Thailand’s crystalline waters and colorful reefs make it a top destination for snorkelers worldwide. Whether you’re gazing at the underwater tapestry at Maya Bay or swimming alongside sea turtles at Surin Island, Thailand offers something for every snorkeler. Among the many options, we particularly like the Phi Phi: 7 Island Longtail Boat Snorkeling Tour with Sunset for its comprehensive exploration and stunning scenery, and the Phuket: Coral Island Snorkeling & Promthep Sunset Dinner for combining marine adventures with a beautiful sunset dinner.
These tours showcase Thailand’s marine biodiversity, scenic islands, and memorable sunsets—all with a variety of price points and durations. With options ranging from half-day trips to full-day adventures, there’s a snorkeling experience suited for every traveler’s taste and schedule.
1. Phi Phi: 7 Island Longtail Boat Snorkeling Tour with Sunset
At number 1 on our list, this full-day longtail boat tour offers a well-rounded experience around the stunning Phi Phi Islands. Starting with a meeting point in front of McDonald’s inside Phi Phi Market, you’ll join a small group—max 20 people—for a day packed with snorkeling, swimming, and sightseeing.
The tour hits key sites like Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon, and Maya Bay, with a chance to spot playful monkeys, explore ancient cave drawings, and swim in emerald waters. Highlights include snorkeling at Shark Point, known for its lively coral reefs, and relaxing on Koh Phai’s peaceful sands. The boat ends the day with a sunset view over the Andaman Sea, a perfect photo opportunity.
Guests praise the personalized vibe and the chance to see famous spots like Maya Bay (subject to park regulations). The 400 THB national park fee is payable in cash, but the real value lies in the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters and relax on untouched beaches. This tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day with plenty of snorkeling and spectacular scenery.
Bottom line: A full-day adventure that combines island highlights with excellent snorkel spots and a memorable sunset.
2. Phuket: Coral Island Snorkeling & Promthep Sunset Dinner
Number 2 brings you a luxurious afternoon on the water, with a catamaran cruise that combines snorkeling at Coral Island with a scenic sunset at Promthep Cape. Starting from Phuket, this 6-hour trip offers a relaxed pace, perfect for travelers who want comfort and style.
You’ll sail across the Andaman Sea on a sleek catamaran, stopping at Kahung Beach for swimming and relaxing on the sands. Then, spend time snorkeling in the clear waters among colorful fish and coral. The highlight is the sunset at Promthep Cape, where you’ll enjoy a Thai meal and drinks on deck as the sky turns fiery orange.
Guests love the combination of luxury transportation and beautiful scenery, especially the chance to enjoy dinner with a view. The overall experience is suited for those seeking a more upscale, leisurely day with snorkeling and a memorable sunset. The included lunch and drinks add great value.
Bottom line: An easy, luxurious way to snorkel, relax, and watch the sunset from one of Phuket’s most famous viewpoints.
3. Phi Phi: Sunset and Plankton by Speed Boat with Snorkeling
This shorter, four-hour trip focuses on the magical experience of seeing glowing plankton and snorkeling at Phi Phi’s top spots. Starting from Monkey Beach, it’s perfect for travelers with limited time or those who want a quick, high-impact trip.
The cruise visits Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, Shark Point, and Pileh Lagoon, giving you opportunities to see playful monkeys, ancient cave art, and vibrant coral reefs. The highlight is the evening snorkel at Shark Point, where you might spot blacktip reef sharks, and the glowing plankton experience, where tiny blue dots light up around you underwater.
Guests say the trip is “simply amazing” and a must-do for nature lovers. Because it’s shorter, it’s ideal for families or travelers who want a taste of Phi Phi’s best without a full day away from their plans.
Bottom line: A compact, memorable trip that combines snorkeling, wildlife, and the enchanting glow of plankton.
4. Thalu Island Snorkeling Trip from Ko Samet
Number 4 offers a tranquil escape from the crowds on a three-hour snorkeling tour to Koh Thalu. This tour is ideal if you’re staying on Ko Samet and looking for a peaceful day among pristine waters and coral reefs.
Once picked up from your hotel, you’ll head to Koh Thalu, known for its impressive arch rock formation. Snorkel among clownfish and other tropical fish in clear waters, then relax on the white sand beaches. For those seeking a bit of adventure, a bushwalk takes you to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the sea.
Guests appreciate the combination of snorkeling, beach relaxation, and the scenic hike, making it a well-rounded half-day trip. The tour is also very budget-friendly at around $25.37 per person.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a peaceful, affordable snorkel trip with added scenic walks.
5. Surin Island Snorkeling by Speedboat from Khao Lak
Number 5 is an all-day trip to the remote Surin Islands, famous for their untouched reefs and abundant marine life. It’s best suited for serious snorkelers and nature lovers willing to spend a full day on the water.
Starting early, you’ll travel by speedboat to Mu Ko Surin National Park. Once there, snorkel among coral gardens teeming with clown fish, octopus, sea turtles, and more. You’ll visit a traditional Moken village to learn about the sea nomads’ lives and enjoy a buffet lunch on board.
Guests praise the experience for its pristine environment and the chance to see sea turtles in their natural habitat. It’s a long but rewarding day, ideal for those eager for a more remote, less touristy experience with excellent snorkeling.
Bottom line: A full-day, high-value trip for dedicated snorkelers wanting to explore some of Thailand’s best coral reefs.
6. From Phi Phi: Maya Bay snorkeling trip by Speed Boat
Ranked number 6, this speedboat trip takes you to iconic Maya Bay along with other famous sites like Viking Cave and Shark Point. It’s a slightly shorter, approximately 4-5 hour tour designed for travelers who want quick access to Phi Phi’s highlights.
Starting at McDonald’s Phi Phi, the tour visits Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, and Pileh Lagoon, offering plenty of snorkeling opportunities. The boat then stops at Maya Bay for relaxing on its famous beach, perfect for photos. Shark Point allows snorkeling with harmless reef sharks, adding a thrill to the day.
Reviews note that it’s a more personalized experience, limited to 25 people, making it feel relaxed despite the popular spots. The visit to the glowing plankton is optional but adds an enchanting finish.
Bottom line: A compact, efficient way to see Phi Phi’s top sites with plenty of snorkeling and a good chance to relax on Maya Bay.
$47 per person
7. From Phi Phi: Island Tour to Maya Bay with Snorkeling
Number 7 offers another quick speedboat adventure, focusing on Maya Bay and the surrounding highlights. Lasting around 4 hours, it’s suitable for travelers short on time but eager to see the famous bay and snorkel in Pileh Lagoon.
It includes stops at Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, and Shark Point, with ample snorkeling at each site. The boat approaches Maya Bay from the sea, allowing you to enjoy its beauty without the crowds. The trip also includes a stop for sunset, making it ideal for combining daytime snorkeling with evening scenery.
Guests comment that it’s a good, straightforward tour with a focus on the key attractions. It’s best for those who want a quick but thorough visit to Phi Phi’s most famous sites.
Bottom line: A good choice for travelers wanting a concise, well-rounded tour with snorkeling and scenic views.
$54 per person
8. Phuket: Coral Island Snorkeling and Sunset Catamaran Cruise
Finally, number 8 combines the best of both worlds: snorkeling and a sunset cruise aboard a catamaran. This 5-hour trip is highly rated, perfect for those who want to unwind with scenic views and marine fun.
You’ll start with transfers to Chalong Pier, then sail to Coral Island for snorkeling among colorful reefs. The boat stops for relaxation and swimming, before heading to Laem Krating. As the sun sets, you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner onboard, with plenty of photo opportunities of the sunset and the iconic “sailing boat” rock formation.
Guests love the smooth ride and the combination of marine and scenic experiences. The inclusive dinner and the opportunity to capture stunning sunset views make this a popular choice for couples and those celebrating special occasions.
Bottom line: A luxurious, memorable cruise combining snorkeling, scenic vistas, and a relaxing dinner at sunset.
$63 per person
How to Choose Your Best Snorkeling Experience in Thailand
When selecting among these tours, consider your budget, available time, and what kind of experience you’re after. For a full-day, adventure-packed trip with multiple island stops, the Phi Phi: 7 Island Longtail Boat Snorkeling Tour with Sunset offers excellent value. If you prefer a more relaxed, upscale outing, the Phuket: Coral Island Snorkeling & Promthep Sunset Dinner provides comfort and scenic beauty.
Those with limited time may opt for the Maya Bay speedboat trips, which focus on the key highlights. Budget travelers might appreciate the Thalu Island snorkeling or Surin Islands trips, which emphasize natural beauty without a hefty price tag.
Book early, especially during peak season, as these tours tend to fill quickly—particularly the popular full-day and sunset options.
Final Thoughts
Thailand’s snorkeling tours offer something for all—from quick trips to full-day explorations and luxurious sunset cruises. For those looking to see famous sites like Maya Bay or Shark Point, shorter speedboat tours provide a taste of the action. For travelers craving a more in-depth experience with multiple stops and marine encounters, the full-day Phi Phi: 7 Island Longtail Boat Snorkeling Tour with Sunset is hard to beat.
If you prefer combining marine exploration with scenic dining and sunset views, the Phuket catamaran cruise delivers both. Whatever your style, Thailand’s waters are waiting—so consider your priorities, pick a tour that fits your schedule and budget, and get ready for some incredible underwater memories.