Koh Samui: Island Hopping Adventure in Coral and Pig Island

Thinking about exploring Koh Samui beyond its popular beaches? This 7-hour tour offers a chance to experience some of the island’s most charming hidden gems—ideal for those eager to see marine life, meet playful pigs, and relax on peaceful beaches. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines adventure, authentic encounters, and sustainability.

What makes this tour especially appealing? First, the small-group atmosphere means more personalized attention and fewer crowds. Second, the focus on eco-friendly practices like providing water in glass bottles and offsetting carbon emissions shows a genuine commitment to sustainability. Lastly, the guide’s proven knowledge and friendly attitude help make the day both educational and fun.

That said, one thing to consider is the weather—since the itinerary is weather-dependent, some activities or timing may vary if conditions are rough. This tour suits travelers who love snorkeling, wildlife encounters, and scenic beaches—especially those interested in responsible tourism and meaningful experiences rather than just ticking off spots.

Key Points

• Small group size enhances intimacy and personalized service
• Eco-conscious approach reduces environmental impact
• Diverse activities include snorkeling, wildlife spotting, and relaxing on pristine beaches
• Tasty Thai lunch prepared on Koh Tean adds local flavor
• Flexible itinerary adapts to weather conditions for safety and comfort
• Highly praised guides make the experience informative and fun

You can check availability for your dates here:

Convenience and Start: From Hotel to the Water

The adventure begins with a convenient pickup from your accommodation, which is a real plus—no need to worry about finding your way to the pier. The group is limited to nine people, ensuring a more intimate experience and that everyone gets enough attention from the guides. Once at Thong Krut Pier, there’s a quick safety briefing—about 15 minutes—that sets the tone for a relaxed yet organized day.

The Boat Ride: A Scenic 25 Minutes

From the pier, you’ll hop on a boat for a roughly 25-minute ride to the first stop. The boat ride itself is part of the fun—expect some spray from the waves, which seasoned travelers say just adds to the adventure. The boat crew is attentive, and some reviews mention how safety and comfort are prioritized, even in choppier seas.

First Stop: Koh Madsum (Pig Island)

Koh Madsum is the highlight for many visitors. Known as Pig Island, it’s home to wild pigs that roam freely. Travelers love the chance to take selfies with the adorable pigs, many of whom are surprisingly friendly. One review even mentions that their guide Wan was particularly helpful, taking photos and making sure everyone had a good look at the pigs.

Pro tip: the pigs are wild, so don’t expect them to be overly tame, but they’re quite social, and some visitors even get to pet or belly-rub them. The experience is both playful and authentic, not staged for tourist photos.

The stop lasts about 80 minutes, giving ample time to stroll, swim, or capture shots. Reviewers frequently mention how helpful guides are in making sure everyone gets close to the pigs without feeling rushed, and they appreciate the relaxed pace.

Second Stop: Koh Tean – Snorkeling and Lunch

Next, you head to Koh Tean (about a 1-hour boat ride). This island is famous for its vibrant coral reefs and crystal-clear waters. Many reviewers praise the quality of snorkeling, noting they saw lots of colorful fish and marine life. It’s an ideal spot for both beginners and more experienced snorkelers, and the shallow waters mean that kids and less confident swimmers can enjoy it too.

After a swim or just relaxing on the beach, a delicious Thai lunch is served. The meal is usually a highlight—fresh and flavorful—and many reviewers mention how well it’s catered to different dietary needs, including vegetarian options. The lunch spot is a secluded bay, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful vibe.

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Relaxation and Free Time

Post-lunch, you’re encouraged to continue relaxing or exploring. Many travelers find this downtime perfect for sunbathing, kayaking, or just soaking in the scenery. The beaches are untouched and tranquil—ideal for recharging before heading back.

Return Journey and Drop-offs

The boat journey back takes about 30 minutes, giving you time to reflect on the day. Reviews suggest the boat crew and guides are attentive and friendly, ensuring everyone feels safe, especially if the seas are slightly bumpy.

You’ll be dropped off at Thong Krut Pier or your hotel—whichever option you selected—making for a seamless end to a memorable day.

This experience isn’t just a sightseeing trip; it’s about responsible tourism and engaging with Koh Samui’s natural environment. The tour provider emphasizes sustainable practices—using glass bottles instead of plastic, and offsetting carbon emissions—which adds value for environmentally conscious travelers.

The small group size means you get more personalized attention, and the guides are consistently praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and helpfulness. Several reviews highlight guides like Wan, Paly, and Ann for going above and beyond, taking photos, sharing local insights, and making the trip enjoyable.

The cost, which might seem moderate for a full-day adventure, actually offers excellent value considering the diverse activities—snorkeling, wildlife encounters, beach relaxation—and included meals. The timing is well thought out, with enough time at each stop to enjoy without feeling hurried.

Unique Encounters and Highlights

The wild pigs are a big draw—many visitors find them surprisingly charming and social. The opportunity to swim in coral reefs and see vibrant marine life up close is a highlight for snorkelers. The secluded beaches provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation, and the delicious local lunch adds a satisfying culinary touch to the day.

Practical Aspects

Transportation is smooth, with pickups from hotels or registered accommodations, and the boat rides are comfortable and scenic. The limited group size creates a more intimate atmosphere, often leading to lively conversations and better chances for photos.

The tour is weather-dependent, so some adjustments to the itinerary are possible in rough seas, but guides are experienced in managing these situations safely. It’s worth noting that pregnant women should consider this activity, as the boat rides and water-based parts may not be suitable for everyone.

Reviewer Insights: What Travelers Love Most

A majority of visitors rave about their guides, describing them as friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. Many mention how guides like Paly, Wan, and Ann are attentive, making them feel safe and valued throughout the day.

The snorkeling spots are consistently praised for their vibrant marine life, with some reviews noting they saw a variety of colorful fish and coral. The lunch is often described as fresh and tasty, with some reviewers surprised at how well their dietary preferences were accommodated.

Pig Island remains a favorite, with visitors enjoying the novelty and the chance to interact with the wild pigs. The secluded beaches and tranquil waters earn high marks for relaxation and scenic beauty.

Final Notes: Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventurers, wildlife lovers, and eco-conscious travelers. It’s also suitable for families, thanks to the gentle water activities and flexible pace. However, those sensitive to sea motion or pregnant women might want to consider other options, as boat rides can be bumpy.

If you’re after a balanced day of nature, culture, and relaxation, this trip offers a genuine taste of Koh Samui’s outdoors and wildlife without feeling over-commercialized.

This island-hopping tour in Koh Samui provides a fantastic blend of wildlife encounters, snorkeling, and scenic beaches, all delivered with a conscience for the environment. The small-group setting ensures a personalized experience, and the guides’ warmth and expertise shine through in every review.

You’ll love the opportunity to meet the wild pigs—a truly unique experience—and the vibrant coral reefs that make snorkeling memorable. The included Thai lunch on a quiet bay adds a delicious local touch, making the day satisfying in every way.

While weather can influence the flow of the day, the tour’s flexible structure and attentive guides help make each experience smooth and safe. It’s a well-priced option for travelers who want to explore Koh Samui in a meaningful, responsible way—perfect for those seeking adventure, authenticity, and relaxation.

How do I get picked up for the tour?
You’ll be collected from your hotel or registered accommodation, with the guide holding a TripGuru sign at the designated meeting point.

What should I bring?
Pack comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, change of clothes, towel, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and cash for extras.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves boat rides and water activities, so it’s best for children comfortable with such environments. Pregnant women should consider safety, as boat rides may be uncomfortable.

How long is the boat ride?
The journey to Pig Island (Koh Madsum) is about 25 minutes, with additional boat transfers between stops.

What’s included in the lunch?
A delicious Thai meal is served on Koh Tean, with options for vegetarians. Reviewers consistently praise the freshness and flavor.

Do I need snorkeling experience?
Not at all. The snorkeling locations are suitable for all levels, with shallow waters ideal for beginners.

Can I buy souvenirs or extra food?
There’s no explicit mention of shopping opportunities, but bringing cash is advised for extras or tips.

What if the weather is bad?
The itinerary may be adjusted or shortened based on sea conditions for safety reasons. Guides are experienced in managing weather changes.

Is the tour eco-friendly?
Yes, the tour emphasizes sustainability—using glass bottles, offsetting emissions, and exploring responsibly—making it appealing to eco-conscious travelers.

This detailed review should help you decide whether Koh Samui’s island-hopping adventure is the right fit for your holiday plans. It promises a genuine, fun-filled day with memorable wildlife encounters, stunning scenery, and the chance to support sustainable tourism practices.

You can check availability for your dates here: