Similan Islands Snorkeling Tour By Speed Catamaran From Khao Lak

If you’ve ever dreamed of snorkeling in one of the world’s top marine parks, this Similan Islands tour from Khao Lak might just be your ticket. It offers an action-packed day of exploring vibrant coral reefs, spotting marine wildlife, and relaxing on pristine beaches—all aboard a fast, comfortable speedcatamaran. The tour is popular among travelers seeking a mix of adventure and leisure, with plenty of opportunities to see sea turtles, dolphins, and colorful fish in their natural habitat.

One of the standout features of this experience is the speedboat ride itself—fast, fun, and efficient—allowing you to make the most of your day exploring multiple snorkeling spots within the Similan archipelago. Plus, the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the journey both educational and enjoyable. However, the tour can be crowded, especially during peak season, so if you’re looking for a super-exclusive experience, this might not be your first choice.

This tour is ideal for those who love underwater adventures, want a rundown of the islands, and appreciate good value for money. It’s equally suited for families with children, provided they meet age requirements, and for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and beach lounging. Just keep in mind that the tour involves a full day of activity, so stamina and enthusiasm are key.

Key Points

• Fast-paced adventure: The speed catamaran provides quick access to multiple snorkeling spots.
• Diverse locations: Each stop offers unique underwater scenery and opportunities to spot sea turtles and fish.
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides enrich the trip with insights about marine life and island history.
• All-inclusive value: It includes pickup, transport, snorkeling gear, meals, and insurance.
• Limited park access fee: The park fee is paid separately, which is common, but worth budgeting for.
• Crowd factor: Expect a lively atmosphere with other travelers, especially during busy seasons.

The Experience: What to Expect from the Tour

Start with Comfort and Convenience

The day begins early at 7:00 am with pickup from your hotel in Khao Lak. The round-trip transfer ensures you don’t have to worry about transportation logistics—just sit back and relax as you’re taken to the port. The tour provider, Oh-Hoo, is known for its professionalism and smooth organization, which sets a nice tone for what’s to come.

Once aboard the speedcatamaran, you’ll notice the spacious, modern design, which offers a more stable ride compared to traditional boats. Travelers have praised the crew for their friendly and lively attitude, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination. The boat can carry up to 70 passengers, so expect a lively, social atmosphere rather than a quiet, private trip.

Exploring Mu Ko Similan National Park

The first stop takes you to Island No.5 for your initial snorkeling session. The guides, including the knowledgeable Way, will point out the best spots to see vibrant fish and corals. Reviewers mention the beautiful underwater scenery—many highlight the clarity of the water and the abundance of marine life. The park’s natural beauty shines through, with colorful reefs teeming with life, making it a highlight of the trip.

Ko Miang: Island Walks and Lunch

Next is Ko Miang, where you’ll have about two hours for a mix of activities. You can stroll around the island or snorkel again in calmer waters. The included Thai buffet lunch is another highlight noted in reviews—plenty of tasty dishes served in a relaxed setting, offering a true taste of local flavors. Some travelers mentioned they came hungry, as the meals are generous and include fresh fruits and traditional Thai fare.

Snorkeling at Multiple Spots

Throughout the day, you’ll visit several snorkeling sites, including Bangu Island (Koh 9), Ko PA Yu (Ko Jed), West of Eden, and Ko Similan itself. Each offers a slightly different underwater landscape, from coral gardens to fish schools, with plenty of opportunities to swim alongside sea turtles or spot dolphins—some reviewers have seen both. The stops are brief but frequent, allowing for maximum exploration.

Famous Landmarks and Viewpoints

One of the most talked-about spots is the Sailing Rock at Island No. 8. This iconic rock formation is the perfect backdrop for photos, and you’ll also get the chance to climb up to a viewpoint for sweeping vistas of the islands. Reviewers rave about the stunning panoramic views, making it a worthwhile climb, even if the path is a bit steep.

Relaxation and Beach Time

The last major stop is Ko Similan, where you can lounge on white-sand beaches, swim, and soak up the sun. The water here is crystal clear, and the scenery is often compared to tropical paradise postcards. Spending about two hours here, you’ll get a good balance of downtime and fun water activities.

Final Stop and Return

The tour wraps up at Sailboat Rock, where you can relax, take pictures, or climb up for a final view. The boat departs around 4:00 pm, giving you plenty of time to enjoy your day and reflect on the incredible surroundings. The return trip offers a chance to unwind and share stories with fellow travelers.

The Value of the Tour

At $113 per person, this tour offers solid value, considering it covers hotel transfers, snorkeling gear, meals, insurance, and multiple stops. The inclusion of full-day guided excursions means you won’t need to worry about logistics or organizing your own transport—it’s a hassle-free experience.

However, there’s a $400 Thai park fee per adult (and half for children), paid separately. While this is typical across tours visiting protected areas, it’s worth budgeting ahead. What you’re paying for is access to one of the most renowned marine parks, and many reviews highlight the beautiful reefs and abundant marine life that make the fee worthwhile.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 70 travelers, the tour can feel lively but not overcrowded. Some reviewers noted that the boat tends to be on the crowded side, especially during peak season, but the crew’s friendly attitude and well-organized schedule help make it manageable.

Food and Beverage

The included Thai lunch and fresh fruits receive high praise, with many noting it was more than enough to keep everyone energized. The crew’s attentiveness means you’re well taken care of throughout the day, with the guides often sharing interesting tidbits about the islands and aquatic life.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer mentioned the “great guide Way”, who was praised for his knowledge and friendly demeanor. Others highlighted how clean, clear water and vibrant reefs made snorkeling truly memorable. However, some found the boat crowded, especially with families and children, but most agreed it was an energetic, fun day.

A few pointed out that the food could be improved, but the overall consensus remains that the experience, scenery, and marine encounters outweigh minor inconveniences. The stunning views from the viewpoint at Sailing Rock drew numerous comments about the visual splendor.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to see the best of the Similan Islands in a single day. It’s well-suited for families with children (ages 4-11), provided they’re comfortable on boats and active enough for snorkeling and walking. If you love marine life, photo opportunities, and beach relaxation, this tour ticks all those boxes.

However, if you’re seeking a more private or exclusive experience, or if you’re sensitive to crowds, you might find this tour a bit bustling. Also, those with pre-existing health conditions such as pregnancy, high blood pressure, or certain bone diseases are advised against participating.

The Similan Islands snorkeling tour from Khao Lak offers an accessible, well-organized way to experience one of Thailand’s most celebrated marine parks. With multiple snorkeling stops, guided insights, and delicious Thai meals, it balances adventure and comfort perfectly. The speedcatamaran adds an element of fun and efficiency, letting you explore more in less time.

It’s an excellent choice for travelers who value good value for money, enjoy marine wildlife, and want a day full of variety—snorkeling, sightseeing, and beach lounging all rolled into one. The friendly guides and stunning scenery make this tour a memorable highlight of any trip to Khao Lak.

If you’re ready for an active, scenic, and tasty day on the water, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. Just remember to come prepared, budget for the park fee, and bring your camera for those Instagram-worthy views.

How early do I need to arrive for the tour?
The tour starts at 7:00 am, with hotel pickup arranged, so you’ll want to be ready early to ensure timely departure.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, round-trip hotel transfers from Khao Lak are included in the price, making logistics hassle-free.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport or ID, swimming suit, towel, sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, and camera. These items will help you enjoy the day comfortably.

Are snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks, snorkels, fins, and life jackets are included, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary from about 30 minutes at multiple snorkeling sites to 2 hours at islands with beaches and lunch.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 4-11 can join, but they should be comfortable with water activities and boat rides.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations later than that are non-refundable.

Do I need to pay the park fee separately?
Yes, the 400 THB per adult (200 THB for children) park entrance fee is paid separately, typically after booking.

This full-day adventure offers a fantastic way to experience Thailand’s underwater marvels without the fuss. Whether you’re an avid snorkeler or a beach lover, the Similan Islands tour by speed catamaran combines fun, scenery, and excellent value into one memorable day.