kohsamui.tours – Pig Island Snorkeling Eco Tour by Speed Boat

Exploring Koh Samui’s Hidden Gems: Pig Island Snorkeling Eco Tour

Koh Samui isn’t just about lounging on beaches and sipping coconut water; it’s also about discovering the islands that surround it. For around $62, you can join a 4 to 5-hour eco-friendly speedboat tour that whisks you away to Koh Tan, Koh Mudsum, and Koh Samui’s secret highlights. This tour, operated by kohsamui.tours, offers a blend of snorkeling, kayaking, local cuisine, and the unforgettable sight of wild pigs roaming freely on the beach—an experience that’s both fun and uniquely authentic.

One of the things we love most about this trip is how it balances adventure with relaxation. You’ll get to explore coral reefs teeming with sea life at Koh Tan, then relax on the untouched sands of Koh Mudsum, where the friendly, woolly pigs are surprisingly the star attractions. Also, the lunch served right on the beach offers delicious Thai flavors with a view that can’t be beaten.

However, it’s worth noting that some travelers feel the tour isn’t a bargain—Gianpaolo D called it “too expensive, not worth in general,” mainly criticizing the food and the overall experience. Still, the vast majority of reviews highlight its good value and the authenticity of the islands visited. This tour suits those who want a mix of beach time, snorkeling, and a touch of local wilderness, especially if you’re eager to see woolly pigs in the wild—a rare sight outside the Bahamas.

Key Points

• Authentic island experience: Visits to Koh Tan and Koh Mudsum include untouched reefs and wildlife.
• Cost-effective for what you get: With snorkeling gear, lunch, kayaking, and insurance included.
• Limited group size: Max of 12 travelers, which helps keep things personal and flexible.
• Convenient pickup and drop-off: Air-conditioned transport from your hotel simplifies logistics.
• Unique highlight: The chance to see and interact with free-roaming woolly pigs on Koh Mudsum.
• Some extra costs: An entrance fee of THB50 for Koh Mudsum, paid directly.

The Heart of the Tour: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Pickup and Departure

Your day begins early, around 8:30 am, with a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus picking you up from your hotel. This is a key perk—no need to worry about arranging transport. The group is kept small, with a maximum of 12 people, making it easier to enjoy personalized attention and a relaxed pace. Once everyone is on board, the journey begins toward Thong Krut pier, in the island’s southern part.

First Stop: Koh Tan

Our first destination is Koh Tan, a quiet fishing village with a still, calm atmosphere. Here, you’ll anchor in front of the island to snorkel over vibrant coral reefs. The seascape is described as special thanks to its still intact coral, giving you the chance to see diverse marine life up close. Snorkeling gear is provided, so you can freely explore the underwater world. The calm seas and clear water make this an accessible spot for snorkelers of all levels, though the coral and sea creatures might be the real stars for nature lovers.

Transition to Koh Mudsum and the Woolly Pigs

After a pleasant crossing (roughly 15 minutes), you arrive at Koh Mudsum, a pristine island where no civilization or electricity has reached. It’s a true escape from modern life. Here, you’ll see free-roaming woolly pigs lounging on white sands—an odd but delightful sight reminiscent of the Bahamas. You’re encouraged to kayak, swim, or simply relax on the peaceful beach.

Lunch on the Beach

A highlight for many is the lunch, served right on the sand with expansive sea views. The traditional Thai meal is described as “delicious,” and offers a chance to refuel after your morning of activities. While one review mentioned the food wasn’t “great,” most find it satisfying, especially considering the spectacular setting. During lunch, you can watch the pigs wander nearby, creating an unforgettable scene.

Return Journey and Scenic Views

By around 2:30 pm, you’ll board the boat to head back toward Koh Samui. The return crossing is often described as beautiful, with possible sightings of turtles and other sea creatures. You’ll arrive back at Thong Krut pier by 3 pm, and your hotel transport will take you back to your accommodation.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

Authentic Island Vibes: Unlike heavily commercialized tours, this trip emphasizes visiting uninhabited or minimally inhabited islands, providing a genuine feel of Koh Samui’s coastal wilderness.

Diverse Activities: From snorkeling over coral reefs to kayaking alongside the pigs, the activities are varied enough to keep everyone engaged, especially nature and animal lovers. Plus, the inclusion of lunch and insurance adds value.

Scenic and Peaceful Setting: The untouched beaches and clear waters make this a peaceful, picture-perfect escape from crowded tourist spots.

Unique Animal Encounters: Seeing woolly pigs freely roaming on the beach is a rare and charming experience, appealing to travelers looking for something different.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Some travelers, like Gianpaolo D, found the tour “not worth in general,” mainly citing that the included lunch and experience didn’t meet their expectations. The price point is modest, but if you’re after a luxurious or gourmet experience, this might not satisfy.

The entrance fee for Koh Mudsum (THB50) is an extra cost paid on-site, which is a small detail but worth noting for budget-conscious travelers.

Weather can also impact the trip; as with many outdoor activities, poor weather could lead to cancellations or a less enjoyable experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This eco tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who appreciate nature, snorkeling, and authentic island scenery. It’s perfect if you want a lighthearted, family-friendly outing that offers unique animal interactions, especially if you’re curious about wild pigs in a natural setting. It’s also a good pick for those on a budget, given the comprehensive price that covers transportation, activities, lunch, and insurance.

If you’re expecting a luxury experience with gourmet food or high-end amenities, you might find this tour a bit simple. But if you value authenticity, scenic beauty, and a relaxed pace, this trip is a charming and affordable option.

Detailed Review: The Realities of the Pig Island Snorkeling Eco Tour

Transportation and Group Size

Starting with the logistics, the pick-up service is a major convenience. The air-conditioned minibus ensures you’re comfortable during the transfer, which is especially appreciated in the tropical heat. The group size is capped at 12 travelers, so you’re unlikely to feel lost in a crowd. This small-group aspect keeps things intimate, allowing for more personalized attention from guides, which many reviews praise.

The Itinerary and Its Highlights

The itinerary is straightforward but thoughtfully designed. The first stop at Koh Tan offers a calm, scenic snorkeling spot. The coral reefs here are described as still intact, making it a notable feature. The snorkel gear is provided, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own. We loved the way the marine life is accessible and easy to explore, making it suitable for snorkelers of all skill levels.

Moving on to Koh Mudsum, the lack of civilization enhances the feeling of escaping daily life. This island’s white sandy beaches and free-roaming pigs are the main attractions. The pigs are surprisingly friendly, and the sight of them wandering freely on the beach is quite unique—something you might not find on more commercialized tours.

The Food and Its Place in the Experience

The lunch is served on the beach, a simple but delicious traditional Thai meal. It’s a highlight for most, offering a chance to recharge while soaking in the stunning views. One review noted the food wasn’t “that great,” but most agree it’s more than adequate, especially given the setting. The view and the relaxed atmosphere turn a simple meal into a memorable moment.

The Return Trip

The scenic crossing back to Koh Samui is often described as beautiful—a relaxing end to a day filled with activity. The likelihood of spotting sea turtles or other wildlife adds an extra layer of excitement. The timing is well-organized, with the boat arriving back around 2:30 pm and the transfer taking you home by 3 pm.

Authenticity and Value

While some critics may feel the cost is high, most travelers see this as a worthwhile investment in a day of authentic island exploration. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, kayaking, lunch, and insurance makes it quite comprehensive. Many reviews mention the good value for money given the unique experiences and small group sizes.

What the Reviews Say

Most feedback is positive about the guides and scenery. The small group size contributes to a personalized experience, and the informative guides help you appreciate the islands’ natural beauty. However, the food and the overall value may not impress everyone, especially if expectations lean toward luxury.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This eco tour offers a balanced mix of snorkeling, beach relaxation, and wildlife sightings, making it best suited for adventurous, nature-loving travelers who want an authentic experience. It’s especially well-suited for families or small groups eager to see uninhabited islands and wild pigs, with the bonus of a delicious Thai lunch in a stunning setting.

If you’re after high-end amenities or gourmet cuisine, you’ll likely want to look elsewhere. But if you value simplicity, natural beauty, and a fun animal encounter, this tour provides great value and genuine charm. Just remember, it’s an all-day journey with some physical activity, so be prepared for a relaxed yet engaging experience.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup in an air-conditioned minibus from your accommodations, starting around 8:30 am.

What islands will I visit?
You’ll visit Koh Tan for snorkeling and Koh Mudsum for beach relaxation and pig sightings. Koh Samui itself is not directly visited but is the starting point.

How much does the entrance fee to Koh Mudsum cost?
There is a small entrance fee of THB50 per person, payable on site.

What activities are included?
The tour includes snorkeling, kayaking, and a traditional Thai lunch on the beach. Insurance is also included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the activities—snorkeling, kayaking, and beach relaxation—are generally family-friendly, especially with small group sizes and guides.

How long is the boat ride between islands?
The crossing from Koh Tan to Koh Mudsum takes about 15 minutes, with the return crossing about 30 minutes.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure. The tour provides snorkel gear, but bringing your own mask if preferred might be a good idea.

In essence, this Koh Samui eco tour delivers a well-rounded day of discovery, fun, and relaxation—perfect for those wanting a taste of local island life without the hefty price tag.