If you’re considering a trip to the Similan Islands from Phuket, this tour promises a full day of snorkeling, scenic vistas, and relaxing on pristine beaches. We’ve looked into what travelers can expect from this experience to help you decide if it’s worth your time and money.
Two aspects stand out for us: the comfort of traveling on a luxury speed catamaran with a five-star service and the chance to see iconic sights like Sail Rock from above. However, some reviews mention the trip isn’t quite as “premium” as advertised — with limited space on the boat and long travel times.
This tour is best suited for those who value comfort and convenience, enjoy snorkeling and scenic viewpoints, and are prepared for a full day away from Phuket. If you’re after a relaxed, well-organized adventure with plenty of photo opportunities, this could be a solid choice.
Key Points
- Comfortable travel on a modern, luxurious catamaran with attentive service
- Multiple snorkeling stops among vibrant coral reefs and tropical marine life
- Breathtaking views from Sail Rock and other scenic viewpoints
- Relaxing beaches perfect for unwinding and taking photos
- Includes Thai lunch and refreshments to keep you energized
- Long travel times might mean some travelers feel it’s not the most efficient use of a day
👉 Check out our guide to the 18 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Phuket
Contents
- Key Points
- An In-Depth Look at the Similan Islands Tour Experience
- Starting the Day: Pickup and Transfer
- The Luxury Catamaran: Comfort and Service
- The Itinerary: What Makes Each Stop Special?
- Final Leg: Returning and Reflecting
- Authentic Experiences and Real Guest Feedback
- Practical Details: What You Need to Know
- Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?
- FAQs
- The Sum Up
- Our Top Picks in Phuket
- More Boat Tours & Cruises in Phuket
- More Tours in Phuket
- More Tour Reviews in Phuket
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Phuket we have recnetly reviewed
An In-Depth Look at the Similan Islands Tour Experience
Ready to set sail again? More boat adventures we've reviewed in Phuket
Starting the Day: Pickup and Transfer
The adventure begins with a pickup from Phuket, which some travelers note can be a bit early (around 6:30 am). While this can be inconvenient for those who prefer a more leisurely start, it’s necessary to cover the approximately two-hour van ride to the Thap Lamu Pier. This early start allows the tour to maximize time on the islands, but some reviews mention that the transportation process can be lengthy, with waiting times upon arrival before heading out.
The Luxury Catamaran: Comfort and Service
Once at the pier, you’ll board a modern, spacious speed catamaran that promises five-star service. From what we gather, the vessel is designed for a smooth, comfortable ride across the Andaman Sea. Passengers often praise the comfortable seating, and the private lounge offers a calm environment for a light breakfast before departure.
However, reviews from some travelers indicate that space on the boat can be limited, especially during peak times. One reviewer from Belgium mentions that there was “very little space to sit,” which may impact those expecting a more spacious, lounge-like experience. Still, others appreciate the professional crew and the smoothness of the ride, which makes the long journey more pleasant.
The Itinerary: What Makes Each Stop Special?
Similan Island No. 8 and Sail Rock
Your first stop is Similan Island No. 8, home to the Sail Rock viewpoint. This spot offers the chance to hike up for panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the sea—a photo spot that travelers find particularly memorable. One reviewer mentions that the landscape is magnificent, and the view from Sail Rock is breathtaking.
While the ascent isn’t overly strenuous, be prepared for a short hike. After taking in the scenery, you’ll have time to relax on the soft white sands or snap some photos. Expect to spend about an hour here, making this a highlight of the trip.
Ba Ngu Island (No. 9): Snorkeling Among Colorful Reefs
Next, you’ll visit Ba Ngu Island, which is praised for its vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish. Snorkeling here is one of the main attractions, and you’ll get around 70 minutes to explore underwater life. The reviews suggest that the marine life is lively, with schools of fish and bright corals providing ample photo opportunities.
A traveler from Belgium describes the island as “very beautiful,” noting the snorkeling was “very good,” but also adding that there’s not much to do on the island itself beyond swimming and snorkeling.
Miang Island (No. 4): Lunch and Relaxation
Midday, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch on Miang Island, which many say is quite good and a highlight of the tour. The meal is typically a mix of Thai dishes, offering a chance to relax and refuel. Afterward, you’ll have about 1.5 hours to enjoy the beach, sunbathe, or take photos.
This stop offers a welcomed break from the boat, giving you time to stretch out on the soft sands and soak in the peaceful surroundings.
Payu Island (No. 7): Second Snorkeling Session
The last snorkeling spot is Payu Island, with crystal-clear waters and granite boulders that make for fantastic photo backgrounds. The second snorkeling session lasts about 75 minutes, giving you another chance to witness vibrant marine life and explore a different underwater environment.
More Great Tours NearbyFinal Leg: Returning and Reflecting
After the day’s activities, the tour switches to a speedboat transfer back to Phuket, which takes around an hour. The return journey is often praised as smooth, with some travelers noting the crew’s attentiveness and the quality of refreshments offered on board.
Ready to catch more wind? More sailing adventures we recommend in Phuket
Authentic Experiences and Real Guest Feedback
While many enjoy the stunning scenery and snorkeling, some reviews point out certain downsides. For example, a review from France mentions that the trip isn’t as “premium” as claimed, citing limited space and navigational crowding. Others note that the long travel time—around 8 hours total—may make the experience feel somewhat lengthy for a day trip, especially considering the relatively short time spent on each island.
On the upside, a traveler from Italy called the experience “bellissima” because of the beautiful islands and caring staff, emphasizing that everything from the food to the organization was well-managed. The views from Sail Rock especially seem to leave a lasting impression.
Practical Details: What You Need to Know
- Duration is approximately 12 hours, which includes pickup, transfer, and all activities.
- Cost is not specified here, but the reviews suggest that many feel it offers good value for the experience, especially considering the comfort and all-inclusive lunch.
- Included are snorkeling gear, lunch, refreshments, and transfers.
- Languages spoken by guides include English, Chinese, Thai, and Russian, making it accessible for diverse travelers.
- What to bring: sunglasses, hat, change of clothes, camera, sunscreen, flip-flops, beachwear, and cash for any extras.
- Cancellation policy allows for a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, adding flexibility to your plans.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?
This Similan Islands trip offers a comfortable, scenic, and snorkel-filled day against one of Thailand’s most picturesque backdrops. It’s a good pick for travelers who prioritize ease and comfort over rugged adventure, especially if you value a well-organized tour with reliable service.
The highlight for most is undoubtedly the view from Sail Rock and the vivid underwater life. Despite some comments about limited space and long travel times, the majority of reviews praise the stunning scenery and friendly staff.
If you’re after a luxurious, hassle-free day with beautiful vistas and snorkeling opportunities, this tour is likely to meet your expectations. For those seeking a more active or independent experience, or who dislike long boat rides, you might want to explore other options.
FAQs
How long is the total trip?
The entire experience lasts around 12 hours, including transfers, boat rides, and island visits.
What is included in the price?
You’ll get transportation, snorkeling gear, a Thai buffet lunch, and refreshments throughout the day.
Is the boat comfortable?
Most reviews indicate the vessel is modern and smooth, but space can be tight during peak times.
How many snorkeling stops are there?
There are two main snorkeling sessions, at Ba Ngu Island and Payu Island, each lasting about 70-75 minutes.
Can I climb Sail Rock?
Yes, the trip includes a visit to the Sail Rock viewpoint, which involves a short hike for panoramic views.
What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a camera, change of clothes, flip-flops, and cash if needed.
How is the lunch?
Many travelers find the Thai buffet lunch to be delicious and satisfying.
Is this trip suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While the tour is generally suitable for most ages, consider the early start, long travel times, and physical activity involved in hiking and snorkeling.
Phuket: Similan Islands Tour by Premium Speed Catamaran
“Zeer goed, mooie eilanden.. alleen luxe zoals vermeld in de highlights daar is geen sprake van, zeer weinig plaats op de boot om te zitten..”
The Sum Up
This Phuket-to-Similan Islands tour by premium speed catamaran is a solid choice if you’re looking for a comfortable, scenic day out with plenty of snorkeling and stunning views. The inclusion of a luxury vessel and attentive crew makes it appealing for those who want a hassle-free, well-catered experience.
It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who value scenic vistas like Sail Rock, appreciate organized tours, and aren’t bothered by the long travel hours. The vibrant coral reefs and crystal-clear waters deliver on the promise of unforgettable underwater beauty.
However, if you prefer more time on each island or a more rugged adventure, you might want to explore other options. This tour strikes a good balance between comfort, scenic beauty, and snorkeling—making it a memorable day trip from Phuket for most travelers.
You can check availability for your dates here:
