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Discover Koh Samui’s pig-filled paradise with a speedboat tour featuring snorkeling, kayaking, and beach relaxation—an authentic island experience.
Looking for a fun-filled day on the south coast of Koh Samui? The Pig Island Experience offers a lively mix of snorkeling, kayaking, and relaxing on pristine beaches, all wrapped into a compact six-hour adventure. This tour is perfect if you want to pack a lot into a single day, thanks to the quick-paced itinerary and all-inclusive setup.
What really shines is the visit to Pig Beach — a highlight where you can feed and pet adorable piglets wandering freely—a truly unique experience. The tour also offers a chance to see local life at Thong Krut fishing village, and enjoy a tasty Thai meal right on the beach.
That said, a few travelers have noted that the experience can get crowded, especially on Pig Island, and the snorkeling conditions aren’t always picture-perfect—something to keep in mind if underwater sighting is your main goal. This tour fits well for those seeking a lively, authentic, and family-friendly day trip in Koh Samui.
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Most travelers will appreciate the smooth hotel pickup, with clear instructions on meeting points. The tour operator, Backpacker Samui Travel, is active in answering questions quickly, which adds a layer of reassurance. The actual transportation involves a speedboat ride that’s often described as “short and sharp”—quick enough to get the adrenaline going, while providing some fantastic views of the coastline.
Our first stop is Koh Tan, renowned for its coral reef and vibrant marine life. Snorkeling here is what you’d expect—fish, coral, and clear waters—but some reviewers mention that visibility can vary. One guest noted the water was “notable for being quite clear” with good visibility, while others found the reef a bit underwhelming. It’s worth knowing that ocean conditions depend heavily on weather, so don’t expect a guarantee of perfect underwater sights.
The snorkel gear is provided, and you’ll get about an hour here, which is enough for a quick swim and some photos. What makes this stop worthwhile is its proximity to the next activity and the fact that it’s often less crowded than Pig Island, giving you a moment to enjoy nature.
Next up is Koh Mat Sum, a favorite for lazy days on white sandy beaches. You’ll have around three hours here—plenty of time to kayak, swim, or just lounge with a cold drink. The reviews praise the friendly paddling experience, with some guests mentioning that the waters can be a little debris-filled, so wading rather than full-on swimming might be better during certain conditions.
Guests also love that the island offers options like a “petting zoo” vibe with pigs and dogs roaming freely, which makes it a perfect spot for families and animal lovers. One reviewer described the pigs as “friendly and cute” and even mentioned the opportunity to feed them (note that food costs extra).
The third stop is Thong Krut, a traditional fishing village that takes just about 15 minutes to explore. It’s mainly a departure point for trips to nearby islands, but a quick visit gives insight into local life. Reviewers note that it’s a quiet, authentic spot with plenty of restaurants, making it a good place to stretch your legs and take photos of the colorful boats bobbing in the harbor.
The included lunch on the beach is generally described as tasty and satisfying, with both vegetarian and meat options available. Although some mention that the environment is a bit cluttered—stray dogs, flies, and roaming pigs—these are common sights on island trips, adding to the authentic, if unpolished, experience.
Beyond snorkeling, guests often enjoy kayaking, with some reviewers describing it as “helpful” and “fun.” The calm waters make for easy paddling, and the scenic surroundings enhance the experience. Swimming is also popular, although a couple of reviews mention debris in the water, so don’t expect pristine, untouched beaches everywhere.
The real star of the tour is Pig Island. Reviewers repeatedly mention how friendly and adorable the pigs are—some even sitting at tables or following visitors around. Feeding the pigs is a highlight, though it costs extra for the food. Many reviews comment on how well-cared-for the animals seem, and some guests enjoy seeing piglets nursing or pigs lounging under palm trees.
However, crowd levels can vary—some reviewers found Pig Island quite busy, which can dilute that intimate farmyard vibe. The pigs, along with friendly dogs, add a playful, farm-like atmosphere that many find charming.
The tour lasts roughly six hours, with a good balance of activity and relaxation. The group size, usually around 25 people, makes it feel social but not overwhelming. The price point—just over $52—includes all major activities, transport, lunch, and insurance, which is a fair deal considering the variety packed into the day.
While the tour is weather-dependent, the operator offers flexible rescheduling or refunds if conditions are poor. The morning departure and hotel pickup make for a hassle-free day, especially for travelers who want to avoid the logistical planning.
This experience suits a broad range of travelers, especially those who enjoy animal encounters, beach lounging, and light water activities. Families with kids often find it engaging, thanks to the friendly pigs and relaxed pace. Adventure seekers who prioritize snorkeling might want to temper expectations during less-than-ideal conditions—rain or wind can impact underwater visibility.
If you’re after a straightforward, fun-packed day with plenty of opportunities for photos, feeding animals, and enjoying Thailand’s coastal charm, this tour ticks a lot of boxes. It’s also ideal for cruisers or day-trippers looking to maximize their time without sacrificing authentic local experiences.
The Pig Island Experience by speedboat offers excellent value for its price, especially considering the all-inclusive nature—transfers, gear, lunch, and guided insight. The highlights are undeniably the animal encounters and the scenic boat ride, which many reviewers say is well-organized and enjoyable.
However, it’s worth keeping in mind that crowds can be an issue, and underwater visibility isn’t guaranteed. The water quality at Pig Island has been described as sometimes littered, and facilities like toilets might not match high-end standards. Still, for a lively, authentic day with plenty of photo opportunities and unique moments, it’s a solid choice.
This trip is best for relaxed travelers, animal lovers, and families ready for a bit of fun and exploration without intensive commitments. If you prefer more secluded beaches or pristine reefs, you might want to consider other options, but for a lively, authentic taste of Koh Samui’s southern islands, this tour delivers.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers round-trip hotel transfers, making it convenient for guests to start and end the day comfortably.
What activities are included?
Snorkeling equipment, kayaking, and swimming are all part of the package, along with a guided tour and lunch on the beach.
How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately six hours, with enough time at each stop to enjoy activities and relax.
What is the group size?
Typically, up to 25 travelers can join this tour, providing a good balance of socializing and comfort.
What is the price for the tour?
It costs about $52.20 per person, covering transportation, activities, lunch, and insurance.
Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the entrance fee for Pig Island isn’t included and must be paid on-site if you wish to visit the pig beach.
Is snorkeling always good?
Not necessarily; conditions depend on weather. Some reviews mention murky waters or less vibrant reefs, so don’t set your expectations too high underwater.
Can I customize the experience?
Since this is a fixed package, customization options are limited. However, the tour’s flexible scheduling and clear communication make planning easy.
In summary, the Pig Island Experience by speedboat is a lively, authentic, and well-organized day out in Koh Samui. Whether you’re a family wanting to feed pigs, a couple seeking scenic views, or a solo traveler eager for a quick adventure, this tour packs a lot into a single day. It’s a great way to see multiple islands, meet friendly animals, and enjoy Thai hospitality—all at a reasonable price.
If you’re okay with possible crowds, variable water clarity, and a lively atmosphere, this tour will give you plenty of memorable moments. Just remember to bring your sense of humor and an adventurous spirit—these are the ingredients for a day you won’t forget.