Phuket/Khao Lak: Similan Islands Speedboat Tour with Lunch

Exploring the Similan Islands: An Honest Look at the Speedboat Tour from Phuket and Khao Lak

Taking a day to visit the Similan Islands is a dream for many travelers seeking crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and peaceful beaches. This speedboat tour promises an action-packed 10-hour journey filled with snorkeling, sightseeing, and delicious Thai food. We’ve reviewed the experience based on many traveler insights, so you can get a balanced view of what to expect.

What we love about this tour is its stunning scenery—from viewpoints with Sailboat Rock to pristine beaches—easy access to snorkeling spots teeming with sea life, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. The delicious Thai buffet lunch by Honeymoon Bay is another highlight, offering a satisfying break amid the adventure. However, one thing to consider is the potential for crowding, especially on the boat, which can affect comfort and the overall experience.

This tour is ideal for those who love marine environments, want a full-day adventure without the hassle of planning every detail, and enjoy a mix of nature, snorkeling, and cultural touches like Thai cuisine. If you’re seeking a well-organized trip with plenty of photo opportunities and time to relax, this is a solid pick.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: From Sailboat Rock to Princess Bay, the scenery is breathtaking.
• Rich Marine Life: Snorkeling spots offer chances to see turtles, clownfish, and coral reefs.
• Well-Structured Day: The itinerary balances sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxing on beaches.
• Authentic Thai Lunch: A buffet by Honeymoon Bay provides a hearty, home-cooked meal.
• Group Size & Comfort: Some reviews mention overcrowded boats, so consider this if comfort matters greatly.
• Guidance & Safety: Guides are knowledgeable, making the experience easier and safer.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Similan Islands Speedboat Tour

Starting Point & Journey to the Islands

The tour begins with hotel pickup from four main locations: Thalang District, Khao Lak, Chalong, and Patong. After a roughly 95-minute van ride, guests board a speedboat at Thap Lamu Pier, marking the start of the adventure. Expect this part of the trip to be scenic, as you cruise over the waters of the Gulf of Thailand toward your first stop.

Some reviews highlight the early part of the day as smooth, with punctual pickups and a comfortable transfer. The boat ride itself lasts about 1.5 hours, offering views of the open sea and a chance to relax before the snorkeling begins.

First Stop: Similan Island & Sailboat Rock

The initial sightseeing includes a photo stop at Sailboat Rock, an iconic formation that looks like a sailing vessel from afar. Visitors report that the views here are “breathtaking,” making it a perfect photo opportunity. The guide’s commentary helps put the scenery into context, and some mention that the group size can be quite large, affecting the intimacy of the experience.

Snorkeling at Bangu Island (Island No. 9)

This is often the highlight for many. The coral bay at Bangu Island is packed with colorful marine life, with reviews praising the clarity of the water and the variety of fish seen. One guest remarked, “It’s the best place to see a lot of fish,” while others appreciated how easy it was to snorkel in the calm, shallow waters.

However, some reviews, like one from France, note that crowds can detract from the experience: “Les paysages sont magnifiques mais beaucoup trop de monde pour apprécier la faune marine” (The landscapes are beautiful but too many people to appreciate the marine life). So, if avoiding crowds is your priority, this is something to consider.

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Midday Break & Thai Lunch at Honeymoon Bay

Around noon, the group stops for a buffet lunch right on Honeymoon Bay. The meal is described as “home-cooked” and satisfying, with fresh fruit and traditional Thai dishes. Guests often remark that the food is a good value for the price, offering a hearty break from the water activities.

Some reviewers mention that the lunch is one of the best parts of the trip, providing time to relax and enjoy the scenery without the rush. It’s a good chance to chat with fellow travelers and soak in the stunning surroundings.

Second Snorkeling Spot: Payu Island (Island No. 7)

Post-lunch, you’ll head to Payu Island, another popular snorkeling location where turtles and clownfish, like Nemo, are often spotted. The water here is equally clear, and marine life is abundant, making this stop worthwhile for underwater enthusiasts.

Exploring Princess Bay & Honeymoon Bay

The tour continues with visits to Honeymoon Bay and Princess Bay, where you can walk along natural paths, relax on white sands, or swim in the calm waters. Reviews often mention these beaches as “beautiful,” with soft sands and tranquil settings that are perfect for unwinding.

Guests are encouraged to bring their own snorkel gear, as the coral and fish are best experienced in the water. The scenery at Princess Bay is especially praised for its dramatic cliffs and pristine environment.

Final Snorkel & Return Trip

The last snorkeling session takes place at Sailboat Rock or nearby islands, giving travelers a final chance to swim and capture photos before heading back to the pier. The boat ride back is usually about 1.5 hours, with many guests feeling tired but satisfied after a full day of adventure.

Practicalities and Tips

• Transport & Duration: The entire day is around 10 hours, including hotel transfers, boat rides, and free time at each stop. The early start requires punctuality, so be ready at your hotel lobby 10 minutes before pickup.
• Group Size & Comfort: Some reviews point out that the boat can be crowded, with up to 72 people reported in certain trips. This can impact comfort, especially with limited space for bags or movement.
• Marine Conservation Advice: Visitors are asked to bring biodegradable sunscreen and avoid touching marine life or plants, which is important for preserving this fragile environment.
• Park Fees & Extra Costs: Expect to pay 500 THB per adult and 300 THB per child for the national park entry, payable locally.
• What to Bring: Pack a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. Consider bringing a change of clothes after the water activities.

Authentic Experiences & Real Traveler Insights

From reviews, it’s clear that the guides are generally knowledgeable and helpful, making the day smoother. Daria from Norway mentions that “the staff were incredibly kind and helpful,” which can make all the difference on a long day. However, not everyone found the trip perfect. One German traveler found the boat overcrowded and felt the limited time at each stop “didn’t allow much enjoyment,” emphasizing the importance of choosing a less crowded trip if comfort is paramount.

Another point that surfaced is the quality of snorkeling time. Reviewers felt that the long travel times between sites sometimes cut into the actual underwater experience. If you’re aiming for more snorkeling and less transit, you might want to compare with other options, but for the price, this tour offers a good mix of sightseeing and marine encounters.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to see the famed Similan Islands in one day without the hassle of planning logistics. It’s ideal for those who enjoy snorkeling, stunning scenery, and a full schedule.

However, if you prioritize comfort or avoiding crowds, you might want to explore smaller or private tours. The tour is also not suitable for pregnant women, mobility-impaired individuals, or anyone with heart issues, as it involves boat rides and physical activity.

The Sum Up

This speedboat tour to the Similan Islands combines spectacular scenery, marine life, and authentic Thai hospitality at a reasonable price. With knowledgeable guides and a well-organized itinerary, it offers a comprehensive day of adventure.

While the potential for crowded boats and limited time at each stop are factors to consider, many travelers find that the beauty of the islands and the diversity of activities outweigh these drawbacks. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to experience Thailand’s marine jewel in a single day, especially if you’re looking for good value and memorable vistas.

Ultimately, this tour is a great pick for active explorers who want to maximize their time in the Similans, appreciate guidance and organization, and don’t mind sharing the boat with others. With a bit of planning, it could be a highlight of your Thai adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from selected locations in Phuket and Khao Lak, with specific times provided after booking.

How long is the entire trip?
The full experience lasts around 10 hours, including transfers, boat rides, and free time for snorkeling and relaxing.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen (biodegradable preferred), and comfortable clothes that can get wet.

Are there any restrictions on who can join?
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, heart problems, or high blood pressure.

What is the cost of the national park fee?
The fee is 500 THB per adult and 300 THB per child, payable locally at the park entrance.

Can I snorkel at each stop?
Yes, snorkeling is a key part of the tour at several stops, including Bangu Island, Payu Island, and Sailboat Rock.

What if the weather is bad?
The itinerary is subject to change due to weather and sea conditions, which could affect the stops or overall schedule.

This full-day tour offers a practical, memorable way to experience the stunning Similan Islands, balancing adventure, relaxation, and cultural touchpoints for an authentic Thai ocean escape.

You can check availability for your dates here: