Pig Island Tour by Speedboat with Snorkeling

Travelers seeking a fun, varied day around Koh Samui will find this Pig Island Tour by Speedboat with Snorkeling offers a lively mix of animal encounters, underwater adventures, and scenic beaches. With a 4.5-star rating from nearly 300 reviews, it’s clear many guests appreciate the blend of cute pig interactions, accessible snorkeling, and a tasty included lunch.

What makes this experience appealing? First, the opportunity to meet and pet the pigs on Koh Madsum, which is a rare and adorable experience. Second, the up-close snorkeling at Koh Tan lets you see tropical fish without the fuss of complicated arrangements. Third, the smooth organization and friendly crew ensure a relaxed, enjoyable day.

However, be aware that some reviews mention litter on the islands and crowded conditions—not uncommon with popular spots—and the water clarity isn’t always perfect. This tour suits travelers craving a mix of animal fun and aquatic activity, especially those who don’t mind a lively group and some casual beachside dining.

Key Points

Pig Island Tour by Speedboat with Snorkeling - Key Points

  • Highly Rated: Consistently positive reviews highlight friendly guides and well-organized trips.
  • Diverse Activities: Combines animal encounters, snorkeling, and scenic island stops.
  • Value for Money: Includes lunch and multiple activities at a competitive price.
  • Timing & Duration: About 4 to 5 hours, perfect for a half-day adventure.
  • Group Size: Max 50 travelers, balancing social atmosphere and comfort.
  • Weather Flexibility: Canceled if poor weather, with full refunds or rescheduling options.

A Complete Look at the Pig Island Tour Experience

Pig Island Tour by Speedboat with Snorkeling - A Complete Look at the Pig Island Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Starting Point & Transport:
The tour begins in Koh Samui with a pickup arrangement, making it easy for travelers to relax without worrying about transportation logistics. On the day, you’ll hop onto a speedboat with a friendly crew, ready for an approximately 4 to 5-hour journey. Reviews praise the efficient collection process and the comfortable mini bus that brings you to the boat.

Stop 1: Koh Madsum (Pig Island)
This is the star of the trip for most visitors. The island’s white-sand beach is stunning, and you’ll have about 1 hour 30 minutes to feed, pet, and take photos of the island’s resident pigs and piglets. Many reviews highlight the adorable, tame pigs that genuinely seem to enjoy the attention, especially when you buy pig food (50 baht).

One reviewer noted, “Pig Island was a hog-tastic adventure that delivered on every front,” emphasizing how fun it was to interact with the pigs. Others mention that the beach is perfect for soaking up sunshine, making this stop ideal for those wanting a relaxed, animal-loving break.

Some challenges:
A few guests mention litter and crowding, which can detract from the experience. One reviewer was surprised by the amount of rubbish at the island, though the tour operator has acknowledged this issue and promised to work on island cleanliness.

Stop 2: Koh Tan (Snorkeling & Lunch)
Next, the journey takes you to Koh Tan, a small island surrounded by pristine coral reefs and white sandy beaches. Here, you’ll have about 1 hour for snorkeling, with the chance to see parrot fish and colorful coral. Reviewers describe the water as cloudy after recent storms, but many still enjoyed the fish and the experience of floating above clear waters.

A key benefit of snorkeling here is that fins are not provided or allowed—a safety measure aimed at protecting the coral reefs, as some reviews have pointed out. Despite that, many guests felt the 40-minute snorkeling was worthwhile, especially given the chance to observe small fish in shallow waters.

Lunch at Koh Tan Coral Beach:
A highlight for many is the included lunch at the Koh Tan Coral Beach Restaurant. The meal is described as basic but delicious, with a view that makes it worthwhile. One traveler shared that the beach-side setting and photo spots made the meal even better, and staff generally received praise for their friendliness.

Some reviews mention:

  • Limited food portions for the size of the group, so bringing extra snacks might be wise.
  • The beach can get crowded, so arriving early helps find a quieter spot.

Optional activities:
While snorkeling is the main focus, some guests mention walking through mangroves or simply relaxing on the beaches. The overall consensus is that this stop offers authentic tropical scenery and a chance to unwind.

The Value of the Experience

At $56.66 per person, many find the tour offers excellent value. It includes all activities, lunch, and transportation, reducing the hassle of planning multiple outings. The flexibility of being able to enjoy feeding pigs, snorkeling, and sampling local food makes it a well-rounded half-day adventure.

The Guides & Crew: Friendly & Knowledgeable

Multiple reviews highlight the helpfulness and professionalism of the crew. One reviewer said, “Sonn and his team went out of their way to make every person on this tour very happy,” and many appreciated the tips and advice shared by guides.

In particular, guides like Alex are praised for their funny, caring attitude and clear instructions, which help keep the group organized and safe. Many mention that the crew’s positive energy and attentiveness make the trip memorable.

What to Know Before Booking

  • The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most being able to participate.
  • It’s a half-day activity, ideal for those wanting to explore without a full-day commitment.
  • Pickup is offered, simplifying logistics, but always check your pickup time.
  • Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a towel—the tropical sun can be intense.
  • The group size is capped at 50, balancing a lively atmosphere with comfort.
  • Weather can impact the experience, especially snorkeling and island views. The tour offers full refunds if canceled due to poor weather.

Addressing Common Challenges from Reviews

While many guests enjoy their trip, some reviews mention litter and overcrowding, particularly at Pig Island. The tour operator is aware of this issue and has committed to working with local operators to keep the islands cleaner. If environmental concerns are a priority, this is worth considering.

Others point out that the snorkeling isn’t Caribbean-level—the waters can be cloudy, and the coral may be damaged in spots. However, you’ll still see vibrant fish, and the snorkeling is designed to be accessible and easy for all skill levels.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for animal lovers, families with kids, and travelers who want a relaxed, fun-filled half-day on Koh Samui. The combination of feeding pigs, snorkeling, and scenic beaches appeals to those looking for a mix of animal encounters and aquatic activities.

It’s also a great value for the price, especially with lunch and all activities included. However, if you’re very particular about pristine environments or water clarity, you might find some spots less appealing.

For travelers who enjoy informative guides, lively group atmospheres, and a variety of activities in one outing, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

Pig Island Tour by Speedboat with Snorkeling - The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

This Pig Island Speedboat Tour offers a genuine, balanced experience of Koh Samui’s highlights. You’ll get to interact with pigs, enjoy easy snorkeling, and relax on beautiful beaches—all in a well-organized package.

The friendly crew, inclusive pricing, and scenic stops make it a strong value in the local tour scene. It’s best suited for those wanting a fun, social, half-day escape filled with Instagram-worthy moments and underwater surprises.

While environmental issues at Pig Island might give some pause, the tour’s efforts to improve cleanliness and the overall positive reviews highlight its appeal. For a memorable, varied day close to Koh Samui, this trip delivers a lively dose of tropical Thai charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup, making it convenient to start your day.

How long does the tour last?
It generally lasts about 4 to 5 hours, perfect for a half-day adventure.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, lunch is included on Koh Tan, and drinks are typically provided throughout the trip.

Can I snorkel without fins?
Fins are not provided or allowed, as this helps protect the coral reefs. Expect to snorkel with just a mask and snorkel.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a towel, and perhaps a waterproof camera for the photos. Extra snacks are optional if you’re hungry.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Most guests can participate, but always check your own comfort level with boat rides and beachwalking. It’s a relaxed tour suitable for most age groups.

In all, this tour blends playful animal encounters, scenic island stops, and easy snorkeling into one affordable package. It’s a lively day out that manages to balance fun, relaxation, and value—perfect for making some tropical memories on Koh Samui.