Ko Lipe is a small Thai island with a big reputation for its stunning marine environment and crystal-clear waters. It’s the kind of place where boat trips aren’t just a way to get around—they’re the highlight of your visit. Whether you want to snorkel among vibrant coral reefs or hop across multiple islands, Ko Lipe offers a range of boat tours that suit every interest and budget. We especially love the Longtail Boat Snorkeling Trip Program A for its affordability and relaxed pace, perfect for those new to snorkeling or families looking for an easy introduction to underwater life.
What makes Ko Lipe stand out is its accessibility to both inner and outer islands, giving you a chance to see a variety of underwater landscapes—from shallow coral gardens to deep reef zones. Plus, the local longtail boats are an authentic Thai experience in themselves, adding charm to every trip. Whether you’re after a quick half-day adventure or a full-day exploration, the options are plentiful, each with its own unique flavor.
Quick Overview
Ko Lipe’s boat tours vary from snorkeling excursions in the inner islands to full-day trips exploring multiple islands with lunch included. Some tours focus strictly on snorkeling, like the Longtail Boat Snorkeling to Outer Islands Program B, which visits 7 islands and offers 8 snorkel stops. Others, such as the 7 Island Snorkeling Trip with Lunch, combine snorkeling with scenic sightseeing and beach relaxation.
There are also convenient transfers, like the Koh Lipe to Hat Yai Airport and Koh Lipe to Koh Lanta, perfect if you want a smooth trip back home or between your destinations. And for those seeking privacy, the Private Koh Lipe Inner Zone Snorkeling Tour offers a tailored experience for up to three people.
1. Koh Lipe: Longtail Boat Snorkeling Trip Program A
At number 1, this snorkeling trip is perfect for travelers on a budget or those who want a relaxed, half-day adventure. It lasts 6 hours and costs just $16 per person. You’ll cruise around the inner islands, stopping at coral reefs and shallow waters teeming with colorful tropical fish. The crew even takes photos with a GoPro, so you’ll have memories to take home.
The tour is rated 4.7 out of 5 based on 377 reviews, which speaks to its popularity and value. Travelers love the intimate, low-key vibe, and the chance to snorkel in calm, clear waters without the crowds. It’s best suited for beginners, families, or anyone wanting a quick but satisfying underwater experience. The only potential downside is the short duration, but considering the price and focus, it’s a fantastic intro to Koh Lipe’s underwater world.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, straightforward snorkeling trip great for families and first-timers eager to see vibrant coral reefs without spending a whole day at sea.
2. Lipe: Longtail Boat Snorkeling to Outer Islands Program B
Number 2 on our list is the Outer Islands snorkeling tour, rated 4.8/5 from 120 reviews. This 7-hour journey costs $20 per person and explores 7 different islands, including the famous Black Stone Island and Jabang. It’s an action-packed full-day trip with 8 snorkeling stops, giving you a real taste of Koh Lipe’s outer zone marine life.
What sets this tour apart is its ability to balance adventure and relaxation. You’ll spend your day snorkeling among clownfish and parrotfish, enjoying scenic views, and taking in the sun. The lunch break adds a welcome pause to unwind on one of the secluded beaches. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see multiple islands and enjoy a variety of underwater scenes in one day.
Bottom Line: An excellent value for those wanting a full day of snorkeling, island hopping, and scenic ocean views, especially if you’re looking to explore beyond the inner islands.
3. Ko Lipe: Outside Zone Snorkeling Trip by Longtail Boat
At number 3, this Outer Zone Snorkeling Trip offers a more immersive experience in the deeper, less crowded waters of Koh Lipe. Starting at $26 per person, this tour caters to travelers who want to see more marine life and vibrant coral formations.
Traveling by local longtail boat, you’ll explore colorful reefs and spot a variety of marine creatures. The tour focuses on the outer zones, which often boast more pristine reefs compared to inner island sites. The 49 reviews with a 4.5-star rating indicate consistent positive experiences, especially for snorkelers eager to see more marine biodiversity.
Bottom Line: Ideal for snorkelers craving a more adventurous, less touristy experience in Koh Lipe’s outer waters.
4. Snorkeling + Free Underwater Photos by Longtail Boat – Koh Lipe A
Number 4 is a standout, rated perfect 5.0/5 from just 5 reviews, offering a 6-hour trip at $19.04 per person. This shared tour combines the beauty of Koh Lipe’s inner islands with free underwater photos—an especially appealing feature for travelers wanting high-quality memories without extra effort.
The itinerary includes stops at Koh Jabang, Koh Hin Ngam, Koh Ngam Island, and Koh Yang. You’ll snorkel in colorful coral gardens and relax on quiet beaches. The captain’s offer of free underwater photos helps you capture moments with vivid marine life. This tour is perfect for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace, want to skip the hassle of private arrangements, and love taking home beautiful pictures.
Bottom Line: A great value for snorkelers wanting a comprehensive, photo-rich experience without the crowds.
5. Koh Lipe: 7 Island Snorkeling Trip by Longtail Boat w/ Lunch
Number 5, rated 4.4/5 from 14 reviews, covers a 6.5-hour tour exploring 7 islands with a included lunch. For around $26, this trip takes you from Koh Lipe to the Tarutao National Park, visiting spots like Koh Hin Son, Koh Buloh, Koh Ro Khloi, and Koh Peung.
What makes it special is the variety—it combines snorkeling with scenic hikes and beach lounging. You’ll see black stones at Koh Ngam Island and panoramic beaches at Koh Ro Khloi. It’s an active, full-day experience suited for travelers who want to see more than just underwater scenery. The optional scenic viewpoints and beaches make it a well-rounded option.
Bottom Line: Perfect for enthusiastic explorers who want to combine snorkeling, scenic views, and beach time with a good-value full-day trip.
6. Koh Lipe to Hat Yai Airport by Satun Pakbara Speed Boat and Shared Minivan
Number 6 takes the hassle out of airport transfers. This package costs about $28.23 and offers a smooth, 3.5-hour transfer from Koh Lipe to Hat Yai Airport. It combines a speedboat ride with a shared minivan, making it the most practical option for catching a flight without extra stress.
Rated 4.5/5 from 8 reviews, travelers appreciate the convenience and comfort. The only caveat is to plan ahead, as some reviews mention the importance of confirming pickup points. It’s best suited for travelers with flight schedules or those wanting a reliable, door-to-door service.
Bottom Line: A dependable, hassle-free transfer option that saves time and energy, perfect for travelers on tight schedules.
7. Koh Lipe to Koh Lanta by Satun Pakbara Speed Boat in High Season
Number 7 offers a direct, fast transfer to Koh Lanta. For just $65.89, you can hop aboard a group speedboat at Koh Lipe’s Pattaya Beach and reach Koh Lanta in about 3 hours. It’s the ideal way to connect two popular destinations without fuss or long waits.
Rated 5.0/5 from a single review, travelers praise its efficiency and affordability. This option is particularly suitable if you’re on a tight schedule or want a straightforward, economical way to continue your island-hopping journey.
Bottom Line: Perfect for budget-conscious travelers needing quick, reliable transit between two major Thai islands.
$65.89 per person
8. Koh Lipe to Phuket by Satun Pakbara Speed Boat
Number 8 connects Koh Lipe to Phuket seamlessly, with a 5.5-hour high-season service costing about $98. This speedboat operates twice daily, making it easy to match your schedule. It’s a convenient way to reach Thailand’s largest island, with a quick stop in Rassada Port.
Rated 5.0/5, travelers highlight the comfort and reliability, plus the scenery en route. It’s best for those who want to avoid multiple transfers or long ferry rides, making it a solid choice for island-hoppers heading north.
Bottom Line: A reliable, comfortable transfer ideal for travelers planning a Phuket stay after Koh Lipe.
$98.32 per person
9. Private Koh Lipe Inner Zone Snorkeling Tour by Longtail Boat
Number 9 offers a fully personalized experience. This private tour costs about $95 for up to three people and lasts around 5 hours. You visit five islands, including Koh Yang, Koh Jabang, and Koh Hin Ngam, with your own boat and guide.
What stands out is the flexibility—you can tailor your itinerary to your interests, whether snorkeling, relaxing, or sightseeing. The stops are carefully chosen for their snorkeling potential and tranquil scenery. It’s ideal for small groups or couples seeking a private adventure.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers wanting a bespoke, intimate day on the water with personalized attention.
$95.11 per group (up to 3)
10. Koh Lipe: 5 Island Snorkeling Trip by Longtail Boat w/ Lunch
Number 10 offers a 5-island tour rated 4 stars from 8 reviews, taking around 5.5 hours with lunch included. The trip covers popular spots like Koh Jabang, Koh Rawi, and Koh Adang, giving you diverse underwater scenes and beaches.
During the tour, you’ll snorkel among soft and hard coral, see colorful tropical fish, and relax at beautiful beaches. The stops at Koh Ngam Island’s unique volcanic stones and Koh Yang’s reefs make it a well-rounded, activity-filled day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a balanced mix of snorkeling and relaxing on scenic beaches with good value.
11. Koh Lipe to Koh Mook by Satun Pakbara Speed Boat
Finally, number 11 is a quick transfer from Koh Lipe to Koh Mook, taking around 2 hours for about $54.78. It’s a good option if you’re planning to explore the Andaman coast further, with guaranteed seats during high season.
Rated 4.0/5, travelers note that pickup points can sometimes be confusing, but overall, it’s a convenient way to move between these islands without long waits.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers heading to Koh Mook for a shorter transfer or as part of a longer island-hopping itinerary.
$54.78 per person
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Ko Lipe
When deciding which boat tour to book, consider your priorities. For budget-friendly snorkeling, the Longtail Boat Snorkeling Trip Program A offers excellent value. If you want a comprehensive day of exploring multiple islands and reefs, the 7 Island Snorkeling Trip hits all the highlights. For a private, flexible day, the Private Inner Zone Snorkeling Tour provides tailored experiences.
Timing is also important—full-day trips like the outer islands or 7-island tours are best in good weather, while shorter trips suit those with limited time or a tighter schedule. Booking early during high season is recommended, especially for transfers and popular tours, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Ko Lipe offers a fantastic array of boat tours, from simple snorkeling trips to full-day island adventures. For travelers on a budget, the snorkeling programs serve as an affordable way to see the underwater world. If you’re after variety and scenery, the 7 island tour provides a well-rounded experience with cultural and scenic highlights. And for those seeking privacy or customized experiences, the private tours are hard to beat.
Whatever your style, booking early and choosing the right trip will ensure you make the most of your time in Ko Lipe. The sea awaits—grab your mask and fins and enjoy the incredible marine life Thailand has to offer.