Similan Islands Snorkeling Day Trip By Love Andaman From Phuket

Planning a day out on the water to explore Thailand’s famed Similan Islands is a tempting idea — and this day trip by Love Andaman offers just that. With their focus on authentic, eco-friendly experiences and a well-curated itinerary, it promises a balance of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty. From stunning snorkeling spots to panoramic viewpoints, this tour aims to showcase the best of Thailand’s marine and island landscapes.

While the trip is praised for its beautiful sights and good value, some travelers have expressed concerns about long travel times and meal quality. This is definitely a full-day commitment, but if you’re eager to see some of the most vibrant underwater worlds and pristine beaches, it might just be worth it. Perfect for those who love snorkeling, scenic views, and a full-day adventure, this trip is geared toward travelers seeking an immersive, active day on the water.

Key Points

• Stunning snorkeling spots with chances to see marine wildlife like turtles.
• Well-organized itinerary covering multiple islands and viewpoints.
• Comfortable transportation via speedboat, with hotel pickup included.
• Eco-friendly approach with a friendly, knowledgeable guide.
• Value for money considering the comprehensive day of activities.
• Potential long hours in transit, so patience and good energy are recommended.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

We usually look for tours that balance scenic beauty with value, and this one definitely hits the mark. The trip’s biggest draw is the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters at prime locations like Ko Miang, Ko Pa Yu, and Bangu Island. Many reviewers highlighted the remarkable marine life sightings, including the memorable sighting of a sea turtle, which made their day truly special. The tour also includes entry to Similan Islands National Park, a UNESCO-listed marine reserve, ensuring you’re witnessing protected, pristine environments.

Another aspect we liked was the scenic viewpoint at Sailing Rock, offering a brief but rewarding climb to panoramic views of the islands and ocean below. The guide’s eco-conscious attitude and friendly demeanor add a layer of authenticity, making the trip feel more genuine and personalized.

Price-wise, at $124.15 per person, it’s a fair investment for a full day packed with varied experiences. Long-term travelers value the attention to safety, including travel accident insurance and detailed briefings, which help set expectations for a smooth adventure.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Pickup and Departure from Phuket

The journey begins early, with a 6:00 am pickup from your hotel in Phuket, which can be arranged from any location. While long transit times are a reality (around 4 hours each way, according to one review), the benefit is reaching some of Thailand’s most beautiful islands and underwater spots. The pickup process is straightforward, and the tour company emphasizes comfort and flexibility, including the use of private piers and smooth motor yachts or speedboats.

Check-in at Love Andaman’s Private Pier

Once on the boat, you’re greeted with light breakfast options like bread, tea, and coffee. The check-in process involves a briefing from the eco-alert guide, who explains the day’s plan and safety measures. This initial part is crucial for setting expectations and understanding the importance of conservation efforts at the park.

Visits to Islands and Snorkeling Spots

Ko Miang is the first stop, where you can walk across the island or snorkel in the surrounding waters. Reviewers appreciate this break, noting that it’s a chance to enjoy white sandy beaches and exotic wildlife in a relaxed setting. With two hours allocated here, there’s sufficient time to explore or just lounge on the beach.

Next, the group heads to Ko Pa Yu, a dedicated snorkeling site. One reviewer recounted, “Snorkeling and swimming here were fantastic,” emphasizing the clarity of waters and marine biodiversity. It’s an hour-long stop that offers another glimpse into the vibrant underwater world.

Bangu Island (Koh 9) is the third snorkeling stop, providing another chance to see marine life and coral reefs, with familiar praise for the crystal waters.

Similan Islands National Park and Sailing Rock

The highlight for many is the Similan Island (Koh 8), where the group is given two hours to swim, snorkel, or relax on the sand. The protected environment means the beaches are remarkably pristine, and many visitors note the beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere.

A quick climb to the Sailing Rock viewpoint offers stunning views of the islands and the ocean. This quick stop is a favorite for its breathtaking vistas and offers perfect photo opportunities.

Return and Wrap-up

The day wraps up with a relaxed return journey, often accompanied by snacks, fresh fruit, and soft drinks. While the long hours in transit can be tiring, many find the experience worthwhile, especially after seeing the marine wildlife and scenic vistas.

What Reviewers Say

While most reviews are positive, some travelers felt the overall value was affected by long travel times and simple meals. One reviewer mentioned, “This is very expensive… the meals are very poor,” highlighting that the value may depend on expectations. Conversely, another shared, “Our day was made remarkable with the glimpse of the turtle,” emphasizing that the underwater encounters often make the trip memorable.

The staff, including guides like Ramy, Jessica, Yaya, and King, are frequently praised for their helpfulness and attentiveness, which enhances the overall experience.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour includes round-trip speedboat transfers and a maximum group size of 45 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate enough for meaningful interaction but also social. The transportation is described as comfortable and smooth, essential for making the long journey more bearable.

Practical Considerations

• Timing: Starting early at 6:00 am, it’s a full-day commitment, so good planning and rest the night before are advised.
• What to Bring: A copy of your passport or ID, sunscreen, a hat, and a towel are recommended. Since the park requires passport details for entry, ensure you send your passport copy promptly after booking.
• Children and Special Conditions: The tour is suitable for most travelers, with children aged 4-11, but pregnant women or those with heart, blood pressure, or bone conditions should reconsider.
• Weather: The tour relies on good weather — if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those eager to explore Thailand’s underwater world and enjoy day-long island adventures, this trip offers an efficient way to see multiple locations in one go. The opportunity to snorkel in pristine waters, spot marine wildlife, and enjoy panoramic views makes it particularly appealing for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

However, the long hours in transit and basic meals may deter some. If you’re comfortable with a full day on the water and value stunning scenery and marine encounters, this tour could be a fantastic choice. It’s best suited for travelers who prioritize authentic experiences and good value over luxury comforts.

This trip offers a well-rounded day of exploration, with plenty of opportunities to see remarkable marine life and breathtaking islands — definitely a worthwhile splurge for seekers of natural beauty.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pickup starts early, around 6:00 am, so plan to be ready at least 10 minutes prior at your hotel in Phuket.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from anywhere in Phuket, making logistics easier and more convenient.

What is the duration of the trip?
The whole experience lasts approximately 10 to 11 hours, including travel time, with the main activities spread across the day.

Are meals provided?
Light breakfast, lunch, snacks, and fruit are included, but some travelers find the provided food to be basic.

Do I need to pay for the national park entrance fee?
Yes, the park fee is not included (400 THB for adults, 200 THB for children) and is payable on the day.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers full refunds or alternative dates if canceled due to poor weather conditions.

Those considering this trip should weigh the long travel hours against the chance to see some of Thailand’s most beautiful islands and marine life in a single day. It’s a solid choice for snorkelers and adventure lovers eager for an immersive and scenic experience.