Koh Samui: Pig Island Day Tour by Speedboat

Exploring Koh Samui’s Pig Island by speedboat offers a fun-filled day of wildlife encounters, crystal-clear waters, and relaxed island vibes. While it’s a popular choice for families, couples, and solo travelers alike, it’s important to know what to expect—and what not to expect—before booking.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the chance to interact with friendly pigs in their natural habitat is a one-of-a-kind experience. Second, the crystal-clear snorkeling waters promise vibrant marine life, and third, the convenience of included transfers and meals makes it a fuss-free day out. However, some reviewers mention that Pig Island can get crowded, and the snorkeling doesn’t always deliver the colorful underwater scene everyone hopes for. This tour suits travelers looking for a mix of wildlife, water fun, and relaxation without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• All-inclusive package with transfers, gear, and meals simplifies planning.
• Friendly pigs on Pig Island provide a unique and interactive experience.
• Snorkeling offers the chance to see marine life, but visibility can vary.
• Crowds at Pig Island may impact the experience, especially during peak times.
• The tour is best suited for those wanting a relaxed, family-friendly outing.
• Not recommended for pregnant women or travelers with certain health issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Tour Experience

The Koh Samui Pig Island tour by speedboat is designed as a relaxing yet adventurous day out, offering a balanced mix of wildlife interaction, water activities, and scenic cruising. Starting with convenient hotel pickups from key areas like Lamai, Chaweng, Bophut, and others, the tour ensures you don’t have to worry about transportation logistics. The speedboat ride itself is quick and lively, giving you a taste of the ocean breeze and beautiful coastal views as you head towards Koh Tan and Pig Island.

What’s Included and Why It Matters

For $61 per person, the tour includes all the essentials: transfers, snorkeling equipment, life jackets, and meals. This means there’s no need to hunt for rental gear or worry about additional costs—making it a good value for a day of escapades. The guide, who speaks English, will accompany the group, helping with safety and sharing insights into the surroundings. Plus, accident insurance and a first-aid kit are provided, adding peace of mind.

The Purpose of the Tour

Designed for all travelers—families, couples, solos—the main attractions are feeding the pigs on Pig Island, snorkeling, and relaxing on pristine beaches. It’s a straightforward way to enjoy Koh Samui’s natural beauty and quirky wildlife, with a focus on comfort and ease.

Itinerary Breakdown: From Koh Samui to Pig Island and Beyond

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1. Hotel Pickup and Speedboat Ride

The day begins with a prompt hotel transfer from your Koh Samui accommodation. The pickup times are generally scheduled to maximize your day, so expect a quick, comfortable ride to the boat pier. Once onboard the speedboat, you’ll enjoy a lively cruise across the Gulf of Thailand, soaking up the tropical scenery and feeling the rush of sea air.

2. Snorkeling at Koh Tan

Your first stop is Koh Tan, a small island known for its clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Though some reviews mention that snorkeling conditions may vary, you’ll be equipped with gear and life jackets, making it accessible for all levels. The underwater landscape offers colorful fish and interesting marine flora, but some travelers report that sightings can be limited or that visibility isn’t always ideal. Still, it’s a chance to cool off and get a glimpse of the underwater world.

3. Visiting Pig Island

Next, your boat docks at Pig Island, a highlight of this tour. The island is famous for its friendly pigs that love being fed and petted. Travelers appreciate the personalized interaction with the animals, although a few mention that Pig Island can get crowded, especially on busy days. Visitors typically spend around two hours here, giving ample time to feed the pigs, take photos, or just relax on the beach.

Some reviews note that the crowd density can impact the experience, with some visitors feeling that the pigs are more ‘tourist attractions’ than wild animals. On top of that, the environment can feel overrun with visitors, which might detract from the authenticity of the encounter for some.

4. Lunch and Relaxation

After the animal interaction, it’s time for a delicious Thai-style meal on Pig Island. The included lunch features fresh flavors and local ingredients, providing a satisfying break in the day’s activities. Many find the food tasty and filling, perfect for refueling after water activities and exploring.

5. Return Journey and Hotel Drop-off

As the day winds down, your speedboat takes you back to Koh Samui, offering scenic views and a chance to relax after an active day. The hotel transfer service ensures you return comfortably and on time, completing a smooth, hassle-free experience.

What the Reviews Reveal

While most travelers find the tour enjoyable, some common themes emerge from reviews. Several mention that time on Pig Island can feel a bit too long, with one reviewer stating, “Spent too much time on Pig Island and couldn’t see much while snorkeling.” Others point out that snorkeling isn’t always satisfying—due to limited marine life visibility or poor underwater scenery.

A few travelers highlight the crowds on Pig Island, describing it as overrun with travelers and noting that pigs are sometimes carried around by visitors, which may not feel natural or enjoyable for everyone. This suggests that your experience could vary depending on the day and time you choose.

However, guides like Oh-Hoo’s team are praised for their friendly demeanor and knowledgeable commentary, adding value through their professionalism and helpfulness.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• The tour duration is roughly a full day, so plan accordingly for your energy levels and other activities.
• Snorkeling gear is provided, but if you prefer, you can bring your own mask or fins for comfort.
• Timing may influence your experience; avoiding peak tourist hours could make the visit to Pig Island less crowded.
• Children aged 4-10 are eligible for a child ticket, but the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, or those with certain health conditions such as high blood pressure, heart or bone issues.
• The admission fee of 50 THB per person is additional, so budget for that extra cost.
• For travelers staying outside the pickup zones, such as Nathon or Taling Ngam, there’s an extra transfer fee of 700 Baht per way.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For wildlife lovers and water enthusiasts, this tour offers a playful and scenic day out. The chance to feed the pigs and snorkel in clear waters makes it a memorable experience, especially with the convenience of all-inclusive arrangements.

However, those seeking pristine, uncrowded beaches or vibrant marine life might find the experience somewhat disappointing, as crowds can diminish the natural charm of Pig Island. The guide’s friendliness and the ease of logistics are definite plus points, especially for travelers who prefer a straightforward, no-fuss adventure.

This trip is best suited for families with children, couples looking for a relaxed day, or solo travelers wanting a mix of wildlife and water fun. Budget-conscious travelers will also appreciate its affordability, considering that all gear and meals are included.

In summary, if you’re after a lighthearted day in paradise with some quirky animal encounters, this tour offers good value. Just be prepared for the crowds and variable snorkeling conditions—luckily, the overall experience is enjoyable and filled with authentic moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, hotel transfers from key areas like Lamai, Chaweng, Bophut, and others are included, making it easy to start and end your day.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling equipment and life jackets are provided as part of the package, but you can bring your own if preferred.

How long do I spend on Pig Island?
Typically around two hours, giving enough time to feed the pigs, take photos, and relax on the beach.

Are there any health restrictions?
The tour is not recommended for pregnant women, or anyone with high blood pressure, heart, or bone issues, or over 70 years old.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
Feeding the friendly pigs on Pig Island and snorkeling in the clear waters are the key attractions.

Is there an extra fee on the day of the tour?
Yes, an admission fee of 50 THB per person applies, and additional transfer charges may be needed if not staying in the main pickup zones.

In all, this Koh Samui Pig Island tour by speedboat is a lively, easygoing way to enjoy some of Thailand’s best water and wildlife spots. While crowds can be a downside, the overall fun, accessibility, and scenic views make it a worthwhile choice for those looking for a memorable day on the Gulf of Thailand.

You can check availability for your dates here: