Angthong National Marine Park by Highsea Tour (Official)

Taking a day trip to Angthong National Marine Park sounds like a dream, and when it comes to tours on Koh Samui, the Highsea Tour promises an adventure packed with snorkeling, mountain trekking, kayaking, and breathtaking vistas. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve experienced it firsthand, so you get the scoop on what really makes this tour special—and what might be worth thinking twice about.

What we love about this experience? First, the stunning panoramic views from Koh Wua Ta Lap offer a picture-perfect moment you’ll want to keep forever. Second, the delicious Thai buffet lunch from Krua Savoey Seafood Restaurant is a genuine highlight—trust us, you’ll look forward to that after a morning of exploring. Third, the variety of activities means there’s plenty of adventure, from snorkeling with colorful marine life to kayaking along limestone cliffs. But, a potential drawback? The crowd levels and boat condition aren’t for everyone—some travelers mention feeling rushed or noticing signs of aging on the boat.

This tour suits those eager for a full-day escapade with lots of activity and incredible scenery. It’s great for travelers who want a mix of adventure, nature, and local flavor, and who don’t mind sharing the experience with up to 180 other explorers.

Key Points

• Value for money with a $30 price tag including most activities
• Diverse experiences: snorkeling, mountain trekking, kayaking, and sightseeing
• Long day, well-paced with a full itinerary from early morning to sunset
• Crowd levels can be high, affecting the overall experience
• Quality of facilities varies; some reviews note aging equipment and boat conditions
• Authentic touch with a Thai buffet lunch and friendly multilingual guides

What to Expect from the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

Early Morning Pickup and Transfer
The day begins around 7:30 AM with a convenient hotel pickup in an air-conditioned minibus, making the start comfortable. You’ll be driven to Nathon Pier, where light breakfast options—sandwiches, donuts, croissants, plus coffee and soft drinks—are served aboard the boat. The early start ensures you get maximum time at the park, but keep in mind that the tour departs at 8:00 AM, so punctuality is key.

Cruising to Angthong Marine Park
The cruise itself lasts about an hour and a half, providing a relaxed chance to enjoy the sea breeze or chat with fellow travelers. The boat ride is generally smooth, but some reviews mention that the boat could use a refresh, with windows lacking glass and signs of age. Still, most found it comfortable enough and appreciated the scenic views.

Arrival at Koh Wua Ta Lap
At around 9:50 AM, you disembark on Koh Wua Ta Lap, known for its dramatic cliffs and sweeping views. Here, the main attraction is the panoramic lookout—a short climb of about 10 minutes brings you to stunning vistas that overlook the 42 islands. Many reviewers mention that this standpoint is worth the effort, offering “the most sensational views” that make all the effort on the trail worthwhile.

Exploring and Activities
Post-lunch, around 1:30 PM, the tour heads to Koh Mae Koh to visit The Blue Lagoon, a pristine, hidden lake surrounded by towering cliffs. The water here is crystal clear, providing excellent opportunities for photos—though some mention that the snorkeling here isn’t the best due to murky waters and shallow depths. Kayaking around the limestone coastlines is available, but some find the boat ride to the islands and the kayaking segment to be relatively short, feeling a tad rushed.

Return Journey and Sunset Views
By 3:30 PM, the boat starts heading back to Nathon Pier, arriving around 5:00 PM. The sunset views from the pier are a fitting end to a busy day, with the sky painted in soft vanilla hues, creating the perfect photo backdrop.

Highlights and Practical Details

Snorkeling and Marine Life

The full snorkeling equipment, including dry bags and life jackets, is provided. However, the water’s clarity can be inconsistent, with some reviewers noting that the water was quite murky and the shallow areas limited marine life. If snorkeling is a priority, this might be a less impressive part of the trip, but it still offers a fun way to see some underwater scenery.

Mountain Trekking and Cliffs

The ascent up Koh Wua Ta Lap features a short but steep climb with ladders and fixed ropes. The views from the top are well worth the effort, offering sweeping panoramas of the marine park. For those with mobility issues or pregnant travelers, this might be less suitable, as the climb can be challenging.

Kayaking Adventure

Kayaking is a highlight for many, allowing you to paddle around limestone formations and along the coastline. The experience is peaceful and photogenic, though the review mentions that the kayaking session is quite short, leaving some wishing for more time on the water.

Food and Refreshments

A buffet lunch served on the boat is a standout feature. It includes three dishes, fresh fruits, and seasonal salads, all freshly cooked. Guests often praise the quality, with some reviewers calling it “mouthwatering,” which provides a much-needed energy boost after morning activities.

Guides and Group Size

Multilingual guides are friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience more engaging. The tour can accommodate up to 180 travelers, which means some parts of the day might feel crowded, especially during peak season.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Incredible views from the summit of Koh Wua Ta Lap, perfect for photography and memories
• Diverse activities like kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking create a full-day adventure
• Affordable price for everything included, especially considering the variety of experiences
• Delicious buffet lunch adds a satisfying local flavor to the trip

Cons:

• Crowded environment may limit the intimacy or serenity of the experience
• Boat condition and equipment might show signs of aging
• Short activity durations, especially kayaking and snorkeling, may leave some travelers wanting more
• Timing delays noted by some reviewers, affecting the overall schedule and on-site time

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers looking for a full day packed with adventure at an affordable price. It’s perfect for those eager to see multiple highlights of the marine park—mountain views, lagoons, and coastline explorations—in one trip. Active travelers who don’t mind crowds and are comfortable with a busy schedule will enjoy the variety of activities.

If you’re after peaceful solitude or luxury amenities, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re after authentic scenic beauty, a taste of local cuisine, and a lively group environment, this tour offers solid value.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package, making logistics easy for travelers staying in Koh Samui.

What time does the tour start?
It begins with pickup around 7:30 AM, and the tour officially departs at 8:00 AM from Nathon Pier.

How long is the entire experience?
Expect about 8 hours, from early morning pickup to sunset back at Nathon Pier.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, full snorkeling equipment is provided, but water clarity can vary, and some reviewers found the snorkeling less vibrant than expected.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
The mountain hike involves ladders and fixed ropes, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges or pregnant travelers.

What is the meal like?
A well-reviewed buffet with three dishes, seasonal salads, and fresh fruits, served on the boat.

What are the main attractions?
The panoramic views from Koh Wua Ta Lap, The Blue Lagoon, kayaking along limestone coastlines, and enjoying the scenic boat ride.

Are there any extra fees?
Yes, the entrance fee to Angthong National Marine Park is not included and must be paid on-site. The fee supports park conservation efforts.

Final Thoughts

A trip to Angthong National Marine Park with Highsea Tour offers a lively and scenic day out on Koh Samui’s waters. The variety of activities—from mountain hikes and kayaking to snorkeling and wildlife photography—ensures you’ll leave with a camera full of memories. The included buffet lunch adds a tasty touch, and the overall cost makes it accessible for many.

While the experience might feel a bit crowded at times, the jaw-dropping views and diverse adventures make it worthwhile for those eager for a full-day exploration. It’s especially suited for active travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, culture, and adrenaline, and aren’t overly concerned about crowds or boat aging.

For anyone craving a snapshot of Thailand’s marine beauty without the hassle of planning multiple excursions, this tour strikes a good balance of fun, scenery, and value. Just remember to bring your camera, a sense of adventure, and patience for busier days.