Koh Samui: Pig Island Private Longtail Boat Tour

Introduction

If you’re looking for a unique day out on Koh Samui that combines adorable animals, snorkeling, and beautiful scenery, the Pig Island Private Longtail Boat Tour might just be your perfect escape. This experience offers a personalized way to explore some of the lesser-known islands surrounding Koh Samui, with a focus on interaction, relaxation, and underwater adventure.

What we love about this tour? First, the chance to meet the friendly swimming pigs on Pig Island—it’s a quirky highlight. Second, the secluded beaches and crystal-clear waters provide a peaceful backdrop for sunbathing or a quick dip. And third, the private boat ride means you can enjoy flexibility and intimacy that group tours often lack.

One consideration? Since the tour is mostly centered around natural attractions and animal encounters, it’s less about luxury or extensive amenities. If you’re after a more structured or high-end experience, this might feel a bit rustic.

This tour appeals most to travelers who crave authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventures—especially those who enjoy animals, snorkeling, and a relaxed pace.

Good To Know

• Private and flexible experience with an option for hotel pickup or meeting at Thong Krut Pier
• Meet and interact with friendly swimming pigs on Pig Island, a quirky and memorable highlight
• Snorkeling at Koh Taen offers vibrant marine life and coral reefs suitable for all levels
• Beautiful beaches and white sands perfect for unwinding or snapping photos
• Informed guides who share insights and keep the trip engaging
• Value for money with a tour that combines multiple attractions in just four hours

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point and Pickup Options

The tour begins either with hotel pickup (if you opt for this service) or at Thong Krut Pier, making it convenient regardless of where you stay on Koh Samui. The activity provider confirms the exact meeting time via email, so be sure to check your messages. The meeting point is at coordinates 9.420144081115723, 99.95689392089844, a straightforward spot for most travelers.

The Boat Ride and First Stop: Pig Island (Koh Madsum)

After a quick 15-20 minute ride on a private longtail boat, you arrive at Pig Island. This island isn’t just famous for its pigs—it’s also beautiful, with quiet beaches and shady spots under trees.

Most reviewers, like Mia from the UK, mention how the pigs are irresistibly cute and friendly, often swimming over to visitors. One guest described the experience as “the best day of our whole trip,” emphasizing the joy of feeding and playing with the pigs at their own pace. The guide usually allows ample time to interact, take photos, or just relax.

There’s also a local bar selling snacks and drinks, so you can unwind with a cold beverage while watching the pigs wade in the shallow waters. The relaxed atmosphere and the absence of crowds in the early morning (around 9 AM) make this a top highlight.

Koh Taen: Snorkeling and Marine Exploration

Next, the boat heads to Koh Taen, a small island known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. In reviews, guests have appreciated the snorkel spots—some mention that the guide feeds the fish to make the underwater show even more lively.

The snorkeling experience caters to both beginners and more experienced swimmers. Dive into waters where coral reefs and numerous fish are common. Reviewers like Elena from the UK highlight how their snorkeling was “amazing” and the best they’ve had, thanks to the clear visibility and active marine life.

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Additional Time and Flexibility

The tour’s itinerary includes about 45 minutes at Pig Island and roughly 45 minutes at Koh Taen, with additional time allocated for transfers and scenic views. The boat journey itself is about 20 minutes each way, making the entire experience efficient yet immersive.

Return Journey and Drop-off

Once the snorkeling and animal interactions are complete, the boat returns to Thong Krut Pier. If you’ve chosen the hotel pickup, you’ll be dropped right back at your accommodation; otherwise, you’ll head to a central point suitable for exploring more of Koh Samui.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Customization and Privacy

Unlike large group tours, this experience is a private arrangement, often with a friendly guide like Palm, who is praised for his detailed explanations and engaging personality. Guests report feeling relaxed and well taken care of, with some guides even creating souvenirs or taking professional photos—adding a personal touch that makes the trip memorable.

Authentic Encounters

The interaction with pigs is a genuine highlight. Reviewers note that arriving early (around 9 AM) allows you to beat the crowds, which can swell later in the morning. The pigs are surprisingly friendly and playful, often swimming over as soon as you step into the water.

Snorkeling Value

Koh Taen’s snorkeling spots are described as vibrant and lively, with marine life that appeals to all levels of experience. The guide’s feeding of the fish can turn an ordinary snorkel into a lively spectacle, as many reviewers appreciated.

Scenic Beauty and Relaxation

The beaches on Pig Island and Koh Taen are praised for their white sands and tranquil atmosphere. It’s a perfect setting if you want to escape the busy resorts and enjoy peaceful natural scenery.

Cost-Effective and Convenient

At around four hours, the tour offers great value—covering transport, snorkeling gear, animal encounters, and island exploration. The option for hotel pickup and private group arrangements enhances convenience, especially for those staying outside the main tourist hubs.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Transportation and Timing

The tour lasts about four hours, with flexible start times depending on your booking. The private longtail boat provides a scenic and authentic ride, and the entire process—from pickup to return—is designed for comfort and efficiency.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Being a private experience, the group size is small, often just your party and the guide. This intimacy allows for personalized attention, whether it’s extra time with the pigs or tailored snorkeling suggestions.

Cost and Value

Compared to other tours, this experience packs multiple highlights into a short period, making it a good value for the price. The reviews suggest that paying extra for a private boat is money well spent, offering flexibility and a less crowded experience.

Suitability

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, or those with back, heart, or high blood pressure issues, due to the nature of boat rides and physical activity involved.

Accessibility and Extras

The tour is conducted in English and Thai, with guides ready to answer questions and help make the day enjoyable. Tipping the guide after stopping at Koh Taen is encouraged, especially given the personalized service.

The Authentic Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviewers thoroughly enjoyed the knowledgeable guides who made the experience engaging. Paul from the UK, for example, appreciated how their guide Palm educated them on the islands and even made souvenirs.

Others loved the peaceful early morning visits, which allowed them to avoid crowds and spend quality time with the pigs and marine life. The snorkel sessions, often described as “loads of fish” and “amazing,” are a definite plus for underwater enthusiasts.

Many guests also appreciated the flexibility to customize stops, with some asking to spend more time at Koh Taen or at the snorkeling spots. The overall consensus is that this tour offers a blend of fun, relaxation, and authentic encounters.

The Sum Up

This private longtail boat tour around Koh Samui gives travelers a chance to enjoy unforgettable animal encounters, stunning beaches, and vibrant underwater scenes—all in just four hours. Its focus on personalized service and natural beauty makes it ideal for those seeking an authentic and relaxed experience, away from overly commercialized attractions.

If you’re open to playful pigs, snorkeling in clear waters, and exploring islands at your own pace, this tour offers excellent value for money. It’s a fantastic way to see a different side of Koh Samui, especially if you enjoy animals, tranquil beaches, and underwater adventures.

While it may not suit someone looking for luxury amenities or extensive sightseeing, it hits the sweet spot for travelers craving authenticity and intimacy—and, of course, adorable pigs.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup is available if you select that option. The provider will confirm your exact pickup time via email.

Where do I meet the guide if I don’t choose pickup?
You’ll meet at Thong Krut Pier. The exact location and time will be emailed to you.

How long is the boat ride to Pig Island?
The transfer is about 15-20 minutes, making the journey quick and scenic.

How much time do I get on Pig Island?
Most guests enjoy around 45 minutes to interact with the pigs, take photos, and relax.

What can I do at Koh Taen?
Snorkel in the clear waters, explore the beaches, and observe vibrant marine life.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the calm waters and private setting are generally family-friendly, but always check with the provider regarding specific age restrictions.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, especially with private tours, you can request additional time at certain spots like Koh Taen or the snorkeling area.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and waterproof camera are recommended for the beach and snorkeling.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included as part of the tour.

What if it rains or the tour gets canceled?
The provider will inform you in advance and offer a different date, an alternative tour, or a full refund.

In summary, this tour offers a friendly, intimate way to explore Koh Samui’s natural side, with the highlight being the adorable swimming pigs and vibrant underwater world. It’s perfect for animal lovers, snorkelers, and those wanting a peaceful day away from crowds.

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