Mr. Tu Fishing Day Trip by Escort Boat from Koh Samui

If you’re considering a day out on the water in Koh Samui, the Mr. Tu Fishing Day Trip offers a straightforward, budget-friendly way to try your hand at catching local fish. While some reviewers found the catch less abundant than hoped, many appreciated the friendly crew, comfortable boat, and the chance to relax and enjoy the scenery. This tour is particularly appealing for families, solo travelers, or anyone looking to combine a bit of fishing with sightseeing and a tasty Thai meal.

What we love about this experience is its all-inclusive nature, the local hospitality, and the opportunity for some light adventure or relaxation. The crew’s attentiveness and the well-organized logistics make it accessible, even for beginners. One potential downside? The fishing success varies, so if you’re after guaranteed big catches, this might not be your best bet. But for a laid-back, authentic day at sea, it hits the mark for many travelers.

This trip is ideal for those who want a low-stress, affordable half-day on the water, with a mix of fishing, swimming, and good food. Families with kids, groups of friends, or solo travelers who enjoy relaxing in a social atmosphere will likely find it suits their needs well.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Package: Includes fishing gear, bait, licenses, lunch, water, and pickup/drop-off service.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Friendly crew and diverse international groups create a welcoming vibe.
• Flexible Activities: Besides fishing, swimming and snorkeling are available, offering options beyond just angling.
• Value for Money: Priced around $47.20 per person, with good reviews on the overall experience versus cost.
• Variable Fishing Results: Expect some days with fewer fish, but plenty of scenic downtime and fun.
• Family Friendly: Life jackets and a safe environment make it suitable for kids and non-experts.

Navigating the Itinerary: What to Expect

Meeting Point and Departure

The adventure begins at Phu Yai Non Pier, where you’ll meet the crew of Mr. Tu. The tour kicks off at 10:00 am, with a round-trip hotel transfer included, saving you the hassle of finding your way to the pier. The group size is limited to 22 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate and manageable.

First Stop: The Fishing Grounds

Once aboard the escort boat, the crew quickly sets a relaxed tone. The first fishing spot is usually a short ride away, but the journey itself offers scenic views of Koh Samui’s coastline and nearby islands. Here, a local guide provides practical tips on line fishing, especially for beginners. Reviewers like Sandra_A appreciated the crew’s helpfulness, noting the friendly and patient staff who answered questions and helped with gear.

The Fishing Experience

The waters of the Gulf of Thailand are crystal clear, making it easier to see your line in the water. Expect to target species like barracuda, trevally, and snapper, depending on the day. Some visitors, like GISELA_L, expressed disappointment, feeling the experience was more touristy and fishing was less productive. However, others, like simon_m, found it worth the price for a fun day out, even if fish weren’t abundant.

Lunch and Scenic Views

Midway through the trip, everyone gathers for a Thai-style buffet lunch on board. The food, praised by several reviewers, includes hearty dishes and tropical fruits, served in a relaxed setting with panoramic views of the islands. After eating, many take a moment to cool off with refreshing towels and admire the scenery, which offers plenty of photo opportunities.

Optional Swimming and Snorkeling

A highlight for many is the chance to swim or snorkel in the warm waters. This optional activity adds a refreshing break from fishing and allows families or groups to enjoy a bit of playful exploration, as noted by frequent travelers who appreciate the mix of activities.

Return Journey and End of Tour

The trip wraps up in the late afternoon, with the boat returning to the pier around 4 pm. The hotel pickup and drop-off service is a key perk, making logistics smooth and stress-free.

The Pros and Cons in Detail

Pros

Friendly and Professional Crew: Multiple reviews highlight the crew’s helpfulness, especially guides who provide fishing tips and assistance. Their warmth and professionalism enhance the overall experience.

All-Inclusive Convenience: From fishing gear and bait to lunch and water, everything is taken care of, saving you money and hassle.

Good Value for Money: With a price of around $47.20, the trip offers a full half-day experience, including transport, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Scenic and Relaxing: Even if fishing isn’t prolific, the boat ride and island views create a peaceful setting for a day out.

Family Friendly: With life jackets available and a relaxed environment, it’s suitable for children and non-anglers.

Cons

Inconsistent Fishing Results: Some reviewers mention catching few fish, which may be disappointing if your main goal is angling. Weather conditions and fish activity can vary.

Crowded in Places: Although limited to 22 travelers, some found the boat a bit cramped or felt there were too many people for comfort, especially during peak times.

Touristy Feel: As GISELA_L pointed out, some may feel this experience leans toward a touristy, commercial vibe rather than a deep fishing expedition.

Practical Tips

• Book in advance: The tour is popular, booked on average 17 days ahead.
• Bring sun protection: The day can get very hot, especially under the sun.
• Dress appropriately: Light, breathable clothing, and swimwear for optional swimming.
• Be realistic about fishing: While some days may be less fruitful, the overall relaxed vibe and scenery often make up for it.
• Enjoy the food: The Thai buffet offers a substantial and tasty break in the day’s activities.

Who Would Love This Tour

This trip suits travelers who enjoy laid-back days on the water, with a blend of fishing, swimming, and scenic vistas. It’s an affordable option for families, solo travelers, or groups of friends who appreciate good company and friendly guides. If you’re looking for a serious fishing adventure with guaranteed catches, this might not be the right fit, but if you’re after fun, a taste of local hospitality, and a bit of sunshine, this tour delivers.

The Sum Up

The Mr. Tu Fishing Day Trip is a straightforward, accessible way to spend a day on the Gulf of Thailand. Its greatest strengths lie in the friendly crew, inclusive setup, and the relaxed, social atmosphere. While fishing results can be unpredictable, the experience of being on the water, enjoying a Thai meal, and the option to swim or snorkel makes it a well-rounded option for many visitors.

For those wanting a low-cost, family-friendly activity that combines a bit of adventure with sightseeing and good food, this trip delivers solid value. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate authentic hospitality and don’t mind a variable catch. Just remember, the weather and fish activity can influence your success, so keep expectations flexible.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers a round-trip car service from your hotel, making logistics simple and stress-free.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience is approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, from departure to return.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), light clothing, swimwear if you want to swim, and a camera to capture the scenic views.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is considered family-friendly, with life jackets provided and a relaxed environment.

What kind of fish can I expect to catch?
Common species include barracuda, trevally, and snapper, although catch success varies depending on conditions.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In essence, whether you’re after a relaxing day at sea, some light fishing, or just want to soak up the island views with good company, the Mr. Tu Fishing Day Trip offers a reliable, friendly, and affordable option that can make your Koh Samui visit even more memorable.