Snorkeling in Koh Tao: Small boat, coral reefs & sunset

Four reef stops and a BBQ dinner floating off Koh Tao

This snorkeling tour operates from a semi-private boat holding a maximum of 20 people, departing Koh Tao at 11:30 AM to visit four named reef sites: Ko Nuang Yuan, the Japanese Garden, Mango Bay and Shark Bay. You get snorkeling equipment, a Thai lunch cooked on board, fresh coconut and iced tea, a BBQ feast, and a Blue Cocotip cocktail or mocktail as the sun sets on the return. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, as is an experienced guide and underwater photography on request.

The experience

The boat holds 20 people maximum, which is the constraint that makes the day work. You're not fighting for space at the rail or waiting in a line to enter the water. Departure is 11:30 AM from the pier, and the first stop is Ko Nuang Yuan, where you spend an hour in the water before the boat moves on. The snorkeling mask is included and sterilized. A life jacket is on hand if you want one.

The route takes you through four reef zones: the Japanese Garden next, then Mango Bay where the marine life is densest, then Hing Wong Bay, and finally Shark Bay. Between stops, the crew prepares lunch on board, a choice of four Thai dishes, and keeps drinking water flowing. The underwater photography happens at any of these stops if you request it when you book.

On the return to the pier, the boat slows for sunset and the crew sets out a BBQ spread with fresh coconut, iced Thai tea, and a Blue Cocotip cocktail (or a non-alcoholic version if you prefer). Hotel pickup and drop-off are arranged before you board, so the day starts and ends at your accommodation. The guide and staff speak English and Thai throughout.

What’s included

• Snorkeling mask and life jacket.
• hotel pickup and drop-off.
• experienced guide fluent in English and Thai.
• homemade Thai lunch with four menu choices.
• fresh coconut and iced Thai tea.
• BBQ dinner on the return.
• Blue Cocotip cocktail or mocktail at sunset.
• underwater photography on request.
• drinking water throughout the day.
• accident insurance.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 11:00

Book up toStart time

AgesAdult (13 to 60 years) · Child (4 to 12 years) · Infant (1 to 3 years)

GroupUp to 20

Live guideEnglish and Thai

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.You can choose from 22 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 2 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problems

Operated by Coco Tip Adventures

Is this one for you?The guide speaks English and Thai, so if you're comfortable with either language, you'll follow the commentary at each reef without strain. The boat's 20-person limit and fixed departure time mean you're not negotiating a schedule or competing for deck space. The day holds together without you building it.

Traveler reviews

4.98★★★★★★★★★★

50 verified traveler reviews

5 ★49

4 ★1

3 ★0

2 ★0

1 ★0

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Thai.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 12 years); Infant (1 to 3 years).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What's the water like at the reefs around Koh Tao?

The water is warm and clear, with coral formations and colorful fish at each of the four stops: Ko Nuang Yuan, the Japanese Garden, Mango Bay and Shark Bay. The depth and visibility vary by site, but all are suitable for snorkelers of any experience level.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?

No. A sterilized snorkeling mask is included with the tour, and a life jacket is available on board if you want one. You only need to bring a swimsuit and a towel.

What time does the boat leave and when do we get back?

The boat departs at 11:30 AM and returns in the late afternoon in time for sunset on the water. The full tour runs 7 hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off.

Is lunch included in the price?

Yes. A homemade Thai lunch with four menu options is cooked on board, along with fresh coconut, iced Thai tea, and a Blue Cocotip cocktail or mocktail served during sunset on the return.