Koh Chang: 3 or 4 Islands Snorkel & Beach Tour by Big Boat

Imagine spending a day on the water, hopping between some of Thailand’s prettiest islands, snorkeling among colorful fish, and relaxing on pristine beaches. That’s exactly what the Koh Chang: 3 or 4 Islands Snorkel & Beach Tour by Big Boat offers — and from the rave reviews and detailed itineraries, it’s clear this experience hits the mark for many travelers.

What we love about this tour is how it combines affordable pricing with a well-rounded day full of snorkeling, scenic stops, and local Thai food. The boat’s spacious layout makes for a comfortable ride, and the guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. Plus, the chance to explore Koh Rang National Marine Park or visit tiny, uncrowded islands makes it a strong option for nature lovers.

One possible drawback? The tour schedule can shift due to weather or sea conditions, especially during Thailand’s rainy season. So, flexibility is key. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy water activities, are okay with a full day on the water, and want a mix of adventure and relaxation without breaking the bank.

Good To Know

Affordable Value: With prices starting at just $27, this tour offers a lot of fun for your money. Many reviewers mention tasty meals and free underwater photos, adding to the value.

Diverse Itinerary: Whether you opt for the 3 or 4 Islands tour, expect a good balance of snorkeling, beach lounging, and island exploring. The longer 4 Islands route explores more remote spots with vibrant underwater life.

Comfort and Convenience: Pickup and drop-off options from the west side of Koh Chang make logistics easier, especially after a long day of adventure. The boat’s size (a big boat) means plenty of space and a stable ride — even in choppier waters.

Authentic Experience: Reviewers highlight how friendly and professional the crew is, often mentioning guides like “Gints” and “Magdalena” who help make the day enjoyable and safe. The fresh, Thai-style lunch really hits the spot after snorkeling.

Natural Beauty: Expect crystal-clear waters, colorful coral reefs, and quiet beach spots perfect for swimming and relaxing.

Weather Considerations: The experience can be affected by weather, with tours possibly canceled if conditions are unsafe. Rain can impact the experience, but many reviews note the trip’s resilience during the rainy season, thanks to well-chosen snorkeling spots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Meeting

The tour begins early, with a meeting point at the coordinates 11.973212242126465,102.3127670288086, on the west side of Koh Chang. Travelers staying at nearby hotels can opt for pickup, scheduled between 8:00 and 9:50 AM depending on the tour option. It’s crucial to arrive promptly because the walk from parking to the pier can take some time, and the boat departs on schedule — delays could mean missing out on this adventure.

The Boat Experience

The big boat, as described by many, is spacious, equipped with comfortable seating, and offers a smooth ride across the water. This is a big plus for travelers who dislike cramped conditions or choppy rides. The crew, often highlighted for friendliness and professionalism, will serve a fresh Thai lunch onboard, which reviewers consistently rate as tasty — even accommodating vegetarian menus if arranged in advance.

The 3 Islands Tour (10:30 AM – 4:00 PM)

This shorter option is perfect if you prefer a quick, relaxed day. It visits Koh Wai, Koh Lao Ya Nai, and Koh Klum, all about 40 minutes from the pier. Highlights include:

• Snorkeling at two spots where you’ll see colorful fish and coral reefs. Reviewers like “Sarah” noted, “Coral was beautiful and lots of different kinds of fish.”
• A one-hour beach stop for swimming, relaxing, or trying fishing in the open sea. Magdalena raved about the “good food and fruit,” which makes the stop extra enjoyable.
• This tour is ideal for those wanting a taste of island life without a long day on the water. It’s also great for beginners or travelers with limited time.

More Great Tours Nearby

The 4 Islands Tour (9:30 AM – 4:30 PM)

For true water enthusiasts, this extended route hits Koh Rang, Koh Yak Yai, Koh Mapring, and Koh Yak Lek, roughly 1.5 hours from the pier. Expect:

• Multiple snorkeling spots with vibrant marine life, notably at Koh Rang, which reviewers praise for its colorful fish and coral. Notable quote: “the last reef was the best because it was the largest and clearest,” from Sarah.
• A longer beach break at Koh Lao Ya Nai, perfect for relaxing and swimming. Reviewers like Hafiza mention how “everything felt safe and we were well looked after,” which is reassuring for travelers trying snorkeling for the first time.
• The longer schedule means more time to explore, so if underwater creatures fascinate you, this is the better choice.

What You’ll See and Experience

Throughout both tours, the marine environment is the star. Expect to see colorful fish, coral reefs, and possibly even turtles, as some reviews mention encounters with marine life. The beaches are powdery white with turquoise waters, perfect for taking photos or just unwinding after snorkeling.

Many reviewers note that the guides are helpful and patient, often assisting less confident swimmers and explaining safety instructions clearly. The free underwater photos, a bonus, help you relive the day’s highlights without worrying about capturing everything yourself.

Practical Details and Tips

• Timing is key: The tours start around 9:30-10:30 AM, with the 4 Islands tour lasting until around 4:30 PM. Be prepared for a full day, especially on the longer tour.
• What to bring: Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, cash (for optional extras), and snacks. The boat provides a lunch, but bringing extra snacks can help if you get hungry.
• Weather and safety: Tour schedules can change with weather, and if conditions are unsafe, the trip may be canceled with a full refund or rescheduling options. Expect a bumpy ride during big waves or rainy days.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with back problems. The boat’s size and activity level require a certain level of mobility.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

Travelers who love snorkeling and marine scenery will find plenty to enjoy here. It’s especially good for those on a budget since the price includes transfers, lunch, and real value for the experience. The friendly crew and well-organized schedule make it suitable for solo travelers, couples, and small groups. If you’re after a laid-back day with lots of underwater exploration, this tour is an excellent pick.

Final Thoughts

The Koh Chang: 3 or 4 Islands Snorkel & Beach Tour offers an authentic, fun-filled day exploring some of Thailand’s most beautiful waters and islands. Its combination of value, comfort, and variety makes it a favorite among many visitors who want to experience the underwater world without overspending.

The short tour is perfect for those short on time or new to snorkeling, while the longer option suits travelers eager to explore more remote spots and linger on beaches. The guides’ friendliness and professionalism, combined with the quality of the snorkeling spots, ensure a memorable day.

Whether you’re after colorful reefs, relaxing beaches, or a lively boat ride, this tour delivers. Just remember to keep an eye on the weather forecast and arrive prepared, and you’ll leave with plenty of stories and stunning memories.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, for the 3 and 4 Islands tours, pickup is offered from the west side of Koh Chang, scheduled between 8:00 and 9:50 AM for the longer tour and 9:00 to 9:50 AM for the shorter one.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, cash for extras, and snacks if desired. The boat supplies a Thai lunch, but additional snacks are optional.

How long is the tour?
The 3 Islands tour lasts approximately 5.5 hours, while the 4 Islands tour extends to about 9 hours, including transfers and stops.

What are the main stops?
The shorter tour visits Koh Wai, Koh Lao Ya Nai, and Koh Klum, focusing on snorkeling and beach time. The longer tour explores Koh Rang, Koh Yak Yai, Koh Mapring, and Koh Yak Lek, with more snorkeling spots.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, many reviews praise the guides’ helpfulness, and snorkel spots are considered suitable for all levels. Basic swimming skills are recommended.

Can I book vegetarian meals?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if you notify the provider a day before the tour.

What if the weather isn’t good?
Tours may be canceled if conditions are unsafe, with options to reschedule or receive a full refund.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 2, pregnant women, or those with back problems or wheelchair users.

What kind of marine life can I expect to see?
Expect colorful fish, coral reefs, and possibly turtles, as mentioned by several reviewers.

How crowded is the boat?
The boat is described as spacious, but during peak times, it can feel a bit full. The crew tries to switch spots to avoid overcrowding at snorkeling sites.

In short, this tour provides a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and cultural flavor for anyone eager to discover Koh Chang’s waters. It’s an excellent way to spend a day, especially if snorkeling and scenic beaches are on your must-do list while in Thailand.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby