Snorkeling + Free Underwater Photos by Longtail Boat Koh Lipe A

Exploring Koh Lipe: A Snorkeling Adventure with Free Underwater Photos

If you’re craving a day of vibrant marine life, stunning islands, and an authentic Thai island experience, this snorkeling tour on Koh Lipe offers just that — at a friendly price and with plenty of thoughtful extras. While I haven’t personally been on this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-organized, value-packed outing that appeals to travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

What makes this tour stand out? First, its affordable price of under $20 per person makes it accessible to many. Second, the free underwater photos captured by the crew are a huge plus — especially since these are often an afterthought on similar tours. Lastly, the multiple island stops promise a variety of scenery and marine environments, giving you a well-rounded snorkeling experience.

However, one consideration to keep in mind is that this is a join-in tour—meaning it might feel a little less private or exclusive than a private charter. But for most travelers, the relaxed group size (maximum of 10) and the chance to meet fellow explorers balance that out well.

This tour is a perfect fit if you’re looking for a cost-effective, fun-filled day on the water with plenty of snorkeling, friendly guides, and stunning scenery. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who appreciate good value and the chance to bring home memorable underwater photos.

Good To Know

• Affordable price point makes it accessible and offers great value.
• Multiple island stops provide diverse snorkeling and sightseeing opportunities.
• Free underwater photography ensures you leave with unforgettable memories.
• Group size capped at 10, so the experience remains intimate.
• Includes lunch, fresh fruit, water, and gear, making logistics simple.
• Requires a moderate level of physical fitness for swimming and exploring.

The Experience Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Booking and Convenience

The tour kicks off early at 9:00am, with a mobile ticket that makes check-in straightforward. Wichit Tour Koh Lipe, the provider, has a reputation for friendly communication—many reviews mention how easy it was to clarify questions or dietary needs in advance. The tour is designed as a join-in group, with a maximum of 10 travelers, which strikes a balance between social and private.

The Itinerary: Why Each Stop Matters

The entire trip lasts roughly 6 hours, giving ample time to snorkel, relax, and enjoy each location. Here’s a detailed look at each stop:

Stop 1: Ko Jabang (45 minutes)
This is the flagship snorkeling spot, famous for its colorful soft corals and schools of tropical fish. The water here is crystal-clear, making it ideal for swimming and underwater photography. Reviewers have described it as a “great snorkeling experience,” with numerous fish and vibrant coral gardens. The free underwater photos taken by the crew add a special touch, ensuring you’ll have high-quality images to remember your trip.

Stop 2: Koh Hin Ngam (30 minutes)
Behind Hin Ngam Island lies a coral garden teeming with marine life. Expect to see a wide variety of fish and colorful coral formations. The site is described as relaxing, perfect for leisurely swimming and taking in the underwater scenery. The calm waters and rich marine biodiversity make it a favorite among snorkelers.

Stop 3: Ko Ngam Island (30 minutes)
What sets Hin Ngam apart is its volcanic black stone beach, covered with smoothly polished stones that shimmer under the sun. While not a snorkeling spot, it offers excellent opportunities for photos, walking, and sightseeing. Reviewers mention it as a peaceful, photogenic location—ideal for a quick break and some scenic shots.

Stop 4: Koh Yang (45 minutes)
Near Koh Lipe, this small island is surrounded by healthy coral reefs. It’s a popular snorkel location where you’ll encounter vibrant coral gardens and tropical fish. The calm, clear waters make it perfect for both novice and experienced snorkelers. Reviewers highlighted the beautiful underwater world and appreciated the helpful guides who made sure everyone was comfortable.

Stop 5: Koh Rawi (1 hour)
Part of the Tarutao National Park, Koh Rawi boasts long white beaches and pristine waters. The coral reefs here are in excellent health, supporting a variety of marine species. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking a mix of beach lounging and snorkeling, with the added bonus of fewer crowds.

Stop 6: Ko Adang (45 minutes)
The largest island on the trip, Ko Adang offers lush jungle scenery, white sandy beaches, and excellent snorkeling. The surrounding coral reefs are noted for their clarity and marine diversity. Reviewers mention that guides are knowledgeable about the area, enhancing the experience.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour provides all necessary snorkeling gear—masks, fins, flippers, and life jackets—which means you can focus on enjoying the water rather than worrying about equipment. The free underwater photos are a highlight, capturing moments you might miss in the water. The crew also offers lunch, fresh seasonal fruit, and drinking water, making the day comfortable and fuss-free.

One important note: there’s a 200 THB national park fee payable at the pier, so budget around $6-7 extra. This is standard for many national parks in Thailand but worth keeping in mind for your overall trip budget.

The tour is geared toward travelers with a moderate fitness level because swimming and snorkeling require a bit of stamina. That said, the stops are relatively short, and guides are known for being friendly and supportive.

The Value of the Tour: Is It Worth It?

For just $19.46, this tour offers more than enough snorkeling and sightseeing to justify the price. Many reviews highlight its great value for money, especially considering it includes gear, lunch, fruits, water, insurance, and free underwater photos. The small group size ensures a relaxed, personalized experience, unlike some larger, more commercial tours.

Travelers have praised the quality of the marine environments, describing the snorkeling spots as beautiful and teeming with fish. The photo service received special mention, with one reviewer noting they received their photos the next day—an excellent bonus to cherish the memories.

The professional guides and friendly crew also add to the overall positive experience. Many mention how easy it was to communicate, and how the guides paid careful attention to safety and comfort.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This snorkel trip is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want a full day of underwater adventure without splurging on private charters. It’s great for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers eager to meet others on a shared trip.

If you love diverse marine environments, the multiple stops across islands mean you’ll experience a variety of underwater scenes. The free photos are perfect for those wanting to share their trip on social media or keep a visual memory.

Travelers who appreciate authentic, local-guided tours will enjoy the knowledgeable crew and relaxed vibe. Just remember to be comfortable swimming or snorkeling in open water, as some stops involve a bit of physical activity.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Tour for You?

This snorkeling tour offers exceptional value, combining stunning scenery, friendly service, and thoughtful extras like free underwater photos. It’s well-suited for first-timers and seasoned snorkelers alike, especially those who want to explore Koh Lipe’s marine biodiversity without the hassle of planning multiple trips.

The small-group setting and knowledgeable guides make the experience feel intimate and safe, while the variety of stops guarantees a well-rounded day. Plus, the included lunch and drinks ensure you stay energized for all the underwater exploring.

If your goal is to see vibrant coral reefs, relax on beautiful beaches, and come home with fantastic photos, this tour checks all the boxes. Just be ready for a day in the water and a little bit of physical activity—it’s all part of the fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior snorkeling experience?
Not necessarily. The stops are suitable for most swimming levels, and guides are helpful. Just ensure you’re comfortable in open water and have a basic swimming ability.

Is there a chance I won’t see much marine life?
While marine environments can vary, the locations visited are known for their healthy coral reefs and abundant fish. The crew’s expertise increases the likelihood of a vibrant underwater experience.

How long are each of the stops?
Most stops are between 30 to 45 minutes, giving you enough time to snorkel, take photos, and relax. The longest is Koh Rawi, at around an hour, offering more time to explore.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a waterproof camera if desired. The tour provides gear, but you might want your own if you prefer to snorkel with personal equipment.

Are the photos really free?
Yes, the crew takes underwater photos during the trip at no extra cost. You’ll receive the images afterward, which many reviewers say are high quality.

Do I need to pay the national park fee?
Yes, the 200 THB fee is paid at the pier and covers access to some of the protected areas visited. Budget accordingly.

To sum it up, this snorkeling tour on Koh Lipe balances affordability, diversity of experiences, and thoughtful extras to create a memorable day. Whether you’re after colorful fish, scenic island vistas, or just a relaxed day on the water, it’s a solid choice for many travel styles.