Nemo Island Experience with Drone Photos and Lunch

A Day of Snorkeling and Scenic Beauty at Nemo Island near Pattaya

Imagine leaving behind the bustling streets of Pattaya to explore a hidden coral reef paradise. For around $82 per person, this 8-hour tour whisks you off to Samae San Islands, home to the famously secret Nemo Island. Led by friendly guides, you’ll enjoy snorkeling amid clownfish, capture stunning underwater drone photos, and end the day with a relaxing seaside lunch.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how accessible it feels—whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or a first-time snorkeler, the stops are designed to be easy to enjoy. Plus, the inclusion of drone photography offers a special way to take home memorable photos and videos of your underwater adventures. However, keep in mind that weather conditions can impact the day’s plans, especially if waves are high, which might lead to skipping certain stops.

This tour suits travelers who love marine life, are eager to see coral reefs up close, and want a well-organized, friendly environment for exploring nature. It’s especially ideal for those who value both adventure and comfort, given the air-conditioned transportation and seaworthy speedboat. If you’re looking for a family-friendly outing or a solo trip packed with vibrant sights, this experience could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Accessible snorkeling spots suitable for all levels, including beginners.
• Professional drone photos capturing the underwater beauty and your experience.
• Convenient pickup from Pattaya, saving you time and hassle.
• Healthy balance of adventure and relaxation, with time for swimming, exploring, and enjoying lunch.
• Beautiful scenery and marine biodiversity that make for fantastic photos and memories.
• Weather-dependent — the tour can be canceled or altered if seas are rough.

Exploring Nemo Island and Samae San Islands: What You Can Expect

This tour offers a wonderful balance between nature, adventure, and comfort. Starting early around 9:00 am, you’ll be picked up from your Pattaya hotel lobby by a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The journey isn’t just about the destination—it’s an opportunity to enjoy the scenery on the way, including a quick stop at Khao Chi Chan—a laser-cut stone mountain that makes for a scenic photo.

Once at the pier, you’ll hop onto a speedboat, which offers a smooth, exhilarating ride across the waters toward Samae San Islands. The boat itself is a highlight, providing a quick but comfortable ride to the snorkeling sites.

First Stop: Clownfish Paradise

Your first snorkeling stop is at about 3 meters deep—a perfect depth for newbies and experienced snorkelers alike. Here, you’ll encounter Nemo-like clownfish darting among colorful sea anemones, creating a lively, photo-worthy scene. These shallow waters allow for easy swimming and a good chance to capture underwater photos of clownfish with your own camera or the provided equipment. As one reviewer put it, they loved the “nice photos” and being able to see the “variety of Nemo species.”

What makes this stop special? It’s the chance to see real-life clownfish in their natural habitat—something many travelers only dream of. The shallow depth makes it accessible, and the vibrant surroundings ensure stunning photos.

Second Stop: Deeper and More Diverse Marine Life

After the initial snorkeling, you’ll head to a 6-meter deep area, where marine biodiversity really shines. Here, the reef is more intricate, with a variety of fish, colorful corals, and marine life that are harder to find elsewhere. This is the spot for those who want to see more complex reef structures and a wider array of species.

One guest remarked how this part of the trip allowed for “enough time for swimming and diving,” and noted that the colorful coral reefs and variety of fish made the experience memorable. It’s an excellent opportunity for photographers wanting to capture the vivid marine scenery.

The Lunch Break: Rest and Refresh

After several hours in the water, everyone reconvenes at a seaside restaurant. Here, you’ll enjoy local Thai-style seafood and other options, with plenty of fresh air and ocean views as the backdrop. This laid-back break is appreciated by travelers who find the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.

Additional Notes on the Tour

• Snorkeling gear is supplied, so you don’t need to bring your own.
• Insurance is included, offering peace of mind during water activities.
• The tour typically attracts about 12 travelers, maintaining a friendly and manageable group size.
• Pickups are available, making logistics straightforward.
• If seas are rough or weather is poor, the tour might be canceled or modified—so good weather is a plus.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

Reviewers consistently highlight the friendly and attentive staff, who go out of their way to ensure everyone, regardless of swimming ability, feels comfortable. As one happy guest said, “They made sure everyone was included for all experience levels.” These little touches—like taking time to snap photos or giving flexibility to explore—add value to the trip.

Many reviews praise the quality of the photos and drone footage. One guest exclaimed how the drone shots “made the experience even more special,” capturing moments that are tough to replicate with just a GoPro or smartphone. The crystal-clear waters and vivid marine life are well-suited to stunning photography.

However, some mentioned that seasickness medications are recommended if you’re prone to seasickness, and that weather conditions can influence whether all stops are possible. The tour’s flexibility to skip certain stops (like the third island) if weather is bad is a good feature.

Is This Tour Worth It? Analyzing the Value

At around $82, this tour offers a comprehensive package—transport, snorkeling gear, insurance, a speedboat ride, drone photos, and a lunch. Compared to the cost of independent boat rentals and guided snorkeling, the price is quite reasonable, especially considering the included photo memories.

The organized nature and professional crew make it appealing for those who prefer a stress-free day. The small group size ensures more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere—something many travelers appreciated, as evidenced by glowing reviews.

In terms of value, this experience strikes a good balance. The snorkeling spots are accessible and vibrant, the scenery is beautiful and photogenic, and the lunch adds a nice touch of local flavor. For travelers seeking marine encounters without the need to plan logistics themselves, this tour delivers a lot of bang for your buck.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most?

This trip is ideal for families, solo travelers, or couples who want a fun, relaxed day exploring underwater life. It’s perfect if you’re interested in photography, especially drone footage, or if you simply want to see clownfish in their natural environment. The mix of easy snorkeling and scenic boat ride makes it attractive for those who may not be seasoned swimmers but still want to enjoy marine life.

Travelers who appreciate well-organized tours with friendly guides and expect comfortable transportation will find this trip meets those needs. Plus, if you’re interested in seafood and scenic views, the lunch at the seaside restaurant is a nice bonus.

The Sum Up

The Nemo Island Experience offers a well-rounded day trip that combines snorkeling, photography, scenic views, and relaxed dining. It’s particularly suited for those who want to see colorful marine life without diving deep or dealing with complicated logistics. The inclusion of drone photos elevates this tour to a memorable experience, perfect for capturing the wonder of Thailand’s underwater world.

While weather conditions can influence the day, the overall value—friendly guides, accessible snorkeling spots, and beautiful scenery—makes this a worthwhile choice for anyone visiting Pattaya who wants a fun and scenic adventure that is both easy and rewarding.

For those who love marine biodiversity, enjoy photography, or simply want a safe, organized escape from city life, this tour hits the mark. Just remember to bring seasickness medication if you’re sensitive, and check the weather forecast before booking for the best experience.

FAQ

Is pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your Pattaya hotel lobby, making it easy to start your day without extra hassle.

How deep are the snorkeling spots?
The first snorkeling spot is about 3 meters deep, ideal for beginners and those seeking shallow waters. The second is around 6 meters deep for more marine diversity.

Are snorkeling equipment and photos included?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and the tour includes drone photos and videos to help you remember your underwater adventure.

Can I participate if I’m not a strong swimmer?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to be accessible for all experience levels, and guides are attentive to individual needs.

What is the lunch like?
A seaside restaurant serves Thai-style seafood and other dishes, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy ocean views after snorkeling.

How long is the boat ride?
The speedboat ride from Pattaya to Samae San Islands is relatively short but offers plenty of excitement and photo opportunities.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, a towel, and a waterproof camera if you have one. Seasickness medication is recommended if you’re prone.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, poor weather or rough seas can lead to cancellations or modifications. The tour can be rescheduled or refunded if canceled due to weather.

What’s the group size?
Most small groups are around 12 travelers, ensuring a friendly and intimate experience.

How do reviews rate this experience?
With an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 12 reviews, travelers praise its organization, friendly staff, and stunning photos.

This tour is a fantastic way to experience Thailand’s marine beauty in a comfortable, well-organized setting. Whether you’re eager to snorkel with clownfish or just want some beautiful underwater photos to remember your trip, the Nemo Island Experience offers a memorable day on the water.