Explore Angthong National Marine Park by Big Boat from Koh Samui

Exploring Angthong National Marine Park by Big Boat from Koh Samui

If you’re looking to see some of Thailand’s most stunning island scenery without breaking the bank, the Angthong National Marine Park tour from Koh Samui might catch your eye. This day-long adventure offers a mix of scenic hikes, kayaking, snorkeling, and island hopping, all arranged with a large, stable boat that makes the journey comfortable even if you’re prone to seasickness.

One thing we really like about this experience is the inclusion of all equipment — no need to rent gear separately — and the promise of navigating 42 islands in the Gulf of Thailand. The tour also smoothly combines nature exploration with laid-back picnic lunches and easy transportation, making it suitable for a broad range of travelers.

However, it’s important to note that while the tour offers plenty of highlights, some reviews mention long boat rides and challenging hikes that could be tiring, especially for older travelers or those with mobility issues. This trip best suits those who enjoy a bit of physical activity and don’t mind a full day on the water. For adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts, it can be a very worthwhile experience.

Key Points

• All-in-One Tour: Includes snorkeling, kayaking, and transport, saving you the hassle of booking separately.
• Stunning Views: Climb to viewpoints and visit lagoons with breathtaking scenery.
• Great Value: For around $38, you get a full day of activities, lunch, and transportation.
• Active Experience: Expect some hiking, paddling, and swimming — not the best fit if you prefer relaxing on a beach.
• Good for Families: The stable boat and organized schedule make it accessible for children and older travelers.
• Mixed Reviews: While many love the scenery and guides, some mention the boat ride can be long and the snorkeling spots are not always spectacular.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

This tour is designed to give you a comprehensive taste of Angthong Marine Park’s natural beauty. It starts early, with hotel pickups around 7:15 am, signaling a full day ahead. The transfers are by air-conditioned minivan, which makes the start comfortable and hassle-free. After a quick light breakfast on board, you’ll head to Koh Wau Ta Lap, one of the crown jewels of the park.

The Journey to Koh Wau Ta Lap

The boat ride itself is about two hours, so be prepared for a somewhat lengthy journey, especially if the weather isn’t cooperating. From reviews, it seems the large boat is quite stable, which is a plus for those who fear seasickness, and the ride gives you an early preview of the scenic vistas ahead. Some travelers found the boat a little outdated and slow, but it’s generally considered comfortable enough for the trip.

The Viewpoint and Lotus Cave

Once you arrive at Koh Wau Ta Lap, the highlight is the climb up to the viewpoint. It’s a challenging trek, often taking about 90 minutes, with some reviewers mentioning it’s made of steps and quite demanding in the sun. Still, the panoramic views make it worth the effort. Reviewers like Timon_P describe the summit as “all the sweat was worth it,” with “amazing views” that truly give a sense of achievement.

Not everyone finds the climb easy; some mention the path is made of steps and can be quite fitness-challenging, especially under the tropical sun. But those who push on are rewarded with a sweeping vista of the 42 islands that make up the park, and the Lotus Cave nearby offers a cool pause before descending.

Lagoon and Swimming

After the hike, you’ll enjoy swimming at the famous Emerald Green Lagoon (Talay Nai). The lagoon’s calm, shallow waters are perfect for a gentle swim, and it’s an Instagram-worthy spot. Some guests mention that the water can be a bit murky or shallow, but the scenery is undeniably stunning.

Lunch Break

Around midday, a Thai buffet lunch is served on board, with plenty of fresh fruit and drinks. Reviewers like Nyttarsaften rave about the “plenty and good” lunch, noting it’s well-organized and satisfying after the morning’s activities. The food quality seems to score high, especially considering the setting.

Kayaking and Island Exploration

After lunch, the tour heads to Koh Mae Koh. Here, you’ll get the chance to kayak around the island — a peaceful way to explore and view the coast. All kayaking equipment is provided, and dry bags are available to keep your valuables safe.

Many guests enjoy the kayaking, with some reviewers calling it “the best part” of the day. The gentle paddle around the island offers a different perspective of the landscape, and some say it’s a relaxing break after the climbing. A handful of reviews, however, note that the kayaking trip can be short (sometimes only around 20-30 minutes), and marine life might be sparse at the snorkeling points.

Snorkeling and Beach Time

The tour also features some snorkeling through shallow waters, often right from the beach. The visibility can vary; some reviews mention it’s less impressive than expected, with murky water and limited marine life. One reviewer, Jennifer_M, described her snorkeling experience as disappointing and feeling hurried.

However, others found the snorkeling doable and fun, especially for beginners or families with young children. The tour provides all snorkeling gear, so you can enjoy a quick splash if the conditions are right.

Return Journey & Final Remarks

The boat departs from Koh Mae Koh around 3:30 pm, with some light snacks and drinks to wind down. The return trip to Koh Samui is around two hours, with most guests arriving back at their hotels by 5 pm. Reviewers have varied opinions: some find the boat ride long but accept it as part of the adventure, while others feel the pace could be more efficient.

Practical Details & What to Expect

Transport & Group Size: The tour uses a large, stable boat that can carry up to 90 travelers, which helps keep costs down but means you might share the experience with a sizable group. The transfers from hotels are included, making logistics straightforward.

Price & Value: At around $38 per person, this tour offers good value considering the included activities, lunch, and transportation. The reviews suggest that for the money, you get an organized trip with plenty of opportunities to see beautiful scenery and to be active, especially for budget travelers or families.

Timing & Duration: Starting early at 7:15 am, the tour lasts roughly 8 hours. The long boat ride might be a downside if you’re prone to seasickness or just prefer shorter excursions, but the schedule allows plenty of time to enjoy the highlights.

Activities & Suitability: Expect to hike, kayak, and snorkel, with some physical effort involved. It’s best for active travelers, families with children who are comfortable with walking and paddling, or those who enjoy scenic viewpoints and nature walks.

What to Bring: Sunscreen, a hat, towel, and possibly a waterproof dry bag for valuables. The tour provides snorkeling and kayaking gear, but bringing your own water shoes might help with the rocky paths.

Limitations & Considerations: The entrance fee for Angthong Marine Park is not included and must be paid on-site. Also, the tour is not recommended for travelers with mobility issues due to the physical nature of the activities.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour shines for travelers who want a full day of adventure and are excited about hiking, kayaking, and seeing dramatic island scenery. It’s especially suitable for those traveling with family or friends who enjoy active outings and don’t mind a long boat ride. The scenic viewpoints, lagoon swimming, and well-organized picnic lunch make it a worthwhile investment, especially if you appreciate good value for a day immersed in nature.

If you’re expecting a relaxing beach day or top-tier snorkeling with vibrant marine life, you might find some aspects underwhelming. The tour is more about the overall experience — the views, the adventure, and the sense of discovery — rather than just lounging on a beach or snorkeling in a marine park known for its fish.

Overall, for around $38, this trip offers a balanced mix of activity and sightseeing that can give you a real taste of what Angthong Marine Park has to offer — with some minor inconveniences that most active travelers will happily overlook.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, transfers from your hotel to the pier are included in the price, making logistics simple.

How long is the boat ride?
The journey to the park takes approximately two hours, so be prepared for a lengthy but scenic ride.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, and a hat. Dry bags are provided for valuables. Comfortable shoes and water shoes are recommended for hiking and rocky paths.

Is snorkeling good?
Snorkeling is included, but reviews suggest marine life visibility varies and is sometimes underwhelming. It’s more suitable for beginners or casual snorkelers.

Can I do this tour if I am not very active?
The tour involves hiking up to 90 minutes, paddling, and swimming, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with physical activity.

Is the entrance fee included?
No, the park’s entrance fee must be paid separately on-site.

What kind of boat is used?
A large, stable boat capable of carrying up to 90 travelers, which helps with stability during the ride.

What do travelers think about the lunch?
Most reviews praise the Thai buffet lunch, describing it as plentiful and tasty.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for children, especially with the stable boat and organized activities, but expect some walking and paddling.

Are guides helpful?
Guides, like Jiggy, are generally praised for their helpfulness and friendly attitude, enhancing the overall experience.

Final verdict

This Angthong National Marine Park tour from Koh Samui offers a well-rounded day packed with scenic views, active pursuits, and good value. It’s perfect for those who want more than just a beach day and enjoy a bit of adventure. While not ideal for those seeking a laid-back, relaxed experience or top-tier snorkeling, it’s a solid choice for energetic travelers eager to explore Thailand’s unique island landscape. Expect an organized, scenic, and fun-filled day that will leave you with plenty of stunning photos and memorable moments.