Koh Samui: Electric Long-tail Boat Eco Tour to Pig Island

Exploring Koh Samui’s waters on a silent, eco-friendly electric long-tail boat sounds like a perfect way to see the islands without disturbing the peace. This tour offers a blend of fun, relaxation, and environmental care that appeals to travelers looking for more than just the typical day out. While it’s not a luxury cruise with all the bells and whistles, the genuine charm and thoughtful touches make it stand out.

What really sets this tour apart are the adorable beach pigs on Pig Island, the vibrant snorkeling spots at Koh Tan, and the chance to contribute to marine life restoration with artificial coral releases. Plus, traveling on a quiet electric boat means fewer fumes and more serenity, letting you truly soak in the natural beauty of Koh Samui’s waters. However, the tour’s reliance on sea conditions for snorkeling and some boat accessibility details might be considerations for certain travelers.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic experiences, environmental consciousness, and small-group intimacy, this tour could be just what you’re seeking. It’s especially suited for those looking to combine sightseeing with a sense of purpose—supporting marine conservation while having fun.

Good To Know

• Eco-friendly travel: The electric long-tail boat is silent and emission-free, making for a peaceful trip.
• Varied activities: Snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and coral restoration offer a well-rounded experience.
• Small group: Limited to 6 participants for personalized attention.
• Authentic encounters: Up-close moments with friendly pigs and knowledgeable guides.
• Environmental focus: Visitors help restore marine ecosystems through artificial coral releases.
• Not for everyone: Non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness should consider their comfort level.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Friendly Introduction to the Koh Samui Eco Adventure

This guided tour promises a combination of fun, conservation, and authentic island life—all aboard a boat that’s as kind to the environment as it is comfortable. We loved the idea of exploring Koh Samui using a 100% electric long-tail boat, which significantly reduces noise and pollution. It’s a breath of fresh air—literally—and sets a thoughtful tone for the day.

The tour’s highlights—snorkeling at Koh Tan, visiting Pig Island, and participating in coral restoration—are tailored to create memorable moments. The small group size (capped at six) assures plenty of space and attention, making this more than just a quick sightseeing trip.

One thing to consider is that sea conditions influence snorkeling visibility and activities, so some days might see more time spent at Pig Island if snorkeling isn’t ideal. Still, the experience is flexible and designed to maximize your time enjoying Koh Samui’s natural beauty.

This tour is perfect for eco-conscious travelers, small groups, families with older children, or anyone looking for a meaningful way to explore Koh Samui beyond crowded tourist spots.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Transport

Your day begins with a hotel pickup in Koh Samui, making the experience hassle-free from the start. The transfer takes about an hour to reach Thong Krut Pier, which offers a scenic introduction to the island’s quieter southern coast.

Thong Krut Pier and Departure

Once at Thong Krut, you’ll board your electric long-tail boat — a modern twist on a traditional Thai vessel. The boat’s design prioritizes comfort, quiet operation, and environmental sustainability. The onboard crew, including guides like Chai and Ekke (according to reviews), are personable and well-informed, ready to make your experience informative and enjoyable.

More Great Tours Nearby

Koh Madsum: Pig Island

The first major stop is Pig Island (Koh Madsum), known for its friendly beach pigs. Expect adorable photo opportunities and some fun interactions. Reviewers highlight how well the pigs are cared for by a local family, which adds an ethical touch to this charming visit.

Pro tip: Reviewers mention that the pigs are very used to visitors, making it a relaxed and enjoyable stop. Be cautious with pig bites—some reviews warn about the need for rabies shots if bitten—so always approach with care.

Koh Tan: Snorkeling and Marine Life

Next, the trip heads to Koh Tan, famed for its clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Snorkeling here offers a glimpse into Thailand’s underwater beauty, though visibility can vary depending on sea conditions. Some reviews note that the coral and tropical fish may be harder to spot if the water isn’t perfectly clear, but the experience itself remains rewarding.

The guides, like Chai, are praised for their helpful attitude and photography skills, often taking pictures of guests in action. You’ll also have the chance to kayak or paddleboard directly from the boat, adding a playful element to your marine adventure.

Coral Restoration: Giving Back to the Sea

An innovative aspect of this tour is the artificial coral release, where guests contribute to reef restoration. This eco-conscious activity adds a meaningful layer to the day, allowing travelers to actively participate in marine conservation efforts.

Return Journey

After the activities, the boat returns to Thong Krut Pier, with a scenic hour-long ride back to Koh Samui. The quiet electric engine ensures a peaceful, smoke-free return, and guests often comment on how relaxing the journey was.

The Experience on the Ground and the Boat

The boat itself is described as clean, comfortable, and well-equipped, with amenities like onboard restrooms and fresh refreshments including fruits, coconut water, and orange juice. Since the boat operates on a prototype electric motor, it’s quieter than conventional long-tail boats, which many guests appreciate for the serenity it offers.

Guests have also noted that the guides are bilingual (Thai and English), making explanations and instructions clear. Their local knowledge enriches the experience, especially when it comes to understanding the ecosystems and cultural nuances of each island stop.

Activity Timing and Flexibility

With a duration of about four hours, the tour strikes a good balance between sightseeing and relaxation. The schedule is flexible depending on weather conditions, especially for snorkeling, which is dependent on the day’s sea state. Reviewers mentioned that if snorkeling isn’t ideal, more time is spent at Pig Island—still a highlight.

Pricing and Value

While the exact price isn’t listed here, the experience’s value lies in its small group intimacy, eco-focus, and variety of activities. Guests rave about the personal attention they receive, and the fact that the boat is electric adds a sustainable touch that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This eco-friendly adventure suits those who want more than just sunbathing and are interested in engaging with nature. Families with children over a certain age, solo travelers, or couples looking for a relaxed, environmentally conscious experience** will find it rewarding.

It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides, authentic interactions, and a chance to contribute positively to marine conservation. Those who prefer small, intimate groups will especially enjoy the personalized attention.

Who Might Not Find This Tour Suitable?

• Non-swimmers or those uncomfortable in open water should consider their comfort level with snorkeling.
• Travelers prone to seasickness may want to take precautions, as boat movement can vary.
• Those expecting luxury amenities or a high-speed boat might find the electric boat a bit slower and simpler.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a rare blend of eco-consciousness, fun, and authenticity. The effort to support marine restoration, coupled with the intimate group size, makes it stand out from more generic day trips.

You’ll love the gentle, quiet ride—a stark contrast to louder speedboats—and the chance to interact with friendly pigs and vibrant marine life. The knowledgeable guides, especially Chai and Ekke, bring a warm, personal touch and a wealth of local insights that elevate the experience.

Given the small group size, personalized service, and focus on sustainability, this tour is a fantastic choice for travelers who want a meaningful day out in Koh Samui. It’s particularly suitable for those eager to support conservation efforts while enjoying the island’s natural beauty.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from most hotels in Koh Samui is included, making the start of your day hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 4 hours, offering a good mix of activities without feeling rushed.

Can I do snorkeling if I’ve never snorkeled before?
While snorkeling is available at Koh Tan, it depends on sea conditions. The guides are helpful, but if conditions aren’t ideal, more time might be devoted to Pig Island.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Not really. Non-swimmers might find snorkeling or paddling challenging, so check your comfort level before booking.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, sunscreen, beachwear, and some cash for extras or tips.

What if the boat breaks down or has technical issues?
Reviews mention that the electric boat is a prototype and sometimes experiences technical hiccups (like battery issues), but the crew is generally understanding and accommodating—sometimes switching to a different boat if needed.

This Koh Samui eco tour marries adventure with responsibility, giving you a chance to see the islands from a fresh perspective while supporting conservation efforts. Whether you’re into snorkeling, adorable pigs, or simply relaxing on a quiet boat, it’s a worthwhile experience that balances fun and purpose.

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