Pig Island Private Longtail Boat Trip From Koh Samui

Exploring Pig Island Private Longtail Boat Trip from Koh Samui

Imagine gliding across the water in a traditional Thai longtail boat, your group of up to five people, heading toward an island famous for something quite unexpected—wild boars roaming freely on the beach. This half-day adventure from Koh Samui, costing around $132.71 per group, offers a blend of relaxed wildlife encounters, scenic views, and a taste of local island life. The trip lasts about four hours, including hotel pickups and drop-offs, making it a convenient escape for those seeking a personalized experience away from crowded tourist spots.

What we love most about this trip is the intimacy of a private boat—you won’t be squeezed alongside strangers, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Plus, the chance to see the friendly wild boars up close on Koh Madsum (Pig Island) is truly unique. The calm waters and vibrant coral reefs also make for excellent snorkeling opportunities, adding a splash of adventure.

A potential consideration is that some reviews mention the island can get busy with travelers, especially if you arrive later in the day. The 50 Baht entrance fee for the island and facilities is an extra cost, so bring some cash. This trip is best suited for families, small groups, or anyone who appreciates a mix of wildlife, scenic beauty, and a laid-back pace. If you’re after a personalized, eco-friendly outing with a dash of the quirky, this could be your perfect half-day trip.

Key Points

• Private Experience: The trip is exclusive to your group, offering flexibility and comfort.
• Wildlife Encounter: Meet the famous friendly wild boars that make Pig Island special.
• Snorkeling & Scenery: Vibrant coral reefs and calm waters promise fun in and out of the water.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup, bottled water, snorkel gear, and life jackets are included.
• Additional Costs: Expect a 50 Baht entrance fee on the island and to cover food/drinks yourself.
• Timing & Booking: Book on average 16 days in advance for better availability.

A Detailed Look at the Pig Island Private Longtail Boat Trip

From Koh Samui to Koh Madsum: A Scenic Waterway Journey

The adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel (if selected), which makes the journey to Thong Krut Pier smooth. The ride on a traditional Thai longtail boat is a highlight in itself—these boats are iconic, with their long, curved propellers and colorful paint. The approximate four-hour duration includes traveling from Koh Samui to Pig Island, a trip that offers fantastic views of the surrounding waters and distant Koh Samui skyline.

The boat ride creates a sense of seclusion and serenity, especially if you opt for the early departure. The sea spray and gentle rocking are part of the charm—some reviews mention the constant sea spray in the face, which adds a refreshing touch but might be uncomfortable for some. For those prone to seasickness, it’s worth considering this aspect.

Arrival at Koh Madsum: Meet the Wild Boars and Relax

Once on the island, you’ll see the wild boars wandering freely across the white sandy beaches—an image that often surprises first-timers. The boars are said to be friendly and well-cared-for, and as one reviewer noted, “The pigs seem healthy and well taken care of,” which is reassuring if you’re concerned about animal welfare.

The beach itself is perfect for relaxing, with crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming or simply soaking up the sun. You can also explore the lush interior—mangrove forests are nearby, providing opportunities for eco-walks and birdwatching.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

The surrounding coral reef is vibrant, making snorkeling a highlight. The included snorkel gear and life jackets make it easy to float over the reefs and observe marine life. Several travelers enjoyed the snorkeling, describing it as “fun” and a great addition to the trip. For those who love aquatic adventures, this adds a layer of activity beyond just lounging on the beach.

Food, Drinks, and Island Facilities

While food and drinks are not included, there’s a local beach bar where you can order snacks, fresh drinks, and Thai food, at your own expense. The availability of local refreshments enhances the relaxed vibe, letting you unwind without rushing.

The 50 Baht entrance fee covers cleaning and maintenance, including WC facilities. Some reviewers found the fee a bit frustrating, especially if the beach feels crowded or unclean; Saskia’s review expressed disappointment over overcrowding and cleanliness issues.

Additional Nearby Attractions

After your visit, some tours offer the option to extend your outing to Koh Tan, another island with excellent snorkeling and trekking. Exploring beyond Pig Island means more chances to spot rare birds or monitor lizards, ideal for eco-minded travelers.

The Overall Experience: Is It Worth It?

With a rating of 4/5 based on 25 reviews, most visitors find this trip to be a memorable and worthwhile half-day adventure. Many praise the personalized nature and beautiful scenery, while a few mention crowds and cleanliness issues on the island. The trip offers a blend of wildlife, relaxation, and scenic beauty, perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking an authentic, offbeat experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is well-suited for families with children who love animals and beaches, or small groups wanting a private, relaxed outing. It’s also great if you’re curious about local island life and enjoy snorkeling or eco-walks. However, if you’re sensitive to crowds or cleanliness concerns, you might want to arrive early or consider alternative tours.

The price point reflects the personalized experience, especially with private boat transfers and all the included gear. It’s a good value if you value comfort, privacy, and authenticity over mass tourism.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are offered as part of the package, making the trip hassle-free.

How long does the trip last?
It’s approximately four hours, including boat transfer and time on the island.

What’s the group size?
This is a private tour for up to 5 people per group, providing a cozy, personalized experience.

Are snorkeling gear and water provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks, life jackets, and bottled water are included.

Is there an entrance fee on the island?
Yes, a 50 Baht per person fee is required for beach maintenance and facilities.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
While not included, you can purchase food and drinks at the beach bar at your own expense.

Is this trip suitable for pregnant women or those with health issues?
Pregnant women or guests with high blood pressure, heart or bone issues are not recommended to join, due to the physical nature of the boat ride and island activities.

Can I book this trip if arriving by cruise ship?
This tour is not recommended for guests arriving by cruise ships or large boats, likely due to logistical constraints.

Final Thoughts

This Pig Island private longtail boat trip offers a charming mix of wildlife, scenic views, and relaxed snorkeling—perfect for travelers looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience. The private boat ensures your group’s comfort and flexibility, while the wild boars and vibrant coral reefs provide memorable encounters.

While it’s not a flawless experience—some reviews mention crowding and cleanliness issues—most find the trip worthwhile for its uniqueness and charm. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a personalized adventure that combines nature, wildlife, and scenic beauty in a laid-back setting.

If you’re after a quirky, eco-friendly escape from Koh Samui’s more commercialized attractions, this trip checks most boxes, offering a playful twist on island exploring. Just remember to arrive early, bring cash for the island fees, and keep expectations flexible—this is the unpolished, genuine Thailand experience many seek.