Koh Lanta: Private Koh Rok Snorkeling Tour by Speedboat

If you’re dreaming of a day spent swimming in crystal-clear waters surrounded by vibrant coral reefs, relaxing on pristine beaches, and enjoying a delicious Thai-style meal in a peaceful setting, then the Koh Rok private snorkeling tour from Koh Lanta might be just what you need. Although I haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of an experience that balances adventure and relaxation beautifully.

What really attracts us to this tour are its flexible schedule, small private group setting, and the ease of exploring two stunning islands in one day. Plus, the chance to snorkel in shallow, calm waters with abundant marine life makes it a great option for all swimming levels. However, it’s worth noting that the trip isn’t suitable for pregnant women, infants under 2, or those prone to seasickness—something to keep in mind if you’re traveling with little ones or sensitive stomachs.

This tour is ideal for couples, families, or small groups seeking a personalized, relaxed day on the water. If you love the idea of skipping crowded boat tours and instead enjoy personalized service, this private experience offers excellent value for anyone eager to explore Koh Rok at their own pace.

Key Points

• Private & Flexible: You control your schedule, with ample free time for snorkeling, relaxing, or exploring.
• Ideal for All Levels: Snorkeling takes place in calm, shallow waters, perfect for beginners or non-swimmers with supervision.
• Beautiful Scenery: Expect scenic boat rides passing islands and the chance to capture stunning shoreline photos.
• Authentic Experience: Enjoy a Thai-style buffet lunch directly on the beach with ocean views.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and private boat transfer streamline the day.
• Limited for Certain Travelers: Not suitable for pregnant women, infants under 2, or those with back or neck problems.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting the Day: From Koh Lanta to Koh Rok

The adventure begins with a hotel pickup on Koh Lanta Yai, where you’ll be greeted and transported to Old Town Pier. This initial part of the journey is about 10 minutes, giving you time to settle in and absorb the local sights. The organized pickup is smooth, and the tour operator, Trip Sawasdee Company, Limited, maintains a high standard, evident in their consistent 5-star ratings.

Once at the pier, you’ll board your private speedboat, which is a significant advantage over larger, crowded tours. The boat cruise across the Andaman Sea takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, passing scenic islands along the way. During this cruise, you’ll get a chance to admire the coastal views and maybe spot some local fishing boats or seabirds.

Koh Rok: The Underwater Paradise

Arriving at Koh Rok, the real fun begins. The islands are renowned for their shallow reefs, clear water, and abundant marine life. Reviews mention the snorkeling sites at Koh Rok Nok and Koh Rok Nai, which are carefully selected for their calmness and visibility. You’ll love the way the reefs are teeming with colorful fish, and if you’re lucky, clownfish (Nemo) among sea anemones are often visible near Koh Rok Nai.

Multiple snorkeling stops are planned, giving you the chance to explore different parts of the reefs. Snorkeling is mainly from the boat in shallow waters, making it accessible even for less experienced swimmers. The marine environment here is described as vibrant and lively, with plenty of fish and coral, making each stop a mini underwater adventure.

A Slice of Paradise: Beaches & Lunch

After working up an appetite, you’ll head to Koh Rok Nai for a Thai-style buffet lunch. The meal is served right on the beach with ocean views, providing a relaxed, scenic dining experience. The reviews note that the lunch is simple but tasty, with fresh ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere.

Post-lunch, you have around three hours of free time. Many guests choose to swim, walk along the shoreline, or just lounge and soak up the sun in the shade. The beaches are described as powder-white, quiet, and ideal for unwinding away from busy tourist spots.

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Final Snorkel & Return Journey

Before heading back, there’s one more snorkeling stop at Koh Rok Islands, so you can take advantage of the calm, shallow waters to fully enjoy the underwater sights. The return trip provides a different perspective of the islands and the coastline as the boat heads back toward Koh Lanta.

The tour concludes around 4:30 pm, with a smooth transfer back to your hotel. Many reviewers appreciate this well-timed finish, allowing for a relaxing evening after a full day of adventure.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Personalized Experience: Unlike large group tours, this private trip allows you to set your own pace, spend more time where you want, and enjoy intimate moments with your group. This is especially valuable if you’re traveling with family or a small group of friends.

Comfort & Convenience: The hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple, while the private boat ensures a quiet, smooth ride with ample space for relaxing or taking photos. The boat itself seems well-maintained, and the route avoids the crowds, which many reviewers find refreshing.

Authentic Thai Lunch & Scenic Setting: The beachside buffet offers a chance to enjoy authentic flavors amidst stunning scenery. It’s a laid-back, family-friendly way to break up the day, and the ocean views create a perfect backdrop for your meal.

Snorkeling in Calm, Shallow Waters: The reefs are perfect for snorkelers of all levels, with shallow depths and abundant marine life. Guests have noted clownfish among the highlights, and the clear water makes for excellent underwater visibility.

Practical Considerations

While this tour offers many advantages, there are a few points to consider. The duration (8 hours) might feel long for very young children or those sensitive to seasickness. The trip isn’t suitable for pregnant women, infants under 2, or anyone with back or neck issues.

Packing essentials include sunscreen, swimwear, towels, sunglasses, and a camera. It’s recommended to wear shorts due to the water level potentially being above the knees when hopping on or off the boat. Cash is handy for souvenirs or extra snacks, although most of the trip is focused on snorkeling and relaxation.

The tour’s cost provides good value considering the private experience, private transport, and personalized service. It’s a cost-effective way to enjoy Koh Rok with the comfort of having your own schedule and fewer crowds.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private Koh Rok snorkeling tour is best suited for travelers who value personalized service and flexibility. It’s perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape, families wanting a safe and relaxed environment, or small groups of friends looking for a memorable day on the water.

If you’re a non-swimmer or prone to seasickness, you might want to explore other options. However, for those keen on exploring reef life, relaxing on beautiful beaches, and enjoying authentic Thai hospitality, this tour offers a genuine and enjoyable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, snorkeling occurs in shallow, calm waters from the boat, making it accessible to non-swimmers with supervision.

How long is the boat ride to Koh Rok?
The cruise across the Andaman Sea lasts about 1 hour 45 minutes, offering scenic views along the way.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and some cash for extras.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a Thai-style buffet lunch on the beach during the midday break.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour private or shared?
This is a private group experience, ideal for personalized attention and flexible scheduling.

What are the snorkeling sites like?
The sites are known for their shallow reefs, clear water, and abundant marine life like clownfish.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour is not recommended for pregnant women, infants under 2, or people with back or neck problems.

How long do I have free to explore on the island?
You get about 3 hours of free time to swim, walk, or relax after lunch.

What is the provider’s rating?
The experience is rated 5 stars, reflecting consistent quality and excellent service.

This private Koh Rok snorkeling tour from Koh Lanta truly combines comfort, flexibility, and natural beauty. While it’s simple and relaxed, it offers enough adventure and picture-perfect moments to make it a highlight of any trip to Thailand’s Gulf coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: