Snorkeling Adventure at Koh Chang Departing from Koh Chang

This comprehensive review explores a popular snorkeling trip on Koh Chang, Thailand, designed for travelers eager to discover the island’s underwater treasures. The tour offers two exciting routes — one exploring a historic shipwreck and coral reefs, and another taking you to the pristine waters of Koh Rang National Park. With hotel pickup, all equipment and meals included, and an average rating of 4.5/5, it’s clear that many find this outing both enjoyable and memorable.

What we love most? The personalized touch, thanks to small-group limits, and the chance to see an incredible variety of marine life. The tour is underpinned by knowledgeable guides who keep safety and fun front and center. However, some may find the day long, especially with the transportation involved. If you’re a water lover, a beginner, or someone looking for a relaxed yet adventure-filled day, this tour might just be perfect.

Key Points

• Two Unique Routes: Choose between exploring a historic shipwreck and coral reefs or visiting Koh Rang National Park.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Meals, snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear are included, providing good value.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 40 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Suitable for Beginners: No prior experience required; guides are friendly and attentive.
• Long Day, Full of Highlights: Expect around 7 hours, including transportation, with some reviewers noting the trip can feel lengthy.
• Authentic Marine Encounters: Viewers report vibrant coral gardens and a variety of tropical fish, with some sites featuring strong currents or visibility issues.

An Overview of the Tour

Our review of this Koh Chang snorkeling trip hinges on the fact that it caters to a broad audience — from casual water enthusiasts to more dedicated divers. The price is quite reasonable at $37.77 per person, especially considering the inclusion of hotel pickup, meals, snacks, drinks, and all snorkeling gear. For many, the real value lies in accessing two distinct routes, each offering a different flavor of marine exploration.

Most travelers book at least 11 days ahead, indicating this tour’s popularity and reputation for reliability. Starting early at 8:00 am from Bang Bao Pier, the adventure promises approximately 7 hours of activity, with some reviewers mentioning the long travel times to the sites but also emphasizing the rewarding nature of the stops.

The Two Routes: Options for Every Marine Fan

A major selling point of this trip is the choice between two routes, both promising stellar underwater sights.

Option 1: HTMS Chang Shipwreck & Coral Reefs

The highlight here? The historic HTMS Chang shipwreck, now serving as a thriving artificial reef. We loved the way this site combines history with vibrant marine life — it’s like snorkeling through a floating museum teeming with fish and corals. Reviewers mention feeling safe and well-cared for, with guides helping especially those traveling with kids. The wreck is a real magnet for marine animals, making it a must-see for underwater photography buffs.

Besides the wreck, the tour visits two other coral sites around Koh Chang, each offering colorful fish and thriving coral gardens. One reviewer noted that the reefs had some visibility issues but still found the variety of fish and corals impressive. Guides are there to assist and share insights, helping beginners feel comfortable even if they’re new to snorkeling.

Option 2: Koh Rang National Park

This route aims at the pristine waters of Koh Rang, which is lauded for its excellent snorkeling conditions and marine biodiversity. Expect three stops at carefully selected sites with coral gardens and schools of tropical fish. The trip is longer and more remote, with some reviewers mentioning a full-day journey that can be tiring, but also describing the experience as rewarding.

One guest shared that they appreciated the well-organized sites and the helpful guides, with the included lunch being a highlight. The tour to Koh Rang is ideal for those seeking a more untouched, natural environment where coral reefs are in excellent condition.

What to Expect Throughout the Day

Starting bright and early, you’ll be picked up from your hotel (or meet at Bang Bao Pier if you choose self-arrival). The journey begins with a scenic boat ride, usually lasting around 1.5 hours to the designated snorkeling sites. The boat itself is spacious, with comfortable seating, and the decks are perfect for relaxing or catching some sun.

Once at each stop, guides provide detailed briefings, snorkel gear, and assistance — especially helpful for beginners or families with kids. As one reviewer noted, the staff are friendly, helpful, and attentive, which enhances the overall experience. The coral reefs and fish are what steal the show, with vibrant colors and a variety of species that make for excellent photos.

Lunch is served buffet-style on the boat, with options including curries, rice, and vegetables. Snacks and drinks are available throughout the day, ensuring you stay energized. Some travelers mention renting underwater cameras, which is a smart move to capture the stunning marine life.

The Stops

• Shipwreck & Coral Reefs: You’ll love the way the wreck creates an eerie yet beautiful backdrop for snorkelers, with plenty of fish darting around. The two coral reef sites offer a kaleidoscope of colors, although some reviews mention visibility can vary.

• Koh Rang National Park: Expect crystal-clear waters and healthy coral gardens. The marine biodiversity here is varied, with many tropical fish, and the scenery is idyllic for those seeking a more natural experience.

The Group Dynamic

With a maximum of 40 travelers, the atmosphere is intimate and relaxed. Many reviews praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness, which makes even less experienced snorkelers feel at ease. The tour is suitable for all skill levels, from total beginners to seasoned snorkelers.

Downsides and Considerations

While overall positive, some reviews point out that the day can feel quite long, especially due to the boat ride to the remote sites. One guest mentioned spending about 4 hours in transit, which could be tiring for some. However, others appreciated the opportunity to relax on deck or enjoy the scenery.

Plus, there’s a mention of waiting times when snorkelers are mixed with divers, which can occasionally lead to delays or a sense of being left on your own. Also, note that national park fees are not included in the tour price, so you should budget extra if you wish to visit the park itself.

The Food and Facilities

The buffet lunch is a major plus, with many reviewers describing it as delicious and satisfying. It often features curry, rice, and vegetables, with plenty of drinks and fresh fruits. Snacks and soft drinks are available throughout the day, which keeps everyone energized.

Guides are attentive to dietary requirements, so if you have special needs, it’s worth mentioning at booking. The boat crew also provides coffee and tea, and soft drinks are on tap, making the long day more manageable.

Pricing and Value

At $37.77 per person, this snorkeling tour offers good value considering all inclusions — transport, gear, meals, snacks, and guided assistance. For what it delivers, many travelers consider it a worthwhile expense, especially given the small-group experience. The fact that it’s booked well in advance indicates its popularity and consistent quality.

Some reviews highlight the tour’s flexibility and professionalism, which contribute to the overall feeling that you’re investing in a safe, well-organized adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for beginners and families, thanks to the gentle, guided approach and the safety focus of the guides. Those with a love for history will enjoy the shipwreck site, while marine life enthusiasts will be captivated by the coral reefs and fish. The inclusive nature makes it accessible whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family with kids.

Keep in mind that the day can be quite long, so if you’re someone who prefers shorter outings or less transit, this might feel a bit tiring. However, if you’re after a full, authentic day of snorkeling in Koh Chang’s best spots, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts

This Koh Chang snorkeling trip strikes a fine balance between adventure, comfort, and value. The two route options ensure that whether you’re fascinated by shipwrecks or marine parks, there’s something for all. The guides’ friendliness and professionalism, combined with the good food and small group size, create a relaxed, engaging atmosphere.

While the lengthy transit times can be a downside, most travelers agree that the underwater sights, tasty meals, and expert guidance make it well worth the effort. It’s especially suitable for those new to snorkeling or families seeking a safe, well-organized day out on the water.

If you’re eager to explore Koh Chang’s vibrant sea life without diving into complicated arrangements, this tour offers a straightforward, authentic, and enjoyable way to do just that.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the tour package, making it convenient to start your day without extra planning.

What is the tour duration?
The trip lasts approximately 7 hours, including boat rides, snorkeling stops, and meals.

Can beginners participate?
Absolutely. The tour is suitable for all skill levels, with guides providing assistance and snorkeling gear.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, possibly a waterproof camera, and any personal essentials. The tour provides snorkeling gear, but you can rent cameras separately.

Are meals included?
Yes, a delicious buffet lunch, snacks, and drinks are included, with special dietary requirements accommodated if advised.

What are the main differences between the two routes?
One explores the shipwreck and coral reefs near Koh Chang, offering a mix of history and marine life. The other visits Koh Rang National Park, known for its pristine waters and abundant marine biodiversity.

Are there any extra fees?
Yes, national park fees are not included in the tour price, so you may wish to budget extra if planning to visit the park itself.

What is the group size?
Limited to 40 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is there a booking ahead requirement?
Most travelers book around 11 days in advance, highlighting its popularity and the importance of securing your spot early.

This snorkeling tour at Koh Chang offers an accessible, well-organized way to experience Thailand’s underwater wonders while enjoying good food, expert guidance, and the comfort of small-group service. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned water lover, it’s a thoughtful choice for a memorable day on the water.