Koh Tan and Pig Island Half-Day Tour by Speed Catamaran

Contents show

Exploring the Koh Tan and Pig Island Half-Day Tour by Speed Catamaran

If you’re looking for a quick escape from the hustle of Koh Samui, the Koh Tan and Pig Island half-day tour offers a lively mix of snorkeling, playful pigs, and stunning scenery—all aboard a speedy catamaran. While not without its quirks, this experience is a popular choice for those craving a relaxed yet active outing.

What makes this trip stand out? We love the chance to swim with friendly pigs on Pig Island, the vibrant marine life while snorkeling at Koh Tan, and the smooth ride on the swift catamaran. Plus, the inclusion of snacks, drinks, and water activities adds real value.

However, potential travelers should consider that some reviews mention less-than-ideal facilities on Pig Island and snorkeling conditions that can vary with the weather. This tour suits families, couples, or solo explorers eager for a mix of fun, nature, and casual adventure in a half-day format.

Key Points

Fast & Fun: A 4-hour trip that balances excitement with relaxation.
Varied Activities: Snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and even sliding into the water.
Inclusive Experience: Hotel transfers, snacks, water, and snorkeling gear included.
Authentic Encounters: Meet the famous friendly pigs and explore vibrant coral reefs.
Flexible Timing: Available in both morning and evening slots, perfect for different schedules.
Mixed Reviews: Some guests loved the guides and scenery, while others pointed out cleanliness issues on Pig Island.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Koh Samui

An Honest Look at the Koh Tan and Pig Island Speed Catamaran Tour

This tour from Koh Samui is designed to give you a taste of island life, marine adventure, and playful animal encounters—all comfortably packed into just four hours. At $70.59 per person, it’s priced to appeal to those seeking a quick yet fulfilling experience, especially with round-trip transfers included.

The Itinerary — What to Expect

Stop 1: Pig Island (Koh Madsum)

Your adventure begins with a ride to Pig Island, a highlight for many travelers. The boat pulls up close to the island’s sparkling waters, giving you a chance to swim and meet the island’s famously friendly pigs. One reviewer, Cornelia, describes the pigs as “so cute,” and emphasizes that feeding the pigs is a unique highlight.

However, not all reviews are glowing. Some guests found the conditions on the island less appealing, with one commenting on “poo and wee everywhere,” and poor sanitation affecting the experience. If cleanliness is a concern, it’s worth noting that Pig Island isn’t a luxury destination—more of a rustic animal encounter.

Stop 2: Koh Tan

Next, the boat heads to Koh Tan, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs. Here, you’ll get the chance to snorkel among schools of colorful fish and intricate coral formations. The included snorkeling equipment makes it easy to explore without extra hassle.

A few travelers, like Steven, appreciated the professional crew and the opportunity to relax on the boat after snorkeling or playing in the water. The onboard water slide adds a fun element for kids and kids-at-heart. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also available, giving you options to stay active or simply float and take in the views.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

Hotel pickup and drop-off (from Koh Samui)
Light breakfast and meal on board
Seasonal fruits, soft drinks, and water
Water slide, kayaking, paddleboarding
Snorkeling gear
Island entrance fee and insurance
Friendly guides speaking English and Thai

Not Included:

Personal expenses and tips
Additional transfers if you change hotels (200 THB per person)
Alcohol (though some reviews mention the absence of available alcohol on board, which might be a disappointment for some)

Transportation & Group Size

The trip uses round-trip transfers, meaning you’ll be picked up from your Koh Samui hotel, easing the logistics. The group size can be up to 45 travelers, making it a lively but manageable experience. One guest mentioned that the speed catamaran offers a smooth, fast ride, making the journey more enjoyable and less time-consuming.

Wind in your hair appeals? Here are more sailing options we've looked at in Koh Samui

The Experience: Pros and Cons

The Highlights

Friendly Guides & Crew: Multiple reviews praise the crew’s friendliness, especially Steven, who notes that the team was “cool and fun,” making the trip more enjoyable. Having guides who speak both English and Thai helps ensure clear communication and safety.

Scenic Views & Marine Life: The snorkeling stop at Koh Tan is often described as vibrant and colorful. You’ll see coral reefs teeming with marine creatures, making it worth bringing your waterproof camera. The boat ride itself offers scenic vistas of Koh Samui’s coastline.

Animal Encounters: The chance to meet the pigs on Pig Island is unique. As Mariangela notes, “everything was perfect,” including the interaction with the pigs, which is a memorable part of the tour.

Value for Money: For $70.59, the tour delivers several activities—snorkeling, water sports, and island visits—plus food and transfers. Many reviewers consider it good value, particularly for families or groups.

The Drawbacks

Cleanliness & Facilities: At least one reviewer expressed disappointment with the state of Pig Island’s facilities, mentioning “no toilet paper or hand-wash” and unsanitary conditions. This can affect the overall comfort, especially for younger children or those with sensitivities.

Snorkeling Conditions: Visibility can vary depending on weather conditions. Some guests found snorkel waters less clear and currents stronger than expected, which can impact the experience. It’s a risk with open water adventures, but worth considering if you’re a cautious swimmer.

Limited Time & Relaxation: While the tour is quick and packed with activities, some travelers found it a bit rushed or boring, as Tammy suggests. If you’re seeking a laid-back, full-day experience, this might not be enough.

Who is This Tour Best Suited For?

This trip is ideal for families with children, especially since kids can enjoy the water slide and meet the pigs. It’s also great for couples looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation in a compact timeframe. Solo travelers can meet like-minded explorers and enjoy the lively boat atmosphere.

However, if you prioritize pristine facilities or highly structured snorkeling, you might want to explore other options. The tour’s flexibility for different schedules (morning or evening) helps accommodate various plans, especially if you want a sunset view.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Koh Tan and Pig Island tour offers a lively, fun-packed half-day escape from Koh Samui with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and snapping photos of friendly pigs. The value lies in its inclusions—round-trip transfers, food, water sports gear, and the chance to enjoy some of Thailand’s characteristic island vibes—all for a reasonable price.

If you’re after a light, action-filled trip that combines animal encounters with marine activities, this tour will serve you well. The knowledgeable guides and the ability to customize your experience with options like kayaking or just relaxing on the boat add to its appeal.

On the flip side, be prepared for some rustic conditions at Pig Island and variable snorkeling visibility. It’s not a luxury experience, but it’s authentic, lively, and offers plenty of photo-worthy moments.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a quick, enjoyable taste of Koh Samui’s coastal charm, especially if you love animals and water adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
Approximately 4 hours, including transfers, activities, and island visits.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from Koh Samui are offered.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children’s tickets are available for those aged 4 to 10 years. However, guests aged 75 or older are advised not to join.

What activities are included?
Snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and sliding into the water are all part of the experience.

Is food provided?
A light meal or snack, along with seasonal fruits, drinks, and water, is included on board.

Are alcohol or drinks available for purchase?
The tour includes soft drinks, but alcohol is not mentioned as available, which some guests found disappointing.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, sun protection, waterproof camera, and a towel are recommended.

Is the snorkeling good?
It depends on weather conditions; some guests found visibility less than ideal, but many enjoyed the marine life.

Can I customize the tour timing?
Yes, you can choose between a morning or evening departure to suit your schedule.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 45 travelers, making it a lively but manageable group.

The Sum Up

The Koh Tan and Pig Island half-day tour by speed catamaran offers a lively, engaging way to experience some of Koh Samui’s most charming spots. It’s perfect for those who enjoy animal interactions, water sports, and scenic boat rides without a full-day commitment.

While it might not be the most polished experience, the combination of friendly guides, vibrant marine life, and the novelty of meeting pigs makes it a memorable outing. It’s a great choice for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate value and a casual, fun vibe.

For travelers seeking a quick, activity-packed trip with plenty of opportunities to relax and play, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just keep your expectations in check about cleanliness and snorkeling conditions, and you’ll find a rewarding day on the water.

In short: This adventure offers a balanced mix of fun, scenery, and animal encounters, making it a worthwhile pick for those wanting a lively half-day in Koh Samui.