Similan Islands Snorkeling Tour By Speed Catamaran From Phuket

If you’re dreaming of a day spent exploring vibrant coral reefs, pristine beaches, and scenic viewpoints around Thailand’s famous Similan Islands, this tour might be just what you’re looking for. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip, but based on detailed reviews and the tour outline, it offers a lively mix of snorkeling, island hopping, and sightseeing – perfect for adventure lovers and underwater enthusiasts alike.

What catches our eye? First, the speed catamaran journey promises a smooth and fast ride across the water, giving you more time to enjoy the islands rather than sitting in transit. Second, the variety of snorkeling spots ensures you’ll encounter colorful reefs, wild fish, and maybe even sea turtles or dolphins if luck is on your side. Lastly, the delicious Thai buffet lunch with scenic views sounds like a real treat that balances out all the activity.

Of course, no trip is perfect. Some reviews mention a rushed itinerary, especially with a lot of stops packed into a single day, and the coral health around the islands is reportedly declining. This tour is best suited for those who want an energetic day of snorkeling and island exploring, and aren’t overly concerned with having plenty of downtime or extended stops.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This trip is ideal for adventure-seekers, snorkelers, and curious travelers eager to cover multiple islands in one go. If you’re looking for a laid-back, leisurely cruise, you might find this a bit fast-paced. But if a full-day packed with snorkeling, scenic views, and island discovery sounds perfect, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Fast-paced, well-organized day with multiple snorkeling stops and island visits
• Includes hotel pickup and round-trip speed boat transfer for convenience
• Delicious Thai buffet lunch with scenic views on Ko Miang
• Guided by knowledgeable locals, some reviews highlight great insights and friendly service
• Additional costs include a national park fee (400 THB per adult)
• Rushed schedule may limit time at each site, especially for slow snorkelers or those wanting more relaxation
• Limited time at each snorkeling spot means you’ll want to be ready for quick transitions

The Full Breakdown of the Itinerary

The tour kicks off early, with hotel pickups starting around 6:00 am, so be prepared for an early start. The first leg takes you to the private pier at Thap Lamu, where you’ll check in, pick up snorkeling gear, and enjoy some hot drinks and baked goodies before heading out. The transfer by speed catamaran is about 45 minutes, giving you a swift ride over the waters as you get excited for the day ahead.

First Stop: Mu Ko Similan National Park (Island No.5)

This is where the snorkeling magic begins. Reviewers mention that the reefs here are stunning, filled with colorful fish and coral formations. However, some note that the corals are showing signs of decline, possibly due to environmental stress. Still, the underwater scenery remains impressive, and you’ll get roughly an hour to explore.

Second Stop: Ko Miang

The largest island on the tour, Ko Miang offers a couple of options: take a walk across the island or dive back into the water for more snorkeling and swimming. Here, you’ll enjoy a Thai buffet lunch with a view—an appreciated break after a busy morning. One traveler noted the food was tasty and served with scenic surroundings, making it a highlight for many.

Third to Fifth Snorkeling Spots: Bangu Island, Ko Pa Yu, West of Eden Dive Spot, and Ko Similan

These stops are packed into the afternoon with about 30 to 60 minutes each. Reviewers mention that these sites are great for spotting diverse marine life, although the limited time means quick dips rather than extended underwater explorations.

Bangu Island (Koh 9) is often highlighted for snorkeling with lots of fish. Ko Pa Yu (also called Ko Jed) offers another chance to swim with sea life, and the West of Eden dive spot is an extra treat for underwater enthusiasts. The final beach stop at Ko Similan provides a relaxing 2-hour window to swim, sunbathe, or simply unwind on the beach.

Scenic Lookouts and Landmarks

The trip includes visits to iconic landmarks like Sailing Rock, where you can climb up to enjoy panoramic views of the islands—a favorite for photo lovers. The view from the top is often described as worth the climb, with some reviews mentioning the opportunity to snap memorable pictures.

The Experience on Board

Travelers often mention that the speed catamaran itself is comfortable and swift, reducing travel fatigue. The guides, usually English-speaking, are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, often sharing interesting facts about the islands and marine environment.

The tour’s inclusion of snorkel equipment, full insurance, and hotel transfers enhances its value, making it a hassle-free adventure. The only extra cost is the national park fee (400 THB per adult), payable on the day or in advance, which is standard for visits to protected areas.

The Food and Refreshments

One aspect that surprises many travelers is the quality of the Thai buffet lunch. Served on Ko Miang, it’s described as tasty, fresh, and a good fuel-up for the afternoon’s activities. Some reviewers mention that the lunch is simple but satisfying, with fruits and traditional dishes that give a real taste of local cuisine.

Hot drinks and baked goods at check-in help start the day comfortably, and plenty of water and fruits are available during the trip. These small touches help keep morale high amid a busy schedule.

The Rushed Feel and Timing

A common critique from reviews is that the itinerary feels quite rushed, especially with so many stops crammed into a 10-12 hour day. Justin_A commented that the “coral around the islands is dying” and suggested the tour might benefit from fewer stops to allow more relaxation and better underwater experiences.

This is a trade-off for covering multiple sites in one day. If you prefer slow-paced exploration and longer snorkeling sessions, this might not be the ideal trip. But if your priority is ticking off several snorkel spots and seeing as much as possible, you’ll appreciate the efficient schedule.

Practical Details That Matter

• Duration: About 11-12 hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off
• Pricing: $109.39 per person, which is reasonable considering all inclusions — snorkeling gear, lunch, transfers, and insurance
• Group Size: Max 70 travelers, so it’s relatively lively but not overcrowded
• Booking: On average, travelers book this 23 days in advance, indicating solid popularity
• What to Bring: Passport or ID, swimming gear, sun protection, camera, and a hat—plus, you need to send your passport details in advance for park entry, so plan ahead.

Final Thoughts

This snorkeling tour from Phuket to the Similan Islands offers a comprehensive and lively day filled with underwater beauty, scenic islands, and friendly guides. The combination of speedy transfers, multiple snorkeling spots, and a flavorful Thai lunch makes it an excellent value for those eager to see several islands in one go.

While the schedule is quite packed and might feel rushed to some, the variety of sights and the expert guidance make it worthwhile. It’s perfect for adventurers, underwater lovers, and those wanting a full day of island-hopping with minimal fuss.

If you’re after a well-organized trip that covers the highlights of the Similans, with plenty of opportunities to snorkel and snap photos, this tour provides a memorable experience—just be ready for a busy day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in Phuket and transfer back at the end of the day.

How long does the trip last? Expect about 11 to 12 hours from pickup to drop-off, with most of that time spent on the water and at the islands.

What’s the price? The cost is approximately $109.39 per person, which covers snorkeling gear, lunch, transfers, and insurance.

Do I need to pay extra for the national park? Yes, the national park fee of 400 THB per adult (or 200 THB per child) is payable on-site or in advance.

What should I bring? Remember your passport or ID, swimming gear, sunscreen, hat, camera, and towel.

Are children allowed? Yes, children aged 4-11 can participate, but they will need a child ticket.

Is snorkeling equipment provided? Yes, the tour supplies masks, snorkels, fins, and life jackets.

What are the main highlights? Expect snorkeling at several reefs, scenic viewpoints like Sailing Rock, and a tasty Thai buffet lunch in a beautiful setting.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers? If you are comfortable with snorkeling in shallow waters, you’ll enjoy it; otherwise, some sites might be challenging.

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

To sum it up, this Similan Islands snorkeling tour offers a solid balance of adventure, scenic beauty, and convenience. It’s best suited for travelers eager to cover multiple islands in one day, appreciate the underwater world, and enjoy authentic Thai cuisine—all with knowledgeable guides to make the experience smooth. If you value a lively, well-organized trip and don’t mind a fast pace, this tour could become one of your Phuket highlights.