Private Longtail Boat Tour to Koh Madsum and Koh Tan

If you’re looking to escape the busy crowds and experience a more relaxed side of Thailand’s islands, this private longtail boat tour to Koh Madsum and Koh Tan offers a charming, personalized adventure. While it’s not perfect—and some reviews highlight areas for improvement—it does provide a chance to explore some lesser-known spots with a focus on tranquility, nature, and fun animal encounters.

What we appreciate most about this journey is the opportunity to snorkel in clear waters filled with vibrant coral, the chance to relax on pristine beaches, and the fun of meeting the island’s friendly pigs on Madsum. The personalized nature of the tour, with only your group involved, enhances the experience, making it more intimate than typical group outings.

However, it’s worth noting that some travelers feel the overall value may not match the price, especially if snorkeling isn’t as impressive as hoped. This tour suits those who prioritize a laid-back, customizable day on the water, and who are happy to pay a premium for privacy and unique animal encounters rather than high-end amenities.

Personalized private experience with only your group involved
Opportunities for snorkeling and swimming in unspoiled waters
Fun and casual pig island visit—a highlight for many
The timing and duration give enough time to explore without feeling rushed
Some reviews suggest the snorkeling quality and overall value could be better
Includes all fees and taxes, bottled water, and snorkeling gear

This tour offers a straightforward package that covers all fees and taxes—no hidden costs—and supplies bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and life jackets. The tour is designed to be simple and relaxed, perfect for those who want to avoid the complexities of organizing their own transport or activities.

Not included is lunch, so plan to bring your own or eat beforehand. Plus, private transportation isn’t part of the package, so your transfers are either from your hotel or meeting point at Thongkrut Pier. The tour begins at a designated meeting point, making it convenient if you’re staying nearby or can arrange local transport.

Stop 1: Thong Krut Beach
The adventure starts with a pickup from your hotel or a meet at Thongkrut Pier. This initial transfer takes only about 10 minutes, giving you a quick warm-up and a chance to get your bearings. The ease of this start is appreciated, especially after a morning of travel or packing.

Stop 2: Koh Tan
Within 7-10 minutes by longtail boat, you arrive at Koh Tan, known for its lively coral reefs and colorful fish. This stop is perfect for snorkelers eager to see marine life up close. The two-hour snorkeling session is a highlight for many, though some reviews note that the snorkeling itself might not live up to expectations, with one reviewer commenting that it was “not good.” Still, the coral and fish can be quite vibrant if weather conditions are ideal.

Stop 3: Koh Madsum
Next, the boat heads to Koh Madsum, famous for its friendly pigs that are often waiting on the shores for visitors. Here, you can relax on the beach, take photos with the adorable animals, or just soak in the peaceful island atmosphere. Several reviews mention that pig island is the only part of the tour worth paying for, with Lena_M specifically criticizing the extra 50 baht entrance fee that isn’t included in the tour price. Still, the pig encounters remain a memorable, lighthearted moment for many.

Stop 4: Return to Thong Krut
After around two hours on Koh Madsum, you’ll head back to Samui, returning roughly 10 minutes later to Thongkrut Pier. From there, transfers back to your hotel or other arrangements can be made. This practical finish lets you plan your evening without fuss.

Transport & Timing
The private longtail boat ride keeps things intimate and flexible, with the entire tour lasting about 4 to 5 hours. The short transfers between stops mean you’re mainly focused on relaxing and enjoying the scenery. The tour’s schedule is well-paced, giving enough time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Snorkeling & Water Activities
Snorkeling is included with equipment and life jackets, which is a nice touch. However, some reviews suggest that the snorkeling experience can vary in quality; if the water is murky or the reefs are less vibrant, you might find it underwhelming. Still, the chance to swim in turquoise waters and see coral formations is a definite plus, especially for beginners or casual snorkelers.

The Pig Island Highlight
Meeting the pigs on Koh Madsum is a real crowd-pleaser, especially for families or animal lovers. The pigs are cheerful and eager, and the photos you’ll get are quite adorable. Yet, be aware of the extra fee for entry, which some travelers feel is not well communicated upfront.

The Beaches & Views
Both Koh Tan and Koh Madsum boast beautiful, quiet beaches with soft sands and clear waters. These spots are perfect for lounging or wandering along the shoreline, away from the hustle of more popular tourist areas.

At $76.84 per person, this tour offers a decent price point considering the personalized experience, private boat, and included snorkeling gear. The convenience of a private tour—without the crowds and with tailored stops—is a significant advantage. Still, some reviews point out that the snorkeling may not be as spectacular as hoped, and the entrance fee to pig island feels somewhat disconnected from the overall package.

The tour’s flexibility, with direct hotel pickup and drop-off options, adds value, especially for travelers seeking a hassle-free day. But if snorkeling or the pig island experience isn’t your main focus, you might find other options—perhaps a DIY boat or different island hopping trips—offer better value or more engaging activities.

This tour is ideal for small groups, couples, or families wanting a private, relaxed day on the water. It suits travelers who love animal encounters and want to see a less crowded side of the islands. If you’re after serious snorkeling or high-end amenities, you might want to explore other options.

It’s also a good choice if you prefer a flexible schedule and want to avoid large tour groups. Keep in mind that the experience relies on good weather, so check the forecast and be prepared for possible cancellations or rescheduling.

This private longtail boat tour to Koh Madsum and Koh Tan offers a charming and laid-back way to explore some of Samui’s lesser-known islands. While it may not satisfy snorkelers seeking vibrant reefs or those looking for a premium experience, it provides a pleasant mix of marine activity, beach lounging, and animal fun. The intimate setting and flexible itinerary make it a good choice for those wanting a personalized day in the sun, especially if you’re traveling with family or a small group.

The highlight for many remains the pig island, delivering a memorable, lighthearted moment. However, the overall experience depends heavily on weather conditions and your expectations for snorkeling. If you value the idea of a relaxed, private trip that combines nature, animals, and beach time, this tour can be a worthwhile addition to your Samui itinerary.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s a private experience that can be tailored to families and small groups. The relaxed pace and animal encounters are family-friendly.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, including transfers, stops, and leisure time on islands.

What is included in the price?
All fees and taxes, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and life jackets are included.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring your own or eat beforehand.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Thongkrut Pier or your hotel pickup and ends back at Thongkrut Pier or your hotel.

Will I need to pay extra for pig island?
Yes, there is a 50 baht entrance fee for pig island, which is not covered in the tour price.

What if the weather is bad?
If canceled due to poor weather, the tour provider offers a different date or a full refund.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring sun protection, a towel, swimwear, and any personal items. Snacks or additional water might also be helpful since lunch isn’t included.

In all, this private longtail boat trip offers a relaxed, intimate way to see Koh Madsum and Koh Tan. Whether it’s the charming pig encounter or the chance to unwind on quiet beaches, it delivers a taste of authentic island life—perfect for those seeking a peaceful, personalized escape.