Similan Islands Tour from Phuket

Getting to the Similan Islands from Phuket is a popular choice for travelers craving stunning marine scenery and memorable snorkeling, but does this tour deliver on its promises? We’ve looked into the details, reviews, and logistics to help you decide if this 12-hour adventure is worth your time and money.

What we love about this tour is the beautiful, crystal-clear waters that surround the islands, the chance to snorkel among vibrant marine life, and the convenience of hotel transfers included. These elements make for a hassle-free day, especially for those short on time but eager to see some of Thailand’s best natural sights. On the flip side, the long travel time—about 7 hours total—can be a real challenge, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer relaxing beach days rather than long boat rides.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a full-day outing, enjoy snorkeling, and want a guided experience that skips the hassle of organizing transportation themselves. If you’re after an intimate, crowd-free experience or prefer shorter trips, you might want to look elsewhere.

Key Points

• Well-organized logistics with hotel pick-up and drop-off for a stress-free experience
• Multiple island stops offering snorkeling, beach lounging, and scenic viewpoints
• Inclusion of snorkeling gear, lunch, and drinks provides good value for a full-day tour
• Long travel times may be tiring, especially for less experienced boaters or those with limited time
• Variable guide interactions; some reviews mention less engaging guides, while others praise staff friendliness
• National park fee not included; expect to pay around 500 THB at departure

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The day kicks off early—your pickup from Phuket hotels is scheduled around 6:00 am, giving you plenty of time to settle in before heading out to Phang Nga Province. The journey begins with a 50-minute speedboat ride from Taplamu Pier, passing by Sarasin Bridge, which connects Phuket to the mainland. This marks the start of a day filled with island hopping and water adventures.

Stop 1: Taplamu Pier and Departure

Meeting your guide here is straightforward, and the boat is equipped for a smooth ride. From reviews, we note that many travelers appreciate the organized pickup and the smooth transfer, which removes the stress of self-driving or catching public transport.

Stop 2: Koh Ba Ngu (No. 9) for Snorkeling

This first stop provides a 40-minute snorkeling session in the Andaman Sea — a highlight for many, thanks to the abundant marine life and pristine reefs. Reviewers mention the clear water and vibrant fish, making it a perfect intro to what the islands have to offer. Gear is included, so no need to rent or worry about bringing your own.

Stop 3: Similan Island (No. 8) for Beach Relaxation

The next stop is a longer one—1 hour 30 minutes on the island’s white sandy beaches with coral reefs just offshore. According to reviews, this is a favorite spot for lounging, exploring, or snapping photos of the classic tropical scenery. Some mentioned that the sand is soft and the water inviting, but also that the coral might be bleached, which is typical for reefs but can affect snorkeling quality at times.

Stop 4: Ko Similan for Sail Rock Viewpoint

Climbing Sail Rock is a short but memorable activity, offering panoramic views of the islands. Reviewers who did this appreciated the chance to stretch their legs and take in breathtaking vistas. The visit is about 30 minutes, so don’t expect a deep hike but rather a quick photo opp.

Stop 5: Miang Island for Lunch and Relaxation

One of the tour’s highlights is a buffet lunch on Miang Island, with fresh fruits and drinks included. Travelers rave about the local Thai cuisine served here—something that truly adds value to the experience. Following lunch, there’s free time to unwind on the beach or explore the island’s natural beauty at your own pace.

Stop 6: Koh Haa for Final Snorkeling

The last snorkeling stop offers a chance to see more marine creatures, with 40-minute sessions that many reviewers say are the best part of the day. The water tends to be clear, and the variety of fish, turtles, and coral keeps underwater enthusiasts happy.

Return to Phuket

The day wraps up with a 30-minute boat ride back to Taplamu Pier, followed by a minibus transfer to your hotel. Some reviews mention the long day, but overall, most are satisfied with the smooth logistics.

What the Tour Includes and What to Keep in Mind

The price of around $101.23 per person feels reasonable considering the included hotel transfers, snorkeling gear, lunch, fruits, and soft drinks. The fact that all these are included means fewer hidden costs and a more relaxed day for travelers.

However, park entrance fees (around 500 THB for adults) are not included, so you should be prepared to pay this on-site. Reviews mention that the boat’s capacity differs from other tours—most use 3-engine boats for a maximum of 45 people, while some larger boats accommodate up to 70. This impacts how crowded you might feel, especially during peak season, with reviewers pointing out that crowds can diminish the feeling of exclusivity.

The tour is operated by Phuket Top Tour, and a notable point from reviews is that guides can vary in engagement. While many praise the friendly staff and helpful crew, some travelers mention that the English-speaking guide was less interactive compared to the Russian guide, which might affect those seeking a more engaging experience.

The Pros and Cons Based on Real Experiences

Pros:

• The stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters live up to expectations, according to those who visited. Many review the islands as beautiful and worth the long journey.
• Snorkeling gear and multiple stops mean you get a good chance to see marine life close-up, with some reviewers noting they saw turtles, fish, and even coral that was still vibrant despite bleaching.
• The lunch is frequently highlighted as a standout feature—homemade Thai dishes that add to the authenticity.
• Transfers and logistics are generally smooth, making it a stress-free experience overall.

Cons:

• The long travel time (about 7 hours round trip) is a common complaint, with some reviewers feeling it’s a bit too much, especially if seasick or if you prefer a more relaxed pace.
• Crowd levels can be high, which might take away from the sense of exclusivity or serenity. Some guests felt overwhelmed by the number of people on the boat.
• Guide interaction can be inconsistent—some travelers found their guides less engaging or not as informative as they’d hoped, which can affect the overall enjoyment.
• Boat comfort varies; some mentioned that the speedboat was uncomfortable or that the inside was crowded, with limited sun-deck space, which might be a concern for sensitive travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is a solid option for adventurers who love snorkeling and are comfortable with full-day outings. It offers a great mix of island exploring, water activities, and scenic viewpoints. If you value good value and convenience, the included transfers, gear, and meals make it a practical choice.

However, if you’re seasick easily or prefer shorter, more intimate trips, you might want to look for other options. Also, if avoiding crowds is a priority, be aware that during high season, the islands and tours can feel busy.

Travelers who enjoy meeting diverse groups and don’t mind a large boat will likely find this experience satisfying, especially given the friendly crew and well-organized itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, transfers from your hotel, villa, or apartment in Phuket are included, making the start of your day hassle-free.

How long is the total trip?
Approximately 12 hours, with around 7 hours of travel time including boat rides and transfers.

What is not included in the price?
The national park fee, which is around 500 THB per adult, needs to be paid at departure.

Are snorkeling masks and fins provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included, so you won’t need to bring your own unless you prefer specific gear.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
While you can, the tour provides fruits, soft drinks, and a buffet lunch, which are generally enough for the day.

What should I wear?
Light, quick-drying clothing, swimwear, and a hat or sunglasses are recommended. Don’t forget sunscreen and waterproof shoes or sandals.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Most travelers can participate, but note that the speedboat trip may not be ideal for very young children or those prone to seasickness.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 60 travelers can join, so expect some crowding during peak times.

Will I see wildlife?
Yes, many reviewers mention abundant marine life, fish, turtles, and birdlife on the islands. Visibility and animal sightings depend on weather and sea conditions.

Final Thoughts

The Similan Islands Tour from Phuket offers a full day of adventure, scenic beauty, and underwater exploration, all with the convenience of hotel transfers and included meals. It’s perfect for travelers eager to experience Thailand’s marine parks without the hassle of organizing their own transport or snorkeling gear.

You’ll love the stunning waters, friendly crew, and delicious Thai lunch, making it a value-packed option for sea lovers. The long journey and potential crowds are worth considering if you prioritize comfort and a quieter experience.

For those seeking accessible, well-organized tours that showcase the best of Thailand’s underwater world, this trip ticks many boxes. Just come prepared for a full day on the water, and you’ll likely leave with unforgettable memories of the Similan Islands.

Remember: If avoiding crowds or long travel times is your priority, consider booking early or during off-peak seasons. And always check the weather forecast before heading out, as ocean conditions can affect your trip. Happy island hopping!