Angthong National Marine Park Tour by Large Boat

Thinking about a day filled with adventure, scenery, and fun activities around Koh Samui? The Angthong National Marine Park Tour by Large Boat offers a comprehensive experience that caters to families, solo travelers, and nature lovers alike. With a well-organized itinerary, friendly guides, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor excitement, it’s a popular choice for those wanting to make the most of their day in this stunning part of Thailand.

What we really love about this tour is the balance of adventure and relaxation, the value for money at just $29, and the chance to see some of the most breathtaking views in the region. The tour’s large wooden boat enhances comfort and security, making it easier for travelers of different ages to enjoy the day. However, a potential snag is the long travel time—about 80 minutes each way—which might be tiring for some.

This experience works best for active travelers who enjoy hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling, but also for those looking to simply soak up incredible scenery without feeling rushed. If you’re eager to explore Koh Samui’s natural gems with a trusted and well-reviewed company, this tour could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Value for money: At $29, it includes meals, activities, guide services, and transport.
• Variety of activities: Hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, and sightseeing—full of options to keep everyone engaged.
• Breathtaking views: Panoramic vistas from mountain trails and viewpoints, plus underwater landscapes.
• Comfortable large boat: The biggest in Koh Samui, designed to maximize safety and comfort.
• Well-organized itinerary: Smooth transitions between stops, with plenty of time for each activity.
• Active but flexible: Opportunities to skip certain activities if preferred, catering to different energy levels.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Early Morning Pickup and Check-in

The day kicks off with a hotel pickup around 7:00 AM, which means your day starts early but conveniently. The air-conditioned van whisks you off to Nathon Pier, where you’ll check in around 8:00 AM. This is a good moment to enjoy a light breakfast—bakery goods, fresh fruit, and hot tea—before setting sail. Reviewers rave about the smooth check-in process and clear instructions, so there’s little stress at this stage.

The Cruise to Koh Wua Ta Lup

By 8:30 AM sharp, the boat departs for Angthong. Expect an 80-minute cruise, during which you can relax on the boat’s three spacious decks or soak in the scenery from the sunroof. The vessel is described as unique and designed for comfort, with many reviewers noting how the larger boat size makes boarding easier, especially for those with mobility concerns.

Wua Ta Lap Island and Cave Exploration

Arriving around 9:50 AM, your first stop is Ko Wua Ta Lap. Here, you’ll find a mix of adventure and leisure:

• Hiking the JanJaras trail to reach a viewpoint 500 meters above sea level. The ascent involves ladders and fixed ropes, making it a challenging climb but with rewarding panoramic vistas of the archipelago. Reviewers mention the climb as gruelling but worth it—”The views are incredible,” and “You won’t regret the effort.”
• For those preferring a more relaxed experience, the white sandy beach and snorkeling are available options, with many commenting on the crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.
• A highlight is the Lotus Cave (Bua Boke), featuring impressive stalactites and stalagmites, perfect for a short hike and exploration. A visitor noted, “The cave’s mineral formations are mesmerizing,” adding to the sense of discovery.

Mountain Trek to Pha Jan Ja Ras Viewpoint

Next, around 10:50 AM, your guides lead you on a 110-minute trek up to the Pha Jan Ja Ras viewpoint. The trail is known as one of Thailand’s most spectacular natural walks, with ladders and fixed ropes along the route. The effort involved is balanced by breathtaking views of the archipelago, which reviewers say are “absolutely worth the climb.” Expect to be rewarded with stunning panoramic scenery and a sense of achievement.

Lunch Break at Koh Mae Ko

After the mountain hike, you’ll return to the boat for about 1 hour and 40 minutes of lunch. The buffet is described as delicious and plentiful, featuring Thai-style dishes, fresh fruits, and seasonal salads. Reviewers mention the quality as better than expected for the price and appreciate the speedy service from the onboard crew, ensuring everyone gets enough time to refuel.

Exploring Koh Sam Sao and Kayaking on Koh Mae Ko

Post-lunch, your next stops include:

• Koh Sam Sao, with its dramatic natural arch—a perfect photo spot and a unique geological formation. It’s only about 20 minutes here but offers great views and some fun exploration.
• The highlight for adrenaline lovers is kayaking around Koh Mae Ko. With full equipment and guidance, many find kayaking easy to learn, as one reviewer remarked, “It’s a great chance to try it for the first time.” You’ll paddle through caves and limestone formations, with some reviewers describing it as “impressively scenic”.

Snorkeling at Blue Lagoon (Emerald Lake)

The tour’s star attraction is the Blue Lagoon (Emerald Lake), where you can snorkel amidst sunken reefs and colorful fish. The clear waters and unspoiled environment make it a favorite among travelers, despite some noting that snorkeling conditions vary. One reviewer mentioned, “The underwater gardens are filled with flamboyant fishes and coral,” making it a highlight for many.

Return Journey and Final Relaxation

By 3:20 PM, you’re back on the boat heading toward Nathon Pier. On the return, snacks, drinks, and soft drinks are available, making the journey comfortable and pleasant. The boat is expected to arrive back at the pier between 5:00 and 5:30 PM, wrapping up a full, active day.

What Do Past Travelers Say?

Reviews paint a picture of a well-organized and enjoyable tour. Many compliment the friendly guides, noting the helpful, attentive staff and smooth logistics. Several mention the value for money, especially considering the included meals, activities, and transport.

One reviewer shared, “The staff stayed with us through all activities, and the lunch was good quality and abundant,” while others appreciated the wide range of experiences—from hiking to kayaking and snorkeling.

On the flip side, some travelers found the long travel times tiring, and a few expressed disappointment with the snorkeling conditions or felt the boat was overcrowded. One critic highlighted safety concerns about life jackets, but overall, most reviews emphasized the stunning scenery and fun activities.

Practical Details and Tips for Travelers

• Price: At $29, this tour offers solid value considering its inclusions—meals, activities, transportation, and guides.
• Booking: Most travelers book about a week in advance, which secures your spot on this popular trip.
• Duration: Expect a 9-hour day, starting with early pickup and ending back at your hotel in the late afternoon.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes for hiking, swimwear for snorkeling and kayaking, sunscreen, and a hat. Some reviewers suggest bringing extra water and snacks if you’re hungry during the day.
• Physical Readiness: The tour involves some challenging hikes and hot weather, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended.
• Tour Limit: The maximum group size is 50 travelers, which keeps the atmosphere lively but not overwhelming.
• Accessibility: The large boat design and helpful crew make it more accessible but consider your own mobility for hikes and climbs.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re after a full-day adventure that combines hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, and sightseeing with some incredible views, this trip offers a well-rounded package. The large boat provides a comfortable platform to enjoy your day, and reviewers consistently highlight the friendly guides and tasty meals.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor pursuits and are comfortable with some physical exertion. It’s also a great choice for families or groups wanting a safe, organized way to explore Koh Samui’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning each activity.

While the long travel times and occasional snorkeling disappointments might be a downside for some, the overall experience of discovery and adventure makes it a worthwhile option. Authentic, scenic, and value-packed, it’s a flexible way to enjoy Angthong Marine Park’s best features.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $29 fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, breakfast, snorkeling and kayaking gear, guided activities, and a buffet lunch.

Do I need to pay the national park entrance fee separately?
Yes, the 300 THB per adult and 150 THB per child park fee is paid directly at check-in.

What activities are available during the tour?
You’ll enjoy hiking to viewpoints, snorkeling, kayaking, and sightseeing around the islands, with options to skip certain activities if you prefer.

How long is the boat ride to Angthong Marine Park?
The boat trip takes approximately 80 minutes each way from Nathon Pier.

Is the tour suitable for small children or seniors?
The large boat is designed for comfort and safety, but the hiking and climbing parts may be challenging for very young children or older seniors. Always check your own mobility.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, comfortable shoes, water, and personal items. Don’t forget your camera for those unforgettable views.

Can I customize the activities if I don’t want to kayak or hike?
Yes, travelers can choose to relax on the beaches or enjoy the scenery instead of participating in all activities, according to reviews.

This tour offers a full day of memorable sights and active pursuits at a reasonable price. Travelers who love exploring nature and trying new outdoor activities will find plenty to love here, making it a standout option for experiencing Koh Samui’s natural wonders.