2 Day and 1 Night Similan Scuba Trip with MV Koon from Phuket

Exploring the 2 Days and 1 Night Similan Scuba Trip with MV Koon from Phuket

Taking a trip to the Similan Islands with MV Koon promises an adventure packed with vibrant marine life, colorful coral reefs, and breathtaking scenery. This 2-day, 1-night excursion offers the perfect blend of snorkeling, diving, relaxing island visits, and mouthwatering Thai cuisine, all while cruising comfortably on a well-equipped liveaboard. It’s a popular choice for both seasoned divers and those new to diving, thanks to its inclusive nature and memorable stops.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is how thoughtfully it balances active exploration with downtime. You’ll enjoy multiple exciting dives, but also plenty of time to kick back on your boat and soak in the natural beauty. Plus, the convenience of hotel pickup and transfers means no fuss getting to and from your start point.

A possible consideration? The tour’s long hours and multiple stops might be a bit intense for travel fatigue or very young children. It’s best suited for travelers with at least a basic diving certification, or adventurous snorkelers eager to explore undersea worlds. If you’re a lover of marine environments, stunning island vistas, and flavorful seafood, this trip might be your next highlight.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines snorkeling, multiple scuba dives, island visits, and scenic viewpoints.
• All-Inclusive Value: Meals, equipment, transfers, and insurance are included, making it easy to relax.
• Ideal for Divers: Requires at least an Open Water certification but also welcomes snorkelers.
• Authentic Thai Cuisine: Enjoy delicious BBQ dinners and fresh seafood on board.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect panoramic views from Sail Rock and pristine island beaches.
• Long but Rewarding: Prepare for a full-packed itinerary that balances adventure with relaxation.

An In-Depth Look at the Similan Islands Adventure

The Booking and Practicalities

At $473.75 per person, this tour offers a lot of value considering what’s packed into the two days. It’s typically booked about 25 days in advance, so planning early is wise, especially in peak seasons. The tour includes hotel pickup from Phuket and speedboat transfers—meaning less stress about logistics and more focus on fun.

The start time of 5:30 am might be early, but it ensures you get the most out of the day. The tour operates from November through mid-May, as the Similan Islands are closed from mid-May to October to protect the environment. This is an important detail if you’re planning a future trip.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1:

Your day kicks off with a scenic boat ride to the Similan Islands, where snorkeling at Islands 4, 5, and 6 introduces you to a kaleidoscope of coral and marine life. Expect to be wowed by the vibrant underwater scenery—lively fish, colorful soft corals, and perhaps even some turtles or reef sharks if you’re lucky.

After a hearty lunch on Koh 4, you’ll settle into your accommodations aboard MV Koon 1. The boat is praised for its comfort and well-organized layout, ensuring a restful stay before the night’s adventures. The afternoon is dedicated to exploring Ko Payu, a top spot for experienced divers, with sightings of whitetip reef sharks, leopard sharks, and blue-spotted rays. For less experienced divers or snorkelers, this site offers plenty of stunning sights without the need for advanced skills.

The evening’s highlight is the night dive at Nam Chai Bay, famous for its bumblebee shrimp, sea slugs, and the chance to see sea turtles after dark. The glow of bioluminescent creatures sometimes adds a magical touch. Dinner is a “Kungkata” BBQ, grilled seafood and meats served under the stars, a truly memorable dining experience.

Day 2:

Morning begins with a calm, gentle dive at Honeymoon Bay, ideal for newcomers and seasoned divers alike. The soft currents and extensive coral formations create an inviting environment for underwater photography.

Next, you’ll explore Three Trees, which offers a sloped coral reef home to leopard sharks, pygmy pipehorses, and rare bowmouth guitarfish—a serious highlight for marine enthusiasts. Another site, Christmas Point, dazzles with soft corals and large sea fans that sway with the current, providing excellent opportunities for underwater pictures.

The afternoon includes relaxing visits to Honeymoon Bay again and Zodiac Row, a playful spot with zodiac-shaped coral formations, perfect for checking your diving skills or just enjoying the gentle slopes. The tour wraps up with a visit to Sail Rock viewpoint, giving you panoramic vistas of the islands—an iconic photo moment to seal your trip.

What’s Included and What to Budget for Separately

The cost covers meals, snorkeling equipment, tanks, and professional guides in both Thai and English, as well as dive fees and insurance up to 1 million baht. The food—delicious seafood and BBQ—receives praise from previous travelers, who mention how fresh and flavorful the dishes are after a day in the sun.

However, it’s important to budget for national park fees (THB 400 per adult), and if you wish to rent a dive computer or opt for single accommodation, additional charges apply. Alcoholic drinks are not included, so bring your own if you want to toast your underwater discoveries or relax with a cold beer.

The Experience on Board

Reviews highlight that MV Koon is a comfortable vessel with a friendly crew led by knowledgeable guides. Travelers mention that diving is well-organized, with tanks and equipment prepared and ready, minimizing fuss. The boat’s layout and facilities facilitate socializing or quiet rest, which is essential after a day of exertion.

The small group size—a maximum of 20 travelers—ensures a more personalized experience, and the multilingual guides are praised for their professionalism and enthusiasm.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One reviewer points out, “The night dive was a real highlight—seeing the sea turtles at night was surreal.” Others mention that the view from Sail Rock is “simply breathtaking” and provides a perfect photo opportunity to remember your trip.

Some travelers note that the tour can be quite full-on, with early starts and packed schedules, but most agree that the stunning scenery and the chance to explore multiple sites make it worth the effort. The quality of the seafood and the well-organized meals also get a lot of praise, making the onboard experience just as enjoyable as the underwater adventures.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for divers with at least an Open Water certification—the experience is tailored to those comfortable with diving equipment and underwater navigation. Snorkelers are also welcome, though the focus is on diving.

It’s ideal for adventurous travelers who want a comprehensive experience of the Similan Islands in a short time, combining underwater exploration with scenic land visits. If you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday with a touch of underwater excitement, this tour will deliver.

However, it might not be suitable for young children under 4 or travelers with mobility issues, as the schedule is quite active. Those with breathing difficulties, recent bone surgery, or health conditions like high blood pressure or asthma should consult their doctor before booking.

The Sum Up

The 2 Day and 1 Night Similan Scuba Trip with MV Koon offers a fantastic mix of underwater adventure, island scenery, and delicious food. It’s a well-rounded experience for anyone eager to explore Thailand’s most famous marine park without the hassle of organizing multiple separate trips. The inclusion of meals, equipment, insurance, and transfers makes it a good value for the price, especially considering the quality of the guides and the comfort aboard MV Koon.

If you’re a diver or snorkeler seeking a memorable escapade with stunning vistas and vibrant marine life, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s particularly good for those wanting a guided, all-in-one package that combines adventure with relaxation and scenic beauty—plus, it’s a perfect way to tick off your underwater bucket list.

For the avid underwater explorer and nature lover, this trip offers a snapshot of the best the Similan Islands have to offer. It’s not just about the dives but about experiencing a slice of Thailand’s natural wonderland in style and comfort.

FAQs

Do I need a special certification to join?
Yes, you need at least an Open Water certification to participate in scuba diving. Non-divers can join as snorkelers at each site.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers transfers, accommodation aboard MV Koon, all meals, snorkeling and diving equipment, tanks, guide services, insurance, and entrance fees to the national park.

Are there any additional costs I should know about?
Yes, national park fees are THB 400 per adult, and dive computer rental costs 500 baht. Single occupancy adds 1,500 baht per night, and alcohol is not included.

What is the best time of year to go?
The tour runs from November to mid-May, as the Similan Islands are closed from mid-May to October for conservation.

Is the itinerary flexible?
The program may change depending on weather and sea conditions. The schedule is quite packed but designed to maximize your experience.

Can children join this tour?
Children aged 4-11 can join with a child ticket, but those under 4 are not recommended. Guests over 75 are discouraged, and the tour is not suitable for those with certain health conditions.

How long in advance should I book?
Booking around 25 days ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak season.

Whether you’re after vibrant coral reefs, panoramic island views, or just a taste of island life, this Similan Islands adventure is a rewarding way to see Thailand’s underwater treasures while enjoying the comfort and camaraderie of a guided tour.