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This semi VIP tour offers a well-rounded day exploring Koh Samui’s nearby islands, including a visit to the famous Pig Island (Matsum Island). For $60, you’ll enjoy about 5 hours of cruising in a brand-new, luxury speed boat with a small group of no more than 20 travelers. The day is thoughtfully curated with stops at less crowded, scenic spots—perfect if you prefer avoiding the chaos of larger tours. Expect a mix of snorkeling, swimming, island hopping, and relaxed beach time, all served with fresh tropical fruits, snacks, and drinks.

What we love about this tour is the personalized experience it offers, especially the chance to snorkel with top-notch gear and explore hidden lagoons often missed by larger groups. The well-trained crew ensures safety and comfort, while the floating fruit platters and relaxed pace make it feel more like a day spent with friends than a typical excursion.

One possible consideration is the pick-up time, which can vary depending on your hotel’s location, and the fact that this is a join tour—so it’s not fully private. Also, during peak season, the Pig Island can get quite busy, which might not suit travelers seeking solitude.

This tour best suits families, snorkel enthusiasts, or travelers who want an authentic, relaxed day on the water without sacrificing comfort or safety. If you appreciate small groups, good value, and well-chosen spots, this could be your ideal day out.

Key Points

Comfortable semi VIP experience with a small group size for a more personalized feel.
Visit isolated, scenic locations away from crowds, including a lagoon and Pig Island.
Top-quality snorkeling gear and floating fruit platters enhance the day.
Carefully selected spots with safe sea conditions that suit sensitive travelers and children.
Well-organized itinerary with flexible timing, including safety briefings and refreshments.
Price includes all entrance fees and extra treats, making it great value.

In-Depth Review of the Pigs Island Semi VIP Tour

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A Luxurious Start in Koh Samui

When we booked this tour, we appreciated the focus on small-group intimacy—a maximum of 20 travelers—that promises a more relaxed vibe. The pick-up, in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, is seamless, arriving at the departure point with plenty of time to settle in and enjoy a quick safety briefing. The first impression? The brand-new speed boat looks sleek, well-maintained, and ready to handle the day’s adventures.

Itinerary Breakdown and What to Expect

The day kicks off around 9:00 am with a prompt hotel pick-up. After a brief check-in at the pier, the crew—impressively friendly and professional—sets the tone for a memorable adventure. The short stop in front of Laemsor Pagoda offers a chance to snap some panoramic photos and appreciate the local scenery before heading out.

The Lagoon Stop

One of the standout moments is the stop at a hidden lagoon with crystal-clear waters. Unlike open ocean cruising, this spot is protected, making it ideal for anyone wary of seasickness or just wanting calmer waters. The lagoon is perfect for swimming, jumping, and relaxing while being served floating platters of fresh tropical fruits and snacks. As one reviewer put it, “we were spoiled with floating platters of fresh tropical fruits and lots of snacks”—a small touch that elevates the experience from standard to special.

Snorkeling Experience

Next, the boat takes you to a coral reef where snorkeling is the star attraction. The tour provides professional full-face masks or high-quality traditional snorkels, depending on your preference. The reviewer Helena_G highlighted the guidance for snorkeling as a big plus, noting that the crew’s knowledge helped maximize the experience. The reef is generally lively with lots of fish, and the calm waters mean even beginners or those sensitive to seasickness can enjoy this part of the trip.

Island Hopping to Pig Island

The highlight for many is the visit to Matsum Island, aka Pig Island. The boat gently cruises over to this small paradise, where the beach is pristine, and the pigs are surprisingly friendly. Multiple reviews mention the beautiful beach, the playful pigs, and the relaxed atmosphere.

While some travelers noted that Pig Island can get crowded during peak season, the tour’s timing tends to avoid the busiest hours, helping to preserve that semi VIP feel. The beach toys, football, tennis, and frisbee provided by the crew keep everyone entertained, making sure there’s plenty of fun for children and adults alike.

The Return Journey and Final Thoughts

After roughly an hour or so of beach leisure, the boat begins its leisurely return to Koh Samui, arriving back around 1:30 pm. The entire experience is designed to balance adventure, relaxation, and comfort, with plenty of time for photos, swimming, and just soaking in the scenery.

Why This Tour Works

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to explore Koh Samui’s nearby islands in style, without the hassle or overcrowding of larger tours. The small group size creates an intimate experience, and the careful selection of locations ensures you spend time in beautiful, less crowded areas, making it ideal for families, snorkel lovers, or anyone wanting a relaxed, well-organized day on the water.

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Value for Money

At $60, this tour offers excellent value. It includes all entrance fees, snacks, fresh fruit platters, drinks, and top-quality snorkeling gear—not always guaranteed on cheaper tours. The personalized service, safety standards, and attention to detail add a lot to the overall experience, making it seem like a good investment for a memorable day.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re seeking a relaxed, small-group adventure that combines snorkeling, island hopping, and beach lounging with touches of comfort and quality, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for families with kids, couples, or groups of friends who want to explore in a less crowded environment. Those who value authentic, scenic spots and top-notch service will find this tour offers a genuine experience away from the tourist crowds.

However, if you’re looking for a private, exclusive experience, or extremely busy and lively party atmosphere, this might not be the best fit. Also, travelers wary of peak season crowds should consider the timing of their visit, as Pig Island can get busy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel or villa in an air-conditioned vehicle, with timing generally between 9:00 and 9:30 am.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours, with the main activities happening around mid-morning to early afternoon.

Are meals or drinks included?
While there is no full meal, the tour provides snacks, soft drinks, and fresh tropical fruit platters served during the stops on the boat.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, the tour offers top-quality snorkeling gear, including full-face masks or traditional snorkels, allowing everyone to enjoy the reef comfortably.

Can children join this tour?
Absolutely. The calm waters and relaxed schedule make it suitable for children, especially those who enjoy swimming and beach activities.

How crowded does Pig Island get?
During peak season, Pig Island can get busy, but the tour’s timing usually helps avoid the worst crowds. Still, some reviews mention that it can be “ridiculously busy,” so keep expectations realistic if you’re seeking total solitude.

This semi VIP tour packs a lot into a manageable day—combining comfort, scenic beauty, and fun in ways that suit travelers wanting a memorable, authentic Koh Samui experience.