Koh Samui: Ang Thong Marine Park private speedboat tour

Summary

Private speedboat to Ang Thong’s islands, emerald lake & Thai lunch

You’ll set off from Koh Samui by private speedboat with a local guide, snorkeling at Koh Wao before exploring Ang Thong’s emerald lake viewpoint. After a traditional Thai lunch on Koh Paluay, relax with swimming or kayaking among the islands—ending your day with salt in your hair and memories you’ll want to revisit.

What’s the experience like?

We were already barefoot on the sand before I’d really woken up — you know that feeling when the air is thick and salty, and your hair just gives up? Our guide, Noi, grinned as he handed out snorkels and told us about Koh Wao. The boat ride from Koh Samui was quick but loud (I still hear the engine sometimes), and the spray tasted like lime on my lips. I tried to ask how many islands there actually are in Ang Thong National Marine Park — Noi just shrugged and said “more than you’ll count today.” Fair enough.

Snorkeling at Koh Wao was a bit surreal — schools of fish darting around my legs, sunlight flickering through the water. I lost track of time until someone called me back to the boat. We cruised past these green islands that looked almost fake, then climbed up a steep path (my calves still remember it) for that view over the emerald lake. It’s quieter up there than you’d expect; just wind and a few birds. Lunch came after — plates of pad thai and fried rice at this wooden place on Koh Paluay where the cook smiled every time she brought something new. I tried saying thank you in Thai; Li laughed at my accent but helped me out.

Later we stopped at what Noi called “mini James Bond Island” for photos — not sure if it’s really famous or just his joke, but it made for good stories anyway. Some people went kayaking around the rocks; I just floated for a while, letting my fingers trail in the warm water. There was no rush back to Koh Samui, which felt rare. The sun started slipping behind clouds as we headed home, everyone quiet in that way you get after a long day outside. I keep thinking about that silence sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Angthong National Marine Park Tour

• Hotel pickup
• Speedboat departs Koh Samui
• Snorkeling at Koh Wao
• Coastal cruise of the National Park
• Visit emerald lake and viewpoint
• Traditional Thai lunch at Koh Paluay
• Swimming, kayaking, or relaxing on beach
• Scenic cruise back to Koh Samui
• Mini-bus transfer home

Top questions

How long does the private speedboat tour from Koh Samui take?

The tour lasts about 7–8 hours including transfers from your hotel.

Is lunch included during the Ang Thong National Marine Park tour?

Yes, a traditional Thai lunch is served at a quiet restaurant in the park.

Are snorkeling equipment and life jackets provided?

Yes, all snorkeling gear and life jackets are included in the tour price.

Can kids join this private speedboat tour?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels and kid-friendly meal options are available.

Is hotel pickup included in this day trip?

Yes, round-trip hotel transfer by minibus is included from Koh Samui hotels.

Do I need to pay an entrance fee for Ang Thong National Marine Park?

Yes, there is an entrance tax of 300 baht per person payable on site.

Can vegetarians be accommodated for lunch?

Vegetarian options are available if requested when booking.

What activities are offered besides snorkeling?

You can swim, kayak around the marine park or relax on the beach after lunch.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off by minibus from Koh Samui, all snorkeling equipment and life jackets, bottled water and soft drinks throughout, guidance from an English-speaking local guide and captain, plus a freshly prepared Thai lunch served right inside Ang Thong National Marine Park before returning home in the afternoon.