Phuket: Similan Island by Speedboat

Planning a trip to Thailand and looking for a day filled with natural beauty, vibrant marine life, and island hopping? The Similan Islands tour by speedboat offers a solid escape into one of Thailand’s most celebrated archipelagos. With a typical 12-hour schedule, it promises a mix of snorkeling, beach relaxation, and scenic views that make for an authentic tropical experience—if you’re okay with a busy day on the water.

What catches many travelers’ attention are the stunning beaches and colorful underwater worlds, along with delicious island meals and the adventure of visiting multiple islands in one go. But, as with any popular tour, it’s worth considering how the group size, travel pace, and boat comfort might impact your day. This tour is best suited for those who want a full immersion into the islands’ natural beauty, are prepared for a long day, and enjoy guided excursions with fellow travelers.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery and marine life make for memorable snorkeling and sightseeing.
• Multiple islands like Koh Similan, Koh Miang, Koh Payu, and Koh Bangu offer diverse landscapes.
• Comfort on the speedboat can be limited with up to 30 people, so expect a lively atmosphere.
• Food and drinks are included, providing fresh seafood and tropical fruits.
• Timing and transfers are well-organized, with hotel pickups and a detailed itinerary.
• Reviews highlight both the beauty of the islands and some concerns about the pace and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

Our review is based on the detailed itinerary and feedback from travelers who’ve experienced the tour firsthand. The day begins early, with pickup from 11 designated locations around Phuket. You’ll hop into a van for about 1.5 hours, passing through scenic views before arriving at the pier, where the adventure truly kicks off.

The journey is designed for those who want to maximize island time without sacrificing the convenience of organized logistics. The travel pace is brisk, with a mix of boat rides, guided tours, and ample opportunities for swimming and relaxing on beaches. The tour is run by Bella Tours Phuket, an experienced provider with a good reputation despite some criticisms about the boat comfort and group size.

The Day’s Itinerary in Detail

Morning Pickup and Transfer

The experience starts with pick-ups from multiple points, including popular spots like Patong, Karon, and Chalong. The van ride lasts about 1.5 hours, during which you might find yourself chatting with fellow travelers or reviewing the day’s plan. The guide provides a safety briefing before embarking on the speedboat adventure, setting expectations for the day.

Koh Ha – Scenic Stop and Snorkeling

The first island stop is Koh Ha, known for its rugged seascapes and hidden coves. This is your warm-up for snorkeling, with guided tours that reveal a lively underwater scene. Expect scenic views along the way, and some reviews mention that this stop provides an excellent opportunity to capture photos of the rugged shoreline.

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Koh Miang – Lunch and Leisure

Next up is Koh Miang, arguably the highlight for many. Here, you get about two hours to enjoy a delicious buffet lunch featuring fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local delicacies. The setting is idyllic—imagine eating with your toes in the sand, surrounded by lush greenery and the sound of waves. Many reviewers praise the quality of the meal, with one mentioning that “the salty sea air enhances every flavor.”

Apart from eating, you can walk around, swim, or just relax on the beach. The clear waters make for great photos, and some travelers appreciate the opportunity to simply unwind here after a busy morning.

Island Hopping to Koh Bangu and Other Spots

Post-lunch, the tour takes you to Koh Bangu, known for its unique landscape and secluded coves. Here, you’ll have time for swimming, snorkeling, or just exploring the surroundings on foot. The smaller islands give a different perspective—more peace, fewer crowds, and plenty of photo opportunities.

Later, the boat heads to Sailboat Rock, a well-known landmark, where you can walk and take in panoramic views. The final stop is Donald Duck Bay, which is more relaxed, offering some free time to stroll or take photos.

The Return Journey

As the sun begins to dip, the boat heads back to the pier, and your group boards the van again for the return trip. The overall day wraps up around sunset, with many guests feeling that the long travel hours are balanced by the breathtaking scenery.

What We Love About This Tour

The variety of islands visited allows travelers to experience different landscapes— from rugged coastlines to pristine beaches. The snorkeling spots are vibrant and full of life, with coral reefs teeming with colorful fish. The included meals are a pleasant surprise, often regarded as fresh, tasty, and plentiful, making the long day feel more rewarding.

The organized pickup and drop-off are convenient for visitors staying in Phuket, as it removes the hassle of arranging transportation. The guide’s friendly attitude and safety briefing set a professional tone, helping allay concerns about navigating the busy waters.

Opportunities for Improvement

Some reviews mention that the speedboat can feel crowded with up to 30 people, which might impact comfort and the overall experience, especially during snorkeling or while relaxing on the beaches. The timing on each island can be tight, leaving little room for extended exploration or quiet moments. Also, the quality of the lunch, while generally praised, might not meet everyone’s expectations—some found it a bit basic compared to the scenery.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour caters well to adventurous travelers eager to pack a lot into one day and those who enjoy guided group activities. It’s perfect if you’re after picturesque landscapes, snorkeling, and a comprehensive look at the Similan Islands. However, those seeking luxury, private time, or a more relaxed pace might find the schedule too hectic or the boat experience less comfortable.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

Authentic Marine Encounters: The snorkeling spots are often described as lively, colorful, and full of marine life. For anyone who loves aquatic adventures, this tour offers a chance to see the underwater world in its full glory.

Diverse Island Hopping: Visiting four islands gives a sense of the archipelago’s diversity, from lush greenery to rugged coastlines and pristine beaches. The stops are well spread out, so you get a full-day immersion.

Convenience and Value: The inclusion of transfers, meals, and guided tours simplifies the logistics, making it easier to focus on enjoying your day. Pricing reflects this convenience, and reviews suggest the experience offers good value for money.

Photographic Opportunities: Every stop provides beautiful vistas and underwater scenes, making it an ideal choice for travelers looking to capture memories.

The Sum Up

The Phuket Similan Island by Speedboat tour is a lively, well-organized way to see Thailand’s famous islands in a single day. It’s best suited for travelers who crave a full-on adventure, enjoy snorkeling, and don’t mind a busy schedule. The tour’s strengths lie in its diverse island visits, vibrant marine life, and tasty meals, all wrapped in a compact package.

While it may not be ideal for those seeking quiet, private moments or maximum comfort, it offers a genuine taste of what makes the Similan Islands so special. For the budget-conscious or adventurous at heart, this trip balances scenic beauty with practical convenience.

If you’re ready for a full day of island hopping, snorkeling, and stunning views, this tour delivers a memorable experience that captures the essence of Thailand’s marine treasures.

FAQ

How long is the tour in total?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, including pickup, boat rides, island stops, and return transfers.

What is included in the meal?
A buffet lunch with fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local dishes is provided on Koh Miang, with drinks available for purchase or included depending on the package.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
The tour is not recommended for infants, pregnant women, or those with certain health conditions due to the long day and boat travel. Always check with the provider if unsure.

How many people are typically on the speedboat?
The boat can accommodate up to 30 people, which might feel crowded, especially during snorkeling or relaxing on the beaches.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, a camera, and some cash for optional purchases.

Are transfers included?
Yes, hotel pickups are included from several locations around Phuket, with a friendly driver ensuring smooth transfers.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
While not explicitly stated, tours to the Similan Islands are generally more favorable in the dry season, from November to April, when weather and sea conditions are calmer.

The Similan Islands by speedboat offers a lively, beautiful, and culturally rich day out. Whether you’re snorkeling amid coral gardens or relaxing on sunny beaches, this tour packs a lot into one unforgettable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: