Similan Islands Snorkeling Tour By Seastar Andaman From Phuket

Taking a day trip out to the Similan Islands is a popular way to experience some of Thailand’s most stunning underwater scenery — and with this tour from Seastar Andaman, you get a taste of multiple snorkeling spots, comfortable transport, and a delicious Thai-style lunch. The tour generally lasts around 11 to 12 hours, packed with scenic boat rides, underwater adventures, and picturesque island stops.

What we love most about this experience is how it maximizes your time on the water — thanks to a speedy speedboat, you’ll cover more ground than you could exploring on your own. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes the day hassle-free. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour might not deliver as many snorkeling spots as some travelers expect, based on recent reviews.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a full day of marine discovery without the hassle of organizing transport or gear. If you’re someone who enjoys vibrant coral reefs, spotting sea turtles and dolphins, and relaxing on white-sand beaches, this experience will suit you well. Just make sure you’re prepared for a long day and the usual boat adventure.

Key Points

• Multi-destination snorkeling allows you to visit several prime spots around the Similan Islands.
• Speedboat transportation helps you maximize your time on the water and see more in one day.
• Hassle-free logistics with included hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies your planning.
• Delicious Thai lunch offers a satisfying break in the middle of your day.
• Tour size is capped at 45 travelers, so you’ll generally avoid overly crowded boats.
• National park fee is not included, so budget around 400 THB per adult.

The Complete Experience: What to Expect

Early Morning Pickup and Introduction

The day begins early with hotel pickup in Phuket, usually around 6:00 am. This is a real perk — instead of stressing over transportation yourself, the tour company takes care of it, making the start seamless. The minivan transport is comfortable and efficient, bringing you to the boat dock where you’ll meet your guide from Seastar Andaman.

Meet and Greet at Seastar

Once onboard, you’ll enjoy a light breakfast as you meet your friendly guide, who will accompany you throughout the day. Here, you’ll also select your snorkeling gear — masks, fins, snorkels, and life jackets are provided, ensuring everyone is suited up for underwater exploration.

First Snorkeling Stop at Island No. 5

Your first underwater adventure is at Mu Ko Similan National Park’s Island No. 5, known for its beautiful coral formations and diverse fish life. The reviewer Thomas noted that this was a great starting point, although some guests expect more than the two main snorkeling spots included. Still, the vibrant marine life here sets the tone for the rest of the day.

Exploring Ko Miang and a Thai Buffet Lunch

Next, the tour takes you to Ko Miang, where you can walk across the island, swim, or snorkel. Afterward, a substantial Thai-style buffet lunch awaits, served at a scenic spot on the island. The meal is often praised for its flavor and variety, providing a much-needed energy boost amid the day’s activities. The 2-hour stop here is generous, allowing time to relax, take photos, or explore.

Snorkeling at Bangu Island and Ko PA Yu

Post-lunch, the boat heads to Bangu Island (Koh 9) for another snorkeling session. This stop is valued by travelers for its clear water and marine diversity. The subsequent stops at Ko PA Yu and West of Eden dive spot continue the underwater theme, with around an hour at each location.

Iconic Sailing Rock and Viewpoint Climb

The tour’s highlight for many is the visit to Sailing Rock at Island No. 8. Here, you can relax, swim, or climb to the viewpoint. Notably, the reviewer mentions the climb is accessible and offers fantastic vistas, perfect for photos. The tour wraps up with time at the top to enjoy the view and snap some memorable shots.

Return and Hotel Drop-off

After a full day of swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing, the boat departs the islands and heads back to Phuket for your hotel drop-off, usually in the late afternoon. The entire experience, including transfers, makes for a comfortable and convenient day out.

What Travelers Say: The Authentic Insights

One noteworthy review points out that the guides are quite knowledgeable, which makes a difference when you’re trying to identify marine life or learn about the islands. The guides’ friendliness and professionalism enhance the experience, making sure everyone feels safe and informed.

The food, especially the Thai buffet, receives consistent praise — “delicious” and “fresh,” with a variety of options that satisfy different tastes. Having a good meal in the middle of a busy day is a real plus.

However, some guests were a bit disappointed that the tour didn’t fulfill the expectation of four snorkeling spots, as one review highlights. The reviewer noted that they enjoyed the two main snorkeling locations and the island visits but expected more. This suggests that if snorkeling is a primary goal, some may want to consider whether this tour covers enough spots for their taste.

The group size, capped at 45 travelers, keeps things manageable, but during peak seasons, it can still feel busy. The speedboat’s quick transit between locations helps in fitting everything into one day but also means the ride can be a bit bumpy for those prone to seasickness.

The Value of This Tour

At $124.69 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience, with several snorkeling stops, a scenic boat ride, and a hearty lunch included. When compared to the cost of organizing your own trip, transport, and gear, it seems quite reasonable.

The inclusion of full travel accident insurance, snorkeling equipment, and hotel transfers adds to the perceived value, especially for those unfamiliar with Phuket or new to boating excursions. Keep in mind the additional national park fee (400 THB adults, 200 THB children), which is not included in the price but is a standard charge for visiting the Similan Islands.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers wanting a structured day of snorkeling, with comfortable logistics and multiple stops. It’s perfect if you prefer not to worry about transport or gear and want to relax while experts guide you through the highlights of the Similan Islands.

However, if your main goal is to snorkel at more spots or seek a more adventurous or in-depth marine experience, you might want to explore other options or private tours. The long day might also be a challenge for restless kids or those with limited stamina, so prepare accordingly.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off from all areas in Phuket, making the start and end of your day very convenient.

What should I bring on the tour?
You’ll want to bring your passport or ID, swimming suit, towel, sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, and camera to capture the memories.

Are the snorkeling gear and safety equipment provided?
Yes, masks, snorkels, fins, and life jackets are all included, ensuring you have everything you need for a safe underwater experience.

How many snorkeling spots are included?
The tour features several stops, including Island No. 5, Bangu Island, Ko PA Yu, and West of Eden, but some reviews suggest it might not meet everyone’s expectation for four or more snorkeling locations.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children aged 4-11 can participate, but consider their comfort with long boat rides and snorkeling. Pregnant women or those with certain health conditions are advised against joining.

What is the national park fee?
This fee is 400 THB per adult and 200 THB per child, payable on the day of the tour, and is not included in the tour price.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If poor weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund, ensuring no money is lost due to unforeseen conditions.

Final Thoughts

The Similan Islands Snorkeling Tour by Seastar Andaman offers an accessible, well-organized way to explore some of Thailand’s most stunning marine environments. The tour’s highlights include multiple diverse snorkeling spots, a scenic boat ride, and a hearty Thai lunch — all designed to make your day memorable without the fuss of planning every detail yourself.

While some guests might find the number of snorkeling locations somewhat limited compared to their expectations, the overall experience provides excellent value for a full day of aquatic adventure. The knowledgeable guides, combined with comfortable transportation and beautiful island scenery, make this a worthwhile choice, especially if you’re short on time but seek maximum exposure to Thailand’s underwater beauty.

If you’re looking for a fun, hassle-free way to see several prime snorkeling sites and enjoy the natural beauty of the Similan Islands, this tour will serve you well. It’s best for those who want a structured, guided experience with good food, safety, and the chance to spot marine life like turtles and dolphins — all set against the backdrop of some of the most famous islands in the region.

In summary, this tour combines convenience with adventure, making it a strong contender for travelers eager to experience the vibrant underwater world of Thailand without straying too far from Phuket. Just be prepared for a long day and a busy boat — the rewards are well worth it if marine life, stunning scenery, and a taste of island life top your list.