Phuket: Similan Islands Dream Voyager Speed Catamaran Tour

Planning a trip to Thailand’s stunning waters and coral reefs? The Similan Islands Day Tour on the Dream Voyager from Phuket promises a luxurious and adventure-filled day exploring some of the country’s most beautiful islands. While reviews suggest it’s a popular choice, we’ll look at what makes this experience stand out—and what you should consider before booking.

What we love about this tour? First, the luxury seating options, including lie-down beds in the Prestige Lounge. Second, the all-inclusive approach—meals, snorkeling gear, transfers—means less hassle and more fun. Third, the extensive itinerary that takes you to four islands, giving a taste of different beaches and snorkel spots.

A possible drawback? Some reviews hint that the comfort level may not quite match the marketing promises, with a few guests feeling the boat wasn’t as plush as hoped. This is worth considering if you prioritize utmost comfort, especially on longer tours or with sensitive travelers.

This experience appeals to families, couples, and solo travelers who want a full day of island hopping, beautiful scenery, and snorkeling without the stress of planning each detail. If you’re after a smooth, guided adventure with excellent food and decent amenities, this could be a good fit.

Good To Know

• Luxury seating options include lie-down beds and cozy booths, especially in the Prestige Lounge.
• All-inclusive package covers meals, snorkeling gear, transfers, and national park fees.
• Flexible itinerary with visits to four islands, including time on beaches and snorkeling spots.
• Round-trip transfers make it easy, with options for private booth seating and extra snacks.
• Experienced guides speak both English and Chinese, providing informative commentary.
• Reviews point to friendly staff and fantastic food, though comfort levels may vary.

Starting the Day: Convenience & Comfort from the Get-Go

The tour kicks off with pickup from your Phuket hotel, making it straightforward to begin without stress. You’ll be dropped off at Seven Plus Travel’s Similan pier—a private lounge where breakfast is served around 10:00 am. This early start ensures you get a full day of island exploration, though some travelers mention the ride to the pier can take about 1.5 hours, so a good nap or some breakfast beforehand might help.

The lounge is designed to give a relaxed start, with most travelers noting the breakfast is included and typically decent. The early departure, 30 minutes later than other tours, is a small but appreciated detail for those wanting a more leisurely morning. This extra half-hour can make a difference if you’re not a morning person.

The Catamaran: Speed, Comfort, and Seating Options

The fast Dream Voyager catamaran is designed for speed and stability, offering a smoother ride than traditional boats. Its sleek build allows for quick transfers between islands, maximizing your time on each stop.

Seats are a highlight here—especially the premium seating options like lie-down beds and cozy booths. The Prestige Lounge Bed Zone offers a more relaxed experience, perfect for those who want to lounge, sunbathe, or catch up on rest during transit. If you’re booking this option, you’ll want to select it during the reservation process.

Some reviews mention that not everyone found the comfort level as high as expected. One guest noted that the tour did not fully deliver on the promised comfort, which suggests that while the space is better than basic boats, it might not be top-tier luxury everywhere. But for a full-day tour, most find the seating comfortable enough to enjoy the scenery and relax.

Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Stop 1: Seven Plus Travel Similan Pier

Arriving here around 10 am, you’ll be greeted with a light breakfast. This is a good time to fuel up before heading out. The pier itself is a functional hub, with plenty of space to relax before embarking.

Stop 2: Similan Islands

The core of the day is at the Similan Islands—a UNESCO-protected marine park famed for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. You’ll depart around 10:30 am, heading toward Island No. 8. Here, you have about an hour to explore, relax on the beach, or do a quick hike to the Sail Rock viewpoint—a favorite for snapping photos and taking in sweeping views.

Snorkeling & Beach Time

Post-lunch, the boat moves to Island No. 9 for your first snorkel session. Guests rave about the colorful fish and coral—one review even quoted a guest saying, “Great time! We saw cool colorful fish.” The snorkeling gear included makes it easy to jump in without rental hassles.

Later, around 2:45 pm, it’s time to visit Island No. 4 for more beach lounging and free time. This is a chance to soak up the sun, swim, or simply unwind on the soft sands.

Second Snorkel & Return

In the late afternoon, around 4:00 pm, you’ll enjoy the second snorkeling session near Islands No. 5 and 6, with reviews highlighting the vibrant underwater life. Most find the second session just as rewarding as the first, with the added convenience of floating mats and snorkeling socks provided.

By 4:50 pm, the boat starts heading back, arriving at the pier around 6:20 pm. The day concludes with dinner and transfer back to your hotel, making it a full but manageable day.

Food & Drink: A Highlight for Many Guests

The included meals are a standout feature. Guests consistently mention the quality of the food, praising the variety and freshness of the included breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Fruits, soft drinks, and snacks are also provided throughout the day, ensuring you stay energized for snorkeling and beach activities.

One reviewer remarked, “The food was good, and it was a nice evening,” indicating that the meals are a pleasant surprise, especially considering the remote location. The onboard chef seems to understand the importance of good nourishment on a day packed with activity.

Snorkeling & Gear: What You Need to Know

Snorkeling gear—including masks, snorkels, disposable mouthpieces, floatation mats, and towels—is provided. Reviewers highlight the inclusion of snorkeling socks, which help prevent discomfort and blisters, enhancing the underwater experience. The floating mats provide a fun way to relax and enjoy the water without tiring out.

While the equipment is generally well-received, some travelers have noted that the snorkeling spots can be crowded depending on the day’s weather and the number of participants. Still, the clear waters and colorful fish make it worthwhile.

Crew & Guides: Friendly, Experienced, and Multi-lingual

Most reviews mention the friendly and helpful guides, with some highlighting Kai as a standout crew member, describing him as “super nice” and well-prepared. The guides speak both English and Chinese, making the trip accessible to a diverse group of travelers.

Guests appreciate the knowledgeable commentary during the trip, which enhances the experience without feeling overly scripted. The crew’s attentiveness to safety and guest comfort is often praised, although some guests suggest that comfort levels on the boat could be improved.

Price & Value: Is It Worth It?

At around $182 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive package with transfers, meals, snorkeling gear, and island entry fees included. Considering the full day on four islands, with multiple snorkeling sessions and gourmet meals, many guests find it good value, especially when compared to the hassle of organizing private transport and activities independently.

However, a few reviews mention that the comfort of the boat might not quite match the price tag, with some feeling that the reclining beds and cabins could be more plush. Still, for most travelers, the convenience and all-in-one approach outweigh this minor shortcoming.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip suits adventurous travelers who want to see the Similan Islands without the stress of planning. If you value good food, guided experiences, and convenience, you’ll enjoy the inclusiveness of this tour. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or solo travelers comfortable with boat travel and snorkeling.

However, if ultimate comfort or minimal boat time are top priorities, you might want to compare options, as some reviews suggest the boat might not be as luxurious as the marketing implies.

The Sum Up

The Similan Islands Dream Voyager Speed Catamaran Tour offers a solid blend of comfort, adventure, and convenience. While it might not be the most luxurious boat trip ever, it delivers on the essentials: stunning scenery, vibrant snorkeling, and good food—all wrapped in a guided package that takes the hassle out of a day trip.

For travelers who want an efficient, all-inclusive experience with opportunities to see multiple islands and enjoy quality meals, this tour provides excellent value. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate friendly guides and well-organized logistics.

Ultimately, if you’re seeking a stress-free way to explore the Similan Islands with great snorkeling and a comfortable ride, this tour is worth considering. Just be prepared for a day that’s busy and active, with comfort levels that might not be top-tier but are perfectly adequate for most.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers shared round-trip transfers across Phuket, making pickup and drop-off very convenient.

What’s the best part of the trip? Many guests highlight snorkeling sessions and the chance to relax on beautiful beaches as the highlight.

Are vegetarian or special diet meals available? The tour includes meals and fruits, but specific dietary requests aren’t detailed. It’s best to check with the provider if you have special needs.

How long is the boat ride? The speed catamaran makes the journey between islands quick, and the overall trip lasts around 8 hours 30 minutes.

What should I bring? Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and a hat are essentials. Snorkeling gear is provided, but if you prefer your own mask, bring it along.

Can I upgrade seating? Yes, premium seating options like lie-down beds are available in the Prestige Lounge, and you should select this during booking.

Is this tour suitable for children? It’s generally suitable for most travelers, but pregnant women and those with certain medical conditions are advised against sea travel for safety reasons.

In summary, the Dream Voyager Similan Islands tour combines good value, stunning scenery, and a hassle-free experience—perfect for those wanting to enjoy the magnificent marine environment without the fuss. While it might not deliver absolute luxury, it offers a balanced, enjoyable day out that many travelers will find rewarding.