Pig Island Private Longtail Boat Trip From Koh Samui

Getting a taste of Thailand’s offbeat spots doesn’t always mean busy beaches or crowded markets. Sometimes, it’s about discovering places that are truly unique and less touristy—like Pig Island, a tiny haven known for its friendly wild boars wandering freely along white sandy beaches. This private longtail boat tour from Koh Samui offers an intimate, flexible way to experience this quirky island, with the added bonus of snorkeling gear and hotel transfers.

What really sets this trip apart is the personalized experience. For travelers craving a relaxed day with plenty of time to explore at your own pace, this tour ticks the box. The boat ride itself promises scenic views of Koh Samui, and the chance to spend quality time with the island’s most famous residents—those adorable, nonchalant pigs. But, as with all adventures, there are some considerations worth keeping in mind, like the potential for crowds at certain times or the modest nature of the island’s amenities.

Ultimately, this trip is best suited for families, wildlife lovers, and anyone looking for a low-stress excursion that combines wildlife spotting, snorkeling, and some beach downtime. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a fun day out, the private aspect makes it feel exclusive without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Private and intimate: Perfect for groups of up to eight, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Wildlife highlight: Get close to the famously friendly wild boars roaming freely on the island.
• Flexible schedule: Enjoy a set duration of about 4 hours, with options to relax, explore, or snorkel.
• Inclusive essentials: Snorkeling gear, bottled water, and accident insurance are included for peace of mind.
• Scenic boat ride: The longtail boat offers a traditional Thai experience with fantastic views of Koh Samui.
• Additional costs: Budget for the 50 baht park fee and any food or drinks purchased on-site.

The Experience in Detail

The Journey Begins at Thong Krut Pier

The adventure kicks off at Thong Krut Pier, a charming, less touristy spot on Koh Samui. From here, your private longtail boat awaits, ready to whisk you away on your half-day adventure. Unlike crowded group tours, this experience is tailored to your group—be it family, friends, or a small party—up to five people, with options to book for larger groups.

Onboard, you’ll feel the authentic Thai vibe as the boat’s motor hums and the sea spray tickles your face—an exhilarating way to start your trip. The boat ride offers stunning views of Koh Samui’s coastline, giving you a chance to snap photos of the lush landscape and clear waters.

Approaching Pig Island

The journey to Koh Madsum, aka Pig Island, takes about 30-40 minutes. During this time, you can enjoy the scenery, chat with your guide (if available), and get ready for the highlight: meeting the island’s famous residents. Multiple reviews mention the healthy, well-cared-for pigs that roam freely around the beaches, often mingling with snorkelers and sunbathers.

One reviewer, Leah, shared that being in their own group allowed them to arrive before the crowds, and she described the pigs as “healthy and well taken care of,” which adds reassurance for animal lovers. The sight of wild boars lazily wandering along the sand, occasionally snuffling at the ground, is genuinely charming and unlike any other wildlife encounter on typical island trips.

Exploring and Relaxing on the Beach

Once on the island, you’ll find a white sandy beach with calm, shallow waters—ideal for swimming or just soaking up the sun. The beach has a lush interior, including mangrove forests, which are worth a quick exploration if you’re feeling adventurous. Some visitors enjoy kayaking along the shore, spotting rare birds or even monitor lizards, as one reviewer noted.

The island’s infrastructure is minimal, with a simple beach bar serving food and drinks at your own cost. You might want to bring snacks or beverages if you prefer not to rely solely on the available options. The relaxed vibe means you can settle in for a few hours, taking in the scenery and observing the playful antics of the pigs.

Snorkeling and Additional Adventures

Included in your package is snorkeling gear, making it easy to explore the vibrant coral reefs just offshore. The waters are described as clear and calm, perfect for beginners or those simply wanting to cool off. For a more extended adventure, some travelers consider reaching nearby Koh Tan, which offers more snorkeling, trekking, and wildlife spots.

According to a review, the snorkeling scene was “fun,” and the coral reef surrounding the island adds a colorful backdrop to your swim. Keep in mind that the experience is primarily about relaxing and wildlife viewing rather than advanced diving or extensive sightseeing.

The Return and Flexibility

At the end of your 4-hour window, your boat will return to Thong Krut Pier, providing a stress-free conclusion to your day. The tour’s private nature means you can leave when you’re ready, avoiding the rush of larger group trips. Many reviews mention the benefit of having control over timing, allowing a more leisurely experience.

Pricing and Value

At around $132.71 for a group of up to five, this tour offers a reasonable price point considering the exclusivity and inclusions—private boat transfers, snorkeling gear, bottled water, and insurance. When compared to larger, more crowded tours, the private aspect and tailored experience make it a good deal for those seeking a more relaxed, personalized outing.

However, travelers should budget extra for food, drinks, and the park fee of 50 baht per person. For families or small groups wanting a flexible, memorable day with wildlife, this tour delivers in both charm and value.

Real Insights from Reviews

While most reviews highlight the scenic boat ride and the uniqueness of the pigs, some travelers express mixed feelings. One reviewer, Stephen, pointed out a hiccup with the pickup time being moved earlier unexpectedly—an important reminder to confirm your schedule ahead of time. Despite this, the boat ride itself was described as “ok,” with some noting the constant sea spray was a minor inconvenience.

Conversely, Leah loved arriving early to beat the crowds, and she praised the pigs’ good health and the snorkeling fun. Another reviewer, Saskia, expressed disappointment with too many travelers and the cleanliness issues, including the 50 baht entry fee for beach maintenance, which she felt tarnished the experience.

This highlights the importance of realistic expectations: early booking, quiet times, and understanding that the island’s infrastructure is simple.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private trip is perfect for travelers seeking a casual, wildlife-focused adventure. Families with children will appreciate the safe environment and the playful pigs, while wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy getting up close to the animals. The relaxed pace and flexibility suit those who prefer a laid-back day rather than a packed itinerary.

It’s also ideal for small groups wanting an exclusive experience with the option to snorkel or relax without the noise and chaos of larger tours. If you’re looking for a quirky, memorable outing that combines wildlife, scenic views, and a bit of beach time, this tour checks many boxes.

Not recommended for travelers arriving by cruise ships or those with certain health conditions, as the activity involves boat transfers and outdoor exploration. Also, be prepared for some simple beach facilities and small crowds during peak times.

FAQs

• Is hotel pickup included? Yes, hotel transfer is offered as an option, making the trip more convenient.
• How long is the boat ride? The journey from Koh Samui to Pig Island takes about 30-40 minutes.
• What’s included in the price? Snorkeling gear, bottled water, accident insurance, and private boat transfers are included.
• Are food and drinks provided? No, food and drinks are at your own cost, but there’s a beach bar where you can buy refreshments.
• What is the park fee? There is a 50 baht fee per person to access the beach and facilities.
• Is snorkeling suitable for beginners? Yes, the waters are calm and clear, ideal for snorkeling with provided gear.
• Can I explore Koh Tan? Yes, it’s nearby and offers more snorkeling, trekking, and wildlife opportunities.
• What should I bring? Sunscreen, hat, towel, possibly snacks, and any personal items needed for comfort.
• Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers? No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, or those with high blood pressure, heart disease, or bone conditions.

Final Thoughts

The Pig Island private longtail boat trip from Koh Samui offers a relaxed, authentic way to enjoy one of the island’s most unusual attractions. You’ll love the chance to hang out with the friendly wild boars, swim in clear waters, and enjoy personalized service all in a small group setting. The scenic boat ride adds a touch of traditional Thai charm, and the flexibility of the schedule means you can tailor your day to your mood.

While the island infrastructure is modest, and crowds might sometimes appear, the overall experience is fun, memorable, and good value for those seeking a less commercialized adventure. If animal encounters, snorkeling, and a laid-back vibe appeal to you, this tour is a charming choice that balances authenticity with comfort.

Ideal for families, wildlife lovers, and small groups eager for a peaceful escape. Just be sure to confirm your pickup time and come with a spirit of adventure—and a sense of humor about the simple beach facilities!