Koh Samui: Pig Island & Koh Tan Snorkeling by Speed boat

Planning a trip around Koh Samui and wondering how to make the most of its nearby islands? This speedboat tour offers a fantastic way to explore the southern islands with a mix of playful animal encounters, snorkeling, and relaxing beach moments — all in just four hours.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the friendly guides who keep the trip lively, the beautiful scenery at each stop, and the delicious included lunch that feels like a real treat. That said, the snorkeling conditions can sometimes be murky, which might be frustrating if you’re hoping for crystal-clear underwater views.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded day of fun without spending the entire day on the water. If you’re after a family-friendly activity, a quick island escape, or a chance to spot pigs on the beach, this might just be your best pick.

Key Points

• Affordable and value-packed at just $46 per person for four hours of island fun.
• Includes a visit to Pig Island, which is both adorable and unique, with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Snorkeling in Koh Tan offers colorful marine life, although conditions can vary.
• Lunch on Koh Tan provides a tasty, relaxing break with scenic views.
• Private pier departure ensures a smooth start, avoiding crowded boat terminals.
• Guides like Joe and Cola receive praise for their friendliness and helpfulness, making the whole experience more enjoyable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why You’ll Love This Tour

This activity is an effortless way to see some of Koh Samui’s best nearby spots. If you’re someone who appreciates organized, well-run excursions with friendly guides, you’ll find this trip a joy. The combination of animal encounters, snorkeling, and scenic lunch hits the sweet spot for a half-day adventure.

The tour’s value is clear: it offers a lot for a reasonable price, including multiple island stops, snacks, bottled water, and a buffet-style lunch. Plus, departing from a private pier means a smoother, more comfortable start, which we always appreciate.

If you’re traveling with kids or just love a mix of cute animals and underwater life, this tour suits all ages (but note that pregnant women and those with mobility issues are advised against joining). It’s a flexible option that can fit into most Koh Samui itineraries, especially if you’re after a laid-back, fun-filled morning or afternoon.

In-Depth Review of the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Pickup

One of the first things we noticed was how seamless the pickup process was. The tour provider, Happy Samui, offers pickup from over 167 different locations across Koh Samui, including popular resorts like Four Seasons, The Ritz-Carlton, and W Koh Samui. They confirm pickup times via WhatsApp or email, which keeps things straightforward.

The transport itself is comfortable—air-conditioned minivans that pick you up promptly, usually within 40 to 50 minutes depending on your hotel’s location. This level of planning is a real plus, especially when dealing with busy resort areas or more remote accommodations.

The Private Pier & Speedboat Ride

Arriving at the private pier brings a touch of exclusivity. No long waits or crowded docks—just a smooth boarding process. The boat itself is described as safe, comfortable, and fast, which makes the journey between islands feel quick and exciting. Guests often comment on the professionalism of the crew, noting how helpful and friendly they are.

The boat ride is generally around 15 minutes, offering a chance to soak in views of the coastline and the ocean’s changing hues. Some reviews mention that weather conditions can affect snorkeling visibility, but most travelers find the ride itself enjoyable.

More Great Tours Nearby

Koh Madsum (Pig Island)

This is the star attraction for many. The pigs at Koh Madsum are friendly, and guests get quite close, even touching the piglets — but guides like Cola remind everyone to be careful and respectful, especially around mum pigs and piglets. Reviewers have noted that the pigs are well looked after, roaming freely on the soft sand beaches.

Guests are encouraged to bring pig food (costs around 50 baht), which the pigs love. You’ll find the pigs wandering along the beach and playing in the shallow waters. For many, the photos and videos taken here become treasured memories. The atmosphere on Pig Island is relaxed, with plenty of time to play, take photos, or just unwind by the sea.

Koh Tan & Snorkeling

Next, the boat heads to Koh Tan for snorkeling. The waters here are described as crystal-clear, with vibrant marine life including clownfish and various colorful fish. The reviews highlight that the snorkeling spot is a short swim from the boat, and most guests find the experience rewarding, despite occasional murkiness caused by weather conditions.

Guide “Joe” is frequently praised for his helpfulness, providing snorkel gear and life jackets, and making sure everyone is comfortable in the water. Some reviews mention swimming out quite far, but most appreciated the opportunity to see underwater life in a relaxed setting.

Lunch and Relaxation at Koh Tan

After snorkeling, everyone heads to Koh Tan for a well-deserved break. The included lunch is typically a buffet with options like rice, chicken, vegetables, and vegetarian dishes, catering well to different dietary needs. Guests often comment on the tasty and plentiful food, perfect for refueling after the water activity.

The setting is scenic, with views of the surrounding islands and a chance to lounge in deck chairs or take a walk along the beach. One reviewer suggests bringing cash for drinks, as there are stalls selling coffee and pig food if you want to extend your time here.

Return & Drop-off

The journey back to the pier is smooth, and the drop-offs are generally at locations close to your accommodation, making the overall experience hassle-free. The tour concludes after approximately 4 hours, but many guests feel they’ve experienced a full, satisfying day of island hopping, fun, and relaxation.

Practical Details and Tips

Price & Value: At $46 per person, this tour offers good value, considering the inclusions—transport, boat rides, snorkeling gear, lunch, and the pig encounter. Multiple reviewers mention the cost as being reasonable for a half-day adventure with so many varied activities.

Timing & Duration: The tour lasts around 4 hours, which is perfect for fitting into a busy day or combining with other activities. Check availability to find a starting time that suits your schedule.

What to Bring: Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, water shoes (especially for snorkeling), a towel, and cash for drinks or pig food. Comfortable clothes are a must, and waterproof gear or a dry bag can come in handy.

Group Size and Guides: The tour can be booked as a private experience, but most reviews describe a group of about 10-20 people, led by guides like Joe and Cola. Their friendly, helpful attitude is consistently praised and makes the day more enjoyable.

Accessibility & Suitability: This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant travelers or those with mobility issues, due to boat activity and walking on uneven beaches.

Authentic Insights from Guests

Many travelers highlight the guides’ personalities, especially Joe and Cola, for their humor and attentiveness. One reviewer notes that the guides even go out of their way to take photos and keep everyone comfortable, which adds a personal touch to the trip.

The food also receives consistently good reviews—some say it’s the best meal they’ve had on a tour, with a good variety and tasty flavors. The pigs’ playful nature and the relaxed vibe of Pig Island leave a lasting impression, making it a favorite for families and animal lovers alike.

A few guests mention that snorkeling can sometimes be weather-dependent, with murky water on some days. However, most still enjoyed the underwater experience, thanks to abundant fish and lively coral.

The Sum Up

This speedboat tour around Koh Samui’s southern islands offers an engaging mix of animal encounters, underwater adventures, and scenic rest stops—all at a reasonable price. It’s well-organized, with attentive guides who keep the energy high and ensure everyone has a good time.

It’s ideal for those looking for a half-day outdoor adventure that combines fun, relaxation, and great photo opportunities. Families, solo travelers, and couples will all find something to love here, thanks to the balance of lively stops and chill moments.

If you’re after an authentic, fun-filled outing with friendly guides and stunning views, this trip will meet and likely exceed your expectations.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts about 4 hours, including boat rides, island stops, and lunch.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Snorkel equipment is provided for the snorkeling stop at Koh Tan, but you may prefer to bring your own mask and fins for comfort.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, especially if your kids enjoy animals and the beach. However, very young children or those with mobility issues should consider the boat activity.

Can I join as a private group?
Absolutely, private groups are available, which can make the experience more tailored and intimate.

Is there vegetarian or special dietary options for lunch?
Yes, the buffet can be made vegetarian or accommodating to dietary needs if requested in advance.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable clothes, sun protection, and water shoes for snorkeling. A hat, towel, and sunscreen are also recommended.

What’s the best time of day to do the tour?
Check the availability, but morning sessions tend to be less crowded and often offer better weather conditions.

Are there any safety concerns?
The crew is experienced, and safety equipment such as life jackets is provided. Always listen to guides’ instructions, especially during snorkeling and boat activities.

In summary, this tour from Koh Samui combines playful animal encounters, scenic snorkeling, and a delicious island lunch at a price that offers excellent value. It’s a relaxed but lively way to see some of the best spots around Koh Samui, run by friendly guides who know how to keep things fun and safe. Perfect for a quick escape from the island’s busy beaches or a family adventure in the sun.

You can check availability for your dates here: