SIMILAN ISLAND BY SPEED BOAT FROM PHUKET

If you’re dreaming of clear waters, lively coral reefs, and soft white beaches, a trip to the Similan Islands might just be what you need. This popular day trip from Phuket promises a blend of snorkeling adventures, scenic vistas, and laid-back island stops. We haven’t personally taken this exact tour, but based on reviews, itineraries, and details, it offers a well-rounded experience with plenty of opportunities to enjoy Thailand’s marine beauty.

What makes this tour attractive? First, its focus on snorkeling at prime sites like Christmas Point and Koh Miang’s Princess Bay ensures you’ll encounter vibrant marine life and colorful corals. Second, the stunning landscape of granite rock formations and turquoise waters provides picture-perfect moments throughout the day. Lastly, the easy logistics—hotel pickup, a speedboat ride, and a structured itinerary—make it a practical choice for travelers wanting a full day of adventure without the hassle.

However, one consideration is the long day’s schedule—starting early and ending late. For some, this might be tiring, especially if you’re not accustomed to full-day excursions. Also, the marine environment isn’t immune to issues; one review pointed out that “all the coral reef is dead,” reminding us that environmental concerns are ongoing. Still, for those seeking a variety of scenic and underwater experiences, this trip offers excellent value suited for active and nature-loving travelers.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and beach time in a single package. It’s perfect for those who appreciate organized trips but still crave authentic natural beauty and underwater encounters.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: The panoramic views of granite rock formations and turquoise waters are a highlight.
• Top snorkeling sites: Christmas Point and Princess Bay offer vibrant marine life, fish, and corals.
• Well-organized itinerary: From early pickup to late return, the schedule is designed to maximize your time.
• Photographer’s paradise: Iconic spots like Sailing Rock provide great photo ops and viewpoints.
• Limited flexibility: The day is structured, so it’s best for travelers who prefer a guided tour.
• Environmental note: Some reviews mention coral reef degradation, reflecting ongoing environmental issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Review of the Similan Islands by Speed Boat from Phuket

Booking and Logistics

The tour’s booking process is straightforward, with options to reserve and pay later, offering flexibility for last-minute plans. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, which is useful if your plans change unexpectedly. Pickup from Phuket hotels in the early morning—between 5:30 and 6:45 am—sets the tone for a full day. The roughly 1.5-hour van ride to the pier is comfortable enough, and it’s a good time to mentally prepare for the adventure ahead.

The Departure and Journey

Boarding the speedboat at around 8:30 am, you’re greeted with hot drinks and bakery treats—an appreciated touch after an early start. The boat ride to the islands takes approximately 2 hours, giving you a chance to enjoy the breeze and anticipate what’s to come. The speedboat is a popular choice for its ability to navigate the waves quickly, meaning more time on the islands.

First Stop: Snorkeling at Island No.5 and No.6

Arriving at the first snorkeling spots around 10:50 am, you’re immediately immersed in Thailand’s underwater wonderland. These sites are known for their coral reefs and abundant fish, making them perfect for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. One review notes “all the coral reef is dead,” which highlights the environment’s fragility, but you’ll still find plenty of colorful fish and interesting formations.

The guided snorkelers shared that the sites were lively, with a variety of fish. The water clarity can vary, but generally, the visibility is good enough to enjoy the underwater scenery. The tour includes equipment rental, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own gear unless you prefer to.

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Island No.4 (Koh Miang) and Princess Bay

The next stop is Koh Miang, where you can relax on white sand beaches and enjoy the scenic granite formations. The highlight here is Princess Bay, a tranquil spot perfect for unwinding and taking photos. Around noon, the tour provides a buffet-style lunch—a break for both body and mind. The food is described as quality, with some reviewers mentioning it as a satisfying meal after a morning of activity.

Afternoon Adventures: Snorkeling at Christmas Point & Sail Rock

After lunch, the tour continues to Island No.9, where snorkelers can explore Christmas Point or Namchai Bay, sites known for coral reefs and colorful fishes. Expect more underwater exploration, with guides giving tips on spotting marine life and navigating the reefs.

The highlight for many is visiting Sailing Rock at Island No.8, a distinctive landmark that offers a chance to relax, swim, or climb to the viewpoint. One traveler mentioned that you can “relax, swim, take pictures or climb up to the top” for panoramic views. The rock, with its distinctive shape, is a favorite photo spot, and climbing up provides a rewarding perspective of the islands.

Return Journey and Refreshments

The boat departs around 3:30 pm, giving travelers about two hours on the islands. The return trip is approximately 1.5 hours, arriving back at Tub-lamu Pier around 4:50 pm. The tour operator greets guests with drinks, snacks, fried chicken, and ice cream—an enjoyable way to unwind after a busy day.

Practicalities and Tips

The tour suggests bringing essentials like a hat, beachwear, passport or ID, personal medication, and biodegradable insect repellent. The early start means packing your bag the night before is a good idea, and wearing comfortable shoes for the transfer helps.

While the itinerary is quite packed, it balances snorkeling, sightseeing, and relaxing stops. If you’re not a fan of long days, this might feel a bit rushed, but for those eager to pack in as much as possible, it’s ideal.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

One review pointed out that “all the coral reef is dead,” hinting at environmental degradation, which is worth considering. The tour advises not for pregnant women, seniors over 70, or children under 1 year due to the physical demands. It’s also not suitable for those with heart problems or pregnant women.

Price and Value

The cost of this tour, although not specified here, is generally considered reasonable given the full-day experience, guided snorkeling, lunch, and transportation included. Considering you get multiple snorkeling stops, scenic viewpoints, and beach time, the value is good for adventure-seekers wanting a comprehensive day.

Final Thoughts

This Similan Islands tour offers a robust itinerary that blends underwater discovery with scenic vistas and beach relaxation. The early start and full day make it best suited for active travelers ready for a day on the water and on the sands, but it’s also ideal for those who want everything organized in one trip.

While environmental concerns are worth noting, the sheer beauty of the islands and the variety of activities make this a worthwhile experience. It’s best for adventurous, nature-loving travelers who appreciate guided tours and want to maximize their time exploring Thailand’s marine treasures.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
Pickup is between 5:30 and 6:45 am, with departure from Phuket around 8:30 am.

How long is the boat ride to the islands?
The speedboat ride takes approximately 2 hours each way.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, beachwear, passport or ID, personal medication, and biodegradable insect repellent.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a quality buffet lunch is included on Koh Miang.

Can I snorkel at multiple sites?
Absolutely, you’ll snorkel at Island No.5, No.6, Christmas Point, and Namchai Bay, with equipment provided.

What is Sailing Rock?
It’s a distinctive landmark at Island No.8, where you can relax, swim, take photos, or climb to the viewpoint.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not recommended for pregnant women, seniors over 70, or children under 1 year.

How environmentally friendly is the tour?
Some reviews note coral reef degradation, which reflects ongoing environmental concerns.

How long do we stay at each site?
The itinerary suggests about 1.5 hours at the snorkeling sites and 2 hours at Sailing Rock and Koh Miang.

What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Final Verdict

This day trip to the Similan Islands from Phuket offers a well-rounded experience filled with stunning views, engaging underwater activities, and relaxing beach moments. It’s ideal for those who want to see Thailand’s best marine sights in one organized, adventurous package. Be prepared for a long, active day, and bring your camera to capture some of the most picture-perfect scenery the region has to offer. If environmental issues concern you, it’s worth considering how tourism impacts these fragile ecosystems, but overall, this trip remains a fantastic way to explore Thailand’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: