Pig Island ,Snorkeling, Private Long Tail Boat (Local Thai Experience)

If you’re looking for a more intimate, authentic way to experience the waters and islands around Koh Samui, this private half-day tour might be just what you need. It’s designed for travelers who prefer avoiding the crowds and enjoy personalized service—plus, a chance to interact with rescued pigs on a white-sand beach. While it’s not perfect for everyone, especially those seeking a luxury experience or expecting pristine coral reefs, it offers genuine Thai charm and a taste of local life that many larger tours can’t match.

Three things that stand out about this tour are its private long-tail boat, which adds a real traditional Thai vibe; the opportunity to interact with pigs on Koh Madsum, which is both adorable and unexpected; and flexible timing that lets you tailor your visit. That said, one consideration is the unpredictability of sea conditions—some reviews mention choppy rides or less-than-ideal snorkeling visibility, especially at the end of the rainy season. This tour suits those who value small-group experiences, cultural authenticity, and the chance to explore at their own pace.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with a private long-tail boat avoiding busy group tours
• Interaction with rescued pigs on a pristine beach—ideal for animal lovers
• Snorkeling gear and water provided, with opportunities to see marine life (though conditions vary)
• Comfortable hotel pickup and drop-off included in the price, streamlining the day
• A focus on local tradition through the use of a traditional Thai long-tail boat
• Some challenges with sea conditions and coral reefs, depending on weather and season

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Start at Thong Krut Pier

Your day begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel, making the start smooth and stress-free. The meeting point is Thong Krut Pier, a scenic spot on Koh Samui’s southern coast lined with local Thai eateries and cafes. From there, you’ll hop onto your private long-tail boat, which already sets the tone for an authentic experience. As one reviewer noted, “The private longboat was amazing,” and it’s true—this vessel keeps the trip intimate, relaxed, and away from the mass tourist boats.

Koh Tan: The Coral and Reef Spot

The first stop is Koh Tan, known as Coral Island to some but more accurately a quiet, less commercialized spot accessible only by boat. Here, you’ll have around an hour to snorkel with provided gear. The clarity of water and marine life can vary—some reviews mention good fish sightings and coral, while others note that the reefs might look a bit dull due to seasonal changes or tourist pressure. One reviewer said, “Snorkeling was unimpressive, but the island itself was nice to walk around.”

Expect to see fish and coral, though the underwater visibility might be affected by the end of the rainy season or high visitor numbers, which can cause the reefs to look less vibrant. The focus here is more on relaxing, enjoying the water, and soaking in the views than an intense underwater spectacle.

Koh Madsum: Pigs, Beaches, and Relaxation

The highlight for many is Koh Madsum, or Pig Island, a tiny sanctuary famous for its rescued pigs that roam freely on the white sands. You’ll spend around two hours here—plenty of time to swim, feed the pigs, or simply lounge on the beach. As a reviewer enthusiastically shared, “It’s so much fun to walk around and feed the pigs—they’re surprisingly friendly.”

While the beach might look picture-perfect, some travelers mention the presence of rubbish, which is a reminder to bring your own waste away with you. Still, the chance to interact with the pigs—often described as “the luckiest pigs in the world”—brings a genuine, heartwarming touch to the day.

Return Journey & Optional Stops

After a relaxing time at Pig Island, you’ll head back to the pier, concluding the boat ride. The entire trip lasts around four hours of boat time, with flexible return options. Some reviews mention the convenience of the pickup and drop-off service, making the experience seamless. Note that the tour involves some getting in and out of the boat using a ladder—so a bit of mobility is recommended, and you should be prepared for getting wet.

What’s Included and What’s Not

You’ll be provided with snorkeling gear, bottled water, and an accident insurance policy. The use of a traditional Thai long-tail boat is included for about four hours, offering a real taste of local transportation. An ice box is available, so don’t forget to bring your own snacks or drinks if you want to stay energized.

On the flip side, lunch is not included, and there’s a small admission fee of THB50 for Pig Island. The tour doesn’t include transfers from your hotel unless you opt for the package that includes pickup; otherwise, you’ll need to meet at Thong Krut Pier.

The Pros and Cons Based on Real Experiences

Positives:
Many travelers praise the friendly staff and smooth organization. The early reviews highlight the value for money, especially since it’s a private tour, which often costs less than similar large-group tours. The private long-tail boat is a real game-changer, offering comfort and privacy, along with a genuine Thai experience.

Challenges:
Some guests note that sea conditions can be rough, leading to getting quite wet or choppy rides—particularly if traveling at the end of the rainy season. The snorkeling reefs, while enjoyable, might not be as colorful as expected. Plus, the guide’s limited English has been mentioned; while the boat driver is friendly, they are there mainly for transportation, not for guiding.

Notable Insight:
One reviewer observed that while Pig Island is adorable, the amount of rubbish was disappointing. This underscores the importance of bringing waste bags if you want to keep the environment clean. Also, the ladder on the boat can be tricky for less mobile travelers.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for couples or small groups seeking a personalized, laid-back adventure. Animal lovers will adore the interaction with pigs, while those interested in local Thai traditions will appreciate the use of a traditional long-tail boat. It’s ideal if you want a flexible, less touristy day with time to relax and enjoy beautiful scenery.

However, if you’re after spectacular coral reefs or luxury amenities, you might find this tour a bit basic. Also, travelers who are sensitive to rough water or have mobility issues should consider the potential challenges with boat entry and sea conditions.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a genuinely local feel combined with the chance to snorkel and feed rescued pigs—something you won’t find in larger, more commercialized excursions. It balances authenticity, intimacy, and value, perfect for travelers eager to experience Koh Samui’s waters off the beaten path.

While it’s not suited for those seeking pristine reefs or a luxury cruise, it excels at providing a relaxed, friendly environment with plenty of opportunities for memorable moments. The overall positive reviews about guides, views, and the enjoyable ride highlight that, with a bit of patience, this could be a highlight of your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in this tour?
Pickup is available if you book the package that includes the transfer; otherwise, you’ll need to meet at Thong Krut Pier.

What should I bring for snorkeling and the day?
Bring reef shoes (recommended on Pig Island), waterproof sunscreen, a towel, and some snacks or drinks if desired. Since the boat can be wet and bumpy, pack light and waterproof gear.

How long does the tour last?
The whole trip lasts around six hours, with approximately four hours on the boat, including transfers, snorkeling, and visiting Pig Island.

Is the snorkeling worth it?
While the reefs might not be the most vibrant due to seasonal factors or tourism impact, many still enjoy swimming with marine life and exploring the waters.

Can less mobile travelers participate?
Getting in and out of the boat involves using a ladder and may be challenging for some. It’s best suited for those with good mobility.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, there’s a small admission fee of THB50 for Pig Island. Lunch is not included but can be purchased at the island or nearby spots.

To sum it up, this private long-tail boat trip around Koh Samui is a charming mix of local tradition, wildlife encounters, and relaxed exploration. It’s best suited for travelers craving an authentic, intimate experience and willing to accept the weather and sea conditions that can sometimes be unpredictable. If you’re after a memorable day that combines Thai culture, friendly animals, and scenic views, this tour offers solid value and genuine fun.