11 Fantastic Tours & Experiences In Similan Islands

The Similan Islands are a highlight of Thailand’s marine paradise, famous for their crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and powdery beaches. Whether you’re a snorkeler eager to see sea turtles and colorful fish, a diver looking for underwater thrills, or simply someone who loves a scenic boat ride, the islands offer something special. Among the experiences we like, the Similan Catamaran Small Group Premium Tour from Phuket stands out for its relaxed vibe and high-quality inclusions. It provides a quieter, more intimate environment perfect for unwinding amid stunning scenery (see details here). Meanwhile, the new catamaran tour with free airport transfer combines comfort with a focus on marine wildlife, appealing to travelers seeking a hassle-free adventure (more info here).

The options are plentiful, from speedy day trips on traditional boats to luxurious multi-meal excursions, making it possible to find a tour tailored to your interest, budget, and schedule. Below, we take a detailed look at each of the top tours, so you can decide which one suits your style.

1. Similan Catamaran Small Group Premium Tour Phuket/Khao Lak

This 12-hour, small-group tour offers a relaxed, premium experience aboard a modern, high-stability catamaran. Limited to 30 guests, it ensures you won’t feel crowded as you snorkel in crystal-clear waters and relax on spacious decks. The trip includes round-trip hotel transfers from Phuket or Khao Lak, making logistics easy, and full insurance with safety as a priority. The itinerary includes visits to top island spots with opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, sightseeing, and marine life viewing. The day is packed with multiple snorkeling sessions, photo stops, and delicious meals, including lunch and dinner on board.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on comfort and quality. The small group size means quieter beaches and personalized service, ideal for travelers who want a more intimate experience. The guided snorkeling and sightseeing make it suitable for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers. The only potential downside is its longer duration, which might be a challenge for very tight schedules.

Bottom Line: For those seeking a luxurious, uncrowded day with excellent amenities, this tour strikes a great balance of comfort and adventure.

2. Similan Islands New Catamaran Tour+Free One-Way Airport Ride

At number 2 on our list, this 8-hour tour offers the thrill of snorkeling at the Similan Islands aboard a brand-new double-decker catamaran. It’s renowned for its smooth ride and includes complimentary hotel or airport transfer, making logistics simple and stress-free. The tour focuses on snorkeling, with stops at Island 8 to relax on white sandy beaches and climb the iconic Sailing Rock for panoramic views.

What makes this tour special is the inclusion of a photographer and guide in English and Chinese, ensuring you capture the best moments. Reviews highlight the quality of the boat and the professional guides. It’s perfect for travelers who want a shorter, high-quality day trip with a focus on marine life and scenic vistas.

The tour isn’t ideal for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, and participants should remember to bring swimwear, sunscreen, and waterproof cameras.

Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for snorkelers and photographers looking for a well-organized, comfortable day with great views.

3. Phuket: Similan Island by Speedboat

Arriving at number 3, this 12-hour speedboat tour explores 4 islands, including Koh Similan, Ba Ngu, Payu, and Miang. It is well-suited for travelers eager to see multiple islands in one day. The tour boasts visits to pristine beaches, snorkeling spots teeming with coral reefs, and the chance to indulge in local island cuisine.

One of the key features here is the flexibility in pickup locations across Phuket, with a mix of guided tours, safety briefings, and scenic boat rides. Guests often comment on the vibrant marine life and breathtaking scenery. The tour’s size allows for a more immersive experience than larger group trips, and the itinerary includes guided walks and swimming opportunities.

This tour is ideal for those wanting to see more islands, with a good mix of adventure and relaxation. Its main downside could be the long boat rides, which may be tiring for some.

Bottom Line: If you’re eager to visit multiple islands and don’t mind a longer day on the water, this tour delivers a fantastic snapshot of the Similans’ beauty.

4. SIMILAN ISLAND BY SPEED BOAT FROM PHUKET

This 8-hour trip is centered around speedboat access to the famous Similan Islands, renowned for spectacular granite formations and bright turquoise waters. The itinerary includes photo stops, sightseeing, and snorkeling at several key spots such as Ko Miang and Sail Rock Viewpoint.

Guests love the compact schedule that maximizes time on the islands and the scenic boat ride that kicks off and ends the day. It’s suitable for travelers who want a full day of marine exploration but prefer a shorter trip than some of the longer options. The reviews praise the spectacular scenery and easy logistics.

Note that the trip is not recommended for seniors over 70, pregnant women, or children under 1 year, so check your group’s fitness level first.

Bottom Line: A solid choice for travelers seeking efficient access to the islands with spectacular views and quality snorkeling.

5. Phuket : Surin Island by Speedboat

At number 5, this 10-12 hour excursion introduces you to Surin Islands’ marine life and the Moken culture. It’s a comprehensive trip with transfers, boat trips, gear, and lunch included, making it hassle-free to enjoy the day. The stops include Mu Koh Surin National Park, Chong Khat Bay, and the Moken community.

This tour is ideal for travelers wanting an in-depth cultural and marine experience. The snorkeling sessions are plentiful, and the chance to meet the Sea Gypsies adds an enriching dimension. Reviews mention the seamless logistics and interesting community visits. It’s perfect for those who enjoy combining nature with cultural insights.

Participants should bring swimwear, cameras, and sun protection. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, and the day can be long.

Bottom Line: Great for travelers interested in marine ecosystems and local culture, with robust snorkeling opportunities.

6. Phuket/Khaolak: Similan Islands day Trip by Luxury Speed boat

Positioned at number 6, this 10-hour tour offers a luxurious day exploring the islands. The trip includes snorkeling, relaxing on beaches, and visiting Sailing Rock. It features delicious lunch and the chance to enjoy the islands in comfort.

Guests note its small group size and premium service, making it suitable for travelers who want to indulge without sacrificing adventure. The reviews highlight the stunning scenery and quality of the boat. It’s a good value considering the premium experience, though it’s slightly more expensive than standard trips.

This tour is ideal for those wanting a relaxed, comfortable trip with all the essentials covered.

Bottom Line: For travelers who prioritize luxury and comfort over just basic sightseeing, this tour is a high-end choice.

7. From Khao Lak: Similan Islands Diving Trip

This diving trip from Khao Lak is perfect for certified divers eager to explore the underwater marine life at the Similan Islands. The itinerary includes breakfast, multiple dives, and lunch, with an emphasis on scuba diving rather than sightseeing.

Guests rave about the diving experience, noting the crystal-clear waters and marine biodiversity. It’s a great pick for well-trained divers looking to visit a renowned dive site, with easy logistics from Khao Lak. The trip isn’t suitable for non-divers or those without certification.

The main advantage is access to prime dive sites with experienced guides, but it’s a short trip (around 1 hour), so it’s best for those focusing on the underwater world.

Bottom Line: The top choice for certified divers wanting to explore marine biodiversity in the world-class diving waters of the Similans.

8. Phuket: Similan The Hidden Paradise Sea Tour

Number 8 features a full-day speedboat adventure with a focus on stunning photography and white-sand beaches. You’ll visit Sailing Rock, relax on the beaches, and participate in a photo session dressed as a mermaid—unique among tours. Lunch, refreshments, and photos are included, making it a fun, picture-perfect day.

This tour appeals to travelers wanting to capture beautiful scenery and enjoy a custom photo shoot. It has a full-day schedule with multiple meals and a number of stop-offs. The photo session in a mermaid dress is a highlight, especially for social media lovers.

It’s best suited for photo enthusiasts and those looking for a more playful experience. The main drawback could be the cost and the focus on photos rather than pure adventure.

Bottom Line: Ideal for photographers and fun-seekers wanting a memorable, visually stunning trip.

9. Phuket/Khao Lak Similan Speedboat Day Trip with 3 Meals

Positioned at number 9, this full-day trip includes snorkeling, beach relaxation, and Sailing Rock visit. It’s notable for three meals—breakfast, lunch, and the park fee—making it a comprehensive, all-inclusive experience. The tour departs early, with pickup from various locations.

Guests are especially pleased with the well-organized itinerary and the inclusion of meals and park fees, providing excellent value. The snorkeling gear and guided tours mean you don’t need to worry about logistics. It’s suitable for travelers who want a full, hassle-free day with lots of marine activities.

The only downside is the long travel time (about 2 hours each way), which might be tiring for some.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting an all-inclusive, full-day adventure with good value for food and activities.

10. Similan Islands: Cruise & Marine Exploration from Khao Lak

This high-end cruise offers three snorkeling sessions, visits to Princess Beach and Sail Rock, and a chance to capture stunning shots. It emphasizes luxury and relaxed exploration, suitable for travelers wanting a premium experience.

The focus on marine exploration, combined with comfortable boat amenities, makes it stand out. The inclusion of sunset views from the 420 Viewpoint adds a memorable touch. This tour is ideal for travelers who want to luxuriate on the water and capture beautiful scenery in a less hurried setting.

Bottom Line: Best suited for luxury travelers who want a full day of marine photography and relaxation.

11. Khao Lak : Similan Islands & Sail Rock Viewpoint

Finally, this 10-hour tour offers a private pier start, large boat options, and visits to multiple islands and viewpoints. It includes scenic stops, wildlife viewing, and the highest viewpoint for panoramic sea views.

Travelers appreciate its private feel and expert local guides. The two boat options provide flexibility, and the focus on photo opportunities makes it great for avid photographers or those wanting a more personalized experience.

This tour suits travelers who prefer more privacy and customized itineraries but may lack the fixed schedule of larger group trips.

Bottom Line: Designed for those seeking a personalized, scenic day with excellent photo opportunities.

How to Choose Your Perfect Similan Islands Tour

Choosing the right tour depends on your priorities: budget, time, interest in marine life versus cultural experience, or luxury comfort. For a quiet, intimate day with top-notch amenities, the Similan Catamaran Small Group Premium Tour is excellent. If you want simplicity and comfort with a focus on snorkeling and photography, the New Catamaran Tour offers great value with its included transfer.

For those passionate about diving, the Khao Lak Diving Trip provides access to the underwater world. Travelers pressed for time may prefer the shorter Similan Speedboat Tour, while families and photo enthusiasts might enjoy the Hidden Paradise Sea Tour.

Remember that booking early is wise, especially during peak season, and verify any specific needs or restrictions, like mobility or pregnancy limitations.

Final Thoughts

The Similan Islands offer a variety of tours tailored to different interests—from luxurious small-group snorkeling adventures to full-day cultural and marine explorations. For travelers who love relaxed, high-end experiences, the Similan Catamaran Small Group Premium Tour is hard to beat. Meanwhile, those seeking adventure and variety will find the speedboat trips a perfect fit, with options for diving, photography, or full-day excursions.

Ultimately, your choice depends on what kind of marine adventure you value most, your budget, and how much time you want to spend. Whichever you pick, the clear waters and stunning scenery of the Similan Islands promise an unforgettable experience. Book early and prepare to marvel at one of Thailand’s most pristine natural settings.