Discover Pig Island & Koh Tan: Private Longtail Trip

Discover Pig Island & Koh Tan: Private Longtail Trip – A Practical Review

This private longtail boat tour takes you to two of Koh Samui’s most talked-about spots: Koh Tan and Pig Island (Koh Madsum). Whether you’re looking for a relaxed day on the water or a fun encounter with island pigs, this experience promises a personalized touch, thanks to its private setting. It’s designed for those who prefer to go at their own pace, avoiding crowded tours and exploring at leisure.

What we appreciate most about this trip is the flexibility it offers. Since it’s a private tour, you decide how long to spend on each island, making it perfect for travelers seeking a laid-back, customizable adventure. However, a potential consideration is that the tour doesn’t include a guide on the boat, so some travelers might miss the added insight and local knowledge that guided tours usually provide.

This experience best suits travelers who love island hopping, snorkeling, and cute animal encounters—especially if they enjoy a more intimate, private setting over large group excursions. If you’re after a straightforward, flexible day on the water with opportunities for swimming and photos, this tour could be just right.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Perfect for those wanting a personalized, less crowded adventure.
• Flexible Timing: You control how long you stay on each island, making this ideal for relaxing or exploring more thoroughly.
• Includes Essentials: Snorkeling gear, life jackets, bottled water, and insurance are all provided for a worry-free trip.
• Limited Guide Involvement: No guide on board, so natural natural curiosity and some research might help maximize your experience.
• Cost-Effective: At around $68 per person, it offers decent value for a private half-day cruise, especially considering the included amenities.
• Review Insights: While some reviews mention disappointments, many travelers enjoyed the unique sights and the boat ride itself.

An In-Depth Look at the Koh Samui Private Longtail Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour kicks off with a pickup from your hotel, assuming you’ve opted for the transfer service. The journey begins with a quick 7-10 minute sail on a traditional longtail boat to Koh Tan. The boat ride itself is often highlighted for its charm, giving you a taste of local transportation and a chance to enjoy the ocean breeze.

Koh Tan is the first stop, offering a laid-back vibe perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on the beach chairs provided. The water here is usually calm, and the scenery straightforwardly tropical, though some reviews hint at variability in water clarity. The snorkeling gear is included, but the quality and visibility can fluctuate; one reviewer noted that they snorkeled in a less transparent part of Thailand, with fish that were small and not very colorful.

Koh Madsum (Pig Island) is the showstopper for many travelers. Pigs are the main attraction here—adorable, friendly, and eager for treats. Reviewers like Karen appreciated the “great boat experience and pig island,” with comments about the pigs being a definite highlight. Anika called Koh Madsum “really stunning” with beautiful beaches and a “toller Strand” (great beach). The pigs are known to be quite accustomed to visitors, making for fun photo opportunities, though one reviewer mentioned they were surprised by the pigs’ messiness and how they poo all over the island.

The second stop, a more quiet, beachy spot, was less impressive for some—water conditions at the second island weren’t as attractive, and there wasn’t much else to do. But for many, the chance to relax, take photos, or just enjoy the island atmosphere made up for it.

Additional Activities & Options

Kayaking and lunch are optional add-ons, giving a little extra flavor to the day. Many travelers appreciated having bottled water and beach chairs included, which helps keep the experience comfortable. Be prepared for some variability depending on the weather—poor weather can cancel the tour, with a full refund offered if that happens.

What Travelers Can Expect from the Experience

Transport & Duration: The roundtrip transfer (if booked) simplifies logistics, removing the stress of finding your way to the pier. The total tour length is about four hours, which is enough time to enjoy both stops without feeling rushed.

Onboard Comfort & Equipment: You’ll be supplied with life jackets and snorkeling gear—important for safety and fun. The boat ride itself is short but scenic, offering views of Koh Samui’s coastlines and nearby islands.

Time on Islands: Expect about two hours at Koh Tan and two hours at Koh Madsum, but since it’s private, you can extend or shorten this based on your preference. Most reviews say the time is sufficient for swimming, photos, and relaxing.

Quality & Authenticity: Some reviews indicate that the water at Koh Tan might not always be crystal clear, and the second island may lack much beyond a beach. However, the chance to enjoy a quiet boat ride and close-up encounters with pigs makes it unique.

The Honest Reflection: Pros & Cons Based on Reviews

Pros:
– The private nature ensures comfort and flexibility.
– The boat experience often gets praised for its authenticity and charm.
– Many travelers loved Koh Madsum and the chance to interact with the pigs.
– The tour includes essentials like snorkeling equipment and bottled water, adding value.

Cons:
– Water clarity can vary, which might disappoint snorkeling enthusiasts expecting clear conditions.
– Lack of a guide on the boat means less insight into the islands’ history and wildlife.
– Some reviewers found the second island underwhelming, with little to do besides relaxing on the beach.
– Occasionally, natural conditions like weather affected the experience or water quality.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxed, intimate day with the freedom to explore at your own pace, this private longtail trip hits the mark. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families who want to avoid the crowds. Animal lovers will enjoy the pig encounter, and those curious about local island life will appreciate the casual, laid-back atmosphere.

However, if your priority is snorkeling in pristine waters or a more structured guide-driven experience, you might find this tour a little light on detailed information and water quality. It’s more about fun, comfort, and flexibility than educational content.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

For the price of around $67.78 per person, this private trip offers a decent balance of comfort, flexibility, and a unique experience. The inclusion of snorkel gear, bottled water, and a private boat makes it a good value, especially if you’re traveling in a small group or with family. Keep in mind that water visibility might not thrill snorkelers, but the opportunity to interact with pigs and enjoy a peaceful island day can still make it memorable.

This tour suits travelers who prefer to avoid large crowds, want to set their own pace, and are eager for a fun, laid-back day on the water. It’s a straightforward experience with a few surprises, all wrapped into a private package that adds a personal touch.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Pickup is offered if you select the transfer option when booking. The tour starts at a specified meeting point if you don’t opt for pickup.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately four hours, including both island stops and the boat ride.

Can I spend more time on one of the islands?
Since it’s a private tour, you have the flexibility to stay longer or shorter on each island, depending on your preferences.

Are snorkeling masks included?
Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included, though the quality and visibility of water may vary.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, and perhaps a waterproof camera. Bottled water and beach chairs are provided.

Is there a guide on the boat?
No, this tour does not include a guide on board, so you’ll be exploring independently at each stop.

Can I visit other islands or add activities?
Kayaking and lunch are optional extras; other islands aren’t included in this specific tour.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider your child’s comfort with boats, water activities, and animal encounters.

In sum, this private Koh Samui cruise to Koh Tan and Pig Island offers a relaxed, flexible way to enjoy some island charm, with opportunities for swimming and animal photos. While it might not wow snorkel enthusiasts or thrill-seekers, it provides a pleasant escape with a personal touch—ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, laid-back day on the water.