Koh Samui: Pig Island Kayak, Snorkel & Speedboat Day Trip

Summary

Kayak and snorkel with playful pigs on quiet Koh Madsum

You’ll zip across turquoise water by speedboat from Koh Samui, snorkel at Koh Tan, then meet (and feed) the famous pigs of Koh Madsum. Kayak along quiet shores or just relax on soft white sand before lunch under palm trees with new friends. Expect laughter, salty air, and small surprises you’ll remember long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed after we zipped away from Koh Samui was the color of the water — this soft green-blue that didn’t look real. Our guide, Noi, laughed when I tried to pronounce “Koh Madsum” (I’m still not sure I got it right). The speedboat ride only took about 20 minutes but my hair was already wild from the wind by the time we stopped at Koh Tan for snorkeling. The coral wasn’t far from shore, and there were these tiny yellow fish darting around my ankles. Someone nearby pointed out a monitor lizard sunning itself on a rock — blink and you’d miss it.

Afterwards we headed over to Pig Island. You can actually smell the sand before you step off the boat — kind of salty and warm, mixed with something sweet from all the fruit people bring for the pigs. The pigs are just… there. Some napping in shady patches, others waddling straight up to us like they owned the place (maybe they do). I fed one a bit of watermelon and it snorted so loudly that everyone started laughing. There’s this funny moment where you realize you’re standing on a white sand beach in Thailand, trying to take a selfie with a pig who’s more interested in your lunch than your camera.

We had lunch under some palm trees — simple Thai food, nothing fancy but honestly perfect after swimming and kayaking along the shore. I tried paddling out a little further than I meant to and ended up drifting back in with a couple of kids who were way better at steering than me. Noi told us about how the pigs swam over from Koh Tan years ago; she said locals still come out sometimes just to see if any new ones have arrived. It’s not quiet exactly — there’s always someone laughing or calling out — but there’s this easy feeling here that stuck with me long after we left.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling and kayaking at islands

• Snorkel and kayak at Koh Tan
• Travel to Koh Madsum
• Kayak, swim, and relax on beach
• Have lunch at Koh Madsum

Top questions

How long is the speedboat ride from Koh Samui to Pig Island?

The speedboat ride from Koh Samui to Pig Island takes about 20 minutes.

Can I feed or play with the pigs on Pig Island?

Yes, visitors can feed and interact with the pigs on Pig Island.

Is snorkeling equipment included in this tour?

Yes, snorkeling masks and life jackets are included for guests.

Does this day trip include hotel pickup?

Yes, hotel pickup is included from several areas around Koh Samui.

Is lunch provided during the Pig Island tour?

Yes, lunch (or dinner for sunset trips), soft drinks, and fresh fruit are included.

Are kayaks available during this trip?

Yes, kayaks are provided for use around Pig Island’s shoreline.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, child tickets are available for ages 4-11 years old.

Can pregnant travelers join this tour?

No, pregnant travelers are not recommended to join due to safety concerns.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip hotel pickup from main areas in Koh Samui, all snorkeling gear and life jackets, use of kayaks and sunbeds on Pig Island’s beach, accident insurance for peace of mind, plus a relaxed Thai lunch (or dinner if you choose sunset), soft drinks like water or cola, and plenty of fresh fruit before heading back in the afternoon.