Pig Feeding, Kayaking, Snorkeling Trip at Pig Island By Speedboat From Koh Samui - Who Should Consider This Tour?

Pig Feeding, Kayaking, Snorkeling Trip at Pig Island By Speedboat From Koh Samui

Discover the full scoop on Koh Samui's Pig Island tour, including snorkeling, kayaking, and pig encounters—balancing fun, logistics, and value for your trip.

Koh Samui’s Pig Island Experience: A Practical Look at the Speedboat, Snorkeling, and Pig Feeding Tour

If you’re considering a day trip from Koh Samui that combines adorable pig interactions with water-based adventures, this tour might catch your interest. It offers hotel transfers, boat rides, time with pigs, plus opportunities to snorkel and kayak—all packed into roughly six to seven hours. While the idea of swimming with pigs and exploring tropical waters sounds delightful, it’s worth understanding what’s really involved before booking.

One thing we appreciate about this tour is the convenience of included transportation and gear. It pulls a lot of the logistical stress out of your hands, making it easier to relax and enjoy the day. However, some travelers note that waiting times and organization issues can detract from the overall vibe. This experience is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of animal encounters, scenic water sports, and are flexible with minor delays.

If your idea of a perfect getaway involves seeing pigs in unusual settings, exploring the sea, and having a leisurely day with good food, this trip could be a good choice. But if you prefer highly structured, smoothly run tours with guaranteed pig sightings, you might want to consider other options or prepare for some unpredictability.

Key Points

Pig Feeding, Kayaking, Snorkeling Trip at Pig Island By Speedboat From Koh Samui - Key Points

  • All-in-one convenience: Hotel transfers, boat rides, and gear included simplify planning.
  • Animal interaction: Unique chance to feed and see pigs up close, although some reviews mention fewer pigs or less water activity.
  • Water activities: Kayaking and snorkeling offered; gear provided, but visibility and coral quality may vary.
  • Meal and refreshments: Tasty, generous lunch with fresh fruit and soft drinks included in the cost.
  • Group size: Typically up to 30 travelers, balancing social fun and privacy.
  • Potential downsides: Long waits, organizational hiccups, and limited pig numbers (sometimes just a couple of pigs remain).

A Deep Dive into the Tour

Pig Feeding, Kayaking, Snorkeling Trip at Pig Island By Speedboat From Koh Samui - A Deep Dive into the Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure kicks off at Thong Krut Pier at 9:00 am, where you’ll be greeted by the team from Oh-Hoo. From there, expect hotel pickups from key locations such as Lamai, Chaweng, Bophut, and others—making the logistical aspect pretty straightforward. The transportation seems to be reliable, with many reviewers noting punctual pickup times and friendly service.

However, some feedback highlights delays in pickups and waiting times at the pier. For example, one traveler mentioned needing multiple calls and a scooter ride to finally get on the boat around 10:25 am, after an early 9 am start. This suggests that while the service is generally good, patience might be necessary, especially if you’re staying outside the main pickup zones.

The Speedboat Ride

The boat itself is described as fast and comfortable, with many reviewers praising the lively crew and the smooth ride out to Pig Island. The speedboat is a key highlight, providing a sense of adventure and a quick escape from the busy main beaches. The ride to Koh Madsum and Koh Tan offers scenic views and a chance to enjoy the sea breeze.

Stops and Activities

Koh Tan is your first stop, where you’ll have about an hour to snorkel or kayak. Reviewers say the snorkeling spot features clear water and plenty of fish, though some note that the coral and marine life may not be as vibrant or extensive as in other snorkeling locations. Kayaking is provided, and many appreciate the chance to paddle leisurely around the island.

Following this, the tour moves to Koh Madsum, which gets a solid three hours of free time. You can relax on the beach, dine, or try watersports. The included lunch is often described as surprisingly good—stir-fried vegetables, fresh fruit, and soft drinks enhance the experience. One reviewer noted that the food was plentiful and tasty, making the overall value better.

Pig Island itself is the main event. The scene is lively, with visitors able to feed the pigs and take photos. That said, some reviews mention that the pigs are fewer in number today, mostly black, and not always interested in water. A reviewer from July 2024 pointed out that the pigs don’t stay in the water or on the beach but are somewhat in the background, which can be disappointing if you expect lots of piggy antics.

Realities of Pig Sightings

While the tour promises a chance to see pigs up close and feed them, the experience can vary. Several guests shared that the pigs’ numbers have dwindled, with only one or two visible during some visits. The pigs are described as cute and fun to interact with, but don’t expect a pig invasion or large pig herd. Some commented that the island appears somewhat neglected, with plastic waste and cigarette butts, indicating a need for better upkeep.

Snorkeling and Kayaking Highlights

The second stop, Koh Tan, offers decent snorkeling with many fish and a coral reef. Reviewers liked the chance to snorkel in the clear waters, but some felt the marine environment wasn’t as spectacular as in other popular Thai snorkeling sites. Kayaking was easy to do, and provided a relaxing way to explore the shoreline. Gear is provided, and life jackets are available, but water visibility can sometimes be less than ideal.

The Lunch Experience

A standout aspect of this tour is the included meal, which many reviewers rate highly. Instead of a small box or snack, the tour provides a substantial Thai-style lunch with fresh ingredients, including Tom Yum, stir-fried vegetables, rice, and fruit. Multiple travelers mention this as a highlight, noting the quality and variety of the food.

Overall Duration and Pacing

The entire trip lasts around 6 to 7 hours, with roughly three hours on Koh Madsum, an hour at Koh Tan, and the boat rides in between. Some guests expressed that waiting times—particularly the transfer waits and delays at the dock—can make the day feel longer than it needs to be.

Cost and Value

At $56.29 per person, considering the included transfers, water gear, meals, and activities, the tour offers reasonable value. It’s a package that takes care of most logistics, making the day hassle-free. However, the variable nature of pig sightings and organization issues mean you may not get exactly what you expect every time.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Pig Feeding, Kayaking, Snorkeling Trip at Pig Island By Speedboat From Koh Samui - Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, all-in-one day out with minimal planning. Animal lovers will find the chance to feed and photograph pigs appealing, especially since the tour includes hotel pickups and meals, which adds convenience. Water sports enthusiasts will enjoy kayaking and snorkeling, although those seeking pristine reefs or abundant marine life might find this spot underwhelming.

Families with children aged 4-11 will find it accessible, and the inclusive nature makes it appealing for groups who prefer not to organize each element separately. But, if you’re after a smooth, highly-organized experience with guaranteed pig activity, you might want to either arrive early or consider other options.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a fun mix of animal interaction, water sports, and scenic islands, making it a solid choice for a laid-back day in Koh Samui. The included transfers and meal boost its value, especially for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of organizing logistics. Still, some inconsistency in pig numbers and organizational delays could be a drawback for perfectionists.

If you’re flexible, enjoy light adventure, and are curious about pigs in Thailand, this trip will probably bring some memorable moments. Just keep your expectations in check and be prepared for some waiting—and you’ll end the day with plenty of stories to tell.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pig Feeding, Kayaking, Snorkeling Trip at Pig Island By Speedboat From Koh Samui - Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to the starting point?
The tour begins at Thong Krut Pier, with hotel pickups from key areas around Koh Samui, like Lamai and Chaweng. Confirm with the provider for your exact pickup time.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and a waterproof camera if you want to take photos. Gear like snorkeling masks and life jackets are provided, so you don’t need to bring your own.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 4-11 can join, and the activities like feeding pigs, kayaking, and snorkeling are generally safe for kids under supervision.

What is included in the meal?
A Thai-style lunch with options including Tom Yum, stir-fried vegetables, rice, and fresh fruit. Soft drinks are also provided.

How long is the tour?
Expect around 6 to 7 hours, with time divided between boat rides, island stops, and meals.

Are food and water provided?
Yes, the tour provides a hearty lunch, fresh fruit, and soft drinks, making it quite good value for the price.

What are the main drawbacks?
Delays and waiting times, organizational inconsistencies, and fewer pigs than some might hope for. The pig sightings can sometimes be disappointing.

Is snorkeling worth it?
For the chance to see fish and enjoy clear water, yes. But if you’re after vibrant coral reefs, you might find this spot average.

Can I snorkel or kayak at the islands independently?
Yes, gear is provided, and there’s time allocated for both activities at Koh Tan and Koh Madsum.

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

To sum it up, this tour balances fun animal encounters, water activities, and hassle-free logistics. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed day with enough variety to keep everyone entertained. Keep your expectations realistic regarding pig sightings, and you’ll find it an enjoyable, lighthearted day out in Koh Samui.