Koh Samui Islands Snorkeling Trip By Speedboat

Venturing out on a Koh Samui snorkeling tour by speedboat offers a fun way to see the islands beyond the usual beach resorts. While it’s not a full-fledged underwater adventure, it provides a good mix of scenic views, island relaxation, and coral reef spotting that can suit travelers looking for a relaxed day on the water.

What we like most? The opportunity to explore remote islands, the scenic boat ride through turquoise waters, and the inclusion of lunch and drinks—all at an affordable price. On the flip side, a few travelers have pointed out that the snorkeling might not be the highlight for everyone, with limited stops and some reefs not living up to expectations. Still, this trip is ideal for those who love island-hopping, beautiful scenery, and a laid-back vibe.

If you’re after a straightforward, group-oriented adventure with plenty of time to relax on quiet beaches, this tour could be a good fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a taste of island life with hassle-free logistics, thanks to hotel transfers and organized snorkeling gear.

Key Points

Ease of booking: Bookings tend to be made around 49 days in advance, showing steady interest.
All-in-one deal: Price includes transfers, lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and insurance—no surprise costs.
Limited snorkeling: While snorkeling is included, some reviews mention only brief stops at reefs that aren’t always spectacular.
Relaxed pace: The 6-hour duration offers enough time for beach lounging and sightseeing without feeling rushed.
Group size: The tour caters to a maximum of 30 travelers, maintaining a friendly, social atmosphere.
Weather dependency: Like all sea trips, good weather is essential; cancellations are possible if conditions aren’t suitable.

A Detailed Look at the Koh Samui Islands Snorkeling Trip

What’s Included and How It All Comes Together

Starting at 10:00am, the tour kicks off with hotel pickup across several locations—Lamai, Chaweng, Bophut, Maenam, and more. This flexibility means you can relax knowing transport is taken care of, without the hassle of finding a meeting point. The tour is operated by Oh-Hoo, a well-known provider in the region, and includes lunch, soft drinks, fresh fruit, and snorkeling gear—which makes it quite a value for around $56.78 per person.

Once aboard the colorful longtail boat, expect a scenic ride through the Gulf of Thailand. The boat itself offers a fun, traditional vibe, making the journey part of the experience. The group size is capped at 30, so while it’s not exclusive, it’s a good size to keep things lively yet manageable.

Koh Tan: The Snorkeling Highlight (Or Not)

The main snorkeling stop is Koh Tan, renowned locally for its protected reefs and resident marine life that includes giant clams, coral, and tropical fish. Here, you’ll get a chance to float around the reefs, but the experience appears to vary. One reviewer, Norman, felt the snorkeling was quite limited—just about an hour at one poor location out of the five hours—highlighting that the reef wasn’t particularly vibrant or extensive.

That said, the marine environment can be rewarding for beginner snorkelers or those who simply enjoy a peaceful swim. It’s worth noting that the focus here is more on the island visits and scenery than a deep underwater exploration. The reef’s condition and visibility might depend on the weather and recent conditions, which can affect your overall experience.

Exploring Koh Madsum: The Quiet Beach Escape

South of Koh Tan lies Koh Madsum, famous for its white sandy beaches and a touch of luxury with a resort nestled here. This island offers a laid-back environment perfect for relaxing, taking photos, or enjoying a picnic. One reviewer loved this stop, describing it as a “beautiful day trip on the water” with a chance to unwind away from crowds.

While some travelers might find the island’s main appeal to be its tranquility, others may wish for more activities or better facilities. Still, it’s a nice break from the boat, giving you time to soak up the sun and soak in the views over the Gulf.

What’s the Food Situation?

The included Thai set lunch is a thoughtful touch, offering local flavors with soft drinks and fresh fruit. Though the menu isn’t specified, it’s enough to keep you fueled for the day’s adventures. Several reviews mention that the pickup process and organization run smoothly, which adds to the overall convenience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is well-suited for travelers who enjoy easy island-hopping, scenic boat rides, and beach lounging. It suits those seeking a relaxed, all-in-one experience without the need for intense snorkeling or diving. It’s a good choice for families, couples, or solo travelers who value comfort, simplicity, and a dash of authentic Thai island charm.

However, if snorkeling is your main goal, you might find the reef stops underwhelming, especially if you’re expecting vibrant coral and diverse marine life. The tour also requires a minimum of 10 participants to run, which reflects its group-oriented nature.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

• Book early: Since most people book about 49 days in advance, securing your spot early is wise, especially during peak season.
• Bring a waterproof camera: The boat offers stunning views, and even if the snorkeling is just okay, the scenery is worth capturing.
• Arrive on time: The tour starts promptly at 10:00am, so being punctual helps you avoid missing out on any part.
• Dress comfortably: Lightweight clothes, sun protection, and a hat are essential, especially during the boat ride.
• Snorkeling gear: The equipment provided is generally adequate, but bringing your own mask or fins (if you have preferences) can enhance comfort.
• Weather check: Since trips are weather-dependent, keep an eye on the forecast to avoid disappointment.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

In terms of value, the all-inclusive price plus the ease of transfers and organized meals make this a practical choice for casual explorers who want a taste of Koh Samui’s islands without breaking the bank. The relaxed schedule and scenic boat ride are definite pluses, especially if you’re looking to avoid long, strenuous excursions.

That said, the snorkeling component may not satisfy those seeking vibrant reefs or a dedicated underwater experience. The limited snorkeling stops and variable reef conditions mean it’s more about the overall journey and island views than underwater discovery.

If your priority is to see some islands, relax on quiet beaches, and enjoy a hassle-free day on the water, this tour fits the bill. However, for more intense snorkelers or marine enthusiasts, it might be worth exploring other options or specialized diving trips.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 10:00am, with pickup available from multiple locations in Koh Samui.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, transfers are provided from Lamai, Chaweng, Bophut, Maenam, and other key areas.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 6 hours, allowing plenty of time for relaxations and sightseeing.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers transfers, boat trip, snorkeling gear, lunch, soft drinks, fresh fruit, and accident insurance.

Are there any additional charges?
Yes, there’s a 50THB admission fee per person and optional extra transfer charges of 700 Baht if you’re traveling from specific locations like Nathon or Lipanoi.

Is snorkeling good on this trip?
Snorkeling is available at Koh Tan, but reviews indicate that it may be brief and the reefs not particularly vibrant. It’s more of a scenic stop than a snorkeler’s paradise.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 4-11 can participate, but pregnant women or those with certain health conditions are advised to avoid it.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a waterproof camera, and any personal snorkeling gear if preferred.

Is this activity weather-dependent?
Absolutely. Poor weather can lead to cancellations, with options for rescheduling or full refunds.

Final Thoughts

This Koh Samui speedboat snorkeling tour offers a straightforward, relaxing way to see some of the island’s lesser-known spots. Its strength lies in the scenic boat ride, quiet beaches, and the convenience of all-inclusive planning. While it may not satisfy avid snorkelers craving vibrant reefs, it’s perfect for travelers who prioritize scenic views, easy island hopping, and a laid-back day on the water.

For those wanting a simple, budget-friendly outing that combines island scenery with memorable beach moments, this trip provides good value. Just keep expectations realistic about the snorkeling, and you’ll find plenty to enjoy along the way.

If you love discovering hidden corners of Koh Samui without complicated logistics, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s a gentle, scenic escape—ideal for a relaxed day of island-hopping and sunbathing.