy most are the scenic views and the good value for the price. For many, the highlight is the relaxed cruise and the chance to see several islands quickly. The boat’s friendly crew adds to the friendly atmosphere, and the scenic cruise around Koh Plai Tin is often cited as a memorable part of the day.

On the flip side, some find the island scenery less impressive once onshore. Multiple reviews mention that the islands look prettier from the boat than on foot, and snorkeling sometimes doesn’t meet expectations. The boxed lunch can be underwhelming for those seeking a gourmet meal, but it’s enough to keep you going.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This is a great option for budget travelers or those curious about multiple islands but hesitant to spend a lot on a more exclusive experience. If you value scenic boat rides, snorkeling in clear waters, and quick island visits, you’ll likely find this satisfying.

However, if you’re after pristine beaches, superior snorkeling, or a more in-depth exploration, this might not be the best fit. The mixed reviews suggest that some travelers leave feeling the islands are not quite as spectacular as hoped or that the snorkeling was average.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this tour offers a cost-effective way to see several islands near Ko Samet with opportunities for snorkeling and relaxing. It’s convenient, with hotel pickup and all necessary gear included, making it accessible even for first-timers.

While it might not satisfy travelers craving unspoiled beauty or superior snorkeling, it provides a scenic, leisurely day on the water, perfect for those who want a taste of island life without breaking the bank.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate beautiful scenery, enjoy a relaxed pace, and are okay with some variability in island appeal. It’s a fun, affordable way to add a splash of adventure to your Thailand holiday, especially if you’re in the mood for a quick, scenic escape from the mainland.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, which makes it very convenient if you’re staying nearby Ko Samet.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 6 hours, balancing enough time for multiple stops and some relaxation.

Are snorkeling equipment and photos included?
Yes, all snorkeling gear, life jackets, floating boards, and free underwater photos are provided at no extra cost.

Can I choose between the 5 or 6 islands options?
Yes, you can opt for either the 5- or 6-island tour. The main difference is the number of snorkeling spots and whether the lunch is included.

What are some potential downsides?
Some reviews mention that island scenery may be less impressive once on land, and snorkeling might be average or below expectations. The lunch may also be simple or unremarkable.

Is the tour suitable for children or less physically fit travelers?
As the tour requires moderate physical activity like snorkeling and walking on beaches, it’s best suited for those with a reasonable level of fitness.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, water, and a waterproof camera if you want to capture underwater moments. Light snacks or extra drinks might also be helpful.

How does the weather affect the tour?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this Ko Samet 5 or 6 Islands Snorkeling Tour offers a cost-effective, scenic day on the water filled with opportunities to relax, snorkel, and see some beautiful islands. It’s ideal for travelers seeking value and variety, especially if they’re not overly concerned about pristine beaches or high-end amenities. The combination of scenic views, snorkeling, and convenience makes it a popular choice for many visitors, despite some mixed reviews about the onshore scenery and snorkeling quality.