Koh Tan and Pig Island Half-Day Tour by Speed Catamaran

Starting off: A lively half-day adventure on Koh Samui’s waters
This Koh Tan and Pig Island Half-Day Tour by Speed Catamaran, priced at just over $70 per person, offers a fun mix of snorkeling, wildlife encounters, and scenic cruising. With a duration of roughly four hours, it’s designed for those who want a taste of island life without committing a full day. The tour begins with convenient hotel pickup, which makes life easy for travelers staying on Koh Samui, and features a light breakfast or meal on board to keep you energized for the aquatic fun ahead.

What we love about this experience is the chance to interact with the famous friendly pigs on Pig Island — a truly memorable sight that appeals especially to families and animal lovers. Plus, the snorkeling at Koh Tan with its vibrant coral reefs and colorful marine life offers a genuine peek into Thailand’s underwater world. The onboard water slide, kayaking, and paddleboarding add extra fun, making it a well-rounded, lively trip.

One thing to bear in mind is that some reviews mention disappointing conditions at Pig Island, including unclean waters and a lack of sanitation facilities, which could be a turnoff if you’re expecting pristine beaches or wildlife sanctuaries. Also, the trip’s success can depend on weather and sea conditions, especially for snorkeling and water activities, so flexibility is helpful.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy relaxed aquatic excursions with a touch of wildlife interaction. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo explorers looking for a balanced mix of chill time and adventure in a scenic setting.

Key Points

• Vibrant Marine Life: Snorkeling at Koh Tan offers lively reefs and colorful fish, perfect for underwater enthusiasts.
• Wildlife Encounters: Visitors can freely interact with the friendly pigs on Pig Island, creating unique memories.
• Convenient Transfers: Included hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple, especially for those staying on Koh Samui.
• Family-Friendly: The tour’s flexible activities like paddleboarding and a water slide appeal to all ages.
• Weather Dependence: Snorkeling and water activities are weather-sensitive, so conditions can vary.
• Mixed Reviews: While many praise the crew and scenery, some find the water conditions at Pig Island less appealing.

A detailed look at what makes this tour special

The Itinerary Breakdown and Experience

Stop 1: Pig Island (Ko Mat Sum)
We start the trip heading directly to Pig Island, which is often the highlight for many travelers. The island’s crystal-clear waters make it a perfect spot for swimming, and it’s particularly popular because of the friendly pigs that wade along the beaches and swim in the shallow waters. You’ll get around 90 minutes here to enjoy the sight of the pigs and take photos.

You might find, based on reviews, that water quality can be hit-or-miss. Charmaine expressed disappointment, citing “poo and wee everywhere” and poor sanitary conditions, which highlights that expectations should be tempered. But many travelers, like Cornelia, found the pigs “soooo cute,” and enjoyed feeding and playing with them. The key is to be prepared for a less manicured, more rustic experience.

Stop 2: Koh Tan
Next, the boat takes you to Koh Tan, a tranquil island with vivid coral reefs perfect for snorkeling. The crew provides snorkeling equipment, and you can also take advantage of kayaks, paddleboards, or slip down the onboard water slide. We loved the idea of having multiple activities to choose from, letting everyone find their favorite way to enjoy the water.

The snorkeling here, as some reviews suggest, can suffer from strong currents and poor visibility, which might make it less ideal for inexperienced swimmers. But for those who enjoy more adventurous waters, it offers a lively marine environment to explore.

You’ll spend about an hour on Koh Tan, which feels just enough time to relax and soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. The professional crew—speaking both English and Thai—are friendly and attentive, making sure everyone’s safety and enjoyment are prioritized.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour provides insurance, island entrance fees, and all snorkeling gear, making it straightforward and hassle-free. The light meal and seasonal fruit on board help keep your energy up, especially after some fun in the water.

While food options are included, the availability of drinks is limited to soft drinks and water, and, as some reviews note, alcohol isn’t available for purchase onboard, which could be a downside if you’re seeking a more laid-back, adult-oriented experience. Plus, a small extra charge (200 THB) applies if you want to change your hotel pickup location.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This experience is perfect for families and casual travelers who want an active, but not overly strenuous, day on the water. It’s also great for those interested in meeting animals in a relaxed environment and exploring marine life through snorkeling. If you’re seeking pristine beaches and secluded spots, you might find the conditions at Pig Island less appealing. However, if you’re okay with a rustic vibe and a lively atmosphere, this trip can deliver memorable moments.

The pros and cons in detail

What we appreciate

Knowledgeable crew and guides make a big difference, especially when explaining safety procedures or pointing out marine species. The scenic cruise via speed catamaran is exhilarating, giving you a real sense of adventure and making the most of Koh Samui’s gorgeous waters. Many travelers noted that the crew was friendly and fun, which enhanced the relaxed vibe.

The value for money is quite reasonable considering all the inclusions, especially the water activities, meals, and hotel transfers. Plus, the flexibility of departure times (morning or evening) allows you to tailor the experience around your plans.

Drawbacks to keep in mind

• Water quality at Pig Island has been a concern, with some visitors describing it as disappointing or contaminated. Expect a rustic, natural environment rather than a manicured paradise.
• Weather and sea conditions can affect snorkeling and water activities, so if conditions are rough, some parts of the trip might not be as enjoyable.
• The tour does not cater to guests arriving by large cruise ships or those with mobility issues, and disabled or handicapped guests are not permitted.
• Some travelers may find the experience a bit mundane or boring, especially if snorkeling conditions aren’t ideal, as one review pointed out.

Who should consider this tour?

If you’re traveling with family, enjoy animal encounters, or just want a fun, active half-day on the water, this tour offers good value. It’s suited for adventurous beginners and relaxed travelers alike who want a mix of wildlife, swimming, and scenic cruising.

Those looking for pristine beaches or exclusive islands might prefer other options. If your main goal is snorkeling in perfect conditions or luxurious picnics, this might fall short. But for authentic, lively, and reasonably priced fun, it hits the mark.

Final thoughts: Is this tour worth it?

This tour combines scenic boat cruising, animal encounters, and marine activities, making it a well-rounded choice for a half-day outing. The friendly guides, lively atmosphere, and variety of activities provide excellent value—especially for families or groups wanting a bit of everything in a short time.

However, come prepared for rustic conditions at Pig Island and variable snorkeling quality. The success of your experience will largely depend on weather conditions and your expectations for a rustic, natural environment rather than a polished resort experience.

If you’re seeking an easy, enjoyable, and memorable way to explore Koh Samui’s waters and wildlife, this tour offers plenty of fun and authentic moments—just don’t expect perfection. It’s best suited for adventurers happy with a rustic charm and lively atmosphere.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off from Koh Samui, making it convenient to start and end your day without extra hassle.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately four hours, including transfer time, making it a perfect half-day activity.

What activities are included on the boat?
You can snorkel, kayak, paddleboard, and slide into the water. Food and drinks are also available onboard.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children aged 4 to 10 years can join, and there are special children’s tickets. However, guests with certain health issues or mobility challenges should check restrictions.

Can I buy alcohol on board?
No, alcohol is not available for purchase during the trip.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this speed catamaran tour offers a lively and scenic way to experience Koh Samui’s waters, marine life, and unique wildlife encounters. It’s particularly well-suited for families, animal lovers, and those wanting a relaxed yet active half-day on the water. While it has some rustic elements and relies on weather conditions, the friendliness of the crew and the variety of activities make it a solid choice for an authentic, fun-filled outing.