Phuket/Khao Lak: Similan Islands Luxury Catamaran Experience

Planning a day trip to the stunning Similan Islands can be a bit overwhelming, especially with so many options out there. This particular tour stands out because it offers a luxurious, well-paced experience with plenty of thoughtful touches — from the spacious yacht to professional photography.

We love that it combines comfort with adventure, giving you generous time to explore the islands and snorkel without feeling rushed. The professional guide and attentive crew really make a difference, ensuring everyone feels safe and well cared for. Plus, the full-service meals and snacks elevate the trip from a basic outing to a proper taste of Thai hospitality.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is a full-day experience, with a long transfer from Phuket—around 2 hours each way—so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy full-day excursions and don’t mind a bit of travel. If you’re seeking a relaxed, premium way to see the Similan Islands, this tour likely fits the bill. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate good service, stunning scenery, and capturing memories professionally.

Key Points

• Luxury Experience: Spacious, stable catamaran with panoramic views and comfortable seating
• Extended Island Time: More exploration and photo opportunities at Island 8 than typical tours
• Multiple Snorkeling Sessions: Explore coral reefs and tropical fish in two different locations
• Professional Photography: Capture natural, sunlit moments with 5 edited photos included
• Full Meals & Snacks: Three gourmet meals plus fresh fruit and soft drinks
• All Snorkeling Gear Provided: Includes beach socks, disposable mouthpieces, and towels

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Similan Islands Luxury Catamaran Tour

What Makes This Tour Different?

Most trips to the Similan Islands rush through the highlights, offering fleeting moments on the beaches and quick snorkel stops. This tour deliberately takes its time, focusing on quality over speed, and creating a more relaxed experience. The dual-deck catamaran itself is a major selling point. It ensures a smooth, stable ride—crucial for travelers prone to seasickness—and offers 360° views that make every photo a winner. You’ll love the snap-worthy lower deck and the top vistas for scenic photos.

Guests consistently mention the attentive crew and helpful guides, like Jasmine and Sarah, who make sure everyone is comfortable and well-informed. Their positive energy and attention to detail have been repeatedly praised, making the day both enjoyable and seamless.

The Itinerary: Carefully Planned for Comfort & Discovery

Departure begins early with hotel pickups or a meeting point at Thap Lamu Pier, depending on your package. After a scenic transfer, the journey on the luxury catamaran takes about two hours, allowing you to settle in, enjoy the sea breeze, and snap some photos en route.

Once at the Similan Islands, the itinerary is thoughtfully structured. The first stop is Island 8 around 10:30 am, where you’ll have ample time to walk, explore, and take photos. Unlike typical tours that offer only a quick beach break, this extended visit means you can truly soak in the scenery and get that perfect shot. As one reviewer, Alessandro Morita, pointed out, the beautiful boat, very good food, and friendly guides made the entire day special.

Lunch is served onboard around noon—gourmet, fresh, and plentiful—followed by the first snorkeling session at Island 7. Here, you’ll explore coral reefs and encounter tropical fish, with all gear provided, including snorkeling socks to prevent blisters and disposable mouthpieces for hygiene.

In the afternoon, a short visit to Island 7 provides more scenic views, then a second snorkeling session at Island 9 offers a chance to see even more marine life—possibly turtles, as some reviews mention. The current and swells can be strong, so some reviewers felt that flippers should be included in the price for added safety and comfort.

Late afternoon includes a relaxing stop at Island 9, where guests can swim, take photos, or just unwind. Back on the boat, the crew serves afternoon tea and dessert, marking the winding down of this impressive day.

Why the Focus on Comfort & Photos?

Not only do guests get to explore the natural beauty of the islands, but they also have the opportunity to capture memories professionally. The tour includes a photographer who takes candid, natural sunlit shots throughout the day, resulting in at least five edited photos—a valuable bonus for those wanting to remember this special trip without the hassle of taking their own pictures.

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Meals & Amenities: Full-Service & Thoughtfully Prepared

The meals onboard are a clear highlight. Guests rave about the delicious food, which includes breakfast, lunch, and a dinner option when returning to the port. The fresh fruit and snacks keep energy levels high, and drinks are always available—an important perk when spending hours in the sun.

Beach towels, soft drinks, and dry bags are provided, and the snorkeling gear is sanitized and fitted for comfort. Many reviews mention how the friendly staff went above and beyond, making sure everyone was well supplied and comfortable, even accommodating dietary restrictions like vegetarian options when requested in advance.

Connectivity & Practicalities: What to Know Before Booking

This tour starts with a hotel pickup option, but you can also meet directly at Thap Lamu Pier—where check-in is before 8:20 am. Be prepared for a 2-hour transfer from Phuket, which can be a long ride but is comfortable and scenic. The return trip is about the same, with drop-offs only at the Phuket Deep Sea Port’s security gate, a short walk to your hotel.

Guests are advised to bring sunscreen, hats, swimsuits, and cameras. Because the Similan Islands are located far from Phuket, the transfer time is considerable, so this tour is best suited for those comfortable with full-day excursions.

The tour is not recommended for pregnant women, people with heart problems, recent surgeries, or prone to seasickness, given the long boat ride and active snorkeling.

Real-World Insights from Guest Reviews

Guests consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides, like Jasmine and Sarah, who ensure everyone’s safety and make the experience more enjoyable. Many mention seeing turtles and even dolphins, which adds a thrill to the snorkeling sessions.

The food quality is another strong point—reviewers say the lunch and snacks are plentiful and tasty, often exceeding their expectations. One guest appreciated the attention to dietary needs, like allergy considerations during meals.

In terms of value, reviews suggest that the combination of a luxurious yacht, multiple snorkeling stops, and professional photos offers excellent value for money—especially considering the full meals and high level of service. Some noted that the boat’s interior may not match the ultra-luxurious photos, but overall, the comfort and amenities are appreciated.

What Could Be Improved?

A few reviews mention that flippers should be included in the package, especially given the strong currents that make snorkeling more challenging for weaker swimmers.

Some guests also feel that the boat could feel more luxurious—not all yachts meet the high expectations set by the photos. The duration on the beaches was generally praised, but a couple of guests wished for more time to explore and photograph at each island.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

This luxury catamaran trip to the Similan Islands offers a well-balanced mix of comfort, adventure, and relaxation. The professional photography, full meals, and extended island time make it stand out from more rushed or speedboat-based options.

It’s a great choice for travelers who value high-quality service, enjoy beautiful scenery, and want to capture memories without the typical chaos of busy tours. The focus on space and comfort makes it particularly suited for those who might be seasick or prefer a more leisurely pace.

While the transfer can be long and the yacht not as luxurious as some might expect, the overall experience delivers on value and authentic beauty. If you’re after a scenic, peaceful day with plenty of snorkeling, good food, and professional photos, this tour will not disappoint.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
You can choose a package with hotel pickup or meet directly at Thap Lamu Pier before 8:20 am.

How long is the transfer from Phuket?
The transfer from Phuket hotels to the pier is approximately 2 hours each way.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and a camera. It’s also smart to bring your own snorkeling socks if you prefer, though all gear is provided.

Are meals included?
Yes, guests enjoy three gourmet meals, fresh fruit, and soft drinks throughout the day.

Can I snorkel at multiple locations?
Absolutely. The tour offers two snorkeling sessions, at Islands 7 and 9, with all gear supplied.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the yacht is a spacious, stable vessel with panoramic views. Some reviews mention the interior isn’t quite as luxurious as the photos, but overall very comfortable.

Can I see marine life like turtles or dolphins?
Guests have reported sightings of turtles and dolphins, especially during snorkeling sessions.

Is this suitable for children?
The tour is not recommended for babies under 1 year or children over 70, and those with health issues, but families with children aged 6 and up generally find it enjoyable.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
Vegetarian meals are available if requested in advance. The crew is accommodating and attentive to dietary needs.

This tour offers a balanced, comfortable way to explore the Similan Islands, perfect for travelers who value quality, scenic beauty, and memorable photos.

You can check availability for your dates here: