Similan Catamaran Small Group Premium Tour Phuket/Khao Lak

Introduction

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring Thailand’s legendary Similan Islands without the crowds or cramped boats, a small-group premium catamaran tour might just be your perfect escape. We’ve looked into a highly-rated option that promises comfort, stunning scenery, and a touch of luxury—coming aboard the ALITA, a modern dual-engine yacht designed for relaxed cruising.

What makes this experience stand out are its intimate size (max 30 people), deluxe amenities, and a well-curated itinerary that hits all the high notes: crystal-clear snorkeling spots, picture-perfect beaches, and scenic viewpoints. The tour also emphasizes safety first, with full insurance and attentive guides that ensure you get the most out of your day.

One point to consider? The full-day trip from Phuket or Khao Lak is quite long—about 12 hours—so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy full-day adventures and don’t mind early starts. If you’re looking for a peaceful, yet action-packed escape to one of Thailand’s top marine parks, this tour hits the mark.

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Good To Know

• Small-group size (up to 30 guests) ensures a more relaxed and personalized experience
• Comfortable catamaran with shaded and open decks offers excellent views and space to unwind
• Diverse itinerary with snorkeling, beach visits, and viewpoints delivers a full day of activity
• Includes hotel transfers from Phuket or Khao Lak, making logistics simple
• Professional guides with good knowledge and attentive service enhance the trip
• Seasonal operation from October to May, so plan your trip accordingly

Overview of the Experience

This tour offers a luxury yacht experience to the Similan Islands, renowned for their extraordinary marine life, pristine beaches, and vivid coral reefs. It’s designed for those who want a comfortable, uncrowded, and well-organized day out—an upgrade from typical speedboats or large group tours.

The journey starts early with hotel pickup—from Phuket or Khao Lak—via air-conditioned minivan, which takes approximately 2-3 hours. This long transfer might seem like a commitment, but it’s necessary to reach the island’s remote location. The benefit? You’ll arrive at the pier relaxed and ready for a full day of adventure.

Once at the pier, you’ll register, enjoy a light breakfast, and then board the ALITA catamaran. The boat itself is notable for its stability and spacious design, with plenty of shaded areas and comfortable sunbeds to lounge on. The 360° viewing deck is perfect for soaking in the sea breeze and scenic views during the cruise.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Snorkeling at Island No.9
The trip kicks off with a snorkeling session near Island No.9, famous for excellent water visibility and vibrant coral reefs. Reviewers highlighted that the marine scenery here is spectacular, and there’s a good chance of spotting sea turtles. The guides were praised for their attentiveness—taking photos with guests’ phones and sharing them afterward, which adds a personal touch to the experience.

Island No.8 and Sail Rock
Next, the boat visits Island No.8, where you can relax on the white-sand beaches or take a short walk up to the Sail Rock viewpoint for panoramic photos. “The view from the viewpoint was unforgettable,” one reviewer shared, emphasizing how the scenery offers a perfect backdrop for photos and a peaceful break from snorkeling.

Lunch on Board
As the boat cruises to the next stop, a delicious buffet-style lunch is served, with options like fried fish, salmon, and fresh rolls. Reviewers raved about the quality of the food, noting it was more than just a simple meal. Special dietary requests, like gluten and dairy restrictions, are accommodated—an appreciated touch that elevates the overall value.

Island No.4: White-Sand Bliss
Afternoon activities include a stop at Island No.4, home to one of Thailand’s most beautiful white-sand beaches. Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or snapping photos, this spot is frequently described as a postcard-perfect setting. Guests often mention how the calm, clear waters make for ideal swimming conditions.

Second Snorkeling at Island No.7
The day’s second snorkeling session takes place near Island No.7, offering more marine life and stunning underwater scenery. Reviewers noted that the guides went out of their way to help guests spot sea creatures and took multiple photos, contributing to a more memorable experience.

Returning and Relaxing
As the day winds down, the boat begins its smooth return journey. Fresh fruit and soft drinks are served—perfect for rehydration after a day in the sun. Once back at the pier, a simple dinner wraps up the trip before guests are transferred back to their hotels.

What Travelers Love About This Tour

Intimate Group Setting
Many reviews highlight the small group size as a major plus. With only 30 guests maximum, there’s plenty of space to relax and avoid the chaos of larger tours. One reviewer from France appreciated the “uncrowded, relaxed environment,” which made the day much more enjoyable.

Comfort and Stability of the Catamaran
Compared to speedboats, the dual-engine catamaran is praised for its stability and comfort. Guests felt secure and comfortable, with plenty of shaded and open areas to sit and enjoy the scenery. The spacious decks received frequent mentions as ideal spots for sunbathing or taking photos.

Excellent Guides and Service
The reviews frequently mention the knowledgeable guides and attentive staff, who went beyond expectations—taking photos, providing first aid when needed, and making everyone feel cared for. One reviewer from Korea shared how staff checked on her injured sister and even sent photos afterward, which added a personal touch.

Quality Food and Refreshments
The onboard meals, especially the lunch, garnered praise for their quality and variety. Snacks and drinks are available throughout the day, making it a well-rounded experience. The fact that special dietary needs are considered is a plus for many travelers.

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Potential Drawbacks and Things to Keep in Mind

Long Transfer Time
The 2-3 hour transfer from Phuket or Khao Lak may be a downside for some, especially if you prefer to start your day later. However, this is common for trips to remote island destinations and is offset by the comfort of the minivan and the scenic drive.

Weather-dependent
Like any marine outing, the tour’s schedule can be affected by weather or sea conditions. The itinerary might change or be canceled for safety reasons, so staying flexible is recommended.

Limited Season
The Similan Islands are open seasonally from October 15 to May 15, so travelers visiting outside these months will need to look for alternative trips.

Not Suitable for Everyone
People with certain health conditions, pregnant women, infants, or older adults over 70 are advised against joining for safety reasons. Also, those with back or neck issues should consider their comfort level on a full day of boat travel.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This premium small-group tour offers a perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and authentic island beauty. It’s ideal for travelers who want to enjoy the Similan Islands in style, avoiding the chaos of larger boats and crowded beaches. The focus on personalized service, stunning scenery, and delicious food makes it worth the slightly longer travel time if you’re after a peaceful yet activity-rich day.

If you’re someone who appreciates well-organized logistics, a relaxed cruising experience, and the opportunity to explore Thailand’s top marine park in comfort, this trip is a top choice. It’s especially suitable for those who value good value for money—considering the inclusive meals, transfers, and attentive guides, it’s a full-day experience that feels like true luxury.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip hotel transfers from Phuket or Khao Lak, making logistics seamless and hassle-free.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a camera, and any personal essentials. The tour provides snacks and drinks throughout the day.

Is vegetarian food available?
If you require vegetarian meals, it’s best to contact the tour provider after booking so they can accommodate your dietary needs.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 30 guests, which keeps the experience intimate and less crowded.

Can I snorkel at multiple spots?
Absolutely. The itinerary includes two snorkeling sessions at different reef areas, enhancing marine viewing opportunities.

What is the best time of year to go?
The tour operates seasonally from October 15 to May 15, when the seas are calmer and the islands are open to visitors.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
It’s not recommended for infants under 1 year or pregnant women. Travelers over 70 or with certain health conditions should consult their doctor before booking.

Final Verdict

For anyone craving an unhurried, comfortable, and visually stunning day exploring the Similan Islands, this small-group premium catamaran tour hits all the right notes. Its focus on personal service, scenic beauty, and quality food makes it one of the better options available from Phuket or Khao Lak.

While the transfer may be long, the experience itself—cruising on a stable, spacious yacht to some of Thailand’s most breathtaking islands—is well worth it. Whether you’re snorkeling among colorful reefs or lounging on picture-perfect beaches, this tour offers an authentic slice of paradise with a touch of luxury. It’s perfect for travelers who want a memorable, well-organized day in one of Thailand’s most iconic marine parks, all in comfort and style.

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