Discover Pig Island & Koh Tan: Private Longtail Trip

Discover Pig Island & Koh Tan: Private Longtail Trip — a Practical Guide

If you’re heading to Koh Samui and craving a laid-back day exploring smaller islands, this private longtail boat trip to Koh Tan and Pig Island (Koh Madsun) offers a simple, flexible way to enjoy island life. For $67.78 per person, you get about four hours of cruising, swimming, and sightseeing with the advantage of customizing your pace and activities since it’s just for your group.

What we particularly like about this tour is the personalized experience that lets you linger on the beaches or snorkel at your own speed—something that larger groups or scheduled tours often lack. The second highlight is the authentic island vibe at Koh Madsun, where pigs roam freely and add a charming touch to your beach time.

A possible consideration is that the tour doesn’t include a guide for the activities, so if you prefer guided snorkeling or island visits with detailed commentary, you might find this a bit limiting. Still, this private setup suits travelers who enjoy a relaxed, unhurried pace and the freedom to set their own schedule.

This tour best fits those who want a personalized, stress-free day—families, small groups of friends, or travelers who appreciate having control over their time on the islands. If you’re seeking a quick, easy escape with ample flexibility, this private longtail trip could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Flexible, private experience tailored to your group’s pace
• Includes roundtrip transport and snorkeling equipment
• Two island stops: Koh Tan for snorkelling and Koh Madsun for pig encounters
• Optional activities like kayaking and lunch on Koh Tan
• Good for small groups looking for a relaxed, authentic day out
• No guide provided during the activities, offering independence

An In-Depth Look at the Koh Samui Private Longtail Trip

What’s Included and How It Works

This tour, priced at $67.78 per person, is designed to give you a straightforward, hassle-free experience. The inclusion of private roundtrip transfer (if booked with transport) means you’re picked up at your hotel and taken directly to the pier—no worries about navigating public transport or sharing a boat with strangers. Once on board, you’ll enjoy a long-tail boat, a quintessential Thai vessel that offers an open-air, breezy ride across the waters.

The boat ride to Koh Tan takes just 7-10 minutes, making it an easy start to your day. Once at Koh Tan, you’re free to snorkel, swim, or relax on the beach. You can also take advantage of beach chairs and kayaking, adding to the laid-back vibe.

The second stop, Koh Madsun or Pig Island, is just a short boat ride away. Here, pigs are waiting to greet visitors, creating a uniquely playful atmosphere. The reviews indicate that many travelers love this part of the trip, with one reviewer describing Koh Madsun as a “really stunning” island with a “great beach” and pigs that are “the highlight.”

Koh Tan: The First Stop

Koh Tan is a small island known for its calm waters and coral reefs—ideal for snorkelers and swimmers. However, one reviewer noted that the snorkeling location wasn’t very transparent or vibrant, with fish described as “grey and small,” which could be disappointing if you’re expecting a lively underwater scene.

Nevertheless, the stop offers enough time—about 2 hours—to enjoy the beach, try kayaking, or simply unwind. The optional lunch at Koh Tan adds a nice touch if you want to fuel up before heading back, though it is an optional extra not included in the base price.

Koh Madsun: The Pig Island Experience

The second island is a fun and quirky stop. The main draw is the pigs that roam freely on the sand. One reviewer exclaimed, “Loved the piggies,” and appreciated the playful photo opportunities. The island itself is described as beautiful and quiet, making it a perfect spot for relaxing on the sand or taking photos.

However, some travelers found Koh Madsun “disappointing” when it came to the lack of other attractions or facilities. The water at the beach might not be as clear as in other spots, but the overall experience remains unique due to the pigs and relaxed environment.

Flexibility and Overall Experience

Since this is a private tour, you can set your own pace. If you want more snorkeling, more sunbathing, or extra time with the pigs, you can request it. Conversely, if you prefer to leave early or skip certain activities, that’s perfectly fine.

Both the admission costs for the islands are included, and you get life jackets, snorkeling gear, bottled water, and accident insurance—a good peace of mind for a day on the water.

What Past Travelers Say

The reviews reflect a mixed bag. One traveler called it “the worst tour of our lives,” criticizing poor snorkel conditions and cleanliness issues around the pigs. Conversely, others loved the personalized nature of the trip and the friendly, unhurried pace. One reviewer simply said, “It was a very nice private trip,” praising Koh Madsun and the secluded beach.

The key takeaway from reviews is that this trip is great for those who value a private, flexible experience and aren’t overly concerned with the quality of snorkeling or pristine beaches. It’s also clear that the informal, guide-less style suits travelers who are comfortable exploring independently.

Transportation and Duration

The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, making it a half-day escape. The pick-up and drop-off (if booked) ensure you don’t have to worry about logistics. The timing is predictable, and the boat ride is quick and scenic.

Pricing and Value

At $67.78 per person, this tour offers decent value for a private outing. The price includes transport, equipment, entrance fees, and insurance—these add up if you book separately. However, keep in mind that lunch and optional activities like kayaking cost extra, so budget accordingly if you want a more comprehensive experience.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a relaxed, private day away from the crowds, with the freedom to set your own pace, this Koh Samui trip hits the mark. It’s ideal for small groups, families, or couples who enjoy independent exploration and are comfortable with some informal arrangements, like no guided snorkeling or detailed commentary.

While the snorkeling conditions and beach quality may not match high-end expectations, the charm of Pig Island and its playful pigs keeps many visitors smiling. The flexibility to stay longer on the islands or skip activities makes it a versatile option for those who prefer a more personalized experience.

Remember, this tour works best if you’re okay with a simple, straightforward outing—not a luxury or highly guided adventure. That said, the friendly atmosphere, the chance to relax on quiet beaches, and the fun of pig encounters can make for a memorable, low-pressure day in Koh Samui.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, if you book with the transfer option, roundtrip transport from your hotel to the pier is included, making the trip hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience is about 4 hours, with roughly 2 hours at Koh Tan and another 2 hours at Pig Island.

Can I customize my time on the islands?
Since it’s a private tour, you can decide how long to spend at each stop, within the overall schedule.

Are meals included?
Lunch is optional and can be added at Koh Tan, but it’s not included in the basic price.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, along with life jackets, so you can enjoy the water comfortably.

Is there a guide during the activities?
No, there’s no guide during the stops, so you’ll explore independently. If you want guided instruction, you might need to bring your own or look for other tours.

This Koh Samui private longtail trip offers a straightforward, flexible way to enjoy two small islands at your own pace, with the chance to swim, relax, and interact with the iconic pigs. Perfect for those seeking an informal, laid-back day in Thailand’s island paradise.