Koh Tao: Premium Snorkel Tour to Koh Nangyuan Bays by Oxygen

A Practical Guide to Koh Tao’s Premium Snorkel Tour to Koh Nangyuan Bays by Oxygen

If you’re headed to Koh Tao and love snorkeling, this premium boat tour offers a close-up look at some of the island’s most beautiful spots. At just $39 per person for a 6-hour trip, it promises a relaxed, intimate experience—no crowded boat here. Led by friendly guides, you’ll visit four top snorkeling sites, hike up to the famous Koh Nangyuan viewpoint, and enjoy a tasty lunch with vegan or chicken sandwiches and panna cotta.

What we love most about this experience is the small group size, capped at 25 people, making it easy to relax and truly enjoy each stop. The second highlight is the variety of snorkeling spots, from colorful coral reefs at Freedom Beach and Aow Leuk Bay to the chance of spotting turtles and horn corals—a real treat for nature lovers.

One thing to keep in mind is that this trip includes a 250 THB Koh Nangyuan entrance fee, which isn’t covered in the tour price. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, young children, or those with certain health issues, so make sure you’re comfortable with the physical activity involved.

This tour suits travelers who value quality over quantity, appreciate well-organized excursions, and want to avoid the typical crowded boat trips. If you’re looking for authentic snorkeling experiences combined with scenic views and good food, this is a solid choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Small Group Comfort: Limited to 25 people for a relaxed experience
• Diverse Snorkeling: Four stops including coral reefs, turtle sightings, and horn corals
• Scenic Highlights: Viewpoint hike at Koh Nangyuan and peaceful bays around Koh Tao
• Tasty Food: Delicious sandwiches and panna cotta included
• Expert Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides who focus on your safety and enjoyment
• Entry Fee: Remember the 250 THB fee for Koh Nangyuan is paid separately

A Deep Dive into What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Itinerary: A Thoughtfully Curated Day on the Water

This tour offers a well-structured day that balances snorkeling, sightseeing, and relaxation. It begins with a pick-up from your hotel—a convenience that already sets this experience apart from more self-guided options. Once on board, you’ll receive a short safety briefing from guides like Axel, Apal, or E, who are consistently praised for their friendliness and expertise.

The first major stop, Freedom Beach, is celebrated for its shallow reef, making it ideal for snorkeling beginners and those wanting to relax with a good view of schools of colorful fish and corals. As one reviewer put it, “We loved the way guides worked so hard to find the best spots and take pictures,” making the experience feel personalized and attentive.

Next, you’ll pass Buddha Rock, a natural formation resembling a meditating figure, adding a touch of local lore and fun to the journey. The quiet Shark Bay, famous for its blacktip reef sharks, offers a chance to observe marine life in a peaceful setting—though sharks are, of course, not guaranteed to appear.

The tour’s highlight is Aow Leuk Bay. Its deep, curved shape, and clear waters make it one of the best snorkeling spots on Koh Tao, with abundant coral reefs on both sides. Here, you’ll find stunning shades of blue and a vibrant underwater world. One guest mentioned, “We saw turtles and snorkeled around beautiful reefs,” confirming the site’s appeal.

Midday, your guides serve delicious sandwiches—vegan or chicken options—and panna cotta, both praised for their quality and freshness. This is a welcome break before heading to Tao Thong Bay, where you might spot horn corals—a unique undersea sight.

The last snorkeling stop at Shark Bay offers a final chance to see marine life and enjoy the tranquil beach scenery. Then, you’ll hike up to the viewpoint at Koh Nangyuan—a must-see for panoramic views and incredible photo opportunities.

The Experience: Small Group, Personalized Service

Travelers consistently note the small group size as a major plus. It creates a more intimate atmosphere, enabling guides to tailor the trip and spend more time with each guest. Guides like Axel and Apal are praised for their friendly, professional attitude and their efforts to make everyone feel comfortable.

The snorkeling gear, life jackets, and toilet facilities onboard ensure comfort and safety. Plus, the hotel transfer makes the whole day hassle-free, especially for those unfamiliar with the island.

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Food and Refreshments: A Highlight for Many

The lunch is a real highlight—fresh, tasty, and filling. Many reviews mention the good quality sandwiches and the panna cotta, which adds a sweet touch to the day. The unlimited coffee, tea, and fresh fruits also help keep everyone energized and hydrated, a vital benefit given the tropical heat.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

You’ll want to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a change of clothes, and a waterproof bag. Wear shorts or water shoes—the sand can have shells or rocks, as one reviewer pointed out. Be aware that entry to Koh Nangyuan costs 250 THB, paid separately, so factor that into your budget.

The tour not suitable for pregnant women, children under 2, or those with certain health conditions, so check your personal comfort level beforehand. Also, remember that a minimum of 2 people is needed to run the trip, but in practice, it’s often a well-organized experience with a friendly, small group.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Well-organized, efficient itinerary
– Small group size for personal attention
– Diverse snorkeling spots with opportunities to see marine life
– Delicious, high-quality food and beverages included
– Knowledgeable guides who care about your safety and fun

Cons:
– An additional 250 THB fee for Koh Nangyuan
– Not suited for certain health conditions or very young children
– The schedule can be busy with multiple stops, which might feel rushed for some

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This snorkeling trip works perfectly for adventurous travelers who enjoy small-group experiences and want a balanced day on Koh Tao’s waters. It’s ideal if you’re keen on seeing varied marine environments, hiking up to viewpoints, and having delicious food included. The quiet bays and personalized guides make it especially appealing to those seeking a more authentic, less commercialized experience.

If you’re a beginner snorkeler or someone who appreciates professional guidance and small groups, this tour offers dependable quality. However, if you’re after extreme adventure, night snorkeling, or parties on boats, you might want to look elsewhere.

FAQ about Koh Tao’s Premium Snorkel Tour by Oxygen

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel round-trip transfer, snorkeling equipment, life jackets, drinks like water, coffee, tea, fresh fruits, lunch with vegan or chicken sandwiches, panna cotta, a professional guide, and basic accident insurance.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about 6 hours, with starting times varying. You’ll spend approximately 30 minutes at each snorkeling spot and have time to hike and take photos at Koh Nangyuan.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 2 years, pregnant women, or those with health issues like back or neck problems. The physical activity and boat travel aren’t suitable for everyone.

What are the main snorkeling spots?
You’ll visit Freedom Beach, Shark Bay, Aow Leuk Bay, and Tao Thong Bay. Each offers distinct underwater scenery, from coral reefs and schools of fish to potential turtle sightings and horn corals.

Do I need to pay extra for anything?
Yes, the 250 THB Koh Nangyuan entrance fee is paid separately on-site. Other personal expenses are not included.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a towel, waterproof bag, change of clothes, camera, flip-flops, and cash for extras or souvenirs.

Is the tour flexible?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and bookings are flexible with the “reserve now, pay later” option.

Can I go if I don’t snorkel?
While snorkeling is the main activity, non-swimmers can still enjoy the scenery, views, and the boat cruise, but some stops may involve water activities.

Final Thoughts

This Koh Tao premium snorkel tour by Oxygen offers an excellent balance of adventure, comfort, and authenticity. Its small group size, knowledgeable guides, and carefully selected snorkeling sites make it stand out from many other tours. The included delicious food and scenic hikes add extra value, making it well worth the price.

If you’re someone who appreciates personalized service, loves exploring underwater worlds, and wants to see Koh Tao without the crowds, this trip fits the bill. It’s especially suited for independent travelers, couples, and small groups looking for a high-quality, memorable day on the water.

For those wanting a relaxed, well-organized trip with plenty of opportunities for underwater photography, this tour is a dependable choice. Remember to factor in the entrance fee to Koh Nangyuan and prepare for a day full of scenic views and marine life.

Final Note

Getting the most out of this trip depends on your expectations and physical readiness. Pack your sunscreen, a waterproof camera, and your sense of adventure. With a little planning, your day at Koh Tao will be filled with beautiful sights, vibrant sea life, and lovely memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: