3 Islands Full-Day Tour on Catamaran with Lunch Buffet in Pattaya

Venturing out on a full-day catamaran tour around Pattaya’s surrounding islands promises a combination of sea breeze, scenic vistas, and a chance to explore pristine beaches. Based on available reviews and detailed descriptions, this experience offers a luxurious boat with top-notch amenities, making it appealing for those seeking comfort and an easy way to see multiple islands in one day.

One of the things we appreciate about this tour is the luxurious 71-foot catamaran itself. It’s equipped with ensuite living areas, refrigeration, a BBQ, and even a fresh water shower—all tailored to keep passengers comfortable during the day’s adventures. The vessel can host up to 60 people, which means you’ll likely get to enjoy the trip with a decent-sized group but without feeling overcrowded.

However, from the feedback available, a possible drawback is the quality of the islands and beaches visited, with some travelers describing them as “dirty” or lacking the photographic appeal they expected. This might influence your decision if pristine scenery is your priority. Still, this tour appears best suited for those wanting a relaxed, convenient way to hop between islands with good boat amenities, rather than avid snorkelers or beachcombers seeking picture-perfect beaches.

• Luxurious onboard facilities enhance the overall comfort during the trip.
• Island stops include Khram Yai, Ko Rin, and Ko Phai, offering snorkeling and beach exploration.
• Mixed reviews highlight concerns about the cleanliness and appeal of the islands.
• All-included amenities such as snorkeling gear and lunch add value to the experience.
• Group size and timing are managed to maximize comfort and convenience.
• Weather considerations are important; cancellations are possible if conditions are poor.

Setting Expectations for the Catamaran Experience

The tour departs from the Ocean Marina Yacht Club at 8:00 am, giving you a full day to enjoy the islands and onboard comforts. The boat itself looks impressive—crafted for both luxury and practicality, with ample outdoor and indoor spaces. The top deck’s covered dining area is perfect for enjoying the provided lunch buffet, while the relaxation netting at the front offers a more laid-back spot to catch some sun and sea breeze.

The boat’s capacity of up to 60 passengers seems to strike a balance between social and private, but actual group sizes might often be smaller—typically around 50 travelers—based on the maximum listed. This size should allow for a more intimate feel, though it’s always wise to check if your tour will be private or part of a larger group.

Itinerary Breakdown: What’s Included and What You Might Expect

Stop 1: Khram Yai Island

The first stop takes you to Khram Yai, where you’ll have roughly 2 hours to explore. The description highlights the chance to snorkel in clear waters and relax on the sand. But according to one review from Vladislav_F, the beaches and waters are “dirty”, which might be disappointing for travelers expecting postcard-worthy scenery.

Here, you’ll find the admission fee covered—a nice plus, making this part of the trip more straightforward. While the location promises a peaceful escape, be prepared for potential cleanliness issues and manage your expectations accordingly.

Stop 2: Ko Rin

Next, the boat heads to Ko Rin for another 2 hours. This stop is known for vibrant reefs perfect for snorkeling, with colorful marine life promised under the water’s surface. However, the same reviewer pointed out that the water and beaches around these islands aren’t necessarily pristine, which could impact how much you enjoy the snorkeling or beach lounging.

The boat remains well-equipped for comfort, with snorkel sets included, so you can spend your time exploring the underwater scenery without needing to bring your own gear.

Stop 3: Ko Phai

The final stop lasts for about 3 hours on Ko Phai, offering the chance to snorkel around coral reefs and relax on beaches. This island is depicted as a scenic spot, but again, the honesty from the review suggests the beaches might not be picture-perfect. Still, the coral reefs should provide some interesting underwater sights if you’re into snorkeling.

Throughout the day, you’ll be able to enjoy ample dining spaces under the cover, with the buffet lunch likely a highlight, especially given the convenience and variety.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package covers several key items:
– Transport in an air-conditioned vehicle to and from the marina,
– Use of snorkeling equipment,
– A buffet lunch,
– Islands admission fees.

However, tips are not included, which might catch some travelers off guard, so it’s wise to budget a little extra for gratuities if you feel the crew provided good service.

The Real Experience: A Balanced Perspective

While the boat and crew are praised for their professionalism and friendliness, the main concern from at least one traveler’s review is the state of the islands. Vladislav_F’s comment about “dirty water and beaches” is a reminder that the appeal of island-hopping in Pattaya can vary significantly depending on environmental conditions, which are sometimes beyond the control of the tour operator.

The boat’s luxury features—such as the ensuite living area, BBQ, and fresh water showers—are definite perks, especially if you enjoy the comforts of a well-equipped vessel. These amenities can make a full day at sea more enjoyable, especially compared to more basic boat trips.

The value for money appears reasonable, considering the all-in package with snorkeling gear, lunch, and island access. But if your main goal is photo-worthy beaches or vibrant marine ecosystems, you might find the experience falling a bit short based on recent reviews.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who prioritize comfort and convenience over pristine scenery. If you’re looking for a leisurely day on a well-equipped boat with the option to snorkel and explore islands in a relaxed setting, this could be a good fit. It’s also suitable for those who prefer group activities with included amenities, rather than independent beach days.

It’s probably less ideal for those seeking unspoiled beaches or underwater photography opportunities, as some of the islands’ conditions might not meet expectations. Plus, if you’re sensitive to environmental cleanliness, it’s worth considering the mixed reviews before booking.

The Sum Up

The 3 Islands Full-Day Catamaran Tour in Pattaya offers a blend of comfort, scenic cruising, and island exploration. Its standout feature is the luxurious vessel, which makes spending a day at sea comfortable and enjoyable. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and a buffet lunch adds convenience and value, making it a practical choice for travelers wanting an easy, all-in-one day trip.

However, the quality of the islands and their beaches appears to be a common complaint among reviewers, with some describing them as dirty or lacking in visual appeal. If you’re after pristine beaches or vibrant underwater scenery, you might want to temper expectations or explore alternative options.

This tour is best suited for those who want a relaxing day on a well-equipped boat and are okay with potentially less-than-perfect island conditions. It’s also ideal if comfort and amenities are a priority, and you’re looking for a hassle-free way to see several islands in one day.

The experience offers a good value for money for travelers who prioritize comfort and ease over picture-perfect scenery. Just remember to bring an open mind about the cleanliness and natural state of the visited islands.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel or a nearby meeting point, making it convenient to start your day.

What time does the tour start?
The departure time is 8:00 am from Ocean Marina Yacht Club, ensuring you have ample time to explore the islands.

How long do we stay at each island?
You’ll spend approximately 2 hours at Khram Yai and Ko Rin, and about 3 hours at Ko Phai, giving you enough time to snorkel, relax, or explore.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is included as part of the package, along with the use of the onboard dining areas.

What equipment is provided?
Snorkeling equipment is included, so you don’t need to bring your own unless you prefer to.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those sensitive to environmental conditions or expecting pristine beaches may be disappointed.

Are there any hidden costs?
Tips are not included, so consider budgeting extra for gratuities if you’re satisfied with the service.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance and receive a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour are non-refundable.

If you’re considering this trip, balance your expectations with the realities shared by previous travelers, and weigh the comfort and amenities against the island conditions. It’s a day that promises relaxation and convenience, but be prepared for possible environmental shortcomings at the visited islands.