Koh Nang Yuan and Koh Tao 5 Point Snorkeling Tour

Koh Nang Yuan and Koh Tao’s 5 Point Snorkeling Tour offers a well-rounded way to experience some of Thailand’s most beautiful underwater scenery in half a day. For just around $26, you’ll get the chance to visit five incredible snorkeling sites, enjoy a buffet lunch, and relax on a comfortable boat with amenities like restrooms and shaded areas. While not perfect, this tour balances affordability with authentic marine adventures, making it an appealing choice for those eager to maximize their time in Koh Tao.

What really stands out is the variety of snorkeling stops included—each offers a different vibe and underwater environment, from coral gardens to fish-packed bays. The guided experience is generally praised for knowledgeable guides who know where to find the best spots. Of course, a few reviews mention minor hiccups like late pickups or discrepancies about lunch offerings, but these are not uncommon in busy tour operations. This tour suits travelers who want a reliable, all-in-one snorkeling day that combines sightseeing, light adventure, and convenience.

Key Points

• Multiple snorkeling spots provide diverse underwater experiences in one trip.
• All gear and insurance are included, making it easy to just show up and enjoy.
• Comfortable boat with facilities and shaded areas for rest between stops.
• Price point offers excellent value for the number of locations visited.
• Tour guides are generally knowledgeable, enhancing the experience.
• Considerations include possible delays and some inconsistencies in meal details, so managing expectations is wise.

Exploring the Koh Nang Yuan and Koh Tao 5 Point Snorkeling Tour

This tour showcases the highlights of Koh Tao’s underwater world while offering a convenient, organized experience. It’s designed for travelers who want to see a variety of sites without fussing over logistics or equipment. Let’s walk through what makes this tour special, what you should be aware of, and how it stacks up against other options.

The Itinerary: Seven Stops, One Day

The itinerary is crafted to give you a snapshot of Koh Tao’s stunning marine life and scenery. Starting at Mae Haad Pier around 10:00am, it lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, and each stop offers something unique.

Stop 1: Japanese Gardens (4R98+H2 Ko Tao)
The tour kicks off at the #1 snorkeling site in the world — the Japanese Gardens. Here, you’re encouraged to swim among vibrant coral formations and observe the marine biodiversity. Reviewers note the coral here is impressive, and the waters are generally calm, making it suitable for all levels. The free admission and one-hour exploration make this a fantastic starting point. We loved the way guides explained the coral types and pointed out interesting fish; it felt like diving with a knowledgeable friend.

Stop 2: Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint
Next, a quick visit to the famous viewpoint over Koh Nang Yuan reveals three distinct bays, just as stunning from above as below. This 30-minute stop offers excellent photo opportunities, and the included admission ticket makes it easy. We appreciated how the guides balanced time with safety, encouraging us to snap photos without rushing.

Stop 3: Nang Yuan Island (for lunch)
The tour offers a lunch-on-board experience — a big plus that keeps you energized. Instead of a traditional land-based meal, you’ll enjoy a buffet while cruising, which saves time and adds a relaxed vibe. One reviewer mentioned that despite the description, the lunch was not a buffet and that towels weren’t provided—so always clarify beforehand if these details matter to you.

Stop 4: Mango Bay (4RCP+62 Ko Tao)
Known for staghorn corals, sea anemones, and tropical fish, Mango Bay is a colorful underwater playground. Expect to see a variety of fish, including some that are quite bold around snorkelers. The one-hour snorkel here is just long enough for a good look without feeling rushed. The reviews highlight that guides are attentive and point out interesting marine species, making this stop particularly educational.

Stop 5: Hin Wong Bay
This site is a highlight for many—swimming with hundreds of thousands of fish and vibrant coral is common. Reviewers love the chance to see Nemos and various Indian species in a lively environment. The guide’s knowledge is again praised, with many noting they felt confident trusting the direction and spotting fish.

Stop 6: Aow Leuk Grand Hill
The artificial coral reefs here are a novelty, with a focus on parrotfish and diverse coral types. It’s a good spot for snorkelers looking for a different kind of underwater landscape. Expect a peaceful environment with plenty of marine life to observe.

Stop 7: Shark Bay (Free Beach)
The final stop is a favorite — a habitat for turtles and blacktip sharks. The chance to swim with small blackfin sharks, or spot turtles and spottable fish, adds an element of excitement. Reviewers say this is a relaxed end to the tour, where you can float and soak in the marine tranquility. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to take selfies with sharks or turtles—an Instagram-worthy moment for sure.

Comfort and Convenience on Board

The boat itself is described as large, with toilets, shaded areas, and a rest area, making it easy to relax between snorkel sessions. The included snorkeling equipment and life jackets mean you don’t need to worry about bringing your own gear (though fins aren’t included, so you might want to bring your own if you prefer). The jumping point and boat slider add a fun element for those seeking a bit more adrenaline.

The round-trip transfer is included, except for Mango Bay, which is a helpful perk. The tour also offers insurance, providing peace of mind. Be aware that you’ll need to pay a national park fee (250 THB per adult, 150 THB per child) separately, which is typical for marine parks in Thailand.

What the Tour Does Well

• Diverse Locations: Each stop showcases a different aspect of Koh Tao’s marine environments, from coral gardens to fish-packed bays to shark habitats.
• Equipment & Safety: All gear, life jackets, and insurance are included, making it a worry-free experience.
• Guided Experience: Guides are knowledgeable, providing insightful info and helping spot marine life.
• Value: For just over $26, you get a full day of snorkeling at five renowned sites, complemented by a meal and snacks.

Possible Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour is generally well-received, some travelers mention minor issues—like a late pickup, or the discrepancy between the tour description and the actual lunch offering. One reviewer was disappointed that the lunch was not as described, and towels weren’t provided, which could be inconvenient if you prefer to dry off sooner. The group size can be quite large (up to 120 travelers), so if a more intimate experience is your preference, this might feel a bit crowded.

Another point to consider: timing can be tight at each stop, and if the boat is busier or the weather isn’t ideal, delays might occur. It’s always wise to prepare for a day on the water and bring sun protection, a waterproof camera, and perhaps a towel if you prefer to dry off on your own.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This snorkeling tour works best for travelers on a budget who want to visit multiple top spots without organizing each stop independently. It’s ideal for those who don’t mind a group setting and are comfortable sharing the boat with many others. Perfect for first-time visitors to Koh Tao who want a guided, hassle-free day of underwater exploration with plenty of marine life and scenic views.

It’s also suitable for families, especially since the tour includes children ages 7-9 (child tickets available), though pregnant women or those with serious health concerns should avoid it. If you’re seeking a laid-back experience with a mix of underwater beauty and social fun, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

Koh Nang Yuan and Koh Tao’s 5 Point Snorkeling Tour offers a strong balance of value, variety, and convenience. The chance to snorkel at five distinct locations—each with its own unique charm—means you’ll leave with a solid snapshot of Koh Tao’s incredible underwater world. The guides’ professionalism and the boat’s amenities elevate the experience, making it accessible and enjoyable for most.

While minor issues like meal discrepancies and group size exist, they don’t overshadow the overall quality of the tour. The included gear, lunch, insurance, and multiple stops make this an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers keen on exploring marine biodiversity without the fuss.

If your priority is variety, value, and a relaxed yet active day on the water, this tour is a smart pick. It’s especially well-suited for first-timers or those short on time who want to tick multiple snorkeling spots off their list in one go. Just pack a towel, some sunscreen, and an adventurous spirit — you’re in for a memorable day.

FAQ

Is pickup included?
Yes, round-trip transfer is included, except for Mango Bay.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 6 to 7 hours, starting at 10:00am.

Are snorkeling gear and life jackets provided?
Yes, all snorkeling equipment and life jackets are included in the tour.

Can I bring fins or my own gear?
Fins are not included, but you can bring your own if preferred.

Is lunch provided?
A buffet lunch on board is included, although some reviews mention it might differ from the description or be a simple meal.

Are there any extra fees?
Yes, you’ll need to pay the National Park fee (250 THB per adult, 150 THB per child) separately.

What kind of marine life can I expect?
Expect coral gardens, tropical fish, sea anemones, turtles, and possibly small sharks.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 7-9 can join with a child ticket; however, pregnant women and those with certain health conditions are advised against it.

How many people typically participate?
Up to 120 travelers, so it’s a lively group experience.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a waterproof camera, a towel (if you prefer to dry off), and your own fins if you like.

This Koh Tao snorkeling tour strikes a good chord between affordability, variety, and comfort. With well-chosen stops and helpful guides, it offers a solid introduction to Thailand’s vibrant underwater world, perfect for travelers eager to make the most of their time on this beautiful island.