Ko Tao: Tao-Nangyuan Snorkeling Day Trip with Meals & Sunset

If you’re planning your visit to Ko Tao and looking for a relaxing yet adventurous day on the water, this Tao-Nangyuan Snorkeling Day Trip from Royal Mariblue might just tick all your boxes. It promises a mix of vibrant marine life, scenic island vistas, and delicious meals—all onboard a cozy, small-group boat. While it’s not the cheapest option, the focus on intimacy, quality food, and expert guides makes it a standout experience.

What really sets this tour apart is its small group size, often under 20 people, which means no overcrowded waters or frantic photo opportunities. You’ll love the personalized service, the chance to see turtles and sharks comfortably, and the highlight-worthy sunset to cap off the day. However, keep in mind that weather conditions can influence the itinerary, and entrance fees to Koh Nang Yuan aren’t included.

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a more intimate, relaxed snorkeling adventure with plenty of opportunities to capture underwater moments. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate delicious, freshly prepared food and a friendly, attentive crew. If you’re after a lively party boat, you might prefer a larger, less personal tour instead.

Key Points

• Small Group Vibe: Typically capped at 20 guests, ensuring personalized attention and space to relax.
• Diverse Snorkeling Spots: From Koh Nang Yuan to Shark Bay, offering chances to see turtles, sharks, and abundant fish.
• Inclusive Meals: Buffet lunch, BBQ dinner, and unlimited soft drinks, all served on board.
• Expert Guides & Photos: Guides like Lucky and Mr. Tu are praised for their knowledge and underwater photography skills.
• Flexibility & Comfort: Kayaks, paddleboards, snorkeling gear, and a new mouthpiece for each guest.
• Weather & Island Fees: Some activities depend on weather and don’t include Koh Nang Yuan entrance fee.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Easy and Convenient Transportation

Your day begins with hotel pickup in Ko Tao, a big plus that saves you the hassle of organizing transport. The crew from Royal Mariblue are known for their punctuality and friendly service—getting picked up and dropped off at your accommodation means you can relax right from the start. The journey to the pier is quick, giving you more time to soak up the anticipation.

The Boat & Atmosphere

The tour takes place on a charming vintage wooden boat, which immediately sets a laid-back yet stylish tone. Unlike large, crowded boats, this vessel is designed for small groups, creating a cozy environment where everyone feels comfortable. Reviewers like Steven and Lucia have noted how a smaller group enhances the experience—more time in the water, less waiting, and better chances to interact with guides.

The First Stop: Koh Nang Yuan & Japanese Gardens

Once on board, you’ll head straight to Koh Nang Yuan, a tiny, photogenic trio of islets connected by a pristine sandbar. This spot is a snorkeler’s paradise, with crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. Guests frequently mention the excellent visibility and variety of fish, with lucky visitors spotting turtles and even baby sharks.

For the adventurous, there’s the option to climb to the viewpoint—be aware that it involves stairs, but the panoramic view is worth it, as long as the heat and crowds don’t deter you. As one reviewer pointed out, “It gets hot and busy quickly,” so an early visit is recommended.

The Japanese Gardens diving site on the east side offers a calmer, sheltered bay with granite rocks and colorful coral, perfect for exploring underwater life. Here, snorkelers can enjoy a diverse display of fish, coral, and sometimes playful small sharks, making it an unforgettable start to the day.

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Lunch & Relaxation

Midway through your trip, the crew serves a freshly-made buffet lunch with six options plus seasonal fruits, tea, and coffee. Reviewers like Katherine and Emma rave about the quality of the food, describing it as both plentiful and delicious. This is a real highlight—savoring a hot meal with views of Nang Yuan and Mango Bay makes the experience feel truly special.

While resting on the sun deck, many guests find the scenery mesmerizing—lush green hills, boulders, and turquoise waters. Testimonials from Emma and Melanie underscore how relaxing and beautifully scenic these moments are.

Afternoon Snorkeling & Marine Encounters

After lunch, it’s time for more snorkeling at stunning spots like Ao Muong Beach, Hin Wong Bay, and Aow Leuk Beach. Each location offers different underwater sights: vibrant coral reefs, schools of sardines, and, if you’re lucky, sea turtles and small harmless sharks.

Reviewer Zuzanna highlights how guides go out of their way to show you the best spots, often swimming alongside guests, helping with gear, and snapping photos. Many mention that the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the water-based segments safe and fun even for less confident snorkelers.

Shark Bay & Marine Wildlife

One of the tour’s top draws is Shark Bay, where you can watch blacktip reef sharks and sea turtles gliding peacefully over the seabed. The shallow depths (4 to 10 feet) make it easy to observe these creatures up close. Reviewers like Ray and Jason confirm that seeing the sharks and turtles was a major highlight.

Snorkel safety and comfort clearly matter to the crew: reviewers mention receiving a new mouthpiece to avoid sharing, and crew members are noted for their attentiveness and patience—important when managing an active marine environment.

Sunset & Dinner

As the day winds down, you’ll get a spectacular sunset—a perfect backdrop for a BBQ set dinner featuring kebabs, fresh fruits, and unlimited soft drinks. Many reviewers, including Kirstie and Lucinda, say this relaxed, scenic end to the day feels like the perfect reward.

The virgin mojito mocktail adds a fun, tropical touch, and the overall atmosphere—music, good company, and stunning views—makes for a memorable conclusion. Comments like “a chill, beautiful sunset on top of the boat” are common.

Practical Details & What to Bring

The tour’s inclusions are well thought out: hotel pickup and drop-off, snorkeling gear with a brand-new mouthpiece, kayaks, paddleboards, and unlimited drinks. The buffet lunch and BBQ dinner are praised for their quality, making the price ($60) a good deal considering the all-day service and personalized touch.

What you need to bring includes sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, camera, biodegradable sunscreen, and personal medications. Avoid bringing large bags, pets, or touching marine life—these are both safety and environmental considerations, and reviewers frequently mention respecting the marine habitat.

Entrance & Additional Costs

Keep in mind, Nang Yuan Island entrance fee is not included in the tour price, so bring around 250 Baht for that. Alcoholic drinks aren’t included either, so if you want a beer or cocktail, plan accordingly.

Suitability & Accessibility

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, wheelchair users, or those with pre-existing medical conditions, which is important to note if you have specific health concerns. However, for most active travelers, the experience is comfortably paced and well-supported.

What Travelers Say

The reviews paint a clear picture: this trip is highly valued for its small group intimacy, knowledgeable guides, and fantastic marine sightings. Guests emphasize the quality of food, the professionalism of staff, and the personalized underwater photos that accompany the experience.

Guest testimonials highlight the dedication of guides like Lucky and Mr. Tu, who are known for their attention to detail, underwater photography, and genuine passion for marine life. Many mention that seeing turtles and sharks was a highlight they’ll never forget.

Interestingly, travelers also appreciate the relaxed pace—they can spend ample time at each stop, avoiding the rush common on larger tours. The small group size fosters a more personal, less crowded atmosphere, which many find makes the experience more enjoyable.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This Ko Tao snorkeling day trip offers a thoughtful blend of adventure, comfort, and scenic beauty. It’s ideal for small groups who want to feel relaxed and have a chance to truly connect with the underwater world. The quality food, attentive guides, and stunning marine encounters make it a top choice for those who value authentic, well-paced experiences.

If your travel style favors personalized service, beautiful scenery, and marine wildlife sightings, this tour will likely meet or even exceed your expectations. The emphasis on safety, comfort, and capturing memories speaks to the needs of travelers who want a memorable, worry-free day on the water.

Keep in mind the additional entrance fee and weather dependency, but overall, this trip delivers great value for its intimate nature and high-quality experiences. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to enjoy Ko Tao’s marine treasures without the chaos of larger tours.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a small-group boat ride, all snorkeling gear including a new mouthpiece, kayaks, paddleboards, unlimited bottled water, soft drinks, tea, coffee, a buffet lunch, BBQ dinner, and underwater photography services.

How many people are usually on the boat?
Typically, the tour caters to a maximum of 20 guests, which ensures a more relaxed and personal experience compared to larger group tours.

Do I need to pay for the Koh Nang Yuan entrance fee?
Yes, the entrance fee to Koh Nang Yuan isn’t included, and travelers should bring approximately 250 Baht in cash.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, the crew provides snorkel gear and new mouthpieces for each guest, making it accessible even for first-timers. Guides often swim with guests, ensuring safety and guidance.

Are alcoholic drinks included?
No, only non-alcoholic drinks are included in the package. If you want beer or cocktails, you’ll need to purchase them separately.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen (biodegradable preferred), sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, a camera, personal medications, and a reusable water bottle. Avoid large bags or touching marine life.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, or those with certain medical conditions or mobility issues.

How long does the tour last?
The entire trip lasts around a full day, from hotel pickup to drop-off, including multiple snorkeling stops, meals, and sunset viewing.

What are the main highlights?
Expect encounters with turtles and sharks, scenic islands, delicious meals, sunset views, and beautifully captured underwater photos.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

This small-group Ko Tao snorkeling tour offers a fantastic mix of marine adventures, scenic beauty, and tasty food—all in a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, it promises a memorable day amidst some of Thailand’s most stunning waters.

You can check availability for your dates here: