Similan Islands Luxury Catamaran Day Tour (Phuket / Khao Lak)

Thinking about taking a day trip to Thailand’s famed Similan Islands? We’ve looked into one of the top-rated options — a luxury double-deck catamaran tour departing from Phuket or Khao Lak. While not cheap, this experience aims to combine comfort, scenic beauty, and quality service, making it worth considering if you’re after a more relaxed, upscale adventure.

What we love about this tour? First, the boat itself offers more space and stability than standard speedboats, meaning fewer seasickness worries and more comfort. Second, the itinerary is designed to give ample time to explore, rather than rushing through activities. Third, the included meals and onboard extras significantly boost the value, turning it into a true day-long escapade.

However, a possible drawback is that the tour can feel crowded at times—some reviews mention overcrowding and food quality that doesn’t quite match the luxury branding. It’s best suited for travelers who prioritize comfort, photography, and leisurely exploration over budget-friendly, rapid-fire trips.

If you’re someone who appreciates a well-organized, enjoyable day out on the water with stunning scenery and thoughtful touches, this trip could be perfect. Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty.

Good To Know

• Comfort & Stability: The luxury catamaran provides a smoother, more spacious ride compared to speedboats.
• Relaxed Pace & Exploration: The itinerary allows plenty of time to enjoy key sites, like Similan Island No. 8 and Sail Rock.
• Inclusive Meals & Beverages: Expect three onboard meals, fruits, snacks, and unlimited soft drinks, making the day more effortless.
• Photographic Memories: A professional onboard photographer captures up to five photos per guest, adding a special touch.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: The stops are thoughtfully planned for both sightseeing and snorkeling, depending on sea conditions.
• Mixed Reviews on Crowding & Food: While many praise the boat’s comfort, some mention overcrowding and food that falls short of the luxury promise.

Setting the Scene: What the Tour Looks Like

The day starts early, with hotel pickups across Phuket or Khao Lak, ensuring a hassle-free start. Upon arrival at Thap Lamu Pier, you’ll meet your crew and enjoy breakfast, setting the tone for a relaxed day. The tour departs around 8:00 am, giving you the best part of the day to soak in the scenery.

The luxury catamaran itself is a highlight — a wide, stable vessel with double decks that promises a smoother ride. It’s a noticeable upgrade from typical speedboats, especially if seas are choppy. From the deck, you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the Andaman Sea, making every moment a photo opportunity.

The Key Stops & What to Expect

Thap Lamu Pier & Initial Rest

After a quick 40-minute ride from Phuket or Khao Lak, you’ll gather at Thap Lamu Pier, where breakfast is served. Expect a buffet-style spread, giving you energy for the day ahead. Many reviews mention feeling well taken care of right from this start, with the crew friendly and attentive.

Similan Island No. 8 & Sail Rock

The first major stop is Similan Island No. 8, famous for its white-sand beaches and the Sail Rock viewpoint. Climbing Sail Rock offers sweeping views that make the trek worthwhile, and a professional photographer is available to capture your moment at the top. Reviewers mention the photos as a treasured memory, with some saying, “Captain was informative, entertaining, and very friendly,” highlighting the engaging nature of the guides.

Beach walks are also part of this stop, giving you time to relax, dip your toes in the water, or simply enjoy the scenery. The wait for the boat isn’t long, and you’ll have approximately four hours here, giving enough time for exploration without feeling rushed.

Snorkeling at Islands No. 9 & No. 7

After lunch, the boat returns briefly to Thap Lamu Pier for snacks and rest, then heads out again for snorkeling. The specific islands vary depending on sea conditions—reviewers note that this is a smart move by the crew, prioritizing comfort and safety. Snorkeling gear is provided, including disposable mouthpieces and snorkel socks, meaning you don’t have to worry about hygiene or comfort.

The coral reefs and marine life are often praised—one reviewer said, “Coral was great,” emphasizing the quality of the snorkeling spots. You’ll spend time near Island No. 9 and Island No. 7, with enough time allotted at each site to enjoy the underwater world.

Return & Relaxation

Back at Thap Lamu Pier, you’ll have some light snacks and a chance to relax before the return journey. The 14-hour day winds down with a comfortable, scenic cruise back to your pickup point. Many guests comment on the crew’s professionalism and friendliness, especially mentioning guide Jasmine and her team.

The Included & Not Included Aspects

This tour’s inclusions are quite comprehensive: round-trip hotel pickup, all meals (breakfast, buffet lunch, light dinner), soft drinks, snorkeling equipment, towels, national park fees, and travel insurance. These add up to excellent value, simplifying your day and reducing extra costs.

Not included are personal expenses, tips, and items not listed, which is standard. The tour’s price of $171.98 per person reflects a luxury experience, but it’s worth weighing that against the added comfort, longer exploration time, and added extras.

What the Reviews Say

Feedback is generally very positive. Reviewers appreciate the professional service, and many highlight the friendly guides and beautiful scenery. “The boat was super comfortable,” one reviewer notes, while another calls the captain “informative and entertaining,” emphasizing the quality of onboard commentary.

Food gets mixed reviews—many say it’s good, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner offered throughout the day, but some mention the food not meeting the luxury standards advertised. Overcrowding is also noted in some comments, so be prepared for a lively, busy atmosphere, especially during peak seasons.

Is This Tour Worth It?

For those valuing comfort, extended exploration, and quality service, this tour delivers on many fronts. The stunning views from Sail Rock, beautiful coral reefs, and professional photography make it stand out. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want a more relaxed, hassle-free day with thoughtful touches like meals and photos included.

However, if your priority is a budget-friendly adventure or you prefer a smaller, more intimate experience, other options might be better suited. It’s also not ideal for pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions, due to the physical activity involved and the nature of boat travel.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is best for travelers seeking a comfortable, scenic day trip with plenty of time to explore and relax. If you love professional guides, stunning viewpoints, and underwater adventures without feeling rushed, this is a solid choice. The inclusion of meals, photos, and a stable, spacious boat makes it stand apart from more basic options.

It’s a particularly good pick for those who want an easy, all-in-one experience that maximizes comfort and minimizes hassle. If you’re after a memorable day at the Similan Islands with a touch of luxury, this tour ticks many boxes—just be prepared for the crowds and variable food quality that some reviewers mention.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers round-trip hotel pickup across Phuket and Khao Lak, making start and end logistics smooth.

What’s the departure time? The trip begins at around 8:00 am, so early mornings are part of the package.

How long is the entire tour? The entire trip lasts approximately 14 hours, including travel, stops, and meals.

What is the boat like? The tour uses a luxury double-deck catamaran known for its stability and spaciousness, providing a more comfortable ride than typical speedboats.

Are meals provided? Yes, the tour includes breakfast, buffet lunch, and a light dinner, along with snacks and soft drinks.

Can I snorkel at all stops? Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and stops are planned near reefs for underwater viewing, depending on sea conditions.

Is it suitable for children? While most travelers with moderate physical fitness will enjoy this, very young children or those with medical concerns should check the specifics, as the tour is quite full and active.

What should I bring? Bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a towel. Towels and snorkeling gear are provided, but you may want extra snacks or personal items.

What if the weather is bad? The tour depends on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Final Words

This Similan Islands luxury catamaran day tour combines comfort, scenic beauty, and thoughtful service in a way that appeals to travelers wanting a memorable, hassle-free experience. While it may not be the cheapest option, the added benefits and positive reviews suggest it’s a worthwhile splurge for those who value a relaxed, well-organized day at one of Thailand’s most beautiful island chains. Perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers who want to enjoy the islands without feeling rushed or cramped. Just remember to manage expectations around food and crowds — but don’t let that dissuade you from booking if comfort and stunning scenery are your top priorities.