If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and soft sandy beaches, the Similan Islands are one of Thailand’s best kept secrets. This 10-hour day trip from Phuket promises not just a boat ride but a full-on adventure filled with snorkeling, scenic vistas, and relaxing beach time. While we’ve not personally been on this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of an experience that balances fun, comfort, and authentic exploration.

What we love most about this trip? First, the expert guides who make sure you’re safe and informed without overwhelming you. Second, the variety of stops, from coral reefs to iconic viewpoints—there’s always something to see. Third, the all-inclusive meals and drinks onboard, which save you the hassle of packing and keep you refreshed. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the length of transportation—around two hours each way—which might be tiring for some travelers. Still, if you’re eager to explore Thailand’s underwater treasure and enjoy a smooth, well-organized day, this tour could fit the bill perfectly.

This experience tends to suit adventurous travelers, families with older children, and anyone looking for a hassle-free way to explore the islands with knowledgeable guides. However, it’s less suitable for pregnant women, babies under 1 year, or those with certain health concerns like altitude sickness or high blood pressure.

Key Points

All-inclusive full-day tour with hotel pickup, meals, and snorkeling gear.
Multiple stops at key islands offering varied experiences, from scenic lookouts to vibrant reefs.
Expert guides ensure safety and provide insightful information.
Comfortable catamaran ride, more stable than speedboats, especially good for those prone to seasickness.
Incredible scenery and marine life, including coral reefs, tropical fish, and even turtles.
Flexible cancellation policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

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Convenience Starts from Phuket: Pickup and Transfer

The tour begins with a hotel pickup from Phuket or Khao Lak, ensuring that you don’t have to worry about transportation logistics. The journey to Thap Lamu Pier takes approximately 2 hours by van, which, based on reviews, is generally smooth and comfortable in spacious vehicles. One traveler from Germany mentioned their guide was friendly and the van spacious, making the long drive more bearable.

On the day of the tour, you’ll enjoy a light breakfast onboard while your guide introduces the itinerary and safety instructions. For added flexibility, there’s an option for a free one-way airport transfer, which is a thoughtful touch for travelers making a multi-stop trip.

The Catamaran: A Stable and Enjoyable Ride

Once at the pier, you’ll board a brand-new double-decker catamaran—a significant upgrade for those wary of rough seas. Reviews praise the stability and comfort compared to traditional speedboats, noting that even seasick travelers felt less queasy thanks to the smooth ride.

The 1.5-hour sail to the islands offers stunning perspectives of the Andaman Sea, with plenty of room to relax on deck, take photos, or just enjoy the breeze.

First Stop: Island 8 (Sailing Rock & Koh Similan)

Your first destination is Island 8, famous for its iconic Sailing Rock. Here, you’ll have the chance to relax on pristine white sands, soak up the sun, or climb to the viewpoint for sweeping vistas of the surrounding islands.

One reviewer highlights climbing the Sailing Rock as a fun challenge that offers panoramic views, making it more than just a beach stop. The scenery is picture-perfect, with turquoise waters and lush greenery framing the islands.

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Snorkeling at Island 9 and Island 7

Next, you’ll visit Island 9 (Ba Ngu Island) for your first snorkeling session. Expect vibrant coral reefs, a variety of tropical fish, and perhaps some lucky swimmers catching a glimpse of a turtle—this was mentioned as a highlight by one traveler who saw sea turtles on their trip.

The second snorkeling stop is at Island 7 (Pa Yu Island). Here, the waters are crystal-clear, with granite boulders adding a dramatic backdrop. Reviewers note that the reefs here are teeming with life, and the water visibility is excellent.

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Lunch on Miang Island (Island 4)

A well-organized buffet lunch is served on Miang Island, where travelers can stretch out on the soft sands or swim in the warm waters. The food is described as tasty, with vegetarian and halal options available—which is a huge plus for diverse groups.

Guests mention the two-hour leisure period here as a perfect chance to relax, take photos, or explore the surrounding waters. The reviews mention that the lunch was both plentiful and flavorful, adding value to the overall experience.

Second Snorkeling Adventure and Return Journey

After lunch, you’ll head to Island 7 again for your second snorkeling session, exploring among granite boulders and observing marine life in a different setting. Reviewers have praised the guides for their helpfulness during snorkeling, especially for less experienced swimmers.

The journey back to Phuket by catamaran takes approximately 1.5 hours. The boat ride is praised for its stability and comfort, with unlimited drinks and snacks making the travel time enjoyable.

Final Touch: Dinner and Return

Back at the pier, you’ll be treated to a buffet dinner in the lounge, where many mention the quality and variety of the meal. Afterward, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel, typically feeling both exhausted and exhilarated after a full day of adventure.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Expert Guides and Well-Organized Experience

One recurring theme in reviews is the knowledgeable guides—such as John, Dada, and a Russian interpreter—who made the trip informative and engaging. They paid attention to individual needs, explained marine life, and made sure everyone felt safe and comfortable during snorkeling.

Comfortable, Stable Boat

Compared to speedboats, the double-decker catamaran offers a more stable ride, which many reviewers appreciated, especially for those prone to seasickness. Free seasickness tablets are provided, showcasing the tour’s attention to guest comfort.

Variety of Islands and Activities

With stops at Sailing Rock, Ba Ngu Island, and Miang Island, you get a mix of scenic views, snorkeling, and relaxing beach time. This variety keeps the experience lively and engaging without feeling rushed.

Quality Meals and Refreshments

Three meals, along with snacks and unlimited drinks, add significant value. Many reviews comment on the tasty buffet lunch, with options for vegetarians and halal diners, catering well to different needs.

Flexibility and Convenience

The door-to-door pickup, optional airport transfer, and flexible cancellation policy (up to 24 hours in advance) make this tour accessible and adaptable for different travelers’ plans.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see Thailand’s underwater world without the hassle of managing logistics. It’s perfect for families with older children, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a well-organized day with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, relaxing, and sightseeing.

Those who prefer more stability and comfort during boat rides will especially appreciate the catamaran’s smooth sailing. If you’re keen on learning about marine life from knowledgeable guides, this tour offers plenty of insight without feeling overly formal.

However, it’s less suited for pregnant women, young babies, or those with health issues like high blood pressure or altitude sickness, as the itinerary involves long travel times and some physical activity.

The Sum Up

This Similan Islands snorkeling day trip by catamaran offers a balanced mix of comfort, adventure, and natural beauty. The well-organized itinerary, combined with expert guides and high-quality amenities, makes it a great choice for those wanting to explore Thailand’s marine treasures without the fuss.

Travelers looking for a dependable, enjoyable way to experience pristine beaches, vibrant reefs, and scenic overlooks will find this tour delivers on those promises. It’s especially suited for those who value comfort and guidance, making the often tricky logistics of island hopping surprisingly straightforward.

For anyone seeking a full day of sun, sea, and snorkeling, this experience presents excellent value—particularly when considering the included meals, drinks, and hotel transfers.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes pickup from any address within the specified area in Phuket or Khao Lak.

How long does the transfer take? The van ride to the pier is approximately two hours each way, depending on your pickup location and traffic conditions.

What should I bring? Travelers are advised to bring a hat, change of clothes, and beach shoes (since shoes are not allowed in the national park).

Is food included? Yes, there are three meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—as well as snacks and unlimited drinks onboard.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are children allowed? The tour is suitable for older children, but not recommended for babies under 1 year or those over 70 years.

What kind of boat is used? A brand-new double-decker catamaran, which provides a more stable ride than traditional speedboats.

Is snorkeling equipment provided? Yes, snorkeling gear is included, and guides assist beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.

Are there any restrictions? Pets are not allowed, and drones are strictly prohibited within the national park.

What makes this tour special? The combination of scenic island stops, marine life, knowledgeable guides, and a stable boat makes it a standout experience for exploring the Similan Islands.

This full-day adventure from Phuket balances breathtaking scenery, marine encounters, and comfort, making it a top choice for anyone wanting to experience Thailand’s underwater world without sacrificing convenience or quality.