Pattaya Islands: Snorkeling Cruise & Buffet with Hotel Pickup

Summary

Snorkel coral reefs, meet monkeys and relax on white sand beaches near Pattaya

You’ll board a luxury catamaran in Pattaya for a day trip across three tropical islands—snorkeling coral reefs at Koh Phai, sharing laughs over Thai buffet lunch on deck, and meeting cheeky monkeys at Koh Ped. With hotel pickup included and a local guide leading the way, expect moments of wonder and plenty of stories to bring home.

What’s the experience like?

I opened my eyes to the sound of water slapping gently against the hull — not sure if it was nerves or excitement, but there’s something about stepping barefoot onto a big catamaran that makes you feel like you’re in someone else’s dream. Our guide, Nok, handed out masks and made a joke about how everyone looks “10% cooler” in snorkel gear. The air smelled faintly salty and sweet, like sunscreen mixed with grilled chicken from the buffet they were prepping below deck. Koh Phai was our first stop — you could see the sand glowing white even before we got close.

We drifted near the reef and I slid into water that felt cooler than I expected (Nok just grinned — “Wake up!”). Fish darted past in electric colors; I lost count after ten. My friend tried to name them all but gave up when a parrotfish nibbled his finger. There was this moment underwater where everything went quiet except for my own breathing — kind of peaceful, actually. After snorkeling, we dried off on deck with cold drinks and plates piled high from the Thai buffet. I still think about that green curry — not too spicy, just right.

Koh Rin came next, all rocky edges and clear blue shallows. Some folks tried fishing off the back while others just lay out in the sun, half-asleep. Last stop was Monkey Island (Koh Ped), which honestly sounded made-up until macaques started appearing on the beach like they owned it. Nok showed us how to feed them without getting mugged for snacks — he laughed when one monkey snatched a banana right out of his hand. The ride back to Pattaya was quieter; everyone sort of spaced out watching the coastline drift by, salt drying on our skin.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tropical island snorkeling and sightseeing

• Board luxury catamaran The Serenity
• Cruise to Koh Phai island
• Snorkel and explore coral reefs
• Visit Koh Rin island
• Fish and enjoy island activities
• Visit Koh Ped (Monkey Island)
• Feed macaque monkeys
• Enjoy full Thai buffet lunch onboard
• Snack and beverage service during cruise
• Return to Pattaya harbor

Top questions

How long is the Pattaya 3 Tropical Island tour?

The cruise lasts approximately 7 hours from start to finish.

Which islands are visited during this snorkeling cruise?

The tour visits Koh Phai, Koh Rin, and Koh Ped (Monkey Island).

Is lunch included on this day trip from Pattaya?

Yes, a full Thai buffet lunch is served onboard along with snacks and beverages (excluding alcohol).

Are snorkeling equipment and transfers provided?

Yes, snorkeling gear and round-trip hotel transfers by air-conditioned minivan are included.

Can children join this Pattaya island tour?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring for the snorkeling cruise?

You should bring extra clothes for changing after snorkeling, sunscreen, a hat, and your camera.

Is this tour suitable for beginners or all fitness levels?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels.

Are alcoholic drinks available onboard?

No alcohol is served; only non-alcoholic beverages are included throughout the trip.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip hotel pickup in an air-conditioned minivan, all national park fees covered up front, use of snorkeling equipment at each island stop, plus unlimited snacks and non-alcoholic drinks throughout the cruise—and a full Thai buffet lunch served fresh onboard before heading back to Pattaya in the late afternoon.