Koh Madsum and Koh Tan Snorkeling Trip By Speedboat From Koh Samui

Exploring Koh Madsum and Koh Tan: An Authentic Snorkeling Escape from Koh Samui

This Koh Madsum and Koh Tan snorkeling tour offers a great way to see some of the most pristine islands south of Koh Samui without the hassle or high cost of private arrangements. With a focus on small-group fun, clear waters, and delicious Thai cuisine, it’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a relaxed day on the water.

What we really appreciate about this trip is its balance of activity and leisure. You get to snorkel over vibrant reefs, kayak along peaceful beaches, and savor a homemade Thai meal—all within 5 to 6 hours. That said, a potential snag is that the tour requires a minimum of 10 participants to run, so spontaneous plans could be affected.

This experience suits ocean lovers, first-time snorkelers, or families looking for a straightforward, scenic day out. If you’re after a well-organized trip that combines island hopping, water activities, and tasty local food, this could be just what you need.

• Affordable price point offers good value for what’s included, especially the snorkeling gear and lunch.
• Small-group atmosphere enhances the experience by avoiding overcrowding.
• Flexible options for morning or sunset trips suit different travel schedules.
• Multiple stops at Koh Tan and Koh Madsum allow plenty of time for snorkeling, kayaking, or relaxing.
• Transfers included from many popular Koh Samui locations make logistics straightforward.
• Weather-dependent nature means cancellations are possible if conditions aren’t ideal.

What the Tour Entails

This tour offers an approximately 5 to 6-hour experience, making it perfect for travelers who want a taste of island life without committing a full day. With pick-up from several Koh Samui hotels—covering popular areas like Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut, and more—you won’t need to worry about complicated logistics. The tour is operated by Oh-Hoo, a reputable provider with a focus on small-group excursions, maxing out at 30 travelers.

Morning and Sunset Options

The tour provides two different schedules: a morning trip starting around 8:30-9:00 am, and a sunset option beginning at 2:00 pm. Both follow a similar itinerary, with slight variations based on timing. This flexibility allows you to choose a daytime adventure or enjoy the islands as the day winds down—ideal if you’re trying to fit excursions around other activities.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Koh Samui with hotel pickups, followed by a speedboat ride from Tong Grood to Koh Tan—a quick 15-minute hop. This small vessel, often a speedboat, ensures a breezy, scenic journey across calm waters, setting the tone for the day.

Once on Koh Tan, you’ll have time for snorkeling, kayaking, or simply lounging on the beach. Reviewers mention that the snorkeling here is vibrant, with “loads of fish” and remarkable coral, thanks to the provided masks and snorkels.

Next, the boat heads over to Koh Madsum (also called Pig Island by some), where you can kayak, swim, or relax on the white sands. The highlight for many is the chance to see pigs on the beach—an amusing and memorable sight, especially for families or animal lovers.

Lunch and Leisure

A key part of this tour is the Thai lunch at Koh Madsum—fresh, cooked onsite, with soft drinks and fruit included. Reviewers have raved about the quality of the meal, recognizing it as a real highlight amidst a day of water fun. The meal is served on the beach, offering a relaxed setting with panoramic views.

Return Journey

After a leisurely afternoon, the return trip departs around 2:30 pm for the morning tour or 6:30 pm for the sunset version, with hotel transfers back to Koh Samui. It’s a straightforward, no-fuss end to the day—comfortably timed so you’re not exhausted or rushed.

What Travelers Love About This Tour

Many reviewers highlight the stunning scenery and clear waters as the main draw. Kirsty_H mentions spending “3 hours on Pig Island, kayaking, and enjoying a delicious lunch,” emphasizing that the activities are well-paced and satisfying. The fish and coral are often described as “amazing,” confirming that snorkeling here is worthwhile.

The friendly staff and smooth organization also stand out. Kirsty notes that “the crew worked hard and provided a really great meal and experience,” reflecting good service and attention to detail.

Authentic Experiences and Surprising Details

One reviewer appreciated the return of pigs to Pig Island—now there are about ten, making it a quirky and charming spot. Others mention the calm, white sands perfect for relaxing or sunbathing. The inclusion of kayaks and sunbeds is a bonus, giving you options beyond just snorkeling.

Challenges and Considerations

While most feedback is positive, some reviewers point out logistical frustrations. Henrik_l describes waiting two hours and being driven around in buses before even reaching the boat, and also criticizes the long transfer times in some routes. These suggest that the tour may involve more travel time than expected, especially to certain pickup points.

On top of that, due to the weather-dependent nature of sea trips, cancellations are possible, though the provider offers full refunds or alternative dates if the conditions aren’t suitable.

The Value in Focus

At $54.17 per person, including hotel transfers, equipment, lunch, and insurance, this trip offers solid value—especially considering the small group size and multiple water activities. The meal alone, often praised for its freshness, adds a nice touch that many budget tours omit.

Keep in mind the admission fee of 50 THB (roughly $1.50 USD) is payable on-site, but that’s minimal. Be aware that extra transfer charges of 700 Baht may apply if you’re staying outside the main pickup zones.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for families, first-time snorkelers, and beach lovers who want a taste of the islands without a long or complicated day. It’s also good for those who prefer small-group outings over large, crowded tours. If you’re after vibrant reefs, white sands, and a relaxed pace, this tour delivers.

However, travelers expecting luxury amenities or extensive sightseeing might find it too simple. Also, those with mobility issues or health concerns (like high blood pressure or pregnancy) should consider the physical aspects involved.

This Koh Madsum and Koh Tan snorkeling trip offers a balanced, enjoyable experience focused on authentic island waters and a relaxed vibe. The clear waters, friendly crew, and delicious Thai lunch make for a memorable day, especially if your priority is good value and straightforward fun.

The tour’s small-group size enhances the intimacy and flexibility, and the stops at Koh Madsum and Koh Tan mean you’ll see some of the best snorkeling sites near Koh Samui. While logistics can sometimes be lengthy, the overall experience—highlighted by the chance to snorkel over vibrant reefs, relax on pristine beaches, and share a home-cooked meal—is well worth it.

This trip suits travelers who want a casual, scenic day out with the opportunity to connect with nature, enjoy local flavors, and relax in a laid-back island setting. If you’re okay with the weather dependency and prefer a well-organized, honest tour, this could be a highlight of your Koh Samui visit.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers transfers from many Koh Samui locations, including Lamai, Chaweng, Bophut, and others, making it convenient to join.

How long does the trip take?
The entire experience lasts about 5 to 6 hours, including transportation, water activities, and lunch.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and possibly a waterproof bag for valuables. Equipment like masks, snorkels, and kayaks are provided.

Can I join this tour if I don’t snorkel?
Absolutely. You can relax on the beach, kayak, or swim, making it suitable even if snorkeling isn’t your thing.

Are there any health restrictions?
Guests who are pregnant, or have high blood pressure, heart disease, or bone issues, are advised not to participate.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before may not be refunded.

Is there an age limit?
Children aged 4-11 are eligible for a child ticket, but always check specific guidelines with the provider for safety considerations.

This snorkeling trip balances affordability, scenic beauty, and fun activities, making it an appealing option for many visiting Koh Samui.