Koh Chang: Snorkeling Trip to Reefs or Wrecks with Lunch

If you’re dreaming of spending a full day floating above colorful coral gardens, exploring wrecks, and spotting tropical fish on a comfortable boat from Koh Chang, this snorkeling trip might be just what you need. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, the reviews and details paint a pretty compelling picture of a well-organized adventure that caters to all levels of swimmers and ocean enthusiasts.

What we love about this tour? First, the chance to visit three different snorkeling sites near Koh Chang or Koh Rang, each offering unique marine scenery. Second, the friendly, knowledgeable guides—several reviewers mentioned guides like Jackie and Oscar, who go above and beyond to spot critters and share insights. Third, the value for money—for just around $31, you get a full day of activities, lunch, drinks, and transfers. The only potential downside? The long travel time, especially the 1.5-hour boat ride to the reefs, which might be tiring for some.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy marine life, appreciate good organization, and prefer an all-in-one experience with food and comfort. Whether you’re a family, a couple, or a solo traveler eager to see underwater wonders, this trip offers an authentic and fun-filled day at sea.

Key Points

• Three snorkeling spots guarantee variety and excitement.
• Lunch and drinks are included, making it good value.
• Hotel pickup from West Coast hotels adds convenience.
• Guides are praised for their expertise and friendliness.
• Reef sites include stunning coral gardens and a wreck.
• Sea conditions may cause itinerary changes; flexibility is key.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect

This full-day trip kicks off with a hotel pickup, usually for guests staying on Koh Chang’s West Coast. Once at Bang Bao Pier, you’ll meet the crew and receive your gear—mask, snorkel, fins, and a life jacket. The boat itself is described as spacious and comfortable, a crucial factor for those wary of cramped or shaky vessels.

Departure and Journey

Boarding around 9:00 AM, you’ll set sail towards the snorkeling sites, with a typical journey lasting approximately 1.5 hours. Reviewers mention the boat is stable and not overly rocky, which is a relief for those prone to seasickness. The ride offers a chance to enjoy fresh air and scenic views, with soft drinks and snacks available on board.

Snorkeling at Three Different Spots

Once arrived at each site, you’ll have about an hour to snorkel (longer or shorter depending on conditions). The sites are carefully selected for visibility and marine life, with options to see coral gardens, schools of fish, and, on lucky days, even turtles.

One of the highlights is the Koh Rang Marine Park, renowned for its vibrant coral and tropical fish. Alternatively, some trips explore Koh Chang’s local reefs, including the HTMS Chang wreck, a sunken ship that is a favorite among snorkelers and divers for its history and marine activity.

Multiple reviewers like Bibin and Alex point out that the second site tends to be more colorful and lively, with abundant fish and corals. Jackie, the guide, is credited for pointing out hidden critters like tiny crabs, rays, and even a giant clam—”things you might miss if you’re not paying attention,” as one reviewer put it.

Midday Break with Lunch

Midway through the day, everyone gathers on the boat for a Thai buffet lunch. The menu is described as tasty, with vegetarian options available. Fresh fruit, soft drinks, coffee, and tea keep everyone refreshed as they relax on deck, sunbathing or chatting about marine life.

Reviewers consistently praise the lunch, describing it as satisfying and well-prepared, adding significant value to the experience. The boat’s large size allows for comfortable dining without feeling crowded, and the friendly crew makes sure everyone is well taken care of.

More Great Tours Nearby

Additional Beach Time or Relaxation

After the snorkeling sessions, some tours include a brief stop at a scenic beach or allow free time for swimming and relaxing. The focus remains on marine exploration, so expect a leisurely, sun-drenched day filled with underwater adventures and plenty of time to soak up the Thai sun.

Return and Drop-off

The trip wraps up with a scenic sail back, usually lasting around 1.5 to 2 hours. Reviewers note that the boat is well-maintained, with facilities such as freshwater showers and ample space to relax. Drop-off is typically smooth, with transfers back to your hotel on Koh Chang’s West Coast.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Marine Sites

The diversity of snorkeling locations is a major draw. Visiting coral gardens, a wreck, and protected waters offers a well-rounded glimpse into Thailand’s underwater beauty. Several reviewers mentioned the HTMS Chang wreck, describing it as a fascinating site with abundant marine life, making it a highlight for those interested in history and underwater scenery.

Guides and Crew

Many reviews highlight guides like Jackie and Oscar for their enthusiasm, patience, and attention to detail. Jackie, for example, is praised for pointing out the hidden critters like rays, crabs, and Christmas tree worms, enhancing the experience. The crew’s friendliness and professionalism are consistently noted, making the day smooth and enjoyable.

Food and Drinks

The included lunch buffet scores high on flavor and variety, with several reviewers saying it exceeded expectations. Fresh fruit and unlimited drinks—water, soft drinks, coffee, and tea—keep everyone hydrated and satisfied.

Comfort and Convenience

Hotel pickup for West Coast hotels simplifies logistics, especially after a long day at sea. The spacious boat and facilities like showers add to the experience, making it more comfortable than some smaller, rougher vessels.

Practical Tips and Considerations

While overall highly rated, some reviewers mention the length of the trip—about 5 hours including transportation and snorkeling time—might be a bit long for some. If you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a shorter outing, this is worth keeping in mind.

Sun protection is essential; many reviewers advise bringing extra sunscreen, hats, or rash vests, especially since the boat’s deck offers little shade during snorkeling breaks. Several people regretted getting sunburned despite applying SPF 50, so covering up is a smart move.

The sea conditions are subject to change, so the exact itinerary can shift depending on weather. The crew is flexible and prioritizes safety, but be prepared for potential adjustments.

Costs and Additional Fees

The tour price of about $31 per person includes most essentials, but note that the Koh Rang National Park fee of 200 THB per person is paid in cash and not included in the package. This small fee is standard for protected marine areas.

Transportation from East Coast hotels isn’t included, so you’ll need to come to the meeting point at Bang Bao Pier if staying on that side of Koh Chang.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This snorkeling trip offers excellent value for money and a well-rounded marine experience, making it ideal for travelers seeking an affordable, all-inclusive day on the water. The guides’ passion and expertise, combined with the variety of sites, create an engaging experience for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers.

If you love exploring underwater environments, crave delicious Thai food, and prefer comfort and convenience, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or solo travelers comfortable with boat trips and open water.

However, if seasickness is a concern or if you prefer shorter outings, you might want to consider other options. Those with sensitive skin or easily sunburned should pack extra sunscreen and protective clothing.

This tour provides a fantastic balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural appreciation with a focus on marine conservation and knowledgeable guides. It’s a trusted choice for anyone wanting to explore Koh Chang’s underwater treasures without splitting hairs over the details.

FAQ

How long is the total trip?
About five hours, including hotel pickup, transportation, snorkeling, and return, which might feel long but allows plenty of time at each site.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?
Yes, vegetarian and non-spicy options are offered, and the lunch is generally described as tasty and satisfying.

Is hotel pickup available everywhere on Koh Chang?
Pickup is only for West Coast hotels; East Coast guests need to meet at Bang Bao Pier.

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and protection for your back or legs if you burn easily. Extra water, hats, or rash vests can make the day more comfortable.

Are the guides helpful for beginners?
Absolutely. Reviewers mention guides like Jackie and Oscar as attentive, knowledgeable, and eager to point out marine creatures, making it suitable for snorkelers of all levels.

Is there an age limit for children?
Children are allowed but must sit on laps, so the tour suits families with young kids comfortable with boat trips.

What about the boat facilities?
The boat is described as spacious, with facilities like showers and plenty of shade or sun for sunbathers.

How much does the Koh Rang park fee cost?
The fee is 200 THB per person, payable in cash and not included in the tour price.

Can I see turtles or larger marine creatures?
While not guaranteed, some reports mention the possibility of seeing turtles on lucky days.

What if the weather is bad?
The itinerary may change depending on sea conditions for safety reasons, but the crew is experienced in adjusting plans accordingly.

This snorkeling adventure from Koh Chang offers a well-balanced mix of marine exploration, tasty food, and comfort, making it an excellent choice for ocean lovers eager to discover the vibrant underwater world of Thailand.

You can check availability for your dates here: