When you think about visiting Ko Tao, the image that often comes to mind is crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life. For that, the Tao-Nangyuan Snorkeling Day Trip offers a wonderful way to explore these underwater treasures, all while cruising aboard a charming vintage wooden boat. Priced at $60 per person, this small-group tour lasts about a full day and promises plenty of snorkeling, scenic spots, and delicious food.

What we particularly love about this experience is the personalized attention from knowledgeable guides—they’re genuinely passionate about marine life and making sure everyone gets a chance to see turtles and sharks. Plus, the small group size (generally no more than 20 people) means you’ll avoid the crowded feeling that can tarnish other boat trips. There’s a cozy, relaxed vibe that makes the day feel more like a friends’ outing than a commercial tour.

Of course, a potential consideration is that certain activities depend on weather conditions, so some plans might shift if the skies turn gloomy or the sea gets rough. But overall, the tour’s flexible itinerary and focus on safety help keep the day enjoyable.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy snorkeling and marine life encounters, appreciate small, intimate groups, and want a balanced mix of water activities and scenic relaxation. If you’re looking for an experience that combines good value, expert guides, and a chance to see turtles and sharks up close, this trip could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

Small Group Comfort: No overcrowding, maximum 20 guests, leading to a more personal experience.
Marine Life Encounters: High chances to see turtles, baby sharks, and reef sharks at various stops.
All-Inclusive Meals & Drinks: Buffet lunch, BBQ dinner, unlimited soft drinks, and fresh seasonal fruits.
Great Equipment & Safety Measures: New snorkel mouthpieces, life jackets, and guided water activities.
Expert Guides & Photos: Guides who are passionate, take underwater photos, and share on WhatsApp.
Diverse Stops: Multiple snorkeling sites, Koh Nang Yuan, and scenic viewpoints, all with remarkable scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point: Hotel Pickup and Boat Boarding

Your day begins with hotel pickup in Ko Tao, making life easy right from the start. The transfer takes you to the pier where the charming vintage wooden boat awaits. The small-group nature of the tour means you’ll likely share the boat with just a handful of fellow travelers, creating an atmosphere that feels more like a day out with friends than a packed cruise.

Once onboard, the crew welcomes you with friendly smiles, ready to kick off what promises to be an unforgettable day. The boat itself is described as comfortable and well-maintained, with plenty of space to relax, sunbathe, or chat with other guests. The tranquil deck often becomes the perfect spot to take in the stunning views of Koh Nang Yuan and surrounding islands.

Fascinated by underwater life? Here are other snorkeling spots we've covered in Ko Tao

First Stop: Koh Nang Yuan & the Japanese Gardens Diving Site

Your journey’s highlight is the visit to Koh Nang Yuan, a picture-perfect set of three tiny islets linked by a sandbar. We loved the way the boat gently approaches this tiny paradise, with its palm-fringed beaches and crystalline waters. To avoid the midday heat and crowds, the guide suggests heading straight to the viewpoint upon arrival. The climb is short but steep, offering breathtaking panoramic views that are worth every step.

While many travelers opt for the water-based activities, the real jewel here is the snorkeling in the sheltered bay. The Japanese Gardens diving site, on the east side of Nang Yuan, boasts an impressive variety of coral and marine fauna, including colorful fish and possibly even sea turtles. The guides are experienced and helpful, and from reviews, it’s clear that many guests appreciate how they actively point out marine creatures and take underwater photos.

Snorkeling at the Marine Sites

Once in the water, you’ll find snorkeling gear provided, including a new mouthpiece for each guest—no sharing needed. This small touch adds a layer of comfort and hygiene, making the experience more enjoyable. Guides swim among guests, eager to show the best coral formations and share their knowledge.

Several reviews mention the high likelihood of spotting turtles and sharks—two of the major draws of this tour. At Shark Bay or Aow Leuk Beach, you might find blacktip reef sharks peacefully swimming over the seabed or see sea turtles gliding effortlessly through the water. One reviewer describes seeing “baby sharks, turtles, and a lot of fish” at various stops, emphasizing how this trip offers genuine wildlife encounters without the crowds.

Lunch on Board: Fresh & Flavorful

After about an hour of snorkeling, the boat moves to a scenic spot where a freshly prepared buffet lunch awaits. Guests rave about the quality of the food, with options like curries, rice, noodles, and seasonal fruits. Many say the lunch is plentiful and delicious, offering enough fuel for the rest of the day’s adventures.

The relaxed atmosphere during lunch allows you to soak in views of Mango Bay and Nang Yuan, and to chat with fellow travelers. The unlimited drinks—including bottled water, sodas, tea, and coffee—keep everyone hydrated, especially in the tropical sun.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring More Water & Land: Ao Muong Beach and Hin Wong Bay

The afternoon keeps the water flowing with trips to Ao Muong Beach, a postcard-perfect spot with lush greenery and boulders perfect for photos. Here, snorkeling continues, and the scenery is as inviting as the marine life. Many reviews mention the diversity of fish and the thrill of spotting small harmless sharks in shallow waters.

Next, you’ll visit Hin Wong Bay, a large bay where guests relax on Ao Hin Wong Beach or snorkel again. Witnessing schools of sardines chased by trevally fish is a common highlight. The guides help everyone find the most interesting marine life, making these stops engaging whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer.

Planning evening activities? Here are other after-dark options we've examined in Ko Tao

The Highlight of the Day: Shark Bay & Marine Encounters

One of the most acclaimed stops is Shark Bay, where guests can observe sharks, sea turtles, and other marine creatures in their natural environment. Reviews highlight the peaceful swimming of sharks and the opportunity to see blacktip reef sharks over 6 feet long. For many, this is a dream experience—being mere feet from the sharks and turtles in clear, calm waters.

Sunset BBQ & Final Relaxation

As the day winds down, the boat heads back toward Ko Tao, but not before offering one more magical moment: watching the sunset from the deck. The BBQ dinner and virgin mojito mocktails are served as the sun dips below the horizon, creating a perfect end to a day filled with marine wonders.

Guests consistently mention how the meals are plentiful and tasty, with many noting the friendly crew who go above and beyond to make sure everyone is comfortable and well cared for. The small group size ensures personalized attention, making it easier to get photos or ask questions.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

From the reviews, it’s clear that many guests appreciate the expert guides who actively help spot marine life and take underwater photos. The intimate group setting means you’re not just another face on a boat of 50 strangers, but part of a close-knit crew. Many reviewers highlight how the food is tasty and plentiful, and the snorkeling sites are impressive, with marine life that exceeds expectations.

On the flip side, some reviews mention that weather conditions can influence the exact spots visited or the visibility underwater. It’s good to keep in mind that nature can be unpredictable, but the tour’s flexibility helps keep the day enjoyable regardless.

This tour is ideal for marine life enthusiasts, snorkelers of all skill levels, and those who prefer small, relaxed groups over large, crowded boat trips. If you’re eager to see turtles and sharks in their natural habitat, and enjoy delicious local food in a scenic setting, you’ll likely find this experience rewarding. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who value personalized attention and want plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxed exploration.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers or beginners?
Yes. The guides are attentive and provide snorkeling gear, including a new mouthpiece for each guest. They’re experienced in helping both beginners and seasoned snorkelers, and the small groups make it easier to get assistance.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, a camera, biodegradable sunscreen, and personal medication. It’s also a good idea to carry cash (about 250 baht) for the Koh Nang Yuan entrance fee, and a reusable water bottle.

Are drinks and food included?
Yes. You’ll enjoy a buffet lunch, unlimited bottled water, sodas, tea, coffee, and a BBQ dinner with non-alcoholic drinks like virgin mojitos. Fruits and snacks are also provided throughout the day.

Can I see marine animals like sharks and turtles?
Absolutely. Multiple reviews mention a high chance of spotting sea turtles, reef sharks, and even baby sharks. The guides actively seek out these creatures and help ensure everyone gets a good view.

What is the group size?
Typically no more than 20 people. Some reviewers even mention being on the boat with only 4 or 5 others, making for a very intimate experience.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the exact activities and sites may change depending on weather conditions. But the tour’s flexible schedule aims to maximize your experience even if some spots are less accessible.

The Ko Tao Tao-Nangyuan Snorkeling Day Trip offers a thoughtfully curated experience for those eager to explore the underwater beauty of Thailand’s Gulf of Thailand. With its emphasis on small groups, marine wildlife encounters, and delicious, freshly prepared meals, it stands out as a well-rounded, value-for-money option. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer eager for underwater adventures, this tour makes for a memorable day in paradise.

The combination of excellent guides, beautiful stops, and a relaxed atmosphere means you’ll leave with not only stunning photos but also a genuine appreciation for the marine environment. It’s a trip that’s likely to be a highlight of your time on Ko Tao—if you’re ready to swim with turtles and sharks in crystal waters, this is your ticket.

If you love small, personalized excursions that focus on marine life and scenic beauty, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially good for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an authentic, relaxed day on the water. The excellent value combined with delicious food, expert guides, and the chance for up-close wildlife sightings makes it a standout option on Ko Tao.

Travelers who appreciate well-organized trips with flexible plans and a friendly crew will find this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for those wanting a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, with plenty of opportunities for photos and underwater discoveries.

Enjoy your trip to Ko Tao, and remember—sometimes the best memories are made just below the surface.