kohsamui.tours – Secret Islands Longtail Boat trip

A closer look at the Secret Islands Longtail Boat Trip near Koh Samui

If you’re dreaming of escaping Koh Samui’s busy beaches for a day of quiet beaches, snorkeling, and lush mangroves, this tour might sound appealing. It promises an intimate experience on a traditional longtail boat, visiting two uninhabited islands, Koh Mudsum and Koh Tan, with a small group of just 10-12 people. That intimacy is a big plus for those who like the idea of a more personal, less crowded adventure.

One thing we really like about this trip is its focus on nature—secluded beaches, coral reefs still teeming with fish, and mangrove forests—offering a break from the usual tourist-packed spots. Plus, the chance to see “woolen pigs” relaxing on the beach adds a quirky touch to the day.

However, a key consideration is that the experience is highly weather-dependent. As one reviewer noted, bad weather can significantly impact the day, and the tour isn’t canceled easily if rain appears. This can be frustrating if you’re hoping for clear skies, especially during the rainy season.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love exploring off-the-beaten-path places and don’t mind the unpredictability of natural weather. It’s not ideal for those with limited mobility or who prefer a more guided, structured experience.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: Only 10-12 travelers, meaning a more intimate experience.
• Authentic Nature Focus: Secluded beaches, coral reefs, and mangroves offer genuine natural beauty.
• Weather Sensitivity: Rain can disrupt the day; weather conditions are crucial.
• Snorkeling and Beach Time: Free snorkeling gear and relaxing time on pristine beaches.
• Culinary Experience: Traditional Thai lunch served in a beach restaurant.
• Limited Reviews: With only one negative review highlighting poor weather, overall impressions are cautious but not definitively negative.

What to Expect from the Koh Samui Secret Islands Longtail Boat Trip

This tour is designed as a quick, nature-centric escape from Koh Samui’s more commercialized sites. The focus here is on discovering unspoiled islands, enjoying calm waters, and soaking up the tranquility of Thailand’s lesser-visited beaches.

Starting Point and Transport

Your day begins early, with pickup between 7:45 and 8:30 am. The transfer from your hotel is via air-conditioned minibus, which is a helpful comfort considering the early start. The drive to the boat dock takes about 30 minutes from most locations on Koh Samui. This setup ensures you’re fresh and ready before setting out on your adventure.

The Boat Trip and Its Stops

The main vessel is a traditional longtail boat, which adds a rustic charm but also a sense of adventure. It’s suited for small groups, making the experience feel more personal. The boat crosses from the fishing village of Thong Krut to the nearby islands of Koh Mudsum and Koh Tan, both of which see very few travelers.

Koh Mudsum – Woolen Pigs and White Sands

The first stop at Koh Mudsum is the highlight for many. This small island offers pristine, white sandy beaches with no infrastructure—no electricity, no running water—and a handful of simple restaurants. The true star here is the woolen pigs lounging on the beach, reminiscent of the Bahamas’ famous pigs. This quirky feature makes for fun photos and a lighthearted vibe, especially if you’re traveling with kids or love unusual animals.

The three-hour stay here allows plenty of time to relax, wade in the shallow waters, or snap some photos of the adorable pigs. Keep in mind, according to reviews, this island remains completely natural—no touristy resorts or gift shops, just unspoiled nature.

Koh Tan – Snorkeling and Mangroves

Next, the boat moves to Koh Tan for a snorkeling session. You can use the provided equipment to explore the coral reefs, which are still full of fish and possibly rare sea creatures, according to the tour description. The calm, clear waters make snorkeling accessible, even for beginners.

Post-snorkeling, the boat drops anchor off Koh Tan’s coast for a visit to the mangrove forests—a rare chance to walk through one of Thailand’s unique ecological zones. Signposts and info boards help you learn about the plants and animals, adding an educational element to your nature trek.

Lunch and Relaxation

While exploring, your guide will prepare a delicious traditional Thai meal served at a beach restaurant on Koh Tan. The lunch is included, so you get to enjoy a variety of local flavors while gazing at the sea. After the meal, you’ll have free time to relax on the sandy beaches, walk around, or take in the peaceful surroundings.

Returning to Koh Samui

The tour wraps up by around 2 pm with the return transfer to Koh Samui. The drive back allows you some time to reflect on the day or plan your evening activities.

Authenticity and Experience Value

The key appeal of this tour is its focus on natural, uncrowded spots. Unlike other tours that might include busy beaches or commercialized islands, this trip highlights secluded beaches and untouched reefs. This is ideal for travelers craving some quiet and genuine connection with nature.

However, the experience can be heavily impacted by weather. As one reviewer pointed out, the weather on the day of their trip was “horrible,” with rain making the boat ride uncomfortable and the island visits less enjoyable. This highlights an important consideration: if rain is forecast, your day might be less memorable or even canceled.

The small group size adds a layer of intimacy that big tours often lack, giving you room to ask questions and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and a traditional Thai lunch adds value, especially as these are included in the price of $52.

The trip’s duration of 5 to 6 hours makes it a full, satisfying half-day adventure, with enough time to explore but not so long that it becomes tiring. The pickup service is a plus, removing the hassle of organizing transport, though it’s worth confirming your pickup time in advance.

What the Reviews Say

The only publicly available review is quite negative, with the reviewer describing the day as “horrible” due to weather. They mentioned waiting for a cancellation that never came and feeling disappointed, highlighting that weather can be a deal-breaker. The tour operator responded politely, noting that no official safety concerns were raised and that other guests enjoyed their day.

This underscores that while the tour offers “authentic” and quiet experiences, it’s vulnerable to weather disruptions. If you’re considering booking, it’s wise to check the forecast and have flexible expectations.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience works best for travelers who genuinely enjoy nature, unspoiled beaches, and snorkeling in calm waters. If you’re looking for a quiet day away from crowds, this is a solid option, especially since it emphasizes small-group intimacy.

However, if you prioritize reliable weather or prefer a more structured, guided experience, you might find this trip less satisfying—especially during the rainy season.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $52, including lunch, snorkeling gear, transport, and insurance, this tour offers reasonable value for a half-day escape into nature. The small group size adds a more personal touch, and visiting two islands in one day is efficient. Still, travelers should consider the weather risks and the basic amenities—electricity and water are absent on Koh Mudsum, which might be a surprise for some.

Final Thoughts

This tour is a good pick for those eager to see Thailand’s natural side without the crowds—if the weather cooperates. It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine island hopping with snorkeling and wildlife spotting, all in a relaxed, small-group setting. Just be prepared for the possibility of weather-related disruptions, and don’t expect luxury amenities on the islands.

If you’re after authentic scenery, adorable animal encounters, and a taste of traditional Thai coastal life, this tour delivers that in spades. Just keep an eye on the forecast and have flexible plans in case conditions turn sour.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup from your hotel and transfer to the boat dock are included, with an air-conditioned minibus.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 10-12 travelers, creating a more personal experience.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling equipment is provided free of charge for those who want to explore underwater.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, there is free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour start time.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 5 to 6 hours, including transportation, island visits, and lunch.

Is this tour suitable during rainy season?
Weather is a key factor; rain may cause delays or cancellations. It’s best suited for clear days.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but specifics aren’t listed. It’s advisable to check with the provider if traveling with children or seniors.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers transportation, a Thai lunch, snorkeling gear, bottled water, soft drinks, and insurance.

Is there any wildlife I might see?
Yes, coral reefs with fish, possibly rare sea creatures, and the woolen pigs on Koh Mudsum.

Can I bring alcohol?
Alcoholic beverages are not included; you might want to bring your own if you wish, but check with the tour provider regarding policies.

To sum it up, this tour offers an engaging peek into Thailand’s quieter islands, perfect for nature lovers and those craving tranquility away from bustling tourist spots. The small-group setup and focus on untouched beaches make it a unique experience, provided the weather is cooperative. It’s a good value for a half-day adventure with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, relax, and enjoy authentic scenery—just keep weather considerations in mind.