Pattaya: Coral Island-Trip with Lunch and activities your choice by Speed Boat

Introducing the Pattaya Coral Island Speedboat Tour

If you’re dreaming of a quick escape from the bustling streets of Pattaya, the Coral Island trip might catch your eye. This tour promises a blend of sun, sea, and fun, all wrapped into a 6-hour adventure that’s perfect for those looking for a day of relaxation and water activities. While reviews suggest it’s a popular choice, they also highlight some hiccups worth considering.

What we love about this tour? First, the speedboat ride offers a quick, exciting transfer that gets you to the island in style. Second, the all-inclusive seafood lunch receives praise as a highlight, satisfying hungry travelers after a morning of swimming. Third, the tour’s small-group setting means you’re not lost in a crowd, which can make the experience more personalized.

However, one possible concern is the overcrowded snorkeling area, as some reviews describe it as busy with little room to swim freely. Plus, the tour runs from around 9 am to 4 pm, which might be longer than expected for those seeking a half-day experience. This tour suits travelers wanting a structured, activity-packed day on the water but who are okay with some crowds and a busy schedule.

Key Points

• Speedboat Transfer: Fast and thrilling way to reach Coral Island, bringing a sense of adventure.
• All-Inclusive Lunch: Tasty seafood meal included, praised for its quality and efficiency.
• Limited Groups: Small number of guests (max 15), creating a more intimate atmosphere.
• Crowded Snorkeling: Some travelers find the snorkeling area overcrowded, impacting the experience.
• Duration & Timing: Full-day style (9 am to 4 pm), offering a comprehensive day but not a quick half-day trip.
• Flexible Activities: You can choose how to spend your time—swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, or relaxing on the beach.

The Full Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Bali Hai Pier in Pattaya

Your adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel or a designated meeting point at Bali Hai Pier. The open-air vehicle transfer is straightforward, and most travelers find the pickup process convenient, especially if it’s included in the package. The journey from your hotel to the pier sets the tone for a hassle-free day, with some reviews noting the proximity to public transportation makes it easy to join.

The Speedboat Ride to Coral Island

At around 10 am, you’ll board a speedboat for the short but exhilarating ride across the blue-green waters toward Koh Larn, also known as Coral Island. This transfer is often highlighted as a fun part of the trip, with the boat zipping across the water, offering great views of the coastline and sea life.

The reviews echo the enthusiasm for this leg, with some noting it’s a more exciting journey than a traditional ferry. However, a few comments point out the potential for overcrowding on the boats, especially if there are multiple groups traveling simultaneously.

Arrival at Tawaen Beach

Once on Coral Island, the group typically arrives at Tawaen Beach, one of the most popular spots. Here, you’re free to indulge in a variety of activities like swimming, sunbathing, or snorkeling. Beach chairs are provided, making it comfortable to relax under the sun.

Some travelers note that the area can get quite busy with vendors and other visitors, which can detract from a peaceful experience. One reviewer described it as “terrible” due to the harassment from vendors and feeling like being treated “like children,” with restrictions on swimming distances. This highlights that the beach can be lively but crowded, so it may not appeal if you’re seeking solitude.

Snorkeling and Beach Relaxation

The tour includes snorkeling gear, allowing you to explore underwater life. Expect about 30 minutes of snorkeling, which some reviews suggest is a bit limited given the full duration of the trip. The floating contraptions and crowded waters mean you’ll need patience if you want to enjoy decent snorkeling without bumping into strangers.

Alternatively, many opt for simply lounging on the beach or soaking up the sun, which is a great way to unwind after the boat ride. The provided beach chairs add comfort, and the turquoise waters make for a scenic backdrop.

The Thai Seafood Lunch

Around noon, a delicious Thai set lunch is served at a local restaurant on the island. Reviewers have praised the quality of the seafood, calling it “ver efficient and hard working” staff serving tasty food. The meal typically features local flavors, fresh seafood, and a variety of dishes, satisfying even the hungriest travelers after their morning activities.

This included meal is a significant value add, especially since many similar tours do not include food. The opportunity to enjoy authentic Thai cuisine in a relaxed setting enhances the overall experience.

Return Journey & Reflection

By 2 pm, it’s time to head back to Pattaya. The return trip offers more panoramic views and a chance to chat with your guide about the island and water safety. The group is usually small, allowing for a more engaging experience.

The tour concludes back at the pier by around 4 pm, with transportation arranged back to your hotel or the original meeting point.

Practical Details You Need to Know

Transportation & Group Size

The tour includes round-trip land transfers in an open-air vehicle and speedboat transfers both ways. The small group limit of 15 guests ensures a more personalized experience, but it also means booking well in advance is recommended—most travelers book about 11 days ahead.

Duration & Timing

Running approximately 6 hours, the schedule feels full, especially since it starts early and ends late in the afternoon. Be prepared for a busy day, with activities spanning from the boat ride to beach lounging and lunch.

Cost & Value

At $49.98 per person, this tour offers a decent value considering the inclusions: transport, snorkeling gear, lunch, and guide service. However, the experience might feel rushed or crowded, which is common in popular tourist spots. For those seeking a more relaxed or secluded experience, this might be less ideal.

What’s Not Included

Expenses outside the set itinerary, such as souvenirs or additional water sports, are not covered. Also, some travelers noted the tour is not primarily a snorkeling trip but a mix of various activities.

Customer Feedback & Tips

While the majority of reviews mention efficiency and enjoyable moments, there are cautionary notes about overcrowding and restrictions. If you’re sensitive to large crowds or want more freedom to swim and snorkel, consider arriving early or bringing your own gear to explore less crowded spots.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is well-suited for travelers wanting a lively, activity-filled day on Coral Island without fussing over logistics. If you enjoy group tours with included meals and appreciate small-group intimacy, you’ll find this appealing. Be prepared for a busy schedule and potential crowds—great for those who thrive in energetic environments.

It’s less ideal if you’re looking for solitude or extended snorkeling time. Also, if you prefer a half-day trip rather than a full-day outing, this might be more than you bargained for.

Final Thoughts

This Coral Island trip offers a lively, scenic escape that combines speedboat thrills, beach relaxation, and authentic Thai cuisine. The included seafood lunch is a standout feature, providing excellent value and a taste of local flavors. Small-group size ensures a more personalized vibe, though the crowds at certain spots can be overwhelming.

For travelers wanting to pack a lot into a single day—swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and enjoying good food—this tour delivers on those fronts. Just be prepared for the busy atmosphere and the limited snorkeling time, as some guests noted. It’s a solid choice for those seeking a fun, active day with all the essentials covered.

FAQ

Does this tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, pickup from Pattaya city center hotels is offered as part of the package, making it convenient to start your day.

How long is the snorkeling session?
Expect about 30 minutes of snorkeling, which some reviews feel is brief compared to the overall duration of around 7 hours.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the crowded snorkeling area and busy schedule may be less comfortable for very young children or those seeking tranquility.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, swimsuits, and perhaps some cash for extra purchases. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you might want your own mask if you prefer a perfect fit.

Can I customize activities during the trip?
Activities are based on your choices, but the tour is structured to cover swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beach. The schedule is fixed, so major changes aren’t possible.

What if the weather is bad?
The trip requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

This tour delivers a lively, well-rounded day at Coral Island, perfect for travelers looking to enjoy the sea with a mix of activities and local flavors. Keep expectations balanced—crowds and a busy schedule are part of the package, but the overall experience can still be memorable and fun.