Planning a day of snorkeling in Koh Tao? This tour offers a fantastic way to explore some of the island’s most beautiful, less-visited spots without the hassle of navigating on your own. It’s a balance of scenic views, vibrant marine life, and laid-back island vibes—all wrapped into roughly seven hours of adventure.
What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, the secluded bays and snorkeling sites are just not accessible by land, meaning fewer crowds and more intimate encounters with nature. Second, the viewpoint hike on Koh Nangyuan delivers postcard-worthy vistas that will have you reaching for your camera. Lastly, the affordable price point combined with quality amenities makes it a strong contender for travelers looking for value.
That said, the tour can get quite crowded, especially during peak seasons, and some reviews suggest that the food and boat comfort could be better. Still, if you’re after a fun, well-organized day with plenty of snorkeling, this trip is a solid pick. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path locations and don’t mind sharing the boat with a larger group.
Key Points
- Affordable Price: At around $25 for a full day, this tour offers great value, including multiple snorkeling stops, lunch, and transfers.
- Secluded Spots: Access to hidden bays and coral reefs that are difficult to reach on land.
- Stunning Views: The Koh Nangyuan viewpoint offers one of the most photographed and breathtaking vistas in Thailand.
- Diverse Marine Life: Opportunities to see turtles, colorful fish, and intricate coral gardens.
- All-Inclusive Feel: Includes lunch, drinks, life jackets, and professional guides, streamlining the experience.
- Crowd Factor: Larger groups can feel a bit busy, but the itinerary balances popular sites with quieter snorkeling spots.
The Experience in Detail
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Starting Point & Convenience
The tour kicks off with hotel pickup—a real bonus that saves you the worry of logistics early in the day. Most travelers report that this service is smooth, though note that pickups from Mango Bay and Lighthouse Beach are not included, so you’ll need to handle that if you’re staying in those areas.
Once at Mae Haad Pier, you’re greeted by the friendly crew of the Oxygen, who provide a quick briefing about the day ahead. The boat itself is described as spacious enough to comfortably manage up to 120 guests, which means you’ll be in a lively group but not necessarily cramped, depending on the season.
Koh Nangyuan: A Viewpoint Jewel
The first stop is Koh Nangyuan, a tiny island famous for its iconic three-peak silhouette and postcard-perfect scenery. The boat ride from Koh Tao is brief—just a few minutes—making it an easy, manageable morning highlight. The real star is the 15-minute hike to the island’s peak, which rewards you with panoramic views stretching across the three islands and the turquoise sea below.
Reviews consistently mention how breathtaking the panorama is, with one reviewer noting it as “one of the most beautiful views” they’ve seen in Thailand. The spot is popular, so expect some crowds, but the view makes it worth it. After snapping photos and soaking in the scenery, you’ll have time to relax and swim at the island.
Snorkeling at Japanese Reef Garden & Other Spots
Back on the boat, a Thai-style lunch box is served while cruising to the next snorkeling site—an appreciated touch that offers both convenience and a taste of local flavors. The first snorkeling stop is the Japanese Reef Garden, located on Koh Tao’s east coast, renowned for its soft and hard corals. This shallow reef is perfect for spotting a variety of marine life such as colorful parrotfish, shy angelfish, and occasionally, even sea turtles.
Many reviews highlighted how impressive the snorkeling was here, with one guest noting, “by far the best snorkeling I’ve done in Asia,” and mentioning encounters with sea turtles, anemones, and numerous fish. The reef’s clarity and bio-diversity make it a real highlight for anyone passionate about marine life.
Following this, the boat cruises to Mango Bay or Lighthouse Bay, where further snorkeling opportunities unfold. Mango Bay is praised for its crystal-clear waters, ideal for relaxed swimming and exploring the underwater world.
The day continues with stops at Hin Wong Bay, Ao Leuk, and Shark Bay. Despite its name, Shark Bay isn’t necessarily a shark sighting hotspot but offers vibrant underwater scenes with schools of colorful fish and coral. One reviewer loved the chance to see what they called “amazing fish,” and others appreciated the chance to spot a sea turtle in Shark Bay, making it a memorable wildlife encounter.
Additional Snorkeling & Relaxation
The last stops allow for more snorkeling and swimming opportunities, with Ao Leuk being noted for its crystal-clear water perfect for unwinding after a busy morning. The tour wraps up back at Mae Haad Pier around 5 p.m., with a transfer back to your hotel.
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What Travelers Are Saying
The reviews reveal a mix of experiences but generally lean positive. One guest called it “great value,” appreciating the professionalism of the guides and the variety of snorkel sites. Several reviewers praised the guides, mentioning friendly, helpful staff who provided clear explanations and even took pictures of the group—a nice touch when trying to remember a perfect day.
However, some reviews point out issues like overcrowding—with more than 100 people onboard—and inconsistencies with food quality, which can be left in the sun and become inedible. Others noted that the boat’s comfort might not meet everyone’s expectations, especially during busy days.
Practical Aspects & Tips
- Timing & Flexibility: You can choose between a morning or afternoon departure, which allows you to tailor the trip to your preferences. The afternoon trip tends to be less crowded.
- Group Size: The tour can host up to 120 travelers, so if you prefer more privacy, consider private options.
- Cost & Value: At about $25, the tour provides a full day of activities, including multiple snorkeling spots, lunch, drinks, and transfers, making it a solid deal—especially considering the quality of some snorkeling sites and the stunning viewpoints.
- Weather & Sea Conditions: The tour is weather-dependent, and some stops or routes might change due to choppy seas or weather conditions. The operator offers full refunds or rescheduling if canceled due to bad weather.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This tour suits travelers eager to explore Koh Tao’s hidden beaches and reefs without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple activities. It’s ideal if you enjoy snorkeling, scenic viewpoints, and a lively, social atmosphere. If you’re looking for a quieter, more exclusive experience, a private boat or smaller group tour might be better.
It’s also perfect for those on a budget who want to maximize their time in Koh Tao, seeing its top spots in one day, with the convenience of included transfers and lunch.
The Sum Up
If you want to balance adventure, relaxation, and incredible scenery on Koh Tao, this snorkel tour hits the mark. It’s a practical choice that packs in some of the island’s most stunning natural features—secluded bays, coral reefs, and panoramic viewpoints—all at an accessible price point.
Expect a lively atmosphere, knowledgeable guides, and plenty of opportunities to see marine life. While the crowds can be sizable and the food might not satisfy everyone, the overall experience offers fantastic value for those wanting to make the most of their day in Koh Tao.
This tour is well-suited for energetic travelers who love snorkeling, scenic views, and social settings, and who appreciate a good mix of organized activity and free time in beautiful spots. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, it’s a reliable way to discover Koh Tao’s underwater treasures and scenic highlights.
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel round-trip transfers (except from Mango Bay and Lighthouse Beach), drinking water, coffee, tea, fresh fruits, a Thai-style lunch, life jackets, professional guides, and basic accident insurance.
Can I choose between a morning or afternoon trip?
Yes, you have the option to depart in either the morning or the afternoon, allowing you to fit the tour into your schedule or avoid the busiest times.
How large is the group?
The boat can hold up to 120 travelers, which means it can feel busy, especially at popular sites. For a more intimate experience, private options are recommended.
Are there any extra costs?
Entrance fees to Koh Nangyuan are not included, and tips are optional. Make sure to account for that in your budget.
What kind of marine life might I see?
Expect to encounter schools of colorful fish, soft and hard corals, and possibly turtles. One reviewer even spotted a giant sea turtle at Shark Bay.
How long is the snorkeling?
You’ll have several snorkeling stops throughout the day, totaling around 4 hours of water time, depending on weather and group pace.
What should I bring?
Bring your snorkeling gear if you have your own, a towel, sun protection, waterproof camera, and a sense of adventure. The boat provides life jackets, but personal gear is always a plus.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Children over 120cm qualify for the adult entrance fee, and the tour is generally suitable for kids who are comfortable in the water and can handle a full day outdoors.
This detailed review highlights what makes the Oxygen snorkel tour a worthwhile day out in Koh Tao, blending natural beauty with practical convenience. Whether you’re after epic views, vibrant reefs, or simply a fun day with new friends, this trip offers a well-organized way to experience some of the island’s best treasures.