Similan Islands Tour by Speed Catamaran with Snorkeling and Meals

Traveling to Thailand often means dreaming of crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant marine life. The Similan Islands are a top contender for anyone craving an unforgettable day on the water, and this speed catamaran tour promises just that. While it’s marketed as a premium experience, a few honest insights from recent travelers help paint a clearer picture of what you can expect.

What we love about this tour is the combination of convenience, diverse activities, and breathtaking scenery. The inclusion of hotel transfers, meals, and snorkeling gear makes it a practical choice, especially for those staying in Phuket or Khao Lak. Plus, the chance to hike to the Sail Rock viewpoint offers a nice balance between relaxing and adventurous moments.

However, a noteworthy consideration is that some guests were surprised by the vessel’s size and comfort — the tour is called a “catamaran,” but reviews indicate it felt more like a crowded speedboat. This might impact those expecting a smoother, more spacious ride. This tour is best suited for families seeking a full-day escape, adventure lovers eager to snorkel, and nature enthusiasts wanting stunning views. If you’re looking for a laid-back, ultra-luxurious cruise, you might want to consider other options.

Good To Know

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Transfers, meals, snorkeling gear, and a guide are included, making for a hassle-free experience.
• Diverse Activities: Snorkeling at top spots, exploring islands, hiking to a viewpoint, and relaxing on pristine beaches.
• Authentic Natural Beauty: Expect vibrant coral reefs, lush wildlife, and sweeping views from Sail Rock.
• Average Comfort Level: While the vessel is described as a catamaran, some reviews suggest the ride might be crowded and less luxurious than expected.
• Family and Adventure Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, excluding very young children and pregnant women.
• Value for Money: At $109.20, you get a lot of activities, transportation, and meals, but the experience’s quality may vary depending on personal expectations.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off early, with pickup from hotels in Phuket or Khao Lak around 5:30 am. This early start is typical for full-day excursions in this region, aiming to maximize your time on the water. The transfer is via air-conditioned van, adding comfort to the journey. We appreciate the one-time luggage fee of 300 THB for an extra piece, which is practical if you’re traveling light but still carrying some gear.

The Wow Andaman Pier: First Impressions

Arriving at Wow Andaman Pier, travelers get to enjoy a breakfast with scenic views before collecting snorkeling gear and receiving a safety briefing. The staff are generally praised for their friendliness and professionalism. One reviewer mentioned that the crew was “great,” which sets a friendly tone for the day. This initial stop is about setting expectations and making sure everyone is prepared.

Traveling on the Speed Catamaran

The vessel itself takes about two hours to reach the Similan Islands. While it’s described as a catamaran, some guests have expressed disappointment, describing it more as an overcrowded speedboat. One review explicitly stated, “this is not a catamaran, it’s an overcrowded speedboat,” highlighting that it may not be as comfortable as some might hope for a premium experience.

However, the vessel’s double-hull design promises a faster, more stable ride compared to traditional speedboats, although the actual comfort level depends heavily on group size and weather conditions. Expect a lively atmosphere, especially if the tour is full—up to 70 travelers are possible.

Island Hopping and Snorkeling

The itinerary includes visits to Koh Miang, with its soft white sands and wildlife, and Payu Island, renowned for vibrant coral reefs. The snorkeling gear is provided and is a highlight for many travelers, given the chance to see colorful fish and coral up close. One guest mentioned, “snorkeling at Payu Island was fantastic, with lively marine life and clear water,” which is consistent with the reputation of these spots.

Another reviewer pointed out that they appreciated the flexibility to snorkel at multiple sites, including Ba Ngu Island, famous for shallow waters and lettuce corals. These stops are carefully chosen for their marine diversity, making the snorkeling experience worthwhile.

Lunch and Relaxation

A hearty lunch set amidst natural scenery is included, and many find this a highlight of the trip. The meal is well-presented, offering a break from the water activities and a chance to unwind on the beach. Following lunch, there’s time to relax or take a swim. The beaches, described as powdery and white, provide excellent spots for lounging or taking photos.

The Sail Rock Viewpoint Hike

For those seeking a brief adventure, the tour offers a hike to Sail Rock, which provides panoramic views of the islands and the sea. It’s a popular photo op and a chance to stretch your legs after a day of swimming. Reviews mention that guides are knowledgeable, explaining the significance of the viewpoint and pointing out wildlife, which enhances the experience.

Final Snorkeling and Return Journey

The last snorkeling stop at Ba Ngu Island is often praised as the “best shallow-water spot” by reviewers, filled with vibrant marine life. Afterward, the boat departs back to the pier, and travelers can enjoy a special Southern Thai dinner onboard, a fitting end after a full day in paradise.

The return journey is about 1.5 hours, giving you some time to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures. Arriving back at Wow Andaman Pier, the experience wraps up with a sense of accomplishment and plenty of memories.

The Practicalities: What to Expect

Inclusions and Value

This tour offers a lot for its $109.20 price point—round-trip transfers, meals, snorkeling gear, and a guide. The inclusion of accident insurance adds peace of mind, especially for those new to snorkeling or island excursions.

What’s Not Included

Extra luggage costs are minimal but worth noting if you’re planning to bring more than one bag. The deposit for snorkeling equipment is 200 THB, which is standard but good to prepare for.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 70 travelers, the group can feel lively but not overwhelming if the boat isn’t at full capacity. Still, the reviews reveal that the vessel can feel crowded, so managing expectations about comfort is wise.

Timing and Pacing

The tour’s schedule is quite packed, with multiple stops and activities. While this maximizes your exposure to the islands, it also means little downtime. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, this might not be the best fit.

Authentic Experiences from Past Travelers

One review highlighted, “the crew is great,” which adds a personal touch often felt with smaller, attentive groups. Another appreciated the knowledgeable guides who explained the wildlife and geological features during the hike to Sail Rock, enriching the experience beyond just swimming and sunbathing.

However, some guests expressed disappointment about the vessel’s comfort. The quote, “this is not a catamaran, it’s an overcrowded speedboat,” underscores that while the tour offers fantastic scenery and activities, the ride might not be as smooth or spacious as expected.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure seekers eager to snorkel in vibrant reefs, families wanting a full day of fun and exploration, and nature lovers drawn to stunning viewpoints and wildlife. The inclusion of meals and transfers makes it a convenient all-in-one package, especially for visitors staying in Phuket or Khao Lak.

It’s less suited for travelers who prioritize luxury or quiet, spacious boats. If you’re expecting a serene cruise or traveling with very young children or pregnant women, you might want to explore other options or modify expectations.

Final Thoughts

This Similan Islands tour offers an engaging snapshot of Thailand’s incredible marine and island scenery. While the vessel’s comfort level may vary, the quality of snorkeling, the vistas from Sail Rock, and the overall package make it a strong choice for those wanting a full-day adventure packed with activity and natural beauty.

The tour’s inclusions and knowledgeable guides help deliver good value, and the chance to explore these protected islands is genuinely special. Expect a lively, energetic atmosphere, and be prepared for some crowds — but in return, you’ll get a vibrant, memorable day in one of Thailand’s most scenic national parks.

For travelers keen on exploring marine life and scenic viewpoints without fuss, this tour hits many of the right marks. Just keep your expectations in check regarding boat comfort and be ready for a day full of sun, sea, and spectacular views.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from hotels in Phuket and Khao Lak, with the timing confirmed after booking.

What should I bring for snorkeling?
Snorkeling gear is provided, but you’ll need a deposit of 200 THB. It’s also wise to bring a towel, sunscreen, and waterproof camera if you have one.

How long is the boat ride?
The trip to the islands takes about two hours each way on the speed vessel.

Can I hike Sail Rock?
Yes, there’s an opportunity to hike to the Sail Rock viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the islands and sea.

What meals are included?
The tour provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a variety of dishes suited to the day’s activities.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children under 19 months and seniors over 70 are not permitted. Pregnant women are also advised against joining.

How crowded is the boat?
The maximum group size is 70 travelers, and some reviews mention the vessel can feel quite crowded, especially during peak season.

What happens if I cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, receiving a full refund.

This comprehensive review aims to prepare you for what to expect on the Similan Islands speed catamaran trip, helping you decide if it matches your travel style and expectations.