Similan Islands Full-Day Tour from Phuket with Lunch (SHA Plus)

This full-day tour to the Similan Islands offers a glimpse into some of Thailand’s most spectacular underwater and coastal scenery. With guided snorkeling excursions, a beachside Thai lunch, and door-to-door transfers, it’s designed to give travelers a relaxed yet immersive experience in this protected marine park. The tour is priced at around $167 per person, and it’s notable that it’s generally booked about 37 days in advance, reflecting its popularity among those eager to explore top snorkeling spots.

One of the things we really appreciate about this tour is its small-group approach—no more than 15 travelers on land transport—promising a more personal and less crowded experience. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear, a guide, and a delicious Thai lunch makes it a convenient option for those who want a hassle-free day out. However, it’s worth mentioning that the overall rating sits at 3.5 out of 5 after a handful of reviews, with some travelers noting less favorable moments, particularly related to the guide’s attitude and safety concerns. That said, for nature enthusiasts and underwater explorers, this trip can deliver some truly memorable moments.

If you’re the type of traveler who loves to snorkel, relax on white sandy beaches, and explore viewpoints, this tour can be a good fit. But if you’re after a completely seamless experience or highly personalized service, it’s worth reading the details carefully.

Key Points

• Small groups ensure a more intimate experience.
• Guided snorkeling at some of Thailand’s best coral reefs.
• Beach-side Thai lunch provides local flavor and a relaxing break.
• Door-to-door transfers remove the hassle of logistics.
• Limited group size on water transport varies based on vessel.
• Mixed reviews highlight the importance of managing expectations about guides and safety.

The Itinerary in Detail

Morning Pickup and Departure

The tour begins bright and early, with hotel pickups between 6:00 and 8:30 am. The precise timing depends on your location, but the early start is typical for full-day excursions in Phuket. The shuttle service offers convenient door-to-door transfers, helping you avoid the hassle of finding meeting points. Expect a 30-minute stop en route—mainly for registration and preparation—before heading out to the islands.

Snorkeling at Koh Payu and Koh Bangu

The first snorkeling stop is at Island No.7 (Payu Island), renowned for its clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Here, you’ll be equipped with snorkeling gear and lifejackets, as mentioned in the tour details. The guide will likely assist and point out notable marine life, although some reviews suggest that the guides’ demeanor can vary.

Next, you’ll explore Island No.9 (Koh Bangu), another great site for observing marine biodiversity. Expect to see an array of colorful fish and coral formations. We loved the way these stops allow for relaxed swimming and underwater photography, making them suitable for both beginners and more experienced snorkelers. The tour’s inclusion of snorkeling gear ensures you’re ready to go without renting equipment separately.

Lunch on Koh Meang

By around noon, everyone will head to Island No.4 (Koh Meang) for a well-earned break. Here, you’ll enjoy a Thai buffet-style lunch on the beach, with fresh fruits to follow. The setting is typically quiet and scenic—perfect for unwinding after the morning’s snorkeling. Reviewers mention that this part of the tour offers a genuine chance to relax on pristine white sand while soaking up the sun.

Afternoon Exploration at Sail Rock Viewpoint and More Snorkeling

After lunch, the group heads to Island No.8 (Kon Similan) — famous for the Sail Rock Viewpoint. This hike is optional but offers panoramic views worth the effort, especially for photography lovers. Be prepared for a short climb; the views provide a different perspective of the islands’ rugged beauty.

Post-hike, you’ll have time to swim, snorkel, or simply lounge on the beach. This flexibility is appreciated by many travelers, although some reviews hint at inconsistency in guide enthusiasm or safety protocols.

Return to Phuket

The boat departs around 3:00 pm, returning to the pier after a 1 hour 15-minute boat ride. The journey back is a chance to reflect on a day filled with underwater discovery and stunning scenery. Arriving back at the hotel around 5:00 to 7:00 pm, the schedule allows for a smooth end to your adventure.

What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour offers comprehensive value: national park fees, hotel transfers, snorkeling gear, a guided experience, and a hearty Thai lunch. The professional English-speaking guide can make a difference, especially when pointing out marine life or sharing interesting tidbits about the islands.

However, the tour’s maximum group size of 45 on water vessels can mean some crowded moments, particularly during snorkeling or lunch. The small-group land transportation (no more than 15 people) helps keep the early morning pickup manageable and more personal.

One notable caveat is the mixed review regarding the guide’s attitude. One reviewer describes a guide who was “terribly rude” and drove recklessly, which underscores the importance of managing expectations and perhaps considering your comfort level with group tours of this type. The operator has responded to the review, emphasizing their safety protocols and capacity limits.

The Experience and Atmosphere

You’ll love the clear waters and vibrant coral reefs that thrive around Payu and Bangu Islands. The guides generally facilitate snorkeling, but the quality of service can vary. The scenery on the islands is impressive, especially the Sail Rock Viewpoint, which offers a chance to see the islands from above and capture stunning photos.

The lunch on Koh Meang is straightforward but authentic, offering a taste of local Thai cuisine. It’s a quiet, peaceful spot where you can relax on soft white sands and enjoy the tropical surroundings.

While the overall experience is designed for relaxation and adventure, some travelers point out that the guides’ attitudes and safety standards are inconsistent. That’s something to keep in mind if you’re particularly safety-conscious or prefer highly passionate guides.

Price and Value

At around $166.79, this tour isn’t the cheapest option, but it includes many essentials: park fees, snorkeling gear, lunch, and transfers. For those who prioritize convenience and a guided experience, this can represent good value. However, travelers should weigh the cost against the mixed reviews—some feel the tour could do more to elevate the experience with better guide engagement or smaller group sizes.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits snorkelers and beach lovers eager for a day in the water and on the sand. It’s ideal for those who prefer a guided, all-in-one experience without having to organize transportation or equipment. The early start and full itinerary suit travelers who want a complete day out, but it might not be perfect for those seeking a more relaxed or personalized trip.

Adventure seekers who enjoy viewpoints and underwater exploration will find plenty to enjoy. But if you’re sensitive to guide behavior or safety concerns, you might want to research further or consider alternative options.

Final Thoughts

The Similan Islands Full-Day Tour from Phuket offers a balanced mixture of snorkeling, scenic viewpoints, and beach relaxation, wrapped up in the convenience of door-to-door transfers. It’s a good choice for travelers wanting a structured day with all logistical elements handled, especially if you’re keen on exploring Thailand’s famed marine life and stunning islands.

While the overall experience might be marred slightly by guide conduct and group size variability, the natural beauty of the islands and the chance to see vibrant coral reefs make it worthwhile. This tour provides a solid, authentic taste of Thailand’s underwater wonders, especially for those new to snorkeling or looking for a hassle-free adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient especially for those staying in Phuket.

What’s the maximum group size on water transport?
It varies depending on the vessel—speedboats can carry up to 35 people, longtail boats up to 12, and June Bahtra boats up to 50. The land transfer group is limited to 15.

Does the tour include all necessary equipment?
Yes, snorkeling gear and lifejackets are provided as part of the package.

Can I hike to the viewpoint on Koh Similan?
Yes, visiting the Sail Rock Viewpoint on Island No.8 is optional and involves a short hike offering panoramic views.

How long is the snorkeling time?
The snorkeling stops are at Island No.7 (Payu Island) and Island No.9 (Koh Bangu), with the exact durations depending on the group’s pace, but generally a significant part of the day.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a Thai buffet lunch and fruits are included, served on Koh Meang’s beach.

Are there any safety concerns?
Some reviews mention safety and guide attitude issues. It’s advisable to stay attentive and communicate any concerns to your guide during the trip.

In all, this full-day tour delivers a hearty dose of marine adventure and island scenery, perfect for those eager to see the best of the Similan Islands with ease and convenience.