Phuket/Khao Lak: Similan Royal Day Trip by Speed Catamaran

Planning a day trip to the Similan Islands? This Similan Royal Day Trip by speed catamaran offers a blend of comfortable cruising, vibrant snorkeling, and stunning scenery, making it a compelling choice for those craving a quick escape into Thailand’s marine wonderland. While this tour is generally well-reviewed for its breathtaking views and knowledgeable guides, some travelers have noted issues with the boat’s reliability and the length of time spent on certain activities.

What we especially like about this experience is the chance to cruise on a luxurious high-speed catamaran, access multiple islands, and enjoy a delicious beachside lunch. It’s an excellent option for travelers who want a well-organized, scenic day with plenty of underwater adventure. However, it’s worth considering the potential for technical issues or longer-than-expected days, as some reviews mention. This trip is best suited for those who appreciate comfort, marine scenery, and a carefully curated itinerary.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation: Speed catamaran cruise with spacious seating and sundeck.
• Stunning scenery: Panoramic views, white sandy beaches, and iconic rock formations.
• Vibrant snorkeling: Multiple snorkeling stops with chances to see marine life like reef sharks and colorful fish.
• Well-organized itinerary: Visits to key islands, scenic viewpoints, and a beachside lunch.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides offer briefings and insights.
• Potential drawbacks: Possible boat issues and longer-than-expected days, so be prepared.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Scenic Journey on a Speed Catamaran

One of the biggest draws of this trip is the comfort of the high-speed catamaran. Designed with traveler comfort in mind, it features convenient seating and a spacious sundeck. The ride offers a smooth, scenic passage across the Andaman Sea, giving you ample opportunity to relax and take in the scenery. From the moment you’re picked up from your hotel in Khao Lak or Phuket, the trip begins with a friendly and efficient transfer, setting a relaxed tone for the day.

The boat is designed to get you to the islands quickly and comfortably, so you can maximize your time exploring. A common theme from reviews is that the boat ride is a highlight, with many mentioning how the speed allows for a full day of exploration without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary in Detail

Koh Miang (Island No. 4): A Picturesque Sanctuary

The first stop is Koh Miang, renowned for its pristine white sands and vibrant marine life. We loved the way this island offers a quick snapshot of the majestic scenery—perfect for photos and a stretch of the legs. Reviewers noted it as a beautiful, peaceful spot to take a break, walk around, or simply enjoy the sea breeze. It’s a great start, setting a relaxing tone for the day.

Snorkeling at Similan Island (Island No. 8)

Next, the tour takes you to the heart of the underwater world. Snorkeling here is a highlight, with crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. You might see colorful fish, coral formations, and even small reef sharks, according to some reviews. One traveler described the experience as “a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of marine life,” emphasizing the richness of the reef.

The lunch on Island No. 8 is served right on the beach, giving you the chance to relax and soak in the surroundings. The meal is described as delicious and plentiful, with many appreciating the chance to eat freshly prepared food while overlooking the iconic Sail Rock.

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Sail Rock Viewpoint and Scenery

Post-lunch, you’ll visit the Sail Rock Viewpoint, which provides panoramic vistas of the archipelago. Walking up to the viewpoint offers a breathtaking perspective of the surrounding islands and the vastness of the sea. Several reviewers mentioned this as a highlight, praising the scenic views and the opportunity to capture stunning photos.

Snorkeling at Ba Ngu Island (Island No. 9)

The final snorkeling stop is Ba Ngu Island, known for its dense coral reefs and vibrant marine life. This spot is especially popular among snorkeling enthusiasts, with reports of lots of fish and colorful coral formations. Some travelers found this the best snorkeling of the day, making it a fitting finale.

The Return Journey and Evening

After a full day of exploring, relaxing, and snorkeling, the trip winds down with a return cruise back to the Wow Andaman pier. On the way back, you’ll enjoy local snacks and desserts, a small but delightful touch to end the day.

Once back on land, a comfortable transfer will take you back to your hotel. Many reviews mention that the longer-than-expected day (some noting 12 hours instead of 8.5) can be a bit tiring, especially for families with children or those not accustomed to long days.

Value and Experience Insights

This tour costs a fair amount, but considering the inclusive nature—transport, lunch, snorkeling gear, and guided commentary—it offers good value for travelers eager to see the islands without the hassle of organizing their own trip. The expert guides are often praised for their knowledge, making the experience educational and engaging.

However, some reviews highlight the risk of boat issues—like the one reviewer mentioning technical problems shortly after departure—which can impact the overall experience. It’s worth noting that the tour’s reliability depends on weather and boat conditions, so flexibility might be good to have.

The snorkeling spots are regarded as some of the best in the area, with captivating marine life and coral reefs. For those who love underwater photography, these locations are a treasure trove. The lunch on the beach adds a nice touch of relaxation and authenticity, with many describing it as a delicious local meal.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a blend of scenic cruising and underwater exploration. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a well-organized day, moderate activity, and spectacular views without the hassle of self-planning. The tour’s small group size and expert guides** make it suitable for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.

However, travelers with mobility issues or young children should be aware of the long day and potential boat issues. It’s also best suited for those comfortable with snorkeling and open-water activities, as well as in good health to handle the day’s pace.

FAQs

How long is the trip in total?
The tour lasts approximately 8.5 hours, including pickup, travel, activities, and return. Some travelers have experienced longer days, especially if delays occur.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, so you can explore the underwater world at multiple stops.

Are there any safety precautions?
Wearing a life jacket is strongly recommended throughout the boat ride and snorkeling. The boat is designed for comfort and safety, but always follow your guide’s instructions.

What should I bring?
Pack essentials like swimwear, sunscreen (biodegradable recommended), a waterproof bag, camera, sunglasses, hat, cash, and flip-flops.

Is food included?
Yes, a picnic lunch is served on Island No. 8, and local snacks and desserts are provided upon return.

Can I switch hotels in Khao Lak or Phuket?
Yes, but with an extra fee of 300 THB per person.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
Not recommended for children under 2, pregnant women, or those with certain health issues due to the long day and water activities.

Final Thoughts

The Similan Royal Day Trip by Speed Catamaran offers a rewarding glimpse into some of Thailand’s most stunning islands, combining comfort, scenic beauty, and marine adventure. The tour’s highlights—such as dynamic snorkeling spots, panoramic viewpoints, and an authentic beachside meal—make it a memorable experience for nature lovers and underwater enthusiasts alike.

While some reviews mention technical issues and longer-than-anticipated days, many travelers find the overall experience well worth the expense, especially given the quality of the guides and the extraordinary scenery. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want a comprehensive, guided day exploring the natural beauty of the Similan Islands without the stress of DIY planning.

If you value comfort, scenic vistas, and marine wildlife, this tour ticks all those boxes. Just remember to be prepared for a full day and keep flexible on timings, and you’ll likely come away with plenty of stories and stunning photos.

You can check availability for your dates here: