Sunset Cruise to Koh Hey in Phuket by Sailing Catamaran

Traveling in Phuket offers countless ways to enjoy its stunning coastal scenery, but one of the more laid-back and scenic options is taking a sunset cruise to Koh Hey (Coral Island). This tour promises a leisurely afternoon filled with swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the island’s beaches, topped off with a sunset dinner on a spacious catamaran. We’ve gathered insights from multiple travelers to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What we like most about this experience is the chance to unwind on the water with beautiful views of the Andaman Sea, the inclusion of snorkeling and fishing gear, and the opportunity to enjoy a sunset meal with a panoramic backdrop. On the flip side, one potential downside is the mixed reviews about organization and boat comfort, which can impact the overall experience.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy relaxed, scenic days — especially those wanting a gentle cruise with plenty of time for swimming and chilling out. If you’re after a lively party vibe or a very organized, seamless trip, this might not be your perfect fit. But if you value authentic, unhurried ocean time and beautiful sunset views, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Relaxed pace with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and beach lounging.
• Includes essential gear like snorkeling equipment, beach towels, and fishing lines.
• Scenic sunset dinner at Promthep Cape, with beautiful views if the weather cooperates.
• Free transfers from several Phuket locations, adding convenience.
• Mixed reviews about boat quality and organization — worth managing expectations.
• Good value for the price, especially considering the included meals and activities.

An Honest Look at the Sunset Catamaran Tour

Setting Off from Ao Chalong Pier

We’ll start with the departure point: Ao Chalong Pier. The tour kicks off around 1:00 pm, with hotel pickups available from key areas like Patong, Karon, Kata, Rawai, and Phuket Town. The convenience of free round-trip transfers is a big plus — it saves you the hassle of navigating public transport or arranging your own ride. The pickup times and locations are clearly specified, but some reviewers have noted delays or communication issues, so give yourself a bit of buffer.

The journey to the pier is straightforward, and the boat itself is a sizable catamaran with outdoor spaces that are perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun. Although some travelers have pointed out that the boat isn’t new and in some cases a bit in rough shape, the spacious outdoor areas are appreciated for their relaxed vibe.

The Cruise and First Stop: Koh Hey (Coral Island)

Once at sea, you’ll cruise toward Koh Hey, approximately a one-hour ride. The boat’s pace is leisurely, enabling guests to enjoy the scenery and spot marine life or just unwind with a drink. The guides, often speaking both English and Chinese, are generally friendly and helpful, guiding snorkeling and fishing activities.

The first stop at Coral Island is where the action begins. Here, you can snorkel, swim, or jump from the yacht into the inviting waters. You’ll be supplied with snorkeling gear, including face masks and tubes, and beach towels are provided for lounging. One reviewer mentioned that the snorkeling equipment was adequate, and the water is quite clear for observing marine life — though it’s wise to watch out for jellyfish, as some guests did mention during their visit.

During this part, you get about two hours to explore behind the island, swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the boat or the beach. If you’re lucky, the weather will be sunny, making for stunning underwater visibility. The snorkel gear is considered basic but sufficient, and the crew is usually on hand to provide tips or help if needed.

Beach Time & Sea Sports

The tour offers another two hours on Koh Hey for beach lounging or participating in sea-sport activities. Many travelers find this time relaxing — perfect for soaking up the sun, taking photos, or trying out face masks, tubes, and life jackets provided. The beach chairs and equipment allow for a comfortable chill-out, and some reviews highlight the peaceful vibe, making it ideal for families or couples seeking a tranquil escape.

However, some guests noted that the beach can get crowded, especially if the boat arrives with many other tours, so managing expectations about privacy is wise. The combined experience of snorkeling and leisure makes this part of the day quite versatile.

Sunset Dinner at Promthep Cape

The final highlight is the sunset dinner while anchored off Promthep Cape, one of Thailand’s most iconic viewpoints. The boat anchors here for about an hour, giving guests a chance to witness the sunset if the weather permits. You’ll enjoy a dinner onboard that includes fruits, drinks, and a buffet-style meal. Reviewers appreciated the quality of the food and the relaxing atmosphere with the sunset as a backdrop.

That said, weather can occasionally interfere with sunset views, so don’t be disappointed if the sunset is less dramatic than expected. Guests have raved about how peaceful and beautiful this moment is, especially with a cold drink in hand and a panoramic view in front.

Return to Phuket

After dinner, the boat begins its return journey to Ao Chalong Pier. The entire tour lasts around 5 to 6 hours, depending on conditions and timing. Guests are usually back at the pier by late afternoon, ready to head home or continue their Phuket adventures.

What’s Included & What’s Not

For $50.45 per person, the tour offers quite a bit. Included are round-trip transfers, snorkeling gear, beach towels, a guided experience, dinner, fruits, and drinks. Accident insurance is also covered, providing some peace of mind during water activities.

Extras include transfer surcharges to areas outside the main pickup zones, such as Mai Khao and the airport, which range from 200 to 400 THB per person. Private van options are available but come at a higher cost.

A notable point from reviews is that towels are not supplied on the boat, so packing your own or bringing an extra can be helpful. Also, some travelers mentioned that food options are limited to dinner and drinks — snacks or smaller bites aren’t included.

The Good: Value and Convenience

This tour offers a good deal when you consider the activities, meals, and transport included. It’s especially appealing for those on a budget who want a comprehensive day out with minimal hassle.

The Not-So-Good: Organization and Comfort

While many reviewers enjoyed the experience, some had issues with delays, boat conditions, or communication. A few guests experienced cancellations or no-shows, which can be frustrating if you’re on a tight schedule. The boat’s age and the limited capacity for comfort might also be a concern for some, especially if you’re expecting a luxury vibe.

Authentic Experiences & Tips

From reviews, it’s clear that this tour attracts a mixed crowd — families, couples, and groups of friends looking for a relaxing day on the water. The guides tend to be friendly, and the sunset dinner is a highlight, especially if the weather is clear. Many guests appreciated the peaceful, unhurried pace of the day, making it perfect for those who prefer a quiet escape.

A few tips from travelers include bringing a hat and sunscreen for sun protection, as the outdoor areas can get hot. Some also recommend arriving early for pickup to avoid missing the boat, especially during busy seasons.

For those with children or less confident swimmers, the provided life jackets and face masks make activities safer and more enjoyable. However, if you’re after a lively party atmosphere, this ship’s tranquil vibe might not satisfy you.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This sunset cruise offers excellent value for those who want a laid-back, scenic day out in Phuket. Its strengths lie in the comfortable boat setup, the chance to snorkel and relax on Koh Hey, and the stunning sunset dinner at Promthep Cape. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful day at sea with minimal fuss.

However, it’s essential to manage expectations regarding boat quality and organization. If you’re after a smooth, high-end experience, you might find some of the reviews about delays and boat conditions valid. Still, for many, this tour delivers a relaxing and beautiful escape at a reasonable price.

In summary, if you’re looking for a gentle day on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim, enjoy good food, and unwind with friends or family, this cruise is a solid choice. Just pack your hat, confirm pickup times, and keep a flexible attitude about the weather and boat condition.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 5 to 6 hours, including transfers, activities, and sunset dinner.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers round-trip transfers from select Phuket locations, snorkeling gear, beach towels, dinner, fruits, drinks, and accident insurance.

Are towels provided?
Beach towels are supplied for use during the activities but note that towels are not supplied onboard the boat itself.

Can I participate if I don’t snorkel?
Absolutely. You can relax on the boat or beach, enjoy the scenery, or participate in fishing and sea sports, depending on your preference.

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

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 4-11 are eligible for child tickets, and the activities are generally safe with provided gear and life jackets.

Are there any additional costs?
Extra transfer charges apply for certain areas outside the main pickup zones, and private vans cost more. No hidden fees are mentioned.

Will I see the sunset?
If weather permits, you will enjoy a sunset at Promthep Cape during the dinner stop. Sometimes clouds or rain might obscure the view.

Overall, this cruise is a good, budget-friendly way to spend a peaceful afternoon on Phuket’s waters with some fun activities and a memorable sunset dinner. Just remember to keep your expectations realistic and pack a few essentials for a smooth, enjoyable day.