Koh Samui: Island Hopping Adventure in Coral and Pig Island

Imagine a day spent bouncing between turquoise waters, wild pigs, and untouched beaches—all in just 7 hours. That’s exactly what this Koh Samui island hopping tour promises. From vibrant coral reefs to playful pigs, it’s a compact adventure that offers a lovely mix of nature, fun, and flavors.

What we love about this experience? First, the small group size (limited to just 9 people) makes the day feel personal and relaxed. Second, the knowledgeable guides are genuinely passionate, sharing fun facts and ensuring everyone feels comfortable. Third, the delicious local lunch and the chance to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters are highlights.

One thing to keep in mind: sea conditions can affect the itinerary, and the trip may sometimes be a bit shorter or slightly adjusted. So, flexibility is key. This tour is ideal for travelers who crave a day of diverse activities—snorkeling, wildlife encounters, and beach lounging—without the fuss of full-day commitments.

Good To Know

• Short but packed: 7-hour tour covering multiple highlights
• Small group intimacy: Limited to 9 participants for a more personal experience
• Responsible tourism: Eco-conscious practices with water in glass bottles & carbon offsetting
• Diverse activities: Snorkeling, pig encounters, beach relaxation, and tasty Thai lunch
• Expert guides: Friendly, knowledgeable, with a focus on safety and fun
• Weather flexibility: Itinerary can shift depending on sea conditions

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Koh Samui Island Hopping Tour

This tour is designed for travelers who want an efficient yet immersive taste of Koh Samui’s coastal charms. Starting early in the morning, you’ll be picked up from your accommodation and taken to Thong Krut Pier, where the adventure begins. From there, a boat whisks you away to explore three main spots: Pig Island, Koh Tean, and Koh Madsum.

The Journey Begins at Thong Krut Pier

Your day kicks off with a brief safety briefing—usually about 15 minutes—where your guide will go over the plan and safety tips. It’s also a chance to meet your small group and get excited. The boat ride to Pig Island takes about 25 minutes, giving you a taste of the sea breeze and scenic views.

First Stop: Koh Madsum (Pig Island)

Arriving at Koh Madsum, you’ll have around 80 minutes to wander, take selfies with the wild pigs, and enjoy the quirky vibe of this uninhabited island. Reviewers emphasize that the pigs are quite friendly, though they are wild pigs, so don’t expect trained pets. They’re social and curious, often coming close to visitors, which makes for some memorable photos.

Authentic travelers note that guides like Wan or Paly are exceptional—friendly, attentive, and happy to help capture your best moments. Several reviews mentioned how guides go out of their way to ensure everyone is comfortable, safe, and snapping great pictures.

Moving to Koh Tean for Snorkeling and Lunch

Next, a roughly one-hour boat ride brings you to Koh Tean. Here, the emphasis is on swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. The waters are clear and inviting, perfect for spotting colorful marine life. Reviewers shared that the snorkeling spots are lively, often teeming with fish, and the shallow waters make it accessible for all levels.

Lunchtime is served on Koh Tean: a well-prepared meal in a lovely setting. Guests frequently praise the delicious, freshly cooked Thai food, with some noting that dietary needs like vegetarian options are well catered to. After eating, you’ll have about two hours to enjoy the beach, swim, or snorkel further.

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Free Time and Relaxation

Many travelers highlight the untouched, tranquil beaches with soft sands and calm waters. It’s a chance to soak up the sun, paddle in the shallow bay, or take short walks along the coast. The overall vibe is laid-back—ideal for disconnecting from busy schedules.

Return Journey

The boat ride back to Thong Krut takes approximately 30 minutes, and after disembarking, a transfer will return you to your accommodation. The total on-water time is around 4 to 5 hours, giving you a balanced mix of adventure and downtime.

Highlights of the Tour

Swim with Colorful Marine Life in Koh Tean

The snorkeling spots on Koh Tean are often described as lively and vibrant. With clear waters and abundant fish, you’ll love the chance to see marine life close-up. Several reviews mention snorkeling as a fun, accessible activity, with some guides even offering free kayaking at the end of the day.

Meet the Wild Pigs of Koh Madsum

The highlight for many is the chance to see and interact with the pigs on Koh Madsum. These wild pigs are friendly and social, often coming close to visitors. One reviewer joked that the pigs are “social and shy,” but all agree they’re adorable and make for some fun photos.

Enjoy a Delicious Thai Lunch

Lunch on Koh Tean is noted for its quality and flavor. Guests consistently mention the tasty, freshly cooked dishes—cooked with care—and appreciate that vegetarian options are available. It’s a great way to fuel up between water activities.

Responsible Exploration

This tour emphasizes eco-consciousness—offering water in glass bottles and offsetting carbon emissions. Such efforts mean you can enjoy your day knowing your impact on the environment is minimized.

Relax on Secluded Beaches

The beaches are pristine, with soft sand and calm, shallow waters perfect for swimming or lounging. It’s a peaceful setting away from tourist crowds, especially during the early hours.

The Experience: What It’s Like in Practice

The small group format means you’re not just a number on a boat. Many reviewers highlight their guides’ friendly and professional approach, such as Ann or Wan, who go above and beyond to make the day special. Expect personalized attention, helpful tips, and plenty of opportunities for photos—whether with the pigs or the stunning scenery.

The boat itself is comfortable, and the timing at each stop is generally considered well-paced. Guests note that the total boat time is around 4-5 hours, which is enough to feel immersed without feeling rushed.

Weather can influence the trip—some reviews mention that the itinerary might be adjusted if the sea gets choppy. This flexibility is a good thing, as safety always comes first. Plus, guides are experienced and know how to adapt, ensuring you still enjoy your day.

The Guides Make the Difference

Guests often praise the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm. For example, one reviewer mentioned that Mario “was brilliant,” and others highlighted guides like Paly or Wan for their helpfulness, humor, and professionalism. Their willingness to take photos and ensure everyone is safe adds genuine value.

Food and Comfort

The included lunch consistently receives praise for its quality. Guests enjoy the local flavors, and vegetarians are well looked after. The tour also provides time to relax and enjoy the scenery—so even if you’re not into water sports, there’s plenty to savor.

Value for Money

Considering the small group size, knowledgeable guides, multiple stops, and included meals, many find this tour offers excellent value. It combines a variety of activities—snorkeling, wildlife encounters, beaches—in just one day, making it a cost-effective way to see Koh Samui’s highlights.

Practical Details

• The tour lasts around 7 hours with pickup from your hotel or accommodation.
• It includes boat rides, guides, lunch, and snorkeling equipment.
• Wear comfortable shoes, swimwear, sun protection, and bring a towel, camera, and cash for extras.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women.
• Pickup services are only from registered accommodations, so plan accordingly.
• The itinerary is flexible based on weather, and the boat ride duration is about 4-5 hours in total.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This island hopping experience suits travelers who want a diverse day out—mixing wildlife, water activities, and scenic relaxation. It’s perfect for those who appreciate small groups, knowledgeable guides, and responsible tourism. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo, it offers a friendly, fun environment to meet new people while exploring Koh Samui’s coastal treasures.

It’s also ideal for first-timers or those short on time, as it packs multiple highlights into one manageable day. However, if you’re seeking extensive snorkeling or want to spend hours in one spot, you might find this tour more paced than some prefer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the activities like swimming, snorkeling, and beach lounging are generally family-friendly. However, supervision is recommended for very young children. The trip is designed for small groups, so the atmosphere is relaxed and accommodating.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and some cash for extras. Water is provided in glass bottles, but it’s good to stay hydrated.

How long is the boat ride?
The total boat time is approximately 4-5 hours, with the initial ride to Pig Island taking about 25 minutes and subsequent rides to Koh Tean and back.

Can I go snorkeling if I’m a beginner?
Yes. Many reviewers mention that the snorkeling is suitable for all levels, and the waters are shallow and calm. Snorkeling gear is often provided.

Are there vegetarian or special dietary options?
Absolutely. Guests have noted that the included lunch caters well to vegetarians, with tasty, freshly cooked dishes.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather conditions. Guides are experienced in making safe decisions, so expect some flexibility, and the tour still aims to maximize your experience.

Final Thoughts

This Koh Samui island hopping tour offers a well-balanced day of adventure, wildlife encounters, and relaxation. Its small-group approach, eco-conscious practices, and diverse activities mean you’re getting good value and genuine experiences. Whether you’re snapping selfies with the pigs, snorkeling alongside a rainbow of fish, or basking on quiet beaches, it’s a memorable way to enjoy Koh Samui’s coastal beauty.

Perfect for first-time visitors, solo travelers, or those seeking a comprehensive yet laid-back day, this tour promises fun, friendship, and fantastic scenery. Just remember to stay flexible, bring your camera, and enjoy the ride.

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