Private Half-Day Red Dragon Yacht for Snorkeling Koh Tan & Visit Pig Island

Introduction

Taking to the seas on a private yacht around Koh Samui offers a truly special way to see the island’s less explored coastlines. This particular half-day tour aboard the Red Dragon combines luxury, adventure, and authentic Thai island charm, making it an appealing choice for those wanting a personalized escape.

What we love most about this experience is its peaceful setting — away from busy tourist spots, you get plenty of space to relax. The boat itself is a beautiful teak junk, with a sun deck, hot tub, and lounge area that feel both luxurious and comfortable. Plus, with up to 15 guests, it offers a genuinely intimate environment.

However, one consideration is the price point — at just over $1,400 for a group, it’s more of an investment than a standard day trip. This makes it perfect for families, groups of friends, or couples looking for a special treat. If you value privacy, scenic views, and personalized service, this tour is an excellent fit.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience designed for up to 15 guests
• Luxury teak junk boat with sun deck, hot tub, and dining lounge
• Island hopping to Koh Taen, Koh Mudsum (Pig Island), and secret beaches
• Snorkeling in calm bays with professional guides
• Includes fresh fruit, cooked lunch, and hotel transfers
• Ideal for groups seeking comfort, privacy, and authentic island scenery

An In-Depth Look at the Red Dragon Yacht Experience

A Classic Boat with Modern Comforts

First impressions count, and the Red Dragon does not disappoint. Built of traditional teak wood, this 75-foot sailing junk has a timeless aesthetic that immediately transports you to a different era — but inside, it’s all about comfort. The spacious sun deck provides ample room for sunbathing, relaxing, or simply soaking up the views. Inside, the dining lounge feels cozy yet elegant, perfect for a leisurely meal or a chat with friends.

With a master cabin, sound system, and hot tub, the boat is designed for a laid-back day of enjoying the surroundings in style. From what reviewers say, the boat is noticeably larger than expected, giving everyone plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the voyage comfortably.

The Itinerary: A Well-Curated Island Tour

The tour’s strength lies in its carefully selected stops, each offering a different flavor of Koh Samui’s coastal beauty.

Secret Islands and Hidden Caves

The journey begins with a chance to see some of Samui’s hidden secrets—the Five Islands—where bird nests (or White Gold) are harvested, a tradition passed down through generations. It’s a fascinating glimpse into local life, often missed by conventional tours. The caves, beaches, and bamboo dwellings hanging off limestone cliffs are a visual feast, providing perfect photo opportunities and a sense of authentic island life.

Koh Taen: Snorkeling Paradise

Arriving at Koh Taen, you’ll find calm, clear waters ideal for snorkeling. The reef here is vibrant, teeming with tropical fish and colorful marine life, comparable to what you might see at Koh Tao but without the crowds. Reviewers mention visibility varies from 1 to 10 meters, but the marine life is plentiful regardless.

You might also enjoy relaxing on the floating lounge directly above the reef, or even take a dip in the onboard jacuzzi — a surprisingly luxurious touch for a boat tour. The fact that the snorkeling is guided ensures you’ll see the best spots safely, even if you’re not an experienced swimmer.

Koh Mudsum and Pig Island

Next up is Koh Mudsum, famously called Pig Island, where you can feed and play with friendly wild pigs. This stop is often highlighted as a highlight, especially for families or animal lovers. The pigs are used to visitors and are quite gentle, making for memorable interactions.

If weather permits, there’s an option to visit Koh Taen’s secret beach or try a guided sea kayak adventure through the mangrove forests — an activity that adds an extra layer of exploration.

Relaxing and Taking in the Views

As the boat cruises back along Koh Samui’s coast, you’ll be treated to spectacular scenery. The views of limestone cliffs, lush islands, and the sparkling sea are a major part of this experience. You can simply sit back, sip fresh fruit or drinks served on board, and take in the landscape — a peaceful, picture-perfect moment.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers an excellent value considering the level of personalization and luxury. Included are boat transfers, snorkeling equipment, life vests, a cooked lunch, and hotel pick-up and drop-off. The lunch, often freshly cooked and served onboard, adds a homely touch to the day.

Extras like admission to Pig Island (50 THB) or optional kayaking for 200 THB per person are reasonably priced, giving you flexibility to customize your adventure.

However, if your group exceeds 10 people, there’s an additional charge of 900 THB per adult and 600 THB for children. This is straightforward but something to keep in mind when planning.

What Reviewers Say

Based on reviews, guests consistently note how spacious and comfortable the boat is. One reviewer, Mike, mentioned, “The boat was bigger than we’d expected, which just meant more room,” and appreciated the relaxed environment for both adults and kids.

Many highlight the stunning coastal views — with one describing the scenery as “truly spectacular” — and appreciate the chance to visit less touristy snorkeling sites. The wild pigs at Pig Island seem to be a big hit, with one guest calling them “lovely” and enjoying feeding them.

While the tour is priced higher than some group excursions, the privacy, luxury, and personalized experience seem to justify the cost for most guests. The flexibility to relax, snorkel, and explore at your own pace is frequently praised.

Who is This Tour Perfect For?

This tour is ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends seeking a high-quality, private experience. It’s perfect for travelers craving comfort, scenic beauty, and a touch of luxury on their island day. If you enjoy snorkeling in calm waters, spotting wildlife like pigs, or just relaxing aboard a beautiful boat, this trip hits all those marks.

Likewise, it suits those who want a more personalized, less crowded alternative to typical island-hopping tours. Its flexible itinerary, inclusive food, and scenic stops make it a memorable half-day adventure.

The Sum Up

The Private Half-Day Red Dragon Yacht tour offers a luxurious, intimate way to explore Koh Samui’s coastline and nearby islands. Its well-chosen stops—snorkeling Koh Taen, visiting Pig Island, and soaking in breathtaking views—combine to create a memorable day suited to those valuing comfort and authenticity.

The boat’s size, amenities, and personalized approach make it stand out from larger group tours, offering a sense of exclusivity that many travelers seek. While the price might be on the higher side, the value lies in the relaxing environment, stunning scenery, and the chance to tailor your experience.

In summary, if you’re after a luxurious, quiet escape with plenty of opportunities to explore marine life and local culture, this tour is a crowd-free, highly rewarding choice. It’s perfect for those wanting to indulge in a special, scenic day on the water with loved ones.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, making it a perfect half-day escape from Koh Samui.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, round-trip hotel transfer is included, simplifying logistics and allowing you to relax from the moment you wake up.

How many people can join?
The boat can host up to 15 passengers for a private experience, ensuring plenty of space for everyone to relax comfortably.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including non-swimmers.

What is the snorkeling like?
Snorkeling takes place in calm bays with vibrant marine life. Visibility varies from 1 to 10 meters, but the reefs are generally lively and colorful.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, Pig Island admission is 50 THB per person, and optional kayaking is available for 200 THB per person. Larger groups incur extra charges.

What amenities are onboard?
The boat features a hot tub, sound system, and dining lounge. The spacious sun deck is ideal for sunbathing and taking in the views.

Can I customize the experience?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the crew, such as stop timings or activities, making it flexible to your needs.

This private yacht tour combines comfort, adventure, and authenticity — an excellent way to add a unique touch to your Koh Samui holiday.