Similan Islands Snorkeling Tour: Speed Catamaran & Reefs

Three snorkeling reefs, one island viewpoint, lunch on the boat

A full-day snorkeling tour from Phuket to the Similan Islands by speed catamaran, with stops at Stonehenge, Christmas Point and Sailing Rock, plus hotel pickup, English-speaking guide, lunch and all snorkeling equipment. The tour runs October to May when the national park is open. Children from age 4 are welcome.

Step-by-step itinerary

Similan Islands snorkeling adventure

• Hotel pickup in Phuket early morning
• Check-in at Thap Lamu pier
• Depart to Similan Islands by speed catamaran
• Snorkel at Island No.5
• Walk or snorkel and enjoy Thai buffet lunch
• Snorkel and swim at Bangu Island (Koh 9)
• Snorkel and swim at another snorkeling spot
• Snorkel at additional locations
• Relax, swim, and snorkel on the beach
• Visit Sailing Rock at Island No.8
• Climb viewpoint at Sailing Rock
• Depart from Similan Islands

The Experience

The day starts with hotel pickup in Phuket in the early morning, then a minivan ride to Thap Lamu pier where you board the speed catamaran. The boat carries you to Island No. 5 first, where you enter the water to snorkel among colorful corals and reef fish. The underwater rocks at Stonehenge rise from 25 meters below, and if dolphins or sea turtles are in the area that day, you may see them. A Thai buffet lunch and fresh fruit come next, served on the boat or on the island depending on conditions.

After lunch you move to Bangu Island (Koh 9) for more snorkeling and swimming, then to Christmas Point for a final reef session. The last stop is Sailing Rock on Island No. 8, where you can climb to a viewpoint at the top for a panoramic view across the archipelago, or stay on the beach and swim. The catamaran returns to Thap Lamu pier and a minivan takes you back to your hotel.

Snorkeling equipment—mask, snorkel, fins and life jacket—is provided. The guide speaks English throughout the day. The tour runs 11 to 12 hours including the hotel transfers. The Similan Islands National Park is open only from October to May each year, and you'll need to provide your passport after booking so the operator can purchase your park entry ticket in advance.

What’s included

• Hotel pickup and drop-off by minivan from Phuket.
• speed catamaran transport to the islands.
• English-speaking guide.
• snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins, life jacket).
• Thai buffet lunch and fresh fruit.
• full travel accident insurance.
• access to three snorkeling reefs and Sailing Rock viewpoint.

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Oh-Hoo

Is this one for you?Book this tour for a first or middle day in Phuket when you want to see the best snorkeling reefs without arranging boat transport or gear yourself — the catamaran, guide and lunch are all arranged, and the early pickup means the rest of your day is still free.

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Top questions

What's the underwater scenery like at Stonehenge in the Similan Islands?

Stonehenge is named for towering rocks that rise from depths of 25 meters and below, creating a dramatic reef formation where you snorkel among colorful corals and reef fish.

Can I see dolphins or sea turtles on this tour?

Dolphins and sea turtles are present in the area, and if conditions are right on the day of your tour, you may spot them in the water.

What does the tour include for meals?

A Thai buffet lunch and fresh fruit are served during the day, either on the boat or on the island depending on the day's schedule.

Is there a viewpoint I can climb to on the tour?

Sailing Rock on Island No. 8 has a viewpoint at the top that you can climb to for panoramic views of the Similan Islands archipelago.

When does the Similan Islands tour operate from Phuket?

The tour runs from October to May each year, when the Similan National Park is open to visitors.

What snorkeling gear is provided?

Mask, snorkel, fins and life jacket are all included with the tour; you bring your own swimming suit and towel.