Koh Samui: Pig Island Speedboat Tour & Snorkeling with Lunch

Summary

White sand, curious pigs and coral reefs near Koh Samui

You’ll step onto Pig Island’s white sand as curious pigs trot over for snacks, then ride by speedboat to Koh Tan for snorkeling among bright coral and fish. Lunch is served right by the water—expect laughter, salt on your skin, and stories from your local guide that linger long after you’re back in Koh Samui.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed stepping onto Koh Madsum—Pig Island—was the soft crunch of sand under my toes and this low, happy grunting from somewhere behind me. The pigs really do wander right up, noses twitching for snacks (don’t bring plastic bags unless you want a crowd). Our guide Somchai laughed when one pig tried to nibble his flip-flop. I just stood there for a second, sun on my neck, not quite believing I was about to share a beach with a bunch of pigs. It felt weirdly peaceful.

The speedboat ride from Koh Samui was quick but bouncy—my hair’s still salty—and we reached Pig Island before the day got too hot. After some awkward attempts at pig selfies (they’re fast!), we headed over to Koh Tan. You can actually smell the difference: salty sea air mixes with a bit of barbecue smoke drifting from someone’s lunch shack. We grabbed snorkels and slipped into water so clear you could see parrot fish darting between coral heads. I lost track of time floating there, just following flashes of blue and yellow.

Lunch was simple but good—rice, grilled fish, something spicy that made me cough (in a good way). Sitting at the Coral Beach Restaurant on Koh Tan, with sand stuck to my legs and everyone swapping stories about which pig was the friendliest… it just felt easy. Somchai pointed out some tiny islands in the distance and told us how locals used to fish here before tourism picked up. I still think about that lazy hour after lunch, waves lapping close by and nobody in any hurry to leave.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Pig Island and Koh Tan snorkeling

• Arrive at Koh Madsum (Pig Island)
• Play with pigs and take photos
• Relax on white-sand beach
• Travel to Koh Tan island
• Snorkel among coral reefs and fish
• Enjoy lunch at Koh Tan Coral Beach Restaurant

Top questions

How long does the Pig Island tour from Koh Samui take?

The tour is a full day trip including transfers from your hotel in Koh Samui.

Is snorkeling equipment included on the Pig Island & Koh Tan tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included for all guests.

Are meals provided during the tour?

A buffet lunch is included at Coral Beach Restaurant on Koh Tan.

Is hotel pickup included for this speedboat tour?

Yes, round trip hotel transfer by air-conditioned minivan is provided.

Can children join the Pig Island tour?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels; infants must sit on an adult’s lap.

Are there any health restrictions for joining?

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

Will there be an English-speaking guide?

An experienced English-speaking guide accompanies your group throughout the day.

What should I bring on the Pig Island speedboat trip?

You should bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a towel for comfort.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your hotel in Koh Samui by air-conditioned minivan, bottled water along the way, all snorkeling gear provided by professional crew aboard a modern speedboat, life jackets if you want them, travel insurance coverage throughout the trip, plus a buffet lunch right on the beach at Coral Beach Restaurant before heading back in the afternoon.