If you’re looking for an escape from the busy tourist spots on Koh Samui, a private longtail boat tour to Koh Madsum and Koh Tan offers a more relaxed, intimate way to enjoy Thailand’s natural beauty. This tour promises a chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, snorkel amidst vibrant coral reefs, and unwind on quiet beaches—all away from the crowds. While it’s not a perfect adventure, it does provide some authentic moments and lovely scenery that many travelers find worth the price.
Two things we particularly like about this tour are its personalized nature and the opportunity to visit Pig Island, which offers a fun, quirky twist to your island-hopping day. However, some travelers have noted that snorkeling might not live up to expectations and that the overall value can be debated. This experience is best suited for small groups, couples, or families wanting a peaceful day on the water with a flexible schedule.
Key Points
- Personalized experience: The private boat allows for flexibility and intimacy, ideal for small groups or couples.
- Unique stops: Visiting Pig Island and enjoying quiet beaches offer distinctive moments.
- Snorkeling and swimming: While included, activities may vary in quality depending on conditions.
- Value for money: The tour’s price includes some fees but can feel steep for those expecting high-end snorkeling or extensive amenities.
- Timing: It lasts about 4 to 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day trip.
- Accessibility: It’s suitable for most travelers, with pickup from hotels or direct meet-up options.
Contents
- Key Points
- What to Expect from the Itinerary
- Koh Tan: Snorkeling and Beach Relaxation
- Koh Madsum: Pigs and Peace
- Return and Drop-off
- Priced at $76.84 Per Person: Is It Worth It?
- Practical Considerations
- Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback
- Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
- The Sum Up
- FAQ
- More Boat Tours & Cruises in Surat Thani
- More Tours in Surat Thani
- More Tour Reviews in Surat Thani
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Surat Thani we have recnetly reviewed
What to Expect from the Itinerary
This tour begins with a quick pickup, either from your hotel or a designated meeting point at Thongkrut Pier. The first stop is Thong Krut Beach, a peaceful spot that acts as the gateway to your island adventures. From here, you’ll hop aboard a longtail boat, a traditional Thai vessel famous for its flexibility and charm, for a short 7-10 minute ride to Koh Tan.
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Koh Tan: Snorkeling and Beach Relaxation
Your time at Koh Tan is set for about 2 hours. The highlight here is snorkeling in waters filled with colorful fish and coral, just in front of the island. While this sounds enticing, some reviews suggest that snorkeling conditions can be unpredictable, and the experience may not always meet expectations. Still, the chance to see marine life in calmer waters makes it worthwhile.
Koh Madsum: Pigs and Peace
Next, a quick boat ride takes you to Koh Madsum, known for its fun pig island. Here, you’ll find pigs waiting to greet visitors — a quirky detail that’s become quite popular. Tourists often enjoy snapping photos and relaxing on the sandy shores. The visit lasts around 2 hours, and while the pigs are a cute attraction, the tour charges a 50 baht entry fee that isn’t included in the price. Some reviewers felt this was an unnecessary extra expense, but many kids and animal lovers find it a highlight of the trip.
Return and Drop-off
After your time on Koh Madsum, the boat heads back to Thong Krut Pier, and from there, you’re transferred back to your hotel or dropped off at the pier. The entire experience wraps up in about 4 to 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day outing.
Priced at $76.84 Per Person: Is It Worth It?
The cost includes all taxes, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and life jackets, making it straightforward to understand what you’re paying for. However, some travelers, such as Lena_M, expressed disappointment, calling the tour overpriced and noting that snorkeling was underwhelming. She also pointed out that the trip amounted to little more than transport and a visit to Pig Island, which she felt was not enough for the price.
On the other hand, the tour offers the advantage of exclusive access — you won’t be sharing the boat with strangers, and you can tailor the experience somewhat if you communicate with the crew. For travelers seeking a relaxed, private day on the water with opportunities for photos and peaceful beaches, many find value in this personalized approach.
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Practical Considerations
- Duration: About 4-5 hours, perfect for a half-day trip.
- Group size: Private tour, so only your group participates—great for intimacy.
- Booking: Typically booked 16 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.
- Weather: Like all boat trips, it’s weather-dependent. Poor conditions may lead to cancellations or rescheduling.
- Extra costs: The 50-baht pig island entry fee is not included, so be prepared for that small additional expense.
Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback
The tour’s charm lies in its small-group feel and the chance to see some lesser-visited spots. Many travelers appreciate the tranquility of Koh Madsum’s beaches and the novelty of pig island, which offers a fun and memorable photo op. One review highlights that “the only good thing was Pig Island,” though they felt the snorkeling was not up to par—an important note for anyone considering this tour mainly for aquatic activities.
Others report that the snorkeling could be better, which aligns with the unpredictable nature of marine conditions in such tours. Still, the chance to swim in turquoise waters and relax on empty beaches can compensate for less-than-perfect snorkeling.
In terms of value, the tour offers a balanced mix of scenery, animal encounters, and quiet beaches, but it’s worth considering whether the price justifies the experience if snorkeling or other activities aren’t stellar.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This trip is ideal for those who prioritize privacy and flexibility over high-end amenities. It’s perfect for small groups or couples eager for a peaceful day on the water with the option to relax, take photos, and enjoy some quirky animal encounters. It’s also suitable for travelers who want a quick, scenic escape from the island’s busier spots — just keep expectations in check regarding snorkeling quality.
The Sum Up
The private longtail boat tour to Koh Madsum and Koh Tan offers a laid-back, intimate way to explore some of Koh Samui’s lesser-known islands. You’ll find the chance to relax on quiet beaches, snap fun photos with pigs, and enjoy simple snorkeling in calm waters — especially appealing to those who dislike crowded tours. The personalized nature means you can set your own pace, and the scenery is genuinely lovely.
However, the experience isn’t flawless, with some visitors feeling it’s a bit overpriced for what is ultimately a short boat ride and basic snorkeling. If your main goal is underwater exploration or a more luxurious experience, you might want to look elsewhere. But if you’re after a relaxed, authentic day on the water with some quirky animal encounters, this tour could very well suit you.
For budget-conscious travelers, be mindful of the optional pig island fee and consider whether the focus on tranquility and scenic views matches your expectations. The tour’s charm is in its simplicity and intimacy—perfect for those wanting to escape the crowds and enjoy a quiet day surrounded by natural beauty.
Private Longtail Boat Tour to Koh Madsum and Koh Tan
“Wouldn’t recommend. Overpriced. Better off going to find a boat and doing your own “private” tour. It was just private transport and the snor…”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for families? Yes, it’s generally suitable for most travelers, including families, as long as children are comfortable on boat rides and snorkeling.
What’s included in the price? The tour price covers all taxes and fees, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and life jackets.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad? Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and poor weather may lead to cancellation or rescheduling.
How long does the tour last? Expect about 4 to 5 hours, making it a good half-day activity.
Are meals included? No, lunch is not included in the tour price.
Where do we meet or are picked up from? You can be picked up from your hotel or meet directly at Thongkrut Pier, depending on your preference.
This private boat trip provides a charming snapshot of Koh Samui’s quieter side. It’s perfect for those seeking a calm, scenic day with a few fun surprises—just keep your expectations aligned with what’s offered, and you’ll enjoy a peaceful escape.
