Similan Islands Snorkel Tour by Fantastic Similan Travel from Khao Lak

If you’re considering a day of underwater adventure and island scenery, the Similan Islands Snorkel Tour from Khao Lak offers plenty to enjoy. This full-day trip takes you by speedboat to explore four of the most beautiful islands within the Similan Marine National Park, famed for their vibrant coral reefs, white-sand beaches, and impressive granite formations.

While the tour packs in multiple snorkeling stops, a Thai beachside lunch, and the chance to hike or relax on pristine beaches, it’s not without its quirks—some guests find it a little crowded or rushed. Nonetheless, if you’re after efficient access to some of Thailand’s best snorkeling spots with a good balance of guided support and free time, this tour could be a solid pick.

What we love about this experience are the quick speedboat rides that maximize your time in the water, the variety of snorkeling locations that showcase different underwater landscapes, and the inclusion of a delicious Thai lunch right on the beach. However, a possible drawback is the number of boats and people, which can make the experience feel a tad crowded, especially during peak season.

This trip is perfect for those who want to see multiple islands in a single day without the hassle of organizing transport or gear, especially if you’re comfortable with a packed schedule. It suits travelers seeking vibrant marine life, scenic islands, and hassle-free logistics.

Key Points

• Fast-paced, full-day adventure with multiple snorkeling stops.
• Includes hotel pickup, transport, park fees, and lunch, making it a convenient all-in-one option.
• Snorkeling gear and life jackets are provided, so you don’t need to bring your own.
• Limited group size (up to 45 travelers), keeping it fairly manageable.
• Crowd levels can be high, especially at popular spots.
• The tour runs from October to May, aligning with the park’s open season.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup & Departure from Khao Lak

The adventure begins early, with a hotel pickup around 9:00 am. You’ll be collected by a friendly guide from Fantastic Similan Travel and driven to Thap Lamu Pier, a short journey from most Khao Lak accommodations. The first perk here is the convenience of door-to-door pickup, saving you the hassle of navigating to a meeting point.

Before boarding the speedboat, you’ll enjoy a light breakfast and get your snorkel gear, which is included for the day. The boat itself is relatively small, with only 36 seats, ensuring that you won’t feel overwhelmed by crowds on board. We’ve read that guests appreciated the personal feel of the group—even if some found the space a little tight during the peak season.

The Speedboat Ride & First Stop at Koh Miang (Island No. 4)

The boat ride to the islands takes less than 80 minutes, offering scenic views of the Andaman Sea. The speedboat’s swift pace ensures maximum time in the water—a highlight for many. At Koh Miang, the waters are clear, with vibrant coral reefs teeming with fish, making it suitable for both beginners and more experienced snorkelers.

Guests have noted that this first stop is especially good for appreciating the underwater life and coral. As one reviewer pointed out, “the reefs are healthy and plentiful, ideal for a quick but satisfying snorkeling session.” You’ll also have time to relax on the beach or walk around the island before moving to the next location.

Princess Bay & Beachside Thai Lunch

The tour includes a beachside Thai lunch at Princess Bay, often described as a highlight. Guests enjoy sitting on the sand, munching on traditional Thai dishes, and soaking up the sun. The meal is served after the first snorkeling session, which some felt was a little late—lunch after 2 pm—and not as refined as a sit-down restaurant.

One visitor mentioned that the lunch quality was “like a school dining hall,” but most agree that it’s a decent, rice-based meal with authentic flavors, especially considering the convenience factor. The setting, with the sea breeze and views of the islands, makes it an enjoyable part of the day.

Koh Payu & the Deep-Water Reefs

Next, the boat heads to Koh Payu (Island No. 7), where the East of Eden reef is the focus. This spot stands out because of its deeper waters and more varied marine life, providing a slightly different experience from the shallower reefs earlier.

Reviewers have appreciated that the guides often point out specific fish or coral species, making the snorkeling educational as well as fun. It’s a good opportunity for more seasoned snorkelers to explore something unique.

Koh Bangu & the Iconic Snorkeling Spots

The final snorkel stops include Christmas Point, The Mooring, and Snapper Alley at Koh Bangu (Island No. 9). These sites are popular for their abundant fish, coral formations, and scenic underwater landscapes.

Guests have shared that “the reefs are vibrant and full of life,” and the multiple spots offer variety so that you’re not just repeating the same scenery all day. It’s an excellent way to get a broad look at the underwater environment of the Similan Islands.

Optional Hike & Sunbathing at Donald Duck Bay

The last stop is at Koh Similans, particularly Donald Duck Bay, known for its massive granite formations and the Sailing Rock viewpoint. Here, guests can sunbathe or hike to take in panoramic views of the islands—a relaxing finish after hours in the water.

Many reviewers found it a great spot to unwind, with some noting the views are worth the short climb. There’s also a chance to snorkel one last time before returning to the boat for the ride back.

Return Journey & Drop-off in Khao Lak

After a full day of exploration, the boat departs around 4:00 pm for the return trip, arriving back at Thap Lamu Pier by early evening. From there, your guide will escort you back to your hotel, completing a well-organized day.

Guests have appreciated the smooth logistics and the fact that hotel pickup and drop-off are included, adding to the overall convenience.

What’s Included & What to Keep in Mind

The tour includes all gear and life jackets, so you can focus on enjoying your snorkeling without extra fuss. The Thai set lunch is part of the package, offering a decent meal amid stunning scenery. You’ll also benefit from park entrance fees and basic accident insurance, which adds a layer of safety and convenience.

However, it’s important to note that the tour operates from October 15 to May 15, aligning with the park’s open season. Also, due to weather or sea conditions, there’s a chance the schedule might shift slightly, so flexibility is key.

Guests have highlighted that the group size maxes out at 45, which helps prevent the experience from feeling too crowded, even if some reviewers did mention that certain spots were busy.

The Experience from Reviews: Real Insights

One guest praised the organized schedule and friendly staff, mentioning that the guides tried their best to entertain and inform. Many found the snorkeling locations beautiful and varied, with healthy reefs and plentiful fish making the underwater excursion worthwhile.

However, not all reviews are glowing. Some felt the experience was a bit rushed, especially with lunch after 2 pm and minimal time on some islands. A few guests also remarked on the crowds—too many boats and people at the hotspots—which slightly detracts from the tranquility.

Nevertheless, reviewers tend to agree that the guides are knowledgeable, and the scenery is stunning enough to justify a somewhat hectic schedule.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This full-day snorkel adventure offers a carefully curated glimpse of the Similan Islands’ best spots. It’s a practical option for travelers who want to see multiple islands efficiently without the hassle of independent planning. With hotel pickup, included gear, and lunch, it provides good value for those who want an all-in-one experience.

If you’re eager to snorkel in vibrant coral reefs, enjoy beach time, and don’t mind a busy schedule, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially suitable for those new to snorkeling or visitors who prefer guided trips to maximize their time.

However, if you’re after peace and quiet, or a more personalized experience, you might find the crowds and quick pace a little overwhelming. It’s worth considering whether the trade-off of convenience and variety outweighs the potential for a more relaxed, slower exploration elsewhere.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs approximately $96.54 per person, which includes transport, gear, park fees, and lunch.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at Khao Lak hotels are included, making the process straightforward.

What is the duration of the trip?
It lasts about 9 hours, from around 9:00 am departure to returning in the early evening.

Are snorkeling gear and life jackets provided?
Yes, all snorkeling equipment and life jackets are included, so you don’t need to bring your own.

Can I snorkel if I’m a beginner?
Absolutely. The reefs at Koh Miang are noted as good for both beginners and experienced snorkelers, with healthy coral and abundant fish.

What is the best season for this tour?
The tour runs from October 15 to May 15, aligning with the park’s official open season, and weather conditions can influence the schedule.

How crowded will it be?
The group size is limited to 45, but some spots, especially popular reefs, can feel busy with multiple boats.

What food is served on the tour?
A Thai set lunch is included, typically served on the beach. While not gourmet, it’s authentic and convenient.

Is there free time during the trip?
Yes, at certain stops like Donald Duck Bay, you can sunbathe or hike, providing some relaxed moments amid the busy schedule.

In Summary

The Similan Islands Snorkel Tour by Fantastic Similan Travel is a solid choice for travelers wanting to experience the natural beauty of Thailand’s marine parks without the fuss of organizing every detail themselves. Its highlights—vibrant reefs, scenic islands, and a straightforward, all-inclusive approach—are balanced by some crowded spots and a quick pace.

Perfect for those who prioritize convenience, variety, and guided support, it offers a memorable day out with enough time to relax, snorkel, and enjoy stunning vistas. If you’re comfortable with a lively environment and want to see multiple reefs in one go, this tour delivers good value and authentic experiences in a beautiful setting.