Koh Tan and Koh Madsum Snorkeling Trip By Speedboat From Koh Samui

A Snorkeling Day on Koh Tan and Koh Madsum – What You Need to Know

This tour takes you out from Koh Samui to explore two nearby islands: Koh Tan and Koh Madsum, with a focus on snorkeling, relaxing, and enjoying some of the best ocean views the Gulf of Thailand has to offer. For about $60 per person, you’ll spend roughly 6 to 7 hours out on the water—a good half day that balances adventure with downtime. The package includes hotel pickup, snorkeling gear, lunch, and soft drinks, making it a straightforward way to explore these lesser-visited islands without the hassle of organizing your own boat or transport.

What we appreciate most about this trip is how it caters to both snorkelers and relaxation seekers. The vibrant coral reefs at Koh Tan promise colorful underwater sights, and the beach on Koh Madsum, famous for its friendly pigs, offers a playful, laid-back vibe. We also like the hassle-free nature of the tour—round-trip transfers, included gear, and lunch help you focus on enjoying your day without worrying about logistics.

But, it’s worth noting that some reviews point out the size of the group and snorkeling quality can vary. For travelers craving a quiet, intimate experience or exceptional snorkel conditions, this may be something to consider. This tour seems best suited for those who want a full day of beach and reef exploration with convenient amenities included.

Who’s this tour perfect for? If you’re after a straightforward, well-organized day with opportunities to snorkel, relax on sandy beaches, and enjoy Thai food, this is a great option. It’s especially suitable for families, first-timers, or anyone who appreciates easy logistics and good value.

Key Points

• Convenience: All-inclusive package with hotel transfers, gear, and lunch makes for a stress-free day.
• Variety of Experiences: Combines snorkeling, beach lounging, and playful pig encounters.
• Group Size: Tours can be large, with up to 30 travelers, which might affect intimacy.
• Snorkeling Conditions: The coral reef at Koh Tan is beautiful, but some reviews mention limited fish and brief snorkeling time.
• Value for Money: At around $60, the tour offers a lot—transport, food, gear, and access to two islands.
• Suitable for: Families, first-time visitors, or those wanting a scenic, relaxed day on the water.

Exploring the Tour in Detail: What to Expect

When we first think about a day out on the water from Koh Samui, it’s the promise of scenic views and easy access to snorkeling spots that catch our attention. This tour begins early, with a hotel pickup from areas like Lamai, Chaweng, Bophut, and others. The convenience of door-to-door transfers means you don’t have to fuss with taxis or ferry schedules, especially if you’re staying outside the main tourist zones.

The Speedboat Ride and Arrival at Koh Tan

Once at the port, you’ll board a speedboat, which traverses the Gulf of Thailand to reach your first stop: Koh Tan. The boat ride itself is quick and provides plenty of chances to enjoy ocean views and the breeze. As one reviewer pointed out, the ride is quick and pleasant, making it a comfortable journey that sets the tone for the day.

Koh Tan is especially popular for its coral reefs—a highlight for snorkelers. The tour includes snorkeling gear, so you can float over the vibrant underwater landscape. Keep in mind, though, that some reviews mention the snorkeling time is brief, with only about 45 minutes at Koh Tan, which might leave more avid snorkelers wanting more.

Koh Madsum and the Pig Island Fun

The next stop is Koh Madsum, affectionately called Pig Island due to the friendly, semi-wild pigs that roam the shores. Here, you get around four hours of free time, so you can relax on the white sandy beaches, take photos of the pigs, or try some kayaking if you’re feeling adventurous. The water is clear and inviting, making it perfect for a casual swim or just soaking up the sun.

Reviews rave about how cute and fun the pigs are, with one guest describing the island as “really nice.” It’s an ideal spot for families or animal lovers, or anyone who simply wants to unwind by the water.

Lunch and Resting Time

A Thai set menu lunch is included, served after the morning activities. The food is described as tasty, and the inclusive soft drinks and fresh fruit complement it well. Keep in mind, the lunch is served on the beach or near the boat, so you can enjoy authentic Thai flavors with ocean views. However, some reviews mention the buffet can be crowded and sitting in the heat, which might not appeal to those expecting a more refined dining experience.

Return Journey and Drop-off

After a relaxed afternoon, the boat heads back to Koh Samui, with the tour wrapping up around late afternoon. The drop-off at your hotel means you can skip the hassle of return transportation, leaving you free to continue exploring or relax after your day out.

The Experience We’ve Seen in Reviews

This tour has garnered mixed but generally positive feedback. Many reviewers highlight the helpful, friendly guides and the spectacular scenery. For example, one traveler mentioned that the views were great, and they even saw dolphins during their trip, adding a special touch to the experience.

On the downside, some guests found the snorkeling conditions less than ideal. One review noted, “there were no fishes,” and the snorkeling was very brief. It’s a reminder that marine life can be unpredictable, and the coral reefs, while colorful, may not be teeming with fish all the time.

The large group sizes—sometimes up to 40 people—have also been noted, which can diminish the feeling of intimacy and make the experience more crowded. Still, many appreciate the value for money and the smooth logistics.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of This Tour

• Arrive early for pickup, especially if you’re staying outside the main tourist areas.
• Bring a waterproof camera or phone case to capture the piglets and underwater sights.
• If you’re a serious snorkeler, consider whether the short snorkeling window suits your expectations.
• Pack some extra sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be strong, especially on the beaches.
• Be prepared for potentially crowded beaches on Koh Madsum; arriving early can help secure a good spot.
• If you prefer a quieter experience, consider joining the tour early or discussing options with the guide.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for an easy, well-organized day that combines snorkeling, beach lounging, and a playful pig encounter, this tour hits most of those marks. It’s perfect for families with children, as the included equipment and meals simplify planning. For first-time visitors to Koh Samui, it offers a convenient way to explore nearby islands without much fuss.

However, if you’re looking for a longer snorkeling expedition or a more secluded experience, you might find this tour somewhat limited. Plus, those who value small groups or more in-depth marine encounters may prefer alternative options.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is around 6 to 7 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.

Is pickup offered from my hotel?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup from various locations in Koh Samui, including Lamai, Chaweng, Bophut, and others.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers transfers, snorkeling gear, lunch, soft drinks, fresh fruit, life jackets, and accident insurance.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, there’s an admission fee of 50 THB per person. Transfers to certain areas like Nathon or Taling Ngam cost an additional 700 Baht per way.

How skilled do I need to be for snorkeling?
Most equipment is provided, and the reefs are suitable for snorkelers of all levels. However, the relatively short snorkeling time might not satisfy more experienced snorkelers looking for longer underwater adventures.

Can children join?
Yes, children aged 4 to 11 can participate. However, pregnant women or those with certain health conditions are advised against joining.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, swimwear, a towel, and waterproof camera if desired. The tour supplies snorkeling gear and life jackets.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers who want a convenient, value-packed day exploring Koh Tan and Koh Madsum, this tour offers a lot. Its highlights—snorkeling at coral reefs and relaxing on beautiful beaches—are genuinely appealing. The inclusion of lunch, gear, and transfers makes it a hassle-free way to spend half a day in the Gulf of Thailand.

While the snorkeling conditions may not thrill everyone**, and group sizes can be large, the overall experience is solid, especially for those new to snorkeling or looking to combine scenic island hopping with some fun and sun. The friendly guides and beautiful scenery make it a worthwhile option for a laid-back, scenic escape from Koh Samui.

In essence, if you’re after a relaxed, organized, and scenic day that balances snorkeling, beach fun, and good Thai food, this tour is definitely worth considering—and it’s likely to deliver a memorable day by Thailand’s beautiful islands.