Koh Samui: Amazing Pig Island Tour – Cruise Ship Tours

Traveling to Koh Samui and looking for a unique day trip? The Pig Island Tour offered by Koh Samui Advisor promises a mix of adorable woolly pigs, snorkeling in clear waters, and scenic island hopping—all in just five hours. As seasoned travelers, we’re here to give you a balanced look at what this experience delivers, based on genuine reviews and your practical needs.

What we love most? The small-group format means you won’t be just another face in a crowd, and the inclusive snorkeling gear and kayaking add a fun, hands-on element. We also appreciate the competitive price—it’s often lower than similar tours—making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers. On the flip side, some reviews highlight organization issues and short-lived activities, so it’s worth considering whether this fast-paced trip matches your style.

This tour appeals most to cruise ship travelers eager for a light, diverse day out—from animal encounters to underwater adventures—without spending an entire day on the water. If you’re after a laid-back, well-organized trip with plenty of photo opportunities and friendly guides, this could be just right.

Key Points

• Cost-effective: Offers some of the lowest prices among similar tours
• Small-group experience: More personalized and less crowded
• Includes essentials: Kayaking, snorkeling gear, lunch, and transfers included
• Authentic island vibe: Visit Koh Mudsum with woolly pigs and unspoiled scenery
• Time-efficient: 5 hours total, perfect for cruise schedules
• Mixed reviews: Highlights genuine strengths but also some organizational hiccups

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Koh Samui Pig Island Tour

This tour is designed for cruise ship guests who want a burst of island adventure without the commitment of a full-day expedition. The itinerary is carefully structured to balance travel, activity, and relaxation. Be prepared for a fast-paced but rewarding experience, with plenty of opportunities to capture the island’s natural beauty.

Pickup and Transportation

The day begins with an air-conditioned minibus pickup at the Nathon pier, between 09:00 and 09:20. The efficient transfer sets the tone for the trip, with little waiting or fuss. From the pier, you’ll travel roughly 20 minutes by van to the southern coast of Koh Samui, where the adventure truly begins.

Koh Tan – Snorkeling in Calm Waters

The first stop is Koh Tan, famous for its well-preserved coral reefs and clear, shallow waters. The snorkeling here is notably enjoyable thanks to the free snorkeling equipment provided. Travelers often comment on the diversity of sea creatures and the ease of exploring in calm seas. The reef is still intact, making it a worthwhile underwater experience for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers.

One reviewer shared, “The underwater world is very special here,” emphasizing how the snorkeling adds real value to the trip. Keep in mind, the timing here is around 40 minutes, so you’ll want to bring your own gear if you have specific preferences or equipment.

Koh Mudsum – Woolly Pigs and Relaxation

After a quick crossing, you reach Koh Mudsum, where the tour’s highlight—the woolly pigs—await. These charming animals roam freely on the white sand beach, reminiscent of the Bahamas’ famous pigs. Several reviews mention the adventure of feeding the pigs and the novelty of such an encounter. One guest noted, “The pigs are adorable, and it’s fun to feed them,” but also mentioned that overfeeding due to multiple visitors sometimes keeps the pigs from swimming or wandering into the water.

You’ll have roughly two hours here, enough time for kayaking, swimming, or simply relaxing on the beach. The activity options depend largely on sea conditions, so kayaking might be limited if the waters are rough, as some reviewers experienced.

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Lunch Break: Authentic Thai Cuisine

A highlight of this tour is a delicious Thai lunch at a popular local restaurant right on the beach. The menu offers a variety of dishes that are described as healthy and flavorful, with many guests noting it’s not overly spicy, catering to different palates. The generous portions and scenic setting make this a memorable part of the trip.

Return Journey and Scenic Views

After lunch, the tour resumes with a 20-minute speedboat ride back to Koh Samui, during which you’ll enjoy scenic views of the islands’ rugged coastline. Multiple reviewers mention how beautiful the scenery is on the crossing, with some even spotting sea creatures during the trip back.

The final leg is a 20-minute van ride to the Nathon pier, arriving around 14:30. From there, it’s a quick walk and transfer back to your cruise ship, with the tour organizers emphasizing the importance of timely return to ensure you don’t miss your ship’s departure.

The Booking and Practical Details

The tour is geared for cruise passengers, offering a flexible cancellation policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You reserve now and pay later, making it easier to plan your day without immediate financial commitment.

For a smooth experience, travelers should bring essentials—hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water—and be prepared for a limited window of time on each stop. The tour explicitly states no smoking or littering is allowed, reinforcing respect for the environment.

Group Size and Guides

The small-group setting means you’ll likely be with fewer than a dozen travelers, which enhances the experience’s intimacy. The guides are generally knowledgeable and friendly, with reviews praising their clear communication and helpful attitude.

Authentic Experiences Highlighted by Reviewers

The reviews provide valuable insights—many travelers liked the well-organized speedboat rides, describing them as fun and scenic. Karen from the UK said, “The guides were excellent, and the views were stunning,” illustrating the tour’s strengths.

However, some mention organizational issues—such as changing schedules or brief activities. Chloe from the UK pointed out that “the activity felt a little unorganized,” though she still found the pig island part amazing. Meanwhile, Benjamin from Germany felt the trip was overly touristy and the activities too short-lived for the travel time invested.

These mixed reviews underscore that while the price and core experiences are appealing, travelers should temper expectations about full-day adventure or extensive activities. This tour is more about quick highlights and photo ops than deep immersion.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for cruise ship guests who want a cost-effective, fun-filled day with animal encounters and snorkeling. It’s ideal if you enjoy small-group tours and are comfortable with a fast-paced schedule. It’s not suited for pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those with mobility issues due to the nature of the activities and transportation.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, unorganized, or lengthy adventure, this might not be the best fit. But for those craving a compact, memorable experience with plenty of photo opportunities and friendly guides, it offers good value.

The Sum Up

The Koh Samui Pig Island Tour offers a unique blend of animal fun, underwater exploration, and scenic island hopping—all packed into a 5-hour itinerary. The small-group setting and inclusive amenities make it a practical choice, especially for cruise passengers eager to squeeze in a variety of experiences.

While some travelers have expressed concerns about organization and activity length, many appreciate the stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and the authentic feel of visiting Koh Mudsum and Koh Tan. The affordable price point adds to its appeal, providing good value for those willing to accept the fast pace.

This tour suits adventurous travelers looking for a snapshot of Koh Samui’s highlights—from cute pigs to vibrant coral reefs—without dedicating a full day. It’s a lively, cheerful way to make the most of your short stay on the island.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, but snorkeling is optional, and life jackets are provided. Non-swimmers can enjoy the beach, kayaking, or relaxing on the sand.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. You may want to bring your own snorkeling gear if you prefer.

How long are the activities at each stop?
Snorkeling at Koh Tan is about 40 minutes, and the stay at Koh Mudsum is roughly 2 hours, including beach time, kayaking, and exploring.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Generally yes, but it’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or non-swimmers.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Will I have enough time to get back to my cruise?
Yes. The tour concludes around 2:30 pm, with a guaranteed free transfer back to the ship, but punctuality is key.

Are the guides helpful?
Reviews mention that guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and clear in their instructions, enhancing the overall experience.

In summary, this tour offers a lively, affordable, and authentic glimpse of Koh Samui’s coastal charm, perfect for cruise passengers seeking a quick yet memorable escape into nature and local island life.

You can check availability for your dates here: