Similan Islands Tour from Phuket

Taking a trip to the Similan Islands is often considered a must-do for anyone visiting Phuket who craves pristine waters, lively marine life, and picture-perfect beaches. This full-day tour, offered by Phuket Top Tour, promises a 12-hour adventure filled with snorkeling, island exploration, and excellent views. From the comfort of your hotel pickup to the convenience of included equipment and food, it sounds like a seamless way to experience these famous islands.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it takes you to multiple spots within the marine park, giving a well-rounded taste of what the Similan Islands have to offer. The highlight for many is the opportunity to snorkel over coral reefs full of colorful fish and sea turtles—an experience that many would say is worth the price alone. However, there are a few things to keep in mind, like the lengthy travel time and some inevitable crowds during peak season.

This tour suits travelers who want a hassle-free, guided day out with plenty of swimming, scenic views, and a nice buffet lunch. It’s ideal for those who are comfortable with long boat rides and appreciate well-organized trips that cover multiple islands in one day. If you are looking for a relaxed, well-managed adventure with friendly staff, this could be a good fit—just prepare for some crowded moments and the need to pay the national park fee separately.

Key Points

• Full-day adventure from Phuket with multiple island stops
• Snorkeling gear provided for exploring coral reefs and marine life
• Hotel pickup and transfers included for convenience
• National park fee (not included) at 500 THB per adult
• Food and drinks provided on the boat, with a buffet lunch on the island
• Tour size capped at 60 travelers, balancing intimacy with a lively group

An In-Depth Look at the Similan Islands Tour

The Booking and Cost: Is It Worth It?

At a price of roughly $101 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusions — hotel transfers, snorkeling equipment, lunch, fruits, and drinks. Comparing it to other experiences in Phuket, this trip provides a comprehensive way to visit the Similan Islands without the hassle of planning individual transfers or activities.

The reviews suggest that most travelers feel they get their money’s worth, especially with the added convenience of pick-up service from Phuket hotels. Some, however, mention the long journey—about 7 hours round-trip—so be prepared for a full day of travel and activity. The price also excludes the 500 THB national park fee, which you must pay separately at departure, a common practice for park entry in Thailand but worth noting so you’re not caught off guard.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour kicks off at 6:00 am with hotel pickups, which means an early start but also the promise of beating some of the crowds. Once at Taplamu Pier, you’ll meet your guide and board a speedy boat designed to ferry you to the islands across the Andaman Sea.

Stop 1: Taplamu Pier & Pass by Sarasin Bridge
The journey begins with a scenic 50-minute ride, passing the Sarasin Bridge that connects Phuket to the mainland. Expect some anticipation building as you leave the busy coastline behind.

Stop 2: Snorkeling at Koh Ba Ngu (No.9)
This is where many guests fall in love with the trip. The coral reefs here are rich with marine life, including fish, turtles, and vibrant corals. Snorkeling gear is included, and reviewers often mention how clear the water is, making for fantastic underwater photos. One guest praised the helpful staff, notably the guide Kadir, who made sure everyone was comfortable and knew where to look.

Stop 3: Relaxing on Similan Island (No.8)
The next stop is a 1.5-hour visit to a white-sand beach with coral sand—perfect for some downtime. You can explore the island’s natural beauty, take photos, or just unwind. Many reviews mention the pristine condition of these beaches and how well-maintained they are.

Stop 4: Climb Sail Rock for a Viewpoint
For those who enjoy a bit of light hiking, climbing Sail Rock rewards you with sweeping views of the islands and the ocean. The short climb is appreciated by many, with reviewers noting the vista as a highlight.

Stop 5: Miang Island (No.4) for Lunch & Relaxation
This is the designated eating time. The buffet lunch includes Thai cuisine and is generally described as decent, with some reviews pointing out that the buffet is quite good considering the remote setting. You’ll have ample time to relax on the beach or explore the island’s natural surroundings.

Stop 6: Snorkeling at Koh Haa (No.5)
Another snorkeling stop, Koh Haa impresses visitors with its abundant marine life and clear water. It’s often called a highlight, with some reviewers raving about seeing turtles and a variety of colorful fish.

Return to Taplamu Pier
The journey back involves a 30-minute ride to the pier, after which you’re transported back to your Phuket hotel. The whole day involves a lot of time on the boat, so comfort and patience are important, especially given some reviews about long travel times.

The Boat Experience: Comfort and Crowd Control

The speedboats used for this trip are equipped with sun decks and shaded areas, but some reviewers mention feeling crowded, especially during peak season. The maximum capacity of the boats is 70 people, which can feel tight if the boat is full.

One guest pointed out that larger boats with around 45-70 seats are standard for the season, and the boat’s layout allows for some space, but at times it may feel overwhelmed. The crew does provide sea-sick pills and snorkeling gear, and the staff are praised for their friendliness and helpfulness.

Food and Refreshments: Tasty and Convenient

A major plus is the included buffet lunch, which many guests found more than adequate. Some reviews highlight the Thai cuisine as satisfying, especially considering the remote location. Fresh fruits and soft drinks are available throughout the day, adding to the overall value.

Guides and Staff: Friendly, Knowledgeable, but Variable

Reviews generally describe the crew as helpful and friendly. One reviewer appreciated the Russian-speaking guide Jacob, who made the experience more engaging. However, some guests noted that the English-speaking guide could be less interactive, and during peak times, multiple languages are needed, which might dilute the experience.

The Crowds: A Double-Edged Sword

During high season, the islands can get crowded, as multiple boats arrive simultaneously. The tour tries to mitigate this by allowing early access to the snorkeling spots and beaches, but some guests still felt overwhelmed. For example, one review mentioned feeling like they were “treated like cattle” due to overcrowding on the speedboat and at the beaches.

If you prefer quieter, less crowded experiences, visiting early in the season or selecting a smaller tour might be better.

The Long Journey: Worth It?

The main complaint from some travelers is the 7-hour round trip, which many say is quite exhausting, especially if you’re not accustomed to long boat rides. The transit is smooth but lengthy, and the discomfort on crowded boats can add to the fatigue. Reviewers suggest that if you’ve visited other iconic Thai islands like Phi Phi or James Bond, this trip may not feel as unique but still offers stunning scenery and excellent snorkeling.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who:

• Are comfortable with long boat rides and early mornings
• Want a guided experience to multiple islands in one day
• Appreciate snorkeling in clear waters with abundant marine life
• Enjoy beaches with soft sand and scenic viewpoints
• Prefer the convenience of hotel pickup and hassle-free arrangements

It’s less ideal for those seeking a quiet, private experience or travelers with mobility issues, given the boat crowding and the walking involved.

The Sum Up

The Similan Islands Tour from Phuket offers a solid value for anyone eager to see some of Thailand’s most beautiful marine scenery. With multiple snorkeling stops, scenic island beaches, and a good buffet lunch, it ticks many boxes for adventure-seeking travelers. The knowledgeable guides and friendly staff often stand out as the real star of the experience, making even the long trips more bearable.

However, the trip does come with some caveats: expect a lengthy journey, potential crowds, and an upfront cost for the national park fee. If you’re someone who loves snorkeling, stunning island vistas, and doesn’t mind sharing space with other travelers, this tour is likely to satisfy. Just be prepared for the busy pace and the full day out.

For travelers seeking a dependable, well-organized adventure with lots of marine fun, this tour hits the right notes. It’s an excellent way to tick off visiting a renowned national park and seeing the spectacular underwater world of the Similan Islands.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes pickup from your Phuket hotel or accommodation, making it convenient to start your day stress-free.

What should I bring? Comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and a towel are recommended. The tour provides snorkeling gear, but bringing your own mask or fins if you have preferences is optional.

How long is the boat ride? The journey to and from the islands takes approximately 2 hours each way, depending on sea conditions. Some guests find this travel time quite long.

Are there any age restrictions? Most travelers can participate, but the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues due to the boat crowding and walking involved.

Is the national park fee included? No, the 500 THB per adult fee is paid separately at the departure point.

What is the food like? The buffet lunch features Thai cuisine and is generally considered decent, especially considering the remote location. Fruits and drinks are also provided.

Can I customize this tour? The itinerary is subject to weather and sea conditions and may change accordingly. It’s best to go with the flow and enjoy the experience as it is designed.

This tour is a dependable choice for snorkeling lovers and island explorers looking for a well-organized day trip from Phuket. With stunning scenery, friendly staff, and a variety of stops, it offers an engaging way to experience the beauty of the Similan Islands—just be prepared for a full, busy day.