Koh Tao Snorkeling Tour from Koh Samui with Small Group

Summary

Snorkel Koh Tao’s reefs from Samui with local guides and Thai lunch

You’ll slip into clear waters around Koh Tao with a small group and local guides who know every reef curve. Expect three unique snorkeling sites (weather shifts things), fresh fruit breaks, homemade Thai lunch onboard, and easy pickup from your place on Koh Samui—all at a pace that lets you actually breathe in the sea air.

What’s the experience like?

We were already halfway across the water before I realized how far we’d gone from Koh Samui—Bangrak faded behind us, and the salt in the air felt different out here. The crew from 100 Degrees East kept things light; one of them, Nok, handed out cold drinks while joking about my sunhat (“very strong style,” she said). There were only ten of us on the speedboat, which made it feel less like a tour and more like some odd little adventure club. I remember thinking: this is quieter than I expected. Even the engine hum was kind of soothing after a while.

The first snorkeling spot near Koh Tao looked almost too blue to be real. Our guide, Tom, gave me a quick run-down on how not to fog up my mask (I still managed to get it wrong), then led us into the water. I’m not sure what I thought coral would smell like—turns out it’s mostly just sea and sunscreen—but floating above those reefs was something else. Tom pointed out a parrotfish munching away, and when I tried to say its Thai name, he laughed so hard he nearly lost his snorkel. Between swims we lounged on deck eating fresh pineapple that tasted way better than any hotel breakfast.

Lunch was homemade curry served right there on the boat—spicy but not too much (though my lips tingled for ages). The team switched up our next two snorkeling sites based on wind and currents, so we never felt rushed or crowded. At one spot, I drifted near a patch of anemones while another guest squealed about seeing her first clownfish. It wasn’t all postcard moments; my hair got tangled in my mask strap and someone dropped their GoPro overboard (recovered by Tom, who’s apparently part dolphin).

By the time we headed back toward Maenam Beach on Koh Samui, everyone was sunkissed and half-asleep except for Nok, who kept passing around cold towels and telling stories about growing up near Surat Thani. There’s something about being out there—just you, some strangers-turned-friends, and all that open water—that sticks with you longer than you’d think.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkelling tour from Koh Samui to Koh Tao

• Meet at 100 Degrees East centre
• Complete paperwork and briefing
• Board speedboat to Koh Tao
• Snorkel at three selected sites
• Relax onboard with drinks and fruits
• Enjoy homemade Thai lunch on boat
• Return to 100 Degrees East centre
• Transport to your accommodation

Top questions

How long does the Koh Tao snorkeling tour take?

The tour lasts about a full day, departing in the morning from Bangrak on Koh Samui and returning around 4:30pm.

Is lunch included on this snorkeling trip?

Yes, a homemade Thai lunch is served onboard during the day trip.

How many people are on each boat?

The group size is limited to 12 adults or up to 14 guests if children are present.

Are there restroom facilities available?

Yes, there is a restroom available onboard the speedboat.

Do they provide snorkeling equipment?

All snorkeling gear is provided as part of your booking.

Is hotel pickup included?

Yes, transfer to and from your accommodation on Koh Samui is included.

Can beginners join this snorkeling tour?

Yes, guides offer full introductions for first-time snorkelers and assist in the water if needed.

What happens if minimum numbers aren’t met?

If minimum guests aren’t reached by 4pm the day before, you’ll be notified to reschedule or cancel.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your hotel or villa on Koh Samui, all necessary snorkeling equipment (with life jackets if you want them), transfers by speedboat with plenty of cold drinks and fresh fruit along the way. You’ll get a homemade Thai lunch right onboard between swims plus insurance coverage—and yes, there’s even a real restroom on board before heading back late afternoon.