Similan Islands Full Day – Premium

Traveling to Thailand and craving a day immersed in stunning tropical scenery, vibrant marine life, and pristine beaches? The Similan Islands Full Day Premium tour promises exactly that, offering a luxurious, well-organized way to explore one of Thailand’s most celebrated marine parks. With a solid 4.5-star rating based on 30 reviews and a high recommendation rate of 90%, this tour is gaining popularity for good reasons.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the upscale service and attention to detail, the diverse snorkeling spots, and the delicious Thai cuisine included in the day. However, it’s worth noting that the tour involves quite a bit of travel time—around 2 hours each way—so it’s best suited for those who don’t mind a longer day on the water. This trip suits travelers seeking comfort, guided insights, and authentic marine encounters without sacrificing convenience.

Good To Know

• Luxury Speedboat: Travel in style aboard a high-powered vessel designed for comfort and stability.
• Diverse Stops: Visit iconic spots like Sail Rock, Honeymoon Bay, and Koh Payu for varied snorkeling and beach experiences.
• All-Inclusive: Includes park fees, lunch, water, and snorkeling gear, offering great value.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights and safety tips.
• Flexible & Relaxed: Ample time at each stop—no rushing—ensuring you can truly unwind and explore.
• Accessible & Well-Organized: Pickup included, WiFi on board, and clear itinerary planning.

An In-Depth Look at the Similan Islands Premium Tour

Starting the Day: Convenient Pickup and Luxurious Transport

The tour begins at Royal Phuket Marina, a sleek and easily accessible meeting point. From there, you’re whisked away in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a thoughtful touch after a long flight or day of exploring Phuket. The transfer sets the tone for a day focused on comfort, with options for those who appreciate seamless logistics.

Travel time to the islands is approximately two hours, which many reviews acknowledge can make the trip quite lengthy. As one reviewer noted, “The island is so far you will spend about 2h except the picking time but it’s worth it,” highlighting that the journey does take a chunk of your day. This is something to consider if you prefer shorter, more relaxed excursions.

The Speedboat Experience: Fast, Powerful, and Comfortable

Once aboard the luxury speedboat, you’ll enjoy a smooth, fast ride thanks to its 1000 horsepower engine. The boat’s design prioritizes stability and comfort, helping you avoid seasickness and enjoy the stunning views. WiFi is available on board, keeping you connected or entertained during the ride—an added bonus for tech-savvy travelers.

Exploring the Islands: Well-Paced and Varied Stops

The itinerary includes five main stops, each offering unique sights and activities:

• Similan Island No. 8: Famous for its white sandy beaches and the Sail Rock viewpoint, this spot is perfect for relaxation, photos, and soaking in the scenery. According to reviews, “It’s a very good island and the staff is so friendly,” making the first stop a warm introduction to the islands.

• Koh Ba Ngu (Island #9): A dedicated snorkeling session here introduces you to a deeper marine environment with distinct species. One reviewer was “amazed” at the variety of marine life, noting the chance to see sea turtles and Nemo fishes.

• Honeymoon Bay and Princess Bay: Known for their serene beauty and powdery sands, these beaches are ideal for unwinding. The reviews mention plenty of time given here—about an hour—so you can truly relax or take a swim.

• Koh Payu (Island #7): Offers a second snorkeling opportunity with deeper waters and more diverse marine life. Travelers frequently comment on the quality of snorkeling gear provided and the chance to see marine creatures in their natural habitat.

• Lunch at Koh Mu Similan Islands: Enjoy a generous 1.5-hour lunch break featuring Thai and seafood dishes. One reviewer appreciated the well-timed, non-rushed schedule, which granted ample time for eating and relaxing after morning activities.

Food and Refreshments: Quality and Convenience

The included lunch is often praised for being satisfying and tasty, with some reviewers noting it as more than enough. Drinks like soda, tea, and water are readily available, with requests for soda or pop accommodated on the boat. Coffee and tea are served during meet-and-greet, adding to the comfort.

Snorkeling Equipment and Guides: Expert Support

All snorkeling gear is included, and the guides are noted for their friendliness and knowledge. One guest remarked, “The staff is so friendly and helpful,” which makes a big difference, especially for first-time snorkelers or those unfamiliar with marine environments.

Additional Comforts and Practical Details

• The tour costs $115.19 per person, offering good value considering the included park fees, lunch, gear, and transport.
• WiFi on board allows for easy sharing of photos or quick updates.
• The group size is capped at 40 travelers, maintaining a balance between social atmosphere and personal space.
• The tour is accessible for most travelers, with near public transportation options and a clear meeting point.

Real Traveler Insights: What People Love (and What They Don’t)

From genuine reviews, we see consistent praise for guides like NayNay, who made the experience informative yet relaxed. One guest said, “The whole setup is very professional,” emphasizing the smooth organization. The snorkeling spots particularly stand out, with visitors expressing amazement at their marine encounters.

However, some guests felt the duration was quite long—around 13.5 hours from pick-up to drop-off—and mentioned that the travel time can be tiring. Still, many agree that the scenic beauty and marine diversity make this worthwhile.

One reviewer pointed out that the food was somewhat “a little poor,” but most found the Thai dishes flavorful and filling, especially after a morning of swimming and sightseeing.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This premium version of the Similan Islands tour is ideal for travelers who value comfort, quality, and comprehensive experiences. It suits those who don’t mind a longer day on the water and appreciate well-organized, guided outings—perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a hassle-free adventure. If you’re after top-notch snorkeling, scenic views, and a touch of luxury, this tour ticks all those boxes.

It’s also a great choice for those who want a full-day escape that includes local cuisine, comfortable transportation, and marine exploration in one package.

The Sum Up

The Similan Islands Full Day Premium Tour offers a well-rounded, comfortable way to explore this breathtaking marine park. Its combination of luxury transportation, expert guides, multiple snorkeling stops, and delicious meals makes it a strong value for the price. While the long travel time might be a consideration for some, the stunning scenery and marine encounters more than compensate.

This tour is best suited for travelers who prioritize comfort, convenience, and diverse experiences in a single day. Whether you’re an avid snorkeler, a nature lover, or simply someone looking to spend a memorable day amidst Thailand’s natural beauty, this trip delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the travel time to the islands?
Traveling from Phuket to the Similan Islands takes approximately two hours each way, so expect about four hours of total transit time depending on weather and sea conditions.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour fee covers park fees, lunch, snorkeling gear, bottled water, coffee/tea, and WiFi on board. It’s a good value considering these inclusions.

Is there any flexibility in the itinerary?
The itinerary is fixed but designed to maximize your experience with ample time at each stop, so you won’t feel rushed. Lunch and snorkeling times are spaced to keep the day relaxed.

Are there any physical considerations I should be aware of?
The tour involves boat rides and walking on beaches, which may be challenging for some guests with mobility issues. However, the overall setup is quite accessible, and guides are helpful.

Can I snorkel if I’ve never done it before?
Absolutely. Snorkeling gear is provided, and guides are experienced in assisting beginners. Many guests mention feeling comfortable even as first-timers.

What should I bring on the day?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a swimsuit, a towel, and waterproof camera if you like. Light clothing and a hat are recommended for the exposed beaches.

In essence, this premium tour combines convenience, comfort, and natural beauty, making it a fantastic way to experience the Similan Islands without the hassle. It’s a strong choice for travelers seeking a well-organized, memorable day in Thailand’s stunning marine environment.