Private Longtail Boat Tour to Koh Madsum and Koh Tan

If you’re dreaming of escaping the busy tourist spots and discovering Thailand’s quieter, more authentic island gems, a private longtail boat tour to Koh Madsum and Koh Tan might catch your eye. While this particular tour offers a peaceful, personalized way to see these islands, reviews suggest it can be hit or miss depending on expectations and preferences.

What we love about this experience is its chance to avoid crowds while still enjoying the beauty of small islands with crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. The opportunity to visit Pig Island—a quirky highlight—and relax on quiet beaches really stand out. The ease of transportation, with a quick boat ride and hotel pickups, adds to its convenience. However, some might find the snorkeling conditions less impressive than hoped, and the price point might seem steep for what’s included.

This tour could be ideal if you’re after a flexible, intimate experience in a peaceful setting, especially for couples or small groups. But if snorkeling or island hopping is your main priority, you might want to explore alternative options with better reviews or more comprehensive activities.

Key Points

• Highlights include Pig Island and pristine beaches, perfect for relaxed sightseeing.
• The tour’s private nature offers personalized attention, making it suitable for couples or small groups.
• Snorkeling equipment and bottled water are included, but lunch and private transport are extra.
• Some reviews mention that snorkeling wasn’t as good as expected and that the tour might be overpriced.
• The tour’s duration of approximately 4-5 hours is enough for a taste of island life without too much downtime.
• A flexible cancellation policy ensures peace of mind if plans change.

A Detailed Look at the Longtail Boat Tour Experience

What to Expect from the Itinerary

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup or meeting at Thongkrut Pier, a quick and straightforward start that gets you on the water swiftly. For those staying outside the immediate area, the pickup option might add convenience—just be sure to check if your hotel is in the pickup zone.

The first stop is Koh Tan, a small island just about 7-10 minutes away by longtail boat. Here, you’ll have roughly two hours to snorkel and explore. The waters around Koh Tan are known for their colorful fish and coral reefs, although reviews indicate some snorkelers found the experience underwhelming, with comments like “the snorkeling wasn’t good,” but others appreciated the chance to see marine life in a less crowded setting. The included snorkeling gear, life jackets, and bottled water make this stop comfortable, but don’t expect a professional guided snorkeling tour—it’s more of a casual swim.

Next, you’ll head to Koh Madsum, a tiny island famous for its ‘pigs’—a fun, quirky feature that draws many visitors. The pigs are friendly and eager to pose for photos, and you’ll have about two hours here to relax or snap pictures. Reviewers pointed out that the pig island entrance fee (50 baht) isn’t covered, which adds an extra little expense. The island’s pristine sands and relaxed vibe make it a worthwhile stop for those wanting a break from more commercialized experiences.

The final leg involves returning to Thong Krut and heading back to the mainland, wrapping up the tour within around 4 to 5 hours total. The quick transfer back means you’re not tied up for the entire day, giving you plenty of time to enjoy other activities or relax afterward.

The Realities of the Tour

While the itinerary sounds appealing, reviews tell a more nuanced story. One traveler expressed disappointment, calling the tour “overpriced” and mentioning that the snorkeling was “not good,” which is something to keep in mind if snorkel quality is a priority for you. Conversely, the pig island is often praised as the highlight, with travelers having fun interacting with the pigs and taking photos.

The private nature of the tour means you’ll avoid large crowds, but some might find that the overall experience lacks the depth or variety they’re seeking, especially if the snorkeling doesn’t meet expectations.

Value for Money

At $76.84 per person, this tour isn’t exactly cheap. It includes all fees and taxes, bottled water, snorkeling gear, and life jackets, but lunch and private transportation are extra costs. Several reviews suggest that you might get similar or better experiences by arranging your own boat hire or exploring other island-hopping options, especially if snorkeling is your main goal.

On top of that, the tour’s emphasis on a personalized experience is appealing, but some reviewers felt they could do better by customizing their own trips. The fact that most bookings are made 16 days in advance indicates its popularity—likely due to the convenience and the chance to visit these lesser-known spots—yet that doesn’t always translate into higher satisfaction for every traveler.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is most suitable for small groups or couples looking for a peaceful, straightforward day on the water. If you’re after a quiet escape with a chance to see some cute pigs, relax on scenic beaches, and enjoy a flexible itinerary, this could be a good fit. However, those expecting crystal-clear snorkeling or a more vibrant marine experience might want to look elsewhere or prepare for some potential disappointments.

Why You Might Choose This Tour

The appeal lies in the personalized, private approach that lets you set the pace, combined with easy logistics. You won’t be part of a large crowd, and the short boat rides from Thong Krut keep the experience relaxed and manageable, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a more intimate setting.

The stops are thoughtfully chosen—Koh Tan for snorkeling and quiet beaches, and Koh Madsum for pig fun and photos—which are highlights for many. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and bottled water adds convenience, and the flexible cancellation policy offers reassurance if plans shift.

Final Thoughts: Is it Worth It?

This tour offers a charming, low-key way to explore some of Thailand’s lesser-known islands, especially if you prioritize peaceful scenery and quirky photo ops over intense activities. It delivers on its promise of a personalized, small-group experience with the scenic beauty of Koh Tan and Koh Madsum.

However, the snorkeling quality and value for money have been questioned by some travelers, so it’s worth weighing whether these factors align with your travel style. If you prefer more vibrant underwater life or more extensive island-hopping, you might want to consider alternative tours or DIY options.

This experience could serve as a gentle, scenic day out for those who love taking things slow, snapping some photos, and enjoying the company of a small group in beautiful surroundings. Just be sure to manage your expectations around snorkeling and extra costs like pig island entrance fees.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, as it is a private tour with a relaxed pace, making it suitable for families with children who enjoy calm beaches and animal encounters.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, including transfers, island stops, and travel time between locations.

Are snorkeling masks and gear included?
Yes, snorkeling equipment and life jackets are provided, so you can enjoy the underwater sights without extra hassle.

Do I need to bring my own food?
Lunch is not included in the tour, so bringing snacks or a picnic might be a good idea if you plan to spend additional time on the islands.

Is the tour private or part of a group?
It is a private experience, meaning only your group participates, which enhances comfort and flexibility.

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

Can service animals join the tour?
Yes, service animals are allowed, making it accessible for travelers with disabilities.

To sum it up, this private longtail boat tour to Koh Madsum and Koh Tan offers a peaceful, intimate way to enjoy Thailand’s quieter islands. While it’s perfect for those seeking tranquility, small groups, and unique animal encounters, travelers should consider the snorkeling quality and value for money before booking. It’s a solid option for a relaxed day on the water, especially if you’re happy to manage expectations and enjoy the charm of these lesser-visited spots.