Phuket: Similan Islands Tour by Premium Speed Catamaran

Taking a day trip to the Similan Islands from Phuket is a dream for many travelers, and doing it aboard a luxury speed catamaran promises an experience packed with comfort and adventure. While we haven’t personally boarded this specific tour, the reviews and details paint a compelling picture worth sharing. This journey combines fantastic snorkeling, breathtaking views, and top-notch service, making it a standout option for those seeking a premium island escape.

What we really like about this tour is its combination of comfort and activity—from relaxing on the boat to exploring the islands’ iconic landmarks and vibrant reefs. Plus, the opportunity to climb Sail Rock for panoramic views is a real highlight. The delicious Thai lunch and refreshments add a satisfying touch to the day. On the flip side, some reviewers mention crowded spaces on the boat and long travel times, so those who dislike lengthy transfers may want to consider their options.

This trip seems best suited for adventurous travelers craving comfort, photographers eager for stunning vistas, and anyone wanting a full day of snorkeling and sightseeing without sacrificing quality.

Key Points

• Comfort and Service: Enjoy 5-star treatment aboard a modern, spacious catamaran.
• Snorkeling Opportunities: Two well-structured snorkeling stops among colorful corals and tropical marine life.
• Iconic Landmarks: Climb Sail Rock for panoramic views and visit other scenic islands.
• Picture-Perfect Scenery: Expect stunning beaches, granite boulders, and clear waters.
• Delicious Food: Indulge in a Thai buffet lunch and refreshing drinks.
• Travel Duration: Around 12 hours, with some reviewers noting the long hours and wait times.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting the Day: From Phuket to the Islands

Your day begins with a pickup from Phuket, typically early in the morning. The transfer involves a 2-hour van ride to Thap Lamu Pier, setting the stage for a full day ahead. While some reviews mention long waits at the marina—up to 1.5 hours before departure—this is partly due to coordinating with other group’s arrivals. If you’re an early riser, you’ll appreciate arriving early to beat the crowds and secure a good spot on the boat.

Once at the pier, you’ll be greeted with light refreshments and a chance to settle into the private lounge aboard the boat. From there, it’s all about the smooth ride across the shimmering waters of the Andaman Sea, heading toward your first stop.

The Catamaran Experience

This isn’t your typical boat trip. The luxury speed catamaran is designed for comfort, with spacious seating and 5-star service. We’ve heard from reviewers that the boat is modern and well-maintained, making the 12-hour journey more pleasant than an average ferry. There’s often a light breakfast included, and plenty of space to relax, take photos, or chat with fellow travelers.

Some critics, however, have noted limited space to sit at certain points, so if you’re looking for a very spacious or uncrowded setting, be prepared for some busy moments. Still, the overall vibe is one of comfort and efficiency, ensuring you arrive at the islands energized rather than exhausted.

First Stop: Sail Rock and Similan Island No. 8

Your first adventure begins at Similan Island No. 8, famous for Sail Rock, a towering granite spire that offers a spectacular viewpoint. Climbing up (or just enjoying the view from below) provides a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding islands and turquoise waters. Visitors often mention how beautiful the scenery is, with one reviewer calling it a “panoramic view worth the hike.”

On the sandy beaches, you can relax or take quick photos. This stop usually lasts about 70 minutes, giving enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Snorkeling at Ba Ngu Island and Payu Island

After the initial sightseeing, the tour shifts to underwater exploration. The first snorkeling stop at Ba Ngu Island (No. 9) allows you to snorkel among vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish. Reviewers repeatedly mention the colorful corals and schools of fish, with one noting, “we saw many fish, but nothing extraordinary beyond the vibrant reef.” The second snorkeling session takes place at Payu Island (No. 7), renowned for its crystal-clear waters and granite boulders, offering a different underwater landscape.

Each snorkeling stop lasts about 75 minutes, giving plenty of time to swim, take photos, and enjoy the marine environment. The calm waters and clear visibility make for an enjoyable experience, even for first-timers.

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Lunch and Relaxation at Miang Island

Midday, everyone gathers for a buffet Thai lunch on Miang Island (No. 4). The reviews highlight the delicious food, with some mentioning it as “excellent” and a highlight of the trip. After eating, there’s free time to lounge on the pristine beach, soak up the sun, or explore the island’s natural beauty.

This portion of the trip is about 1.5 hours long, providing a well-deserved break after snorkeling. The calm, uncrowded beaches make for perfect photo opportunities, especially with the granite boulders and lush greenery as a backdrop.

Final Stops: Ko Bangu and Ko Payu

The last snorkeling session at Ko Bangu offers a different environment with granite formations and clear waters, ideal for spotting marine life. Some reviewers have called it a “perfect spot for snorkeling,” though a few noted that the overall experience may not differ significantly from previous stops.

Next, your boat heads to Ko Payu, where the crystal waters and granite rocks create a stunning scene—again perfect for relaxed snorkeling or simply enjoying the scenery.

Return Journey and Refreshments

After a full day on the water, the boat departs for Phuket, typically arriving at the pier after about an hour’s speedboat transfer. Back on the boat, you’ll enjoy refreshments and a chance to unwind, reflecting on the day’s highlights.

While some reviews mention long waiting times during the transfer back—up to 1.5 hours—most agree that the well-organized service and beautiful scenery make up for it.

When considering the value, the tour’s price includes the boat ride, guides, national park fee, lunch, and snorkeling gear. Given the quality of the boat, diverse stops, and scenic views, many find it a good deal — especially if comfort and convenience are priorities. However, travelers should be prepared for long travel hours—up to 12 hours in total—and potentially crowded spaces aboard the vessel.

The quality of snorkeling varies depending on weather and marine conditions but generally offers enough vibrant coral and fish for a memorable underwater experience. The views from Sail Rock are consistently praised, making it a top highlight.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those seeking a hassle-free, comfortable day exploring some of Thailand’s most beautiful islands. It’s perfect for first-timers and families wanting a full itinerary with snorkeling, sightseeing, and a good meal. If you value luxury service and organized logistics, this tour ticks those boxes. However, if you’re very sensitive to long hours or crowded boats, you might want to consider alternative options or prepare accordingly.

The Similan Islands tour by premium speed catamaran offers a compelling combination of luxurious comfort, scenic beauty, and engaging activities. The standout features—like the panoramic Sail Rock viewpoint, vibrant coral reefs, and pristine beaches—make it a memorable escape from Phuket.

While the journey is lengthy and occasionally crowded, the overall experience seems to balance these factors with gorgeous scenery and excellent service. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want a full day of adventure without sacrificing comfort and are eager to see some of Thailand’s most iconic islands.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic, and comfortable way to explore the Similan Islands, this tour is certainly worth considering.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour runs for about 12 hours, including transfers, boat rides, and island visits.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers transportation from Phuket, the boat ride aboard a luxury catamaran, snorkeling gear, national park fee, Thai buffet lunch, and refreshments.

Are snorkeling sessions suitable for beginners?
Yes, most snorkeling stops are suitable for beginners, with calm waters and vibrant reefs. The tour provides snorkeling gear and guidance.

Is there an opportunity to climb Sail Rock?
Yes, Sail Rock is a major highlight, and visitors can hike or view the scenic vista from below for panoramic photos.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, change of clothes, camera, sunscreen, flip-flops, beachwear, and cash for personal expenses.

How crowded are the boats?
Some reviews mention limited seating and crowded spaces, especially during the transfer back, but the boat’s modern design aims for comfort.

What is the quality of the food served?
Guests typically find the Thai buffet lunch to be delicious and satisfying, often described as a highlight.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially those interested in snorkeling, sightseeing, and enjoying a full day outdoors.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your planning.

To sum it up, this premium tour balances luxury, adventure, and scenic beauty—making it a popular choice for travelers eager to explore the Similan Islands in style. With well-organized stops, spectacular viewpoints, and robust snorkeling options, it delivers a full-day experience worth considering for your Phuket itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: