Similan Islands Luxury Catamaran Day Tour (Phuket / Khao Lak)

Taking a day trip to the Similan Islands from Phuket or Khao Lak is a popular way to experience Thailand’s famed marine beauty. This specific luxury catamaran tour promises a more comfortable, stable, and relaxed journey compared to traditional speedboat trips. We’ve gathered insights from travelers and reviews to give you an honest, detailed look at what makes this experience worth considering—and what might give you pause.

Personally, what stood out the most are the spacious boat that feels more like a floating lounge, the thoughtful itinerary that balances exploration with relaxing downtime, and the delicious onboard meals that make the long day feel more like a feast than a chore. That said, the price point does land on the higher side for a day trip, which might be a consideration if budget is a concern. This tour seems best suited for travelers craving comfort, excellent service, and plenty of time to soak in the islands rather than rushing through a packed schedule.

Good To Know

• Comfortable Experience: The luxury catamaran offers a more stable, spacious ride, perfect for those prone to seasickness or seeking a smoother journey.
• Relaxed Pace: Longer stops at key sites like Similan Island No. 8 allow for genuine exploration rather than hurried visits.
• Inclusive Meals: Three onboard meals plus snacks and drinks add great value, making it easier to enjoy the day without extra costs.
• Expert Guides & Photos: Knowledgeable crew enhance the experience, and free professional photos let you focus on the scenery.
• Ideal for Comfort Seekers: The tour’s quality features and relaxed schedule appeal particularly to those who prefer a more premium, less rushed adventure.
• Potential Downsides: The price might be high for some, and the tour’s maximum group size of 50 could lead to crowded moments if not managed well.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point at Thap Lamu Pier

The day begins early, with pickup options across Phuket and a morning meet at Thap Lamu Pier. You’ll have a chance to settle in, enjoy breakfast, and get introduced to your crew before setting sail. The pier itself is a bustling hub, and having included hotel pickup helps ease the logistics, especially after a long morning’s travel.

The First Stop: Similan Island No. 8

This is the highlight for many. The boat anchors here for roughly four hours—ample time to explore at your own pace. You’ll ascend Sailing Rock, which is not just a fun climb but offers a panoramic view of the island, perfect for photos. A professional onboard photographer captures this moment and others, providing up to five complimentary photos per guest.

Guests rave about the white-sand beach and the viewpoint. One reviewer mentioned, “The coral was great, and the boat super comfortable,” emphasizing the quality of the experience. Unlike rushed speedboat tours, this extended stay allows for relaxing beach walks, swimming, or simply soaking in the scenery without feeling hurried.

The Return to Thap Lamu Pier

After your island exploration, the boat heads back, and you’ll be rewarded with light snacks and a chance to unwind. This break is appreciated by travelers who want a breather between activities.

Snorkeling Adventures Near Islands No. 9 and No. 7

The itinerary then shifts to snorkeling, with the stops chosen based on the sea conditions, ensuring more comfort and safety. These sessions are a major draw—marine life, coral, and clear waters make for excellent photos and memories. The included gear, disposable mouthpieces, and snorkel socks show attention to detail, making the experience accessible and enjoyable.

The End of the Day

Back at the pier, after another short rest, the tour wraps up with a smooth return to your hotel. Many reviewers mention feeling well taken care of, with some praising the crew for their friendliness and professionalism.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Luxury catamaran with spacious decks for a more comfortable ride
• Round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off
• Three meals (breakfast, buffet lunch, light dinner), plus snacks and drinks
• Snorkeling gear and towels
• Entrance fee to the national park
• Insurance and onboard assistance with English-speaking crew

Not Included:

• Personal expenses and tips
• Items outside the listed inclusions

This comprehensive package emphasizes comfort and convenience, making it worth the slightly higher price compared to speedboat options. The quality of meals and the professional guidance add noticeable value—many reviewers appreciated the variety and quality of onboard food, noting that it felt more like a cruise than a basic tour.

The Experience: Comfort, Views, and Food

Travelers consistently praise the stability and space of the catamaran, highlighting how it makes the whole day more relaxing. Unlike smaller boats that can be crowded and bumpy, this vessel’s dual hull design minimizes motion and offers plenty of room to stretch out or socialize.

The views from Sailing Rock are spectacular, with many reviewers sharing photos of the sweeping island vistas and turquoise waters. One reviewer quipped, “Captain was informative, entertaining, and very friendly,” indicating the crew’s dedication to making sure guests are engaged and comfortable.

Food deserves a special mention. Multiple reviews describe the meals as “good” or “fantastic,” with some noting it rivaled a resort buffet. The onboard snacks and drinks keep you refreshed, and the fact that all meals are included makes this a stress-free experience.

Snorkeling & Marine Life

The snorkeling spots near Islands No. 9 and No. 7 are chosen based on sea conditions, which is a smart move. Reviewers loved the marine life and healthy corals, making their underwater time memorable. The gear provided is of decent quality, and disposable mouthpieces ensure hygiene.

Guides & Photos

The crew is often singled out for their friendliness and knowledge. Reviewers appreciated guides like Jasmine and Mike, who made the trip engaging and fun. The free photos from the onboard photographer are a lovely touch, capturing moments without the need for constant selfie-stick action.

Who’s This Tour For?

This trip is best for those who prioritize comfort and a leisurely pace over the cheapest possible option. If you dislike crowded boats, bumpy rides, or rushed sightseeing, this tour’s spacious catamaran and extended stops will be a breath of fresh air. It’s ideal for families, couples, or groups who want a premium experience with plenty of time to relax.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more adrenaline-fueled, quick-paced trip, you might find this tour slightly overpriced or too slow. It also isn’t suitable for pregnant travelers or those with certain medical conditions, as specified.

Final Thoughts

This Similan Islands luxury catamaran day tour offers a well-rounded, comfortable, and scenic way to explore one of Thailand’s most beautiful marine parks. The combination of relaxed exploration, quality meals, and expert guides makes it stand out from basic speedboat trips.

While the price may seem steep, the added comfort, longer island stops, and included photography make it a valuable choice for travelers who want a more premium experience. With a 4.5-star rating from many happy travelers, it’s clear that most guests leave with beautiful memories—and plenty of stunning photos.

If you’re seeking a day of adventure, relaxation, and luxury, this tour offers a great balance. Perfect for those who want to see the islands without sacrificing comfort, this trip is likely to leave a lasting impression.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off across Phuket are included, making logistics easier.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 14 hours, from early morning pickup to late afternoon return.

What meals are provided? The tour offers three onboard meals: breakfast, a buffet lunch, and a light dinner, along with snacks and soft drinks throughout the day.

Are snorkeling gear and towels provided? Yes, snorkeling gear with disposable mouthpieces, snorkeling socks, and towels are included.

Can I take photos during the trip? Absolutely! A professional onboard photographer will capture your moments, offering up to five free photos per guest.

Is this suitable for families? Yes, especially for those who value comfort and a relaxed schedule. However, check the physical activity level required, and note it’s not suitable for pregnant travelers or those with certain medical conditions.

What is the capacity of the boat? The tour accommodates up to 50 travelers, so it’s well-sized but can sometimes feel busy.

What are the main attractions? Ascending Sailing Rock for panoramic views, relaxing on white-sand beaches, and snorkeling amidst vibrant marine life.

How does this tour compare to speedboat options? The catamaran offers more space and stability, reducing seasickness and discomfort, along with longer stops for exploration.

To sum it up, this Similan Islands day tour brings together comfort, scenery, and good food in a way that appeals especially to travelers seeking a touch of luxury. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that balances adventure and relaxation, perfect for those who want to enjoy Thailand’s iconic islands without feeling rushed or cramped.