Similan Islands: Snorkeling tour by catamaran from Phuket

Summary

Snorkeling the Similan Islands: turquoise water, turtles & laughter

You’ll swim above bright reefs in crystal-clear water, spot sea turtles gliding past, enjoy a Thai lunch right on the sand, and climb Sailing Rock for island views you won’t forget. With hotel pickup and a local guide handling all the details, this Similan Islands snorkeling tour from Phuket is full of moments you’ll remember long after your sunburn fades.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I almost skipped the Similan Islands because I’d heard they get crowded — but wow, I’m glad I didn’t. The early morning pickup from Phuket was a blur (I barely remember my coffee), but once we got to the pier at Thap Lamu and met our guide, Niran, things started to feel real. He handed out snorkeling gear with a grin and told us to try the bakery snacks — honestly, that little coconut bun was better than expected.

The speed catamaran ride out was loud and a bit bumpy (bring your sunscreen and maybe something for motion sickness if you need it). But then you see those islands — blue water that actually looks like those travel photos. Our first stop was Island No.5 for snorkeling. The water was so clear you could see every flick of a parrotfish tail. At one point, Niran pointed out a turtle gliding by below us; I tried not to squeal through my snorkel. There’s this salty-sweet smell in the air mixed with sunscreen and seaweed — it’s weirdly comforting.

Lunch was a Thai buffet on the beach (rice, curry, fruit), eaten barefoot in the sand while watching tiny crabs scuttle around. After that we hopped between more islands — Bangu Island for more snorkeling (the coral here is wild), then Christmas Point where someone spotted dolphins in the distance. Not sure if it’s always like that or if we just got lucky. The last stop was Sailing Rock on Island No.8; climbing up is sweaty work but worth it for that view over all those scattered islands. My legs were shaking a bit at the top — maybe nerves or just excitement.

I still think about floating there with sunlight flickering through the water and hearing Niran laugh when I tried to say “Similan” properly in Thai (I definitely didn’t nail it). It’s not a quiet trip — there are other groups around — but somehow it still felt special, like you’re part of something bigger than yourself.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Similan Islands Snorkeling Adventure

• Hotel pickup in Phuket
• Check-in at Thap Lamu pier and depart by catamaran
• Snorkel at Island No.5
• Walk or snorkel and enjoy Thai buffet lunch
• Snorkel and swim at Bangu Island (Koh 9)
• Snorkeling and swimming
• Snorkeling
• Snorkeling
• Swim, snorkel, and relax on the beach
• Visit Sailing Rock at Island No.8, relax and swim
• Climb viewpoint at Sailing Rock

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Similan Islands snorkeling tour?

Yes, round-trip hotel transfers from all areas in Phuket are included.

What kind of boat is used for the trip from Phuket to Similan Islands?

A speed catamaran is used for faster travel between Phuket and the Similan Islands.

Are meals provided during the day trip?

Yes, a Thai buffet lunch with fresh fruits is served on one of the islands.

Can children join this snorkeling tour?

Yes, children aged 4–11 can join with a child ticket.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, mask, snorkel, fins, and life jacket are included in the tour price.

When is Similan National Park open for tours?

The park is open from October to May each year.

Are there any health restrictions for joining this trip?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart or spinal conditions.

Do I need to send my passport details before booking?

You need to send your passport after booking so your national park ticket can be arranged.

What’s included

Your day includes early morning hotel pickup in Phuket, all transfers by speed catamaran with an English-speaking local guide leading each stop, use of snorkeling gear (mask, fins, life jacket), entry fees to Similan National Park arranged ahead of time using your passport info, plus a Thai buffet lunch with fresh fruit served right on the beach before heading back in the afternoon.