Snorkelling Trip 5 Island Tour Around Koh Tao and Koh Nang yuan

Exploring Koh Tao’s Underwater Wonders on the 5 Island Snorkeling Tour

When it comes to snorkeling adventures around Koh Tao, this 5 Island Tour from Sangthong Tours promises a full day of marine exploration, stunning vistas, and hassle-free logistics. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-organized, value-packed choice for travelers eager to experience the best of Koh Tao’s underwater world.

What we love about this trip? First, it covers multiple snorkeling spots in one day, saving you the trouble of organizing transport between islands. Second, the included snorkeling gear makes it easy to jump right into the water without extra costs or fuss. Lastly, the combination of a delicious Thai lunch, beautiful viewpoints, and the chance to swim alongside sea turtles and reef sharks makes it an experience packed with variety and memorable moments.

However, a consideration might be the crowd factor—even with smaller groups, popular sites can get busy underwater, affecting the serenity of your snorkeling experience. This trip is ideal for those who value convenience, good value, and a balanced mix of activity and relaxation. It suits travelers who want to see as much as possible but still enjoy a comfortable, guided tour.

Good To Know

• Multiple snorkeling sites in one day, including Mango Bay and Shark Bay
• All-inclusive gear rental, lunch, and drinks for a stress-free experience
• Easily organized transfers from your hotel, with pickup and drop-off
• Opportunities to spot sea turtles and reef sharks at Shark Bay
• A well-balanced itinerary combining underwater exploration, scenic viewpoints, and local cuisine
• Suitable for most travelers, with a maximum of 50 participants ensuring a lively but manageable group

👉 See our pick of the 3 Best 3 Day Tours In Koh Tao

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Mae Haad Pier

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup, which is a real plus for those staying on Koh Tao. A comfortable drive takes you to Mae Haad Pier, where the Sangthong Tours crew awaits. This initial transfer removes any guesswork or planning on your part, allowing you to relax and get ready for a full day ahead.

Nang Yuan Island: Iconic Beach and Viewpoint

Your first stop is Nang Yuan Island, famous for its picturesque, linked beaches and the panoramic view from the peak. Walking on the bridge connecting the three islands, you’ll appreciate the awe-inspiring scenery and crystal-clear waters. Reviewers mention that walking to the viewpoint is a highlight, with some noting it takes about 2 hours including time to explore and swim. The island’s admission fee isn’t included, but most find the stunning vistas worth the small extra cost.

Mango Viewpoint and Mango Bay

Next, you’ll head to Mango Bay, known for its turquoise waters and the lush mango trees that once lined its shores. Here, you’ll enjoy a Thai-style lunch on board, which many reviews praise as tasty and satisfying—even vegetarians have options. Expect fresh fruits and drinks, perfect for recharging after the snorkeling at Nang Yuan.

Hin Wong Bay: Underwater Wonder

Following lunch, the tour visits Hin Wong Bay, a marine hotspot with big boulders and abundant coral pinnacles. The vibrant underwater landscape is filled with anemones, colorful fish, and fertile coral. Reviewers highlight the diversity of marine life, though some mention water current conditions can vary.

Aow Leuk Beach: Calm and Clear

The trip continues to Aow Leuk Beach, renowned for its clear, low-tide friendly waters. Its deep, concave shape makes it ideal for snorkeling even when the tide is low. Expect serene scenery and good visibility, which many find makes for a relaxing snorkel. It’s a great spot to pause and savour the tranquil beauty of Koh Tao’s coastline.

Shark Bay: Turtle and Reef Shark Encounter

The final snorkeling stop is Shark Bay, a major highlight. Here, guests can swim alongside blacktip reef sharks and sea turtles, two of the most sought-after marine encounters in Koh Tao. Multiple reviews mention how exciting it is to see these creatures up close, with one reviewer describing it as “swimming with the turtles and baby sharks.” The water here is typically calm, making it suitable for all levels.

Return to Mae Haad Pier

After roughly 40 minutes at Shark Bay, the boat heads back to the pier. The trip concludes with a drop-off at your hotel, making it easy to unwind and share the day’s highlights.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Snorkeling equipment and life jackets to make your underwater experience safe and comfortable
• A delicious Thai lunch, with vegetarian options available, and fresh fruits
• Bottled water, coffee, and pineapple cookies for hydration and energy
• Access to underwater photography, so you can relive the fun later

Not included:

• The entry fee to Nang Yuan Island, costing 250 THB for adults and 120 THB for children, payable directly at the site

Practical Tips

Since the tour is well-organized with pickup from your hotel, you won’t need to worry about transport logistics. The seven-hour duration makes it a full day but not overly exhausting, allowing plenty of time to explore each site. The small group size, as noted by reviewers, ensures you won’t feel lost or overwhelmed in large crowds, especially at popular spots like Nang Yuan or Shark Bay.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers love how well-organized and fun the trip is, with many mentioning the friendly, helpful guides. One reviewer noted the crew even made a birthday cake, adding a personal touch that made their experience extra special. The combination of good value and delicious food is frequently praised, with many saying it’s the perfect way to see the highlights of Koh Tao without the hassle of planning.

Some feedback points to consider: a few guests noted about crowding in the water, especially at busy spots. Others expressed disappointment with marine life sightings, which can be unpredictable due to weather or currents. Nonetheless, most reviewers found the experience worth the price, especially given the inclusions like gear, lunch, and transfers.

The Value of This Tour

At approximately $27.38 per person, the value is impressive. Paying for gear, lunch, transfers, and multiple snorkeling sites separately would easily add up, making this trip a cost-effective way to explore Koh Tao’s underwater world. Plus, the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off means you spend less time coordinating and more time enjoying.

The inclusion of underwater photos is a bonus, allowing you to preserve your marine moments without extra effort or expense. The scenic viewpoints and diverse snorkeling spots offer a well-rounded experience — whether you’re after marine life, stunning vistas, or just a relaxing day on the water.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers who want a comprehensive, guided snorkeling day. It’s especially suited for those who value great value for money, delicious Thai food, and the chance to see sea turtles and reef sharks in relatively calm waters. If you’re short on time but want to tick off multiple sites, this tour covers all the essentials comfortably within a day.

Travelers who prefer small groups and organized logistics will appreciate the smooth, hassle-free nature of this trip. However, those seeking a more exclusive or private experience might find the group size and crowding at some stops less ideal.

FAQs

Is the snorkeling gear included?
Yes, the tour provides snorkeling equipment and life jackets as part of the package, so you can jump into the water without bringing your own gear.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to your hotel afterward.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?
Yes, the Thai lunch includes vegetarian options, and there’s a variety of fruits and drinks to enjoy.

Do I need to pay extra for entrance fees?
The entry fee to Nang Yuan Island (250THB for adults, 120THB for children) is not included and must be paid on-site.

What marine life might I see?
Guests often spot sea turtles, blacktip reef sharks, and a variety of colorful fish, although sightings depend on weather and current conditions.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is designed for most travelers, but always check your child’s swimming ability, as snorkeling involves being comfortable in open water.

Final Thoughts

This Snorkeling Trip around Koh Tao’s 5 Islands offers a fantastic mix of marine adventures, scenic vistas, and local flavors. It’s a great choice if you want a straightforward, worry-free way to explore some of Koh Tao’s top snorkeling spots with an experienced team. The inclusion of gear, lunch, and transfers makes it both practical and budget-friendly, while the chance to swim with turtles and sharks adds an element of thrill.

For travelers craving an active, social, and visually stunning day out on the water, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate good organization, honest reviews, and a well-rounded snorkeling experience in one of Thailand’s most beautiful islands.

In summary, this tour serves as a reliable, value-packed option for anyone looking to explore Koh Tao’s underwater beauty without the hassle of planning every detail. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer eager to see marine life in a safe setting, it’s a solid choice that balances fun, comfort, and affordability.