Full-Day Cruise of Koh Nang Yuan and Koh Tao From Koh Samui

Experience a full day exploring Thailand’s stunning islands—Koh Nang Yuan and Koh Tao—from Koh Samui. For around $68, you’ll enjoy a roughly 7 to 8-hour trip with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, scenic views, and relaxing on pristine beaches. Led by an English-speaking guide, this tour includes hotel pickup, breakfast, a Thai-style buffet lunch, and all necessary snorkeling gear.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is how it balances active exploration with leisure—allowing you to snorkel among vibrant coral and tropical fish, then unwind on soft white sands. The viewpoints offer a fantastic perspective of the islands, and the quiet beaches like Mango Bay are perfect for soaking up sunshine away from crowds.

However, a potential consideration is that the itinerary can be affected by weather or crowds, and some travelers have noted last-minute changes or discomfort on crowded boats. This tour suits those who love outdoor activities, scenic views, and a taste of authentic Thai island life, but might be less ideal if you’re looking for a completely hassle-free, luxury experience.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary offers sightseeing, snorkeling, and beach relaxation
• Includes hotel pickup and all snorkeling gear for convenience
• Accessible for most travelers with some age and health restrictions
• Value for money given the variety of experiences and included meals
• Potential for weather or crowd-related issues affecting the experience
• Authentic local flavor with Thai buffet lunch and scenic viewpoints

A Closer Look at the Full-Day Cruise Experience

If you’re visiting Koh Samui and craving a day filled with tropical scenery, vibrant marine life, and some well-earned beach time, this tour ticks many boxes. It hits a good balance of activity and relaxation, with a focus on exploring Thailand’s renowned islands—Koh Nang Yuan and Koh Tao. At a price of about $68, including hotel pickup and equipment, it offers decent value, especially if snorkeling and scenic views are high on your list.

The Pickup and Onboard Experience

The tour starts early, around 9:00 am, with pickup from several convenient locations including Lamai, Chaweng, and Bophut. The inclusion of hotel pickup is a definite plus, saving you time and extra hassle, especially in busy spots. The group size is capped at 30 travelers, which means you won’t be lost in a sea of people but still get a social vibe.

On the boat, the staff are generally praised for their professionalism and politeness, making the trip smooth from start to finish. The boat itself is described as a speedboat—which gets you between islands quickly but can sometimes be a bit cramped, especially if the weather turns choppy. Several reviews mention the boat smelling of diesel or feeling too small for the number of passengers, which is worth noting if you’re sensitive to odors or uncomfortable in tight spaces.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First stop: Koh Nang Yuan
This tiny, picturesque island is the highlight for many travelers. The iconic three connected islands are perfect for snorkeling and sunbathing. The clear waters teem with colorful fish and coral, making it a favorite for underwater explorers. The admission to this private island is included, and you’ll have about 2 hours for activities here. Many reviews praise the snorkeling, with one saying, “the snorkeling was A1,” and appreciating the friendly staff who guide you through the experience.

Hiking to the Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint
A short, rewarding walk up the viewpoint offers a panoramic vista of the islands and the surrounding turquoise sea. In just 30 minutes, you get a stunning photo opportunity—perfect for social media or just savoring the beauty of your surroundings. The viewpoint admission is included, and many find it well worth the climb despite some crowds and a steep trail.

Hin Wong Bay
Next, the boat takes you to Hin Wong Bay, another lovely snorkeling spot. Here, you can relax, swim, or snorkel amidst colorful reef life for about 30 minutes. Some travelers appreciate this spot as a quieter alternative to Koh Nang Yuan, though it’s worth noting that the boat often only stays briefly here, so make the most of it.

Koh Tao for Lunch
Most of the group heads to a local restaurant for a Thai-style buffet lunch. The included meal is described as satisfying, giving you energy for the afternoon. The reviews don’t specify the menu, but you can expect traditional flavors served in a relaxed setting.

Mango Bay
Post-lunch, the tour moves to Mango Bay—famous for its soft white sands and calm waters. It’s a great place to unwind, soak up the sun, and take a swim. This stop typically lasts 30 minutes and offers some of the best beach lounging on the trip.

Ao Tanot Bay for Snorkeling
The final stop is Tanote Bay, a quiet, scenic spot with excellent snorkeling opportunities. Many reviews highlight this as the best snorkeling on Koh Tao, with abundant marine life and clear water. It’s a peaceful retreat after the busy morning visits.

What Travelers Love

Many reviews emphasize the professional guides and the beautiful scenery. One traveler praised the snorkeling, calling it “A1,” and appreciated the well-organized stops. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment and soft drinks means you’re well cared for during the day.

The variety of stops—ranging from active snorkeling and viewpoints to relaxing beaches—means you get to see diverse aspects of Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan. The scenery views from the viewpoint are frequently described as jaw-dropping, offering a perspective only accessible by foot.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

Not all feedback is glowing. A few reviews mention last-minute itinerary changes that caused disappointment, such as missing certain stops or feeling rushed. One reviewer pointed out that the boat felt cramped and smelled of diesel, which can detract from comfort—especially on choppier seas.

Weather can also be unpredictable; some travelers noted choppy waters, which affected the snorkeling experience or caused discomfort. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with high blood pressure, heart disease, or bone issues—an important safety note.

Lastly, some travelers found the crowd levels at certain viewpoints or on the boat to be high, which could detract from a sense of peacefulness or privacy. If a quiet, meditative experience is your goal, this may not be the ideal tour.

The Cost and Overall Value

At $68.62 per person, including pickup, meals, snorkeling gear, and insurance, this tour offers decent value for those seeking a full day in beautiful surroundings. The multiple stops, well-organized schedule, and included meals make it a convenient way to see some of Koh Tao’s highlights without the stress of planning each piece yourself.

However, the experience’s value depends on your priorities: if snorkeling and scenic viewpoints matter most, you’ll likely find it worthwhile. But if weather or crowds are a concern, or if you prefer a more luxurious, less crowded experience, you might want to explore other options.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities like snorkeling, hiking viewpoints, and beach lounging. It’s particularly appealing if you’re looking for a full day of exploration without the hassle of arranging multiple transfers or meals. The tour’s natural beauty, friendly guides, and varied stops make it an excellent choice for adventure lovers and fans of authentic island scenery.

It’s also ideal for those traveling on a budget, given the inclusion of food, equipment, and pickup. But be prepared for possible crowds or weather-related disruptions, and ensure you’re comfortable with a somewhat fast-paced itinerary.

Final Thoughts

This full-day cruise from Koh Samui to Koh Nang Yuan and Koh Tao offers a well-rounded taste of Thailand’s island magic. You’ll love the stunning viewpoints, vibrant snorkeling spots, and relaxing beaches that make for picture-perfect memories. The tour is a solid value for those eager to see multiple highlights in one day, especially with helpful guides and all the gear included.

On the flip side, if you prefer a quieter, more private experience, or are sensitive to boat conditions and crowds, you might find this tour a bit hectic. Still, for active travelers willing to embrace a lively atmosphere, it delivers a memorable day of natural beauty and fun.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, a light breakfast, a Thai-style buffet lunch, snorkeling equipment, water, soft drinks, snacks, and accident insurance.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting around 9:00 am and ending in the late afternoon.

What are the main stops?
Stops include Koh Nang Yuan for snorkeling and sunbathing, a viewpoint hike, Hin Wong Bay, a Thai lunch on Koh Tao, Mango Bay for relaxing, and Ao Tanot Bay for snorkeling.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear and life jackets are included, so you don’t need to bring your own unless you prefer.

Are there any age restrictions?
Children aged 4-10 can participate, but pregnant women or those with certain health issues are not recommended.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, a towel, and possibly a waterproof camera. A hat and sunglasses are also helpful for the viewpoint.

Are the stops crowded?
Some stops, like the viewpoint, can be busy with travelers. The boat trips and beaches offer both lively and quieter spots, depending on the time of day.

Is there a park fee?
Yes, a national park fee of 250 THB per adult and 150 THB per child applies, payable separately.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Last-minute cancellations are non-refundable.

Is this tour suitable for large groups or cruise ship passengers?
The tour is not ideal for cruise ship passengers or large boats, as it’s designed for smaller groups and land-based departures.

In the end, this tour offers an authentic and actively engaging way to enjoy Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan. Whether you’re snorkeling your heart out, taking in panoramic views, or simply relaxing on white sandy beaches, it’s a day that captures much of what makes Thailand’s islands so special.