Similan Islands Snorkeling Tour By Speed Catamaran From Phuket

A Day of Island-Hopping and Snorkeling in the Similan Islands from Phuket

If you’re dreaming of a full-day adventure exploring some of Thailand’s most stunning islands, this Similan Islands snorkeling tour offers fantastic value. For around $109, you’ll spend about 11 to 12 hours soaking up the scenery, swimming with sea turtles, and marveling at vibrant coral reefs—all from the comfort of a speed catamaran. The tour departs early, with hotel pickup included, making it a smooth start to your day.

What truly draws us to this experience are the carefully curated stops—from lively reefs at Island No.5 to the iconic sailing rock at Koh Similan, each spot promises a new perspective on this UNESCO-recognized national park. Plus, the lunch, served on the beach with scenic views, adds a relaxing touch to the itinerary. And, if you’re lucky, you might even glimpse playful dolphins or swim alongside sea turtles, making for some memorable moments.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour can feel a bit rushed—some reviewers have mentioned that the schedule pushes you through multiple snorkeling stops and islands in a single day. So, if you’re looking for a more languid pace or deeper exploration, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re eager to see as much as possible in a short time, it’s definitely worth considering.

This tour suits travelers who love active days, enjoy snorkeling, and want to experience the highlights of the Similan Islands without the hassle of planning. Ideal for those with a sense of adventure and a desire to see Thailand’s marine and island treasures in one go.

Key Points

• Efficient full-day trip with hotel pickup and round-trip transfer.
• Multiple snorkeling stops at some of the most picturesque reefs and beaches.
• Delicious Thai buffet lunch with scenic island views.
• Expert guidance from knowledgeable local guides.
• Rushed schedule noted by some travelers, so be prepared for a busy day.
• Wildlife sightings potential, including dolphins and sea turtles.

Exploring the Full Itinerary

Starting in Phuket

The day kicks off early—around 6:00 am—with a hotel pickup from all over Phuket. This is a real perk, saving the hassle of organizing transportation, especially if you’re staying outside the city center. The transfer time to Seastar’s private pier at Thap Lamu takes about 45 minutes, giving you a glimpse of local scenery before heading out on the water.

The Speed Catamaran Ride to the Islands

Once aboard the speed catamaran, which is designed for both comfort and stability, the fun begins. The boat ride itself is usually about 45 minutes, offering a chance to relax, enjoy the sea breeze, and take in the views of the Andaman Sea. You’ll be served hot drinks and bakery treats—welcome touches that help start your adventure on a high note.

Snorkeling at Mu Ko Similan National Park

The first snorkeling stop is at Island No.5, part of the Mu Ko Similan National Park. Here, you’ll get your first taste of the underwater spectacle—colorful coral reefs teeming with fish and intricate rock formations. According to reviews, the coral around the islands is showing signs of decline, so while the scenery remains beautiful, it’s worth appreciating the fragility of the ecosystem. We loved the clarity of the water and the variety of marine life, which makes this stop a highlight for snorkelers.

Lunch on Ko Miang

Next, the group heads to Ko Miang—a larger island with walking trails, beaches, and plenty of spots to snorkel or swim. The included Thai buffet lunch is served here, offering fresh fruits and local flavors. The setting is tranquil, with time to relax on the sands or explore the natural beauty of the island. Several travelers have mentioned the quality of the food, making this a welcome respite during the busy day.

More Snorkeling at Bangu Island and Ko PA Yu

Post-lunch, the tour visits Bangu Island (Koh 9), perfect for more snorkeling and swimming. The coral here is again vibrant, and the chance to see marine life is high. The next stop is Ko PA Yu (or Ko Jed), where you’ll snorkel or just enjoy the beach. These stops offer a variety of viewpoints and underwater scenery, keeping the day active and engaging.

Scenic Spots and Viewpoints

The final scheduled stops include West of Eden and Sailboat Rock, where climbing up to the viewpoints gives you panoramic views over the islands. The Sailing Rock is the park’s landmark, and the climb isn’t strenuous but offers rewarding scenery. Some travelers have noted that the time allocated for these stops is limited—around 30 minutes each—so you might find yourself wishing for a little more time to soak it all in.

Relaxing at Koh Similan

The tour wraps up at Koh Similan, the main island, where you can relax on the beach, swim, or take photos of the stunning coastline. The final stop includes a visit to the Sailing Rock viewpoint, which is a perfect photo op. You’ll then hop back on the boat for the return journey, enjoying the sunset over the water if weather allows.

What We Loved About This Tour

The most appealing aspect is the professional guidance—the guides are knowledgeable about the islands and marine life, helping you get the most out of each snorkeling stop. Their insights enhance the experience, turning a simple swim into a learning adventure.

Another highlight is the scenic boat ride—traveling on a speed catamaran offers a smooth and exhilarating way to cover multiple islands and snorkeling spots efficiently. The comfort of the boat combined with the incredible views makes the journey just as enjoyable as the destinations.

The included lunch also deserves a mention. Sitting on the beach with a Thai buffet and fresh fruit is a wonderful way to refuel in the midst of a busy sightseeing day. The food quality seems to impress many travelers, offering both sustenance and local flavor.

Considerations and Possible Drawbacks

A common critique from reviewers is that the tour can feel rushed. Visiting multiple spots in one day means less time at each dive or beach. Justin_A remarked, “Long transfer to the boat. Rushed snorkeling and island visits.” If you’re seeking deep, leisurely exploration or a more relaxed pace, you may find this schedule a bit too tight.

Plus, the coral reefs around the islands are reportedly suffering, which might disappoint snorkelers expecting vibrant underwater ecosystems. Being aware of this environmental challenge can help set realistic expectations.

Some travelers also mention that this tour is best booked early in your trip—before other boat trips—so you can compare experiences or decide if you want to go on other excursions like Phi Phi or James Bond.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to see multiple islands and snorkel spots in a single day. It’s perfect if you don’t mind a packed schedule and want to maximize your time exploring Thailand’s marine treasures. Families with older children, given the active nature and boat rides, will likely enjoy the day, especially with children between 4-11 years eligible for the child ticket.

Those looking for quality guides and scenic views will appreciate the knowledgeable commentary and panoramic lookout points. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or less environmental impact, you might want to consider other options or extend your stay to dive deeper at fewer sites.

The Cost and Value

At just over $100 per person, including hotel pickup, round-trip boat transfers, snorkeling gear, and a hearty Thai lunch, this tour offers a solid deal considering the full-day itinerary and the multiple stops. The inclusion of full travel accident insurance provides peace of mind, and the small group size (up to 70 travelers) keeps the experience fairly intimate.

While some reviews note the reefs are declining, the chance to see wild dolphins or sea turtles adds a special touch. For wildlife lovers and snorkelers eager to see marine life in a protected park, the overall value remains strong.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup from all areas in Phuket, making the start seamless for travelers.

How long is the entire tour?
The schedule runs about 11 to 12 hours, including transfers, boat rides, snorkeling, and meals.

What should I bring?
You’ll want to pack your passport or ID, swimming suit, towel, sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, and camera for capturing the moments.

Are there any restrictions?
Pregnant women, or those with high blood pressure, heart disease, or bone issues, are advised against joining the trip.

What about the park fee?
The national park fee of 400 THB per adult and 200 THB per child is not included and must be paid separately.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations made more than 24 hours in advance are fully refundable, offering flexibility for travelers.

Wrapping It Up

This Similan Islands snorkeling tour from Phuket combines the thrill of boat travel with the beauty of Thailand’s underwater world. It’s a practical choice for those who want to see multiple islands and reefs in one day, with the comfort of guided commentary and included meals. The scenery is breathtaking, and the chance to glimpse dolphins or sea turtles adds a magical element.

While the schedule can be tight, the experience is well-organized and provides a good balance of activity and relaxation, especially with the delicious Thai buffet lunch and scenic viewpoints. It’s best suited for travelers eager to pack in a full day of island discovery, especially if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive snapshot of the Similan Islands.

If you’re comfortable with a busy itinerary and want to hop between some of Thailand’s most iconic marine sites, this tour offers fantastic value, memorable sights, and a taste of some of the best snorkeling in the region. Just don’t forget your sunscreen and a sense of adventure!