Koh Samui: Electric Long-tail Boat Eco Tour to Pig Island

Are you considering a different way to explore Koh Samui’s stunning waters? This Electric Long-tail Boat Eco Tour to Pig Island offers an immersive, environmentally friendly way to enjoy some of the island’s highlights. With a focus on responsible tourism, this four-hour journey combines snorkeling, wildlife encounters, and marine conservation—delivered in a quiet, comfortable setting.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the eco-friendly electric boat provides a smooth, silent ride that’s gentler on the environment—and your ears. Second, the variety of activities—from snorkeling at Koh Tan to visiting adorable beach pigs on Pig Island—keeps the experience dynamic. Lastly, the genuine care for marine life, evidenced by efforts like coral reintroduction, adds meaningful value.

One potential consideration is that snorkeling depends on sea conditions, which might mean less underwater visibility if the weather isn’t cooperating. Also, this tour caters best to those comfortable in the water and able to hop aboard without difficulty, as it’s not suitable for non-swimmers or seasick-prone travelers.

If you’re after a relaxed, eco-conscious day exploring Koh Samui’s natural beauty with a small, friendly group, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy wildlife, learning about marine conservation, and discovering local island life in a responsible way.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly Transportation: Travel on a 100% electric long-tail boat that’s silent and reduces environmental impact.
• Diverse Activities: Snorkel at Koh Tan, visit Pig Island, kayak, paddleboard, and participate in coral restoration.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 6 participants for a more personalized, relaxed adventure.
• Conservation Focus: Contribute to marine life by releasing artificial corals into the sea—adding purpose to your trip.
• Flexible and Comfortable: Includes hotel pickup, refreshments, and the option to tailor your experience according to weather and sea conditions.
• Authentic Encounters: Meet caring local operators and enjoy genuine interactions, not just tourist clichés.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

This tour kicks off with a convenient hotel pickup in Koh Samui, which saves you the hassle of finding your way to the departure point. The van ride to Thong Krut Pier takes about an hour, setting the tone for a smooth journey. From there, you’ll board the electric long-tail boat, a niche vessel designed for both eco-awareness and comfort. Unlike traditional speedboats, this electric option offers a quieter, more unobtrusive way to glide across the water, letting you truly soak in the surroundings.

Koh Madsum (Pig Island)

Your first stop is Pig Island, officially known as Koh Madsum. Here, you’ll encounter the charming beach pigs that have become a bit of a phenomenon. Reviewers repeatedly mention how adorable and fun they find the pigs—some say it’s a must-see highlight. One guest described the pigs as “so cute” and enjoyed capturing photos of them lounging on the beach. The tour operators care for these animals, maintained by a local family, but a note of caution about pig bites requiring rabies shots is worth keeping in mind if you plan to get close.

Koh Tan and Snorkeling

Next, you’ll visit Koh Tan, often praised for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. We loved the way the guide explained that snorkeling here isn’t just about floating around; it’s about discovering the underwater life, even if visibility can vary due to sea conditions. One reviewer mentioned that poor visibility made the snorkeling less colorful but still worthwhile thanks to the friendly guide, Chai, who took lots of photos for the group.

Marine Conservation with Coral Releasing

A unique aspect of this tour is the coral restoration activity. Participating in the release of artificial corals, you’re directly contributing to marine life revival. Multiple reviews note how this effort feels meaningful, especially as it emphasizes sustainable tourism. The guides, notably Chai and Aek, are passionate about marine preservation and often share insights about their ongoing conservation work.

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Kayaking and Paddleboarding

Once back on the boat, you’ll have the chance to kayak and paddleboard directly from the vessel. These activities add a fun, active element and give you a chance to explore the waters at your own pace. Reviewers appreciated how these options allowed for more personal and relaxed exploration, with some mentioning how they enjoyed paddling around and taking in the scenery from different perspectives.

Return Journey

After a few hours of exploration, the tour winds down with a comfortable ride back to Thong Krut Pier and a van transfer to your hotel. The whole experience is designed to be flexible—weather changes or sea conditions might influence the schedule, particularly snorkeling, but the hosts strive to maximize your time on the water.

The Experience of a Lifetime?

This eco-tour isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about connecting with the environment responsibly. The electric boat’s quiet operation limits noise pollution, allowing you to truly enjoy the serenity of the sea. The small group size (limited to 6) ensures personalized attention, making for a more intimate and engaging outing.

The guides, like Chai, are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor. One reviewer pointed out how he taught them about the islands, local wildlife, and even some Thai language, making the experience more enriching. The fact that the boat is a prototype adds an element of pioneering innovation, though one review noted a temporary technical issue with the battery, which was quickly resolved with an alternative boat.

Price and Value

While the tour’s cost might seem moderate, the inclusion of hotel pickup, refreshments, snorkeling gear, and active conservation work creates significant value. You’re not just paying for a boat ride—you’re gaining a well-rounded experience with multiple engaging activities, eco-conscious efforts, and local insights.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Travelers interested in wildlife encounters, marine conservation, and eco-friendly travel will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s suitable for those who enjoy snorkeling and are comfortable with water-based activities. However, non-swimmers or travelers prone to seasickness might face some challenges, especially since the tour is dependent on weather conditions.

The Sum Up

This Electric Long-tail Boat Eco Tour to Pig Island offers a balanced mix of fun, relaxation, and responsibility. The quiet, sustainable boat creates a peaceful setting for exploring Koh Samui’s waters, while stops at Pig Island and Koh Tan deliver memorable wildlife encounters and underwater scenery. The coral restoration activity adds a meaningful component that sets this experience apart from typical island-hopping trips.

It’s an excellent choice for eco-conscious travelers, wildlife lovers, and those seeking a personalized, small-group adventure. The guides’ friendliness, combined with the innovative electric boat, make for a genuinely different way to enjoy Koh Samui’s natural beauty.

If you value authenticity, sustainability, and a relaxed pace, this tour will leave you with lasting memories and a greater appreciation for marine conservation efforts.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, pickup from most hotels in Koh Samui is included in the tour price.

How long does the tour last? The total experience is approximately four hours, including transportation and activities.

What should I bring? Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, sunscreen, beachwear, and some cash for optional extras.

Is snorkeling always available? Snorkeling at Koh Tan depends on sea conditions; if the weather isn’t suitable, more time will be spent on Pig Island.

Are the guides knowledgeable? Yes, guides like Chai are praised for their friendliness, information, and care, making the experience educational and personal.

Can I participate in kayaking and paddleboarding? Absolutely, you can enjoy both activities directly from the boat, adding fun and variety to your day.

Is the boat comfortable? The electric long-tail boat offers a smooth, quiet ride, with some reviews mentioning it’s more comfortable and less noisy than traditional motorboats.

Is this suitable for non-swimmers? It’s best suited for those who are comfortable in the water; non-swimmers may find it challenging, especially during snorkeling.

What is the coral restoration activity? You’ll help revive marine life by releasing artificial corals into the sea, contributing to local conservation efforts.

Are there any restrictions or things to watch out for? Pig bites may occur, so approach the animals with caution. The tour may change schedule due to weather, and the local Thai captain speaks basic English.

This eco-focused tour combines the joy of discovering Koh Samui’s waters with the satisfaction of supporting marine conservation. Whether you’re seeking wildlife encounters, scenic views, or a responsible travel experience, it’s well worth considering for your next island adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: