From Phuket: Similan Islands Luxury Trip by Speed Catamaran

Exploring Thailand’s Similan Islands on a Luxury Speed Catamaran

If you’re considering a day trip from Phuket to the famous Similan Islands, you’ll find a variety of options. One of the more glamorous choices is the Similan Islands Luxury Trip by Speed Catamaran. While the reviews are mixed, this tour offers some standout features that attract travelers seeking comfort and adventure in one package.

What we particularly like about this experience is the luxurious boat, often praised for its comfort and scenic rides. The guided snorkeling at vibrant reefs, along with the chance to climb Sailing Rock for panoramic island views, appeals to those craving both relaxation and exploration. Plus, the round-trip hotel transfers make logistics straightforward for visitors. A potential consideration is the cost, which some travelers feel isn’t quite aligned with the value, especially if they book from abroad and end up paying more than local options.

This tour is best suited for families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy a well-organized day at sea with a touch of luxury, without the need for extreme adventure. Those looking for top-notch guides and scenic views will likely find the experience worth considering, despite some criticisms.

Key Points

• Comfort and convenience with hotel transfers and a luxury catamaran.
• Multiple snorkeling opportunities at diverse islands with rich marine life.
• Guided hikes and scenic viewpoints like Sailing Rock.
• Sumptuous Thai buffet lunch on Miang Island.
• Potential for overcrowding and variable value perception according to reviews.
• Guides are knowledgeable, providing safety and marine insights.
• Duration of about 12 hours makes it a full, immersive day.
• Best for travelers who prioritize comfort over budget.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Similan Islands Luxury Trip

Starting Out: Pickup and Journey to the Islands

The experience begins early, with hotel pickups in Phuket scheduled between 5:30 AM and 6:30 AM. The tour provider, Oh-Hoo, is known for promptness, ensuring you start your adventure without delay. Once collected, you’ll travel approximately 1.5 hours to the private Khao Lak pier, where the actual boat departs.

This pre-departure phase is straightforward, with a safety briefing that sets the tone for a responsible, secure day at sea. It’s worth noting that you’ll need to bring a passport or ID—either a paper copy or a saved photo—so pack that the night before.

The Luxury Catamaran: Comfort at Sea

The vessel itself is a two-storey speed catamaran, often highlighted in reviews for its spaciousness and smooth ride. The boat’s design emphasizes comfort, allowing guests to relax, sunbathe, or marvel at the sea views during the 1-hour crossing. Some travelers mention that the boat can be crowded, especially during peak season; however, the crew generally keeps things moving efficiently.

First Stop: Miang Island (Koh 4)

Your first destination is Miang Island, where the tour really kicks off with snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. The shallow reefs here are teeming with marine life, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. After some underwater exploring, you’ll have time for a walk along the sandy shores or a quick swim.

Then, it’s time for the buffet lunch—described as a sumptuous Thai feast—served on the island’s beach. Reviewers, including Vlada from Thailand, describe the food as “awesome,” which suggests the quality is quite good for a tour of this nature.

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Exploring Reefs: Payu (Koh 7) and Bangu (Koh 9)

Post-lunch, the journey continues to Payu and Bangu Islands, renowned for their vibrant reefs and clear water visibility. These stops are real highlights for snorkelers, offering the chance to see diverse marine creatures, including turtles, as noted by some reviewers. The reefs here are more vibrant, and the underwater scenery is often described as stunning.

One review from Italy mentions that the snorkel spots are “a dream with abundant sea life.” However, others note that the experience can be similar across different islands, and some found the overall value to be questionable, especially if they paid a premium price.

Similan Island and Sailing Rock

The tour’s centerpiece is the visit to Similan Island (Koh 8), famous for its pristine beaches and the opportunity to climb Sailing Rock—a must-do for those seeking a panoramic view of the surrounding islands. The hike is relatively short but offers impressive photo opportunities and a sense of accomplishment.

Expect around 2 hours here, which provides enough time to walk, relax on the beach, and snorkel. The guided aspect helps in spotting interesting marine species and understanding the significance of this protected park.

Final Stops and Return

The last stop is at Sailboat Rock, which is again worth a quick walk for its scenic vantage point. Afterward, the boat heads back to the pier, where you can unwind over refreshments and reflect on the day. The return journey lasts about an hour before your van transfer takes you back to your Phuket hotel.

Value, Reviews, and Real Traveler Insights

While some reviews, like Luca from Italy, point out that the tour can feel overcrowded and expensive—costing more if booked from abroad—others appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. One reviewer in the Netherlands praised the guide Way, calling him “great,” emphasizing how essential a good guide is to enhancing the experience.

On the downside, the 2.4-star rating (from 31 reviews) indicates that not everyone feels they received good value. Several guests mention that the boat can be crowded, and some felt the experience was similar to other tours that cost less, especially when considering the extra fees paid locally.

What Works Well, and What Doesn’t

The main selling point is the luxury boat, which provides a more comfortable alternative to standard speedboats. The stops at reefs and islands are well-chosen, offering a combination of snorkelling, hiking, and beach relaxation. The lunch on the island gets positive mentions, adding a nice touch of local flavor.

However, some travelers find that the tour doesn’t quite match its “luxury” label, especially if the price paid online is higher than what locals pay, as pointed out by Luca. The crowded boats and the potential for feeling rushed at each stop can detract from the overall experience.

Who It’s Best For

This tour is ideal for those who prioritize comfort and convenience over raw adventure. If you love guided snorkeling with good marine views, a scenic boat ride, and a relaxed pace, you’ll enjoy the day. It’s also suitable for families and couples looking for a reliable, stress-free way to see the islands.

If you prefer a more intimate experience, are on a tight budget, or seek more adventurous or eco-focused trips, you might find this tour a bit more commercial and less personalized.

The Sum Up

This Similan Islands luxury tour by speed catamaran combines comfort, scenic beauty, and guided marine exploration, making it a solid choice for travelers who want a hassle-free day on the water. The guides are generally knowledgeable, and the picturesque stops will appeal to those who appreciate beautiful beaches and vibrant reefs. The lunch and transfers are added bonuses that round out the package.

However, the mixed reviews about value for money and crowd levels suggest that this tour may not be the best for everyone, especially those seeking a more exclusive or budget-friendly experience. If you’re after a relaxing, well-organized day with scenic views and good snorkeling, it’s likely to meet your expectations.

In the end, this trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy luxury comfort and guided trips. Be prepared for a full day, and consider whether the price aligns with what you want from your island adventure.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes pickup from all Phuket hotels, starting between 5:30 AM and 6:30 AM. The exact time is confirmed via email.

How long is the tour? The total duration is approximately 12 hours, making it a full-day adventure from early morning to evening.

What should I bring? You need to bring your passport or ID card (a copy or photo is fine). Also, pack suntan lotion, a hat, swimsuit, and a towel for comfort.

Are children allowed? Yes, children aged 4-11 years can join, but you’ll need to purchase a child ticket.

Is snorkeling equipment provided? While not explicitly stated, the stops at snorkel-friendly islands suggest equipment is available or can be rented on site.

Can pregnant women or people with certain health conditions participate? No, pregnant women and individuals with high blood pressure, heart disease, or bone diseases are advised against joining.

What is the food like? The tour features a Thai buffet lunch on Miang Island, which is described as generous and tasty by some travelers.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers? Yes, solo travelers can enjoy the guided experience, although group sizes can be large, and crowding might be an issue.

What is the price comparison? Some reviews mention that booking from abroad can be more expensive than local options, and the perceived value varies depending on expectations.

In summary, if you’re looking for a comfortable, scenic day with marine adventures and don’t mind the crowds or the price, this tour offers a reliable way to see the Similans. For those wanting a more personal, eco-conscious, or budget-friendly experience, consider exploring other options.

You can check availability for your dates here: