Similan Islands Snorkeling VIP Tour From Phuket

A Fun and Flawed Day at the Similan Islands Snorkeling VIP Tour from Phuket

If you’re looking to explore some of Thailand’s most beautiful underwater scenery, this Similan Islands Snorkeling VIP Tour offers an all-day adventure for around $116.66 per person. Starting early from Phuket, you’ll spend about 11 to 12 hours cruising across the waters, stopping at several islands to snorkel, relax, and soak in incredible panoramic views from the famous Sailing Rock. Your day includes hotel pickup, a speedboat ride, a Thai buffet lunch, and plenty of opportunities to see vibrant marine life.

What we love about this trip is the chance it offers to visit multiple islands—Ko Miang, Ko PA Yu, Bangu Island, and the main Similan Island—each with its own character and underwater beauty. The second is the inclusion of a climb to Sailing Rock’s viewpoint, which provides a spectacular vista of the islands below. The tour also boasts friendly guides, fresh Thai food, and all the snorkeling gear you need, making it a practical choice for a day trip.

That said, there is a significant caveat: reviews reveal that the experience can be marred by delays and organizational hiccups, with some travelers feeling exhausted before even reaching the islands. Considering the early start and long day, it’s worth weighing whether this tour matches your expectations for a smooth, well-run adventure. It’s best suited for travelers who’re eager to explore multiple islands and are flexible with timing issues.

If you’re comfortable with a full, sometimes hectic day and crave the thrill of snorkeling and panoramic views in a natural setting, this tour could be worth it. But if you prefer a more leisurely or well-organized experience, you might want to explore other options or be prepared for some bumps along the way.

Key Points

• Multiple island stops offer diverse snorkeling and beach relaxation opportunities.
• Guides and food generally receive positive comments, especially for helpfulness and taste.
• Timing and delays are a notable issue, with some travelers experiencing long waits.
• Inclusion of snorkeling gear and refreshments adds value and convenience.
• The view from Sailing Rock is a highlight, providing stunning vistas of the surrounding islands.
• National park fee (not included in the tour price) should be budgeted separately.

In-Depth Look at the Similan Islands Snorkeling VIP Tour

What to Expect from the Itinerary

The tour kicks off at 6:00 am with a hotel pickup in Phuket, a crucial detail considering the long day ahead. The early start is typical for full-day trips to remote islands, designed to maximize your time in the water and on the beaches.

The first stop, Seastar, lasts about 30 minutes. Here, you’ll meet your guide and have the chance to grab snorkel gear, essential for the underwater adventures to come. The guide’s friendly demeanor is noted positively; however, some reviews mention that the initial check-in process can be disorganized, so patience is advisable.

Next, you’ll visit Ko Miang, a lush island offering both snorkeling and walking opportunities. Expect around two hours here, which is ample time to explore the beaches, swim, and then enjoy a Thai buffet lunch. The food is generally well-received, with reviewers praising the quality and variety, though some found the overall lunch experience only “so-so.” Still, it’s a nice break with fresh fruits and traditional flavors.

Following lunch, the tour moves to Ko PA Yu (Ko Jed), where snorkeling and swimming continue for about an hour. The clear waters typically reveal vibrant marine life, and the experience is described as “amazing” by travelers who mention the presence of tiny jellyfish that added a bit of excitement.

The next stop is Bangu Island, prized for its quiet beaches and snorkeling spots. Here, you’ll spend around an hour relaxing or exploring the waters. Many find this island a peaceful respite after the busy morning.

The highlight for many is the time spent on Similan Island (Koh 8). This larger island offers more snorkeling, lounging, and the opportunity to see the islands’ famed natural beauty. It’s a perfect spot for a couple of hours of unwinding on powdery beaches or exploring underwater.

Finally, your ascent to Sailing Rock offers a panoramic view of the islands—climbing to the viewpoint takes about 30 minutes but rewards you with sweeping vistas. Many reviews mention this as a memorable part of the day, emphasizing the dramatic scenery.

What the Tour Includes and the Practicalities

The package covers all essentials: round-trip transfers, snorkeling gear, a guide, insurance, and a tasty Thai buffet lunch with fruits and drinks. Beach towels, bags, and met towels are provided, so packing is straightforward. The tour is capped at 70 travelers, which helps maintain a lively but manageable group size.

However, the national park fee of 400 THB per adult is not included, and travelers need to send their passports beforehand for entry tickets, a small but important logistical detail. Be prepared for this step to avoid last-minute surprises.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– The diverse stops mean you get a good mix of snorkeling, relaxing, and sightseeing.
– Guides and staff are often praised for friendliness and helpfulness, making the day more enjoyable.
– The view from Sailing Rock is undeniably a highlight and offers a fantastic photo opportunity.
– All equipment and food are included, reducing hassle and extra costs on the day.

Cons:
– Several reviews mention delays, with some travelers waiting hours before boarding, which can be exhausting and spoil the mood.
– The organization seems inconsistent, with some feeling the experience was marred by poor planning.
– The early start and long duration may not suit everyone, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for active travelers who enjoy snorkeling and don’t mind a busy schedule. It appeals to those eager to see multiple islands and don’t mind some logistical hiccups. If you’re looking for a smooth, perfectly organized trip, you might want to consider other options or prepare for the possibility of delays.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Similan Islands VIP tour offers a wonderful glimpse into Thailand’s underwater paradise combined with stunning views from Sailing Rock. It’s a good value considering all the included amenities, and the variety of stops keeps the day engaging. The guides are generally friendly, the food is tasty, and the scenery is unforgettable.

However, the tour’s success depends largely on your tolerance for early mornings, potential waiting times, and organizational challenges. If you’re flexible and excited about snorkeling in pristine waters, this trip can be a highlight of your time in Phuket.

For travelers who prioritize comfort, punctuality, and a leisurely pace, it might be worth exploring alternatives, but for those ready for a full, adventure-packed day, this tour hits many of the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transfers from your Phuket hotel, making it convenient to start your day hassle-free.

How long is the total experience?
Expect around 11 to 12 hours, including pickup, travel, snorkeling, lunch, and return to your hotel.

What gear is provided?
Snorkeling masks, snorkels, fins, and life jackets are included in the package, so you can jump right into the water without worries.

Are meals included?
Yes, a Thai buffet lunch, along with fresh fruits and drinks, is served on board.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
Many travelers point to the panoramic view from Sailing Rock as a standout moment, along with the chance to see vibrant marine life while snorkeling.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the national park fee of 400 THB per adult (200 THB per child) is not included. You need to send your passport to buy the ticket beforehand.

What is the group size?
The tour caps at a maximum of 70 travelers, which keeps things lively but manageable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 4-11 can participate, but those with health issues like pregnancy, high blood pressure, or bone diseases are advised to avoid it.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, swimming suit, towel, sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, and camera for capturing the views.

In sum, this tour offers a robust introduction to Thailand’s Similan Islands with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, relaxing, and taking in stunning vistas. While organizational flaws are a concern, the natural beauty and friendly guides make it a worthwhile choice for adventurous travelers eager to experience Thailand’s marine wonderland firsthand.