Ko Lipe: Snorkeling Tour Short Way A

Planning a trip to Ko Lipe and wondering about the best way to experience its underwater beauty without breaking the bank? This Snorkeling Tour Short Way A offers a fantastic introduction to the island’s vibrant marine life and scenic spots, all at just $19 per person. Although we haven’t personally joined, reviews and detailed descriptions reveal a well-rounded, accessible experience suitable for most travelers.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s accessible even if you don’t know how to swim—thanks to the friendly, local guides who prioritize your safety and comfort. Second, the variety of stops promises a chance to see soft corals, clownfish, and hard coral formations, all within a manageable half-day. Third, the tour provides all necessary snorkeling gear and free underwater photos, adding great value. That said, one potential consideration is the need for participants to bring extra essentials like sunscreen, towels, and swimwear, which aren’t included.

This experience is perfect for those who want a straightforward, budget-friendly way to enjoy Ko Lipe’s underwater sites and scenic views. If you’re seeking a relaxed, guided trip that emphasizes safe, easy snorkeling with plenty of photo opportunities, this tour is an excellent choice.

Key Points

• Accessible for beginners: No swimming experience needed, thanks to experienced local guides.
• Multiple snorkeling stops: Four different snorkeling points plus a viewpoint and beaches offer variety.
• All gear included: Masks, fins, life jackets, and underwater photos come at no extra cost.
• Value-focused: At $19, it’s an affordable way to explore Ko Lipe’s marine environment.
• Includes a scenic viewpoint: Koh Hin Ngam offers spectacular vistas over the Andaman Sea.
• Limited amenities: Towel, sunscreen, and swimwear are not included, so come prepared.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point and General Structure

The tour begins opposite the Sweet Dreams Coffee Shop, a central spot that’s easy to find in Ko Lipe’s main area. It’s a small, intimate experience, usually with a local captain and a friendly team dedicated to making sure everyone feels comfortable. The duration is typically half a day, making it a manageable addition to your island itinerary.

Jabang Island – First Snorkeling Spot

The adventure kicks off at Jabang Island, known for underwater rocks teeming with soft corals and sea anemones. Reviewers mention that the gentle currents here make it suitable for beginners, and the colorful marine life often surprises first-timers. The shallow waters allow snorkelers to enjoy the sea life without requiring deep swimming skills.

Koh Hin Ngam – The Viewpoint

Next, you’ll visit Koh Hin Ngam, or Black Stone Island, which offers some of the best panoramic views of the Andaman Sea. Here, you can take in the scenery from a vantage point, which is especially appreciated after the snorkeling stops. The natural beauty of this island adds a peaceful break to the trip, with some reviewers noting it as a highlight for photo enthusiasts.

More Great Tours Nearby

Behind Hin Ngam – Snorkeling with Clownfish

The Behind Hin Ngam snorkeling site is praised for its well-preserved coral formations and vibrant sea life, including clownfish. Multiple reviews highlight the clarity of the water and the abundance of fish, making it a favorite stop for underwater photography. The soft corals here appear especially healthy, with some travelers noting that the coral reefs are quite perfect.

Koh Yang – A Beach Break and Snorkeling Spot

Koh Yang offers a crystal-clear sea and a long stretch of fine sand beach. It’s an ideal spot for a quick swim or relaxing on the beach. The coral reef here is home to staghorn, leaf, and brain corals, giving snorkelers plenty of marine life to observe. Many mention that the water’s transparency makes it easy to spot marine creatures even from the surface.

Koh Rawi – Lunch and Relaxation

The tour’s midday stop at Koh Rawi is a peaceful retreat—famous for its serene beaches and clear waters. It’s a great place to rest, swim, or have a picnic, as the island has no accommodations but plenty of natural beauty. Tour reviews often point out how relaxing this stop is, perfect for recharging before the last snorkeling point.

Koh Adang – Quiet Beaches and Snorkeling

The final snorkeling stop is at Koh Adang, which is praised for its quiet beaches and excellent viewpoints. This spot is ideal for those seeking tranquility away from crowds. The reefs here host a variety of marine life, making it a satisfying conclusion to the trip. Many reviewers appreciate the peaceful environment and the ease of access to pristine waters.

What’s Included and What You Need to Bring

For just $19 per person, the tour includes essential gear: mask, snorkel, fins, and a life jacket. It also offers a lunch box, fresh fruit, and drinking water, plus free underwater photo services. These additions considerably boost the value, especially given the affordability.

However, travelers should bring their own towel, sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), swimwear, hat, and cash for any extras or optional spends. The tour does not include the 200 Bath national park fee, so be prepared to purchase that separately if you plan to visit the park areas.

Practical Tips

• Come prepared: Arrive 15 minutes early at the meeting point to avoid missing the boat.
• Protect the environment: Use biodegradable sunscreen and avoid touching or stepping on coral.
• Dress appropriately: Wear comfortable beachwear and sandals for the stops.
• Bring cash: Some small purchases or tips may require cash, as card payments aren’t typically accepted onboard.
• Limit alcohol consumption: No alcohol or drugs are allowed to ensure safety during snorkeling.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

Multiple reviews mention how easy and enjoyable the snorkeling is, even for complete beginners. One reviewer said, “I don’t swim well, but the guides watched over us, and I felt safe swimming around the soft corals.” The local guides are praised for their friendly attitude and attentiveness, often sharing interesting facts about the marine life and islands.

The scenic viewpoints at Koh Hin Ngam are described as “breathtaking,” with some travelers remarking how the views made the whole trip worthwhile. The underwater photo service is another appreciated feature, allowing guests to take home memories without hassle.

Despite the generally positive feedback, some travelers note that the towels and sunscreen aren’t supplied, so packing these essentials is crucial. Also, the limited amenities on Koh Rawi might surprise those expecting more facilities, but most find that the island’s natural beauty makes up for it.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for budget-conscious travelers who want a straightforward, reliable way to explore Ko Lipe’s underwater world without a lot of fuss. It’s especially appealing for beginners and families, thanks to the gentle snorkeling stops and attentive guides. If you’re after picturesque scenery, peaceful beaches, and easy access to coral reefs, this experience delivers.

While it’s not designed for those seeking luxury or extensive facilities, it offers a genuine, enjoyable introduction to Ko Lipe’s natural beauty at an unbeatable price. You’ll come away with memorable underwater encounters and views that are hard to beat for the cost.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, the tour is designed to be beginner-friendly. You won’t need to swim to enjoy the reefs, as snorkeling gear and the guidance of local guides will help you feel secure.

What is included in the price?
For $19, you get snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins, life jacket), a lunch box, fruit, drinking water, and free underwater photo services.

Are the snorkeling spots suitable for beginners?
Yes, most of the stops feature shallow waters with gentle currents, making them accessible for those new to snorkeling.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
No, all essential snorkeling gear is provided, but you should bring your own towel, sunscreen, swimwear, and cash for extras.

Is there a national park fee?
Yes, there’s a 200 Bath fee per person for the national park, payable separately if visiting park areas.

What should I wear for the tour?
Bring swimwear, a hat, beachwear, sandals, and biodegradable sunscreen. Long-sleeved shirts are recommended for sun protection.

How long does the tour last?
The tour generally lasts about half a day, with a schedule that allows plenty of time at each stop while remaining manageable for most travelers.

To sum it up, the Ko Lipe Snorkeling Tour Short Way A offers incredible value with its variety of stops, beginner-friendly approach, and scenic views. It’s perfect for travelers eager to see the island’s marine life without complicated logistics or high costs. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or flying solo, this tour provides a relaxed, enjoyable way to experience some of Thailand’s most beautiful waters.

You can check availability for your dates here: