The Gulf of Thailand is dotted with verdant limestone islands surrounded by a vibrant marine ecosystem.

Island hop on a “big boat,” yacht, speedboat or traditional longtail boat for a day of discovery in the islands along the eastern coast of Thailand. A boat tour in Ko Samui will immerse you in the many layers of beauty here.

Here's all you need to know about joining a boat tour, one of the most invigorating outdoor activities in Ko Samui.

What are the most popular boat tours in Ko Samui?

Craggy monoliths rising from jade-colored inlets are quintessential images of a southeast Asian vacation. Hop on a boat to mingle among the islands around Ko Samui.

For an extra dose of Thai culture, choose a tour on a traditional longtail boat or Asian yacht that serves local delicacies.

Ang Thong Marine Park boat tours

One of Thailand’s best known island attractions is Ang Thong Marine Park, a string of islands to the west of Ko Samui.

This protected area that inspired books and movies, and its limestone formations that jut from the sea beckon to be explored with a kayaking or snorkel.

Pig Island boat tours

Ko Madsum, or Pig Island, lies off the southern Ko Samui coast. Its tropical beauty makes it an attraction enough, but the real draw is the island’s pig population. The wild, yet friendly pigs are fun to interact with. Feed them a snack, snap photos and maybe even see one take a dip in the sea.

Ko Tao and Nang Yuan boat tours

For a tranquil outing where natural beauty is the star of show, take a boat tour to these mellow islands for prime snorkeling and diving and the chances to swim with sea turtles.

Scuba diving boat tours from Ko Samui

Join a PADI-certified guide for an exploration of the Gulf of Thailand on a scuba diving from Ko Samui. Let a professional diver lead you to the nearby best sites for a day among the coral and colorful fish that make their homes on the rocky bases of the islands.

Fishing boat trips in Ko Samui

Tropical sea fishing is a dream for many anglers. A guided fishing trip in Ko Samui makes it easy with fishing gear on board and a local guide to usher you to the best spots.

Don’t forget your swimsuit, because most fishing trips provide snorkeling gear and stops at sites to discover.

Ko Samui sunset dinner cruises

Enjoy a sumptous meal with a loved one in one of the popular dinners in Ko Samui — on a sunset cruise — as you watch the sun sink over mainland Thailand.

These 8-hour cruises also offer you a day of fun discovering the islands, snorkeling and absorbing mesmerizing scenery before the grand finale of a meal at sunset.

Private boat tours in Ko Samui

Create your ideal day on the Gulf of Thailand. Choose your itinerary or leave it up to your guide on a private boat tour. Charter a western or Asian yacht or a speedboat for luxurious and comfortable travel with your favorite person or people.

Boats are provisioned with water sport gear, food and soft drinks. Many private tours have a chef on board.

How much do boat tours in Ko Samui cost?

Ang Thong Marine Park boat tours in Ko Samui start at US$25 per person for a “big boat” tour that provides food and soft drinks, snorkeling gear but does not include the ฿300 (US$9) per person entry fee to the park.

Speedboat tours cost from US$60 per person to US$80 per person depending on the duration of the tour and whether the park fee is included.

Yacht tours cost from US$120 per person to US$150 per person for a 10- or 12-hour tour. Included in the cost are meals, soft drinks and use of water sport gear. Pig Island boat day tours cost from US$50 per person to US$70 per person, depending on the type of boat used.

Ko Tao and Nang Yuan boat tours cost around US$60 per person for an 8-hour tour that includes a meal at an island restaurant. Stay cool with snorkeling gear and unlimited soft drinks.

Dive trips cost US$165 per person for a 7-hour tour. Visit two dive spots including Sail Rock. Fishing trips cost US$60 per person for a 9-hour tour and provide snorkeling gear. Lunch and bottomless soft drinks are served on both types of tour.

Sunset dinner cruises cost US$120 per person for a 8- to 9-hour excursion and include meals and snorkeling gear. Private tours cost from US$125 per person to US$230 per person, depending on the duration of the tour and inclusions.

Which places are visited?

Ang Thong Marine Park

An archipelago of 42 islands, Ang Thong Marine Park comprises over 100 square kilometers with less than half of them on land. The edges of its limestone islets are carved into arches, tunnels and eye-catching formations.

Take in palm-fringed beaches, jungle trails and overlooks for views of the whole park.

Emerald Lagoon

Considered the highlight of a trip to Ang Thong Marine Park, the Emerald Lagoon is a marvel. Its unique beauty inspired the movie “The Blue Lagoon” and the book “The Beach.”

Paddle under a rock arch on a kayak to reach the saltwater lake, and don’t forget your snorkel and mask. Follow a wooden walkway with steps to a viewing platform over the lagoon that is ideal for photos of the gulf beyond Ang Thong.

Koh Madsum or Pig Island

Known as Pig Island, Koh Madsum hosts a colony of friendly wild pigs that wander its shores. Grab some treats for the locals, and have your camera ready for adorable selfies.

Koh Tao and Nang Yuan

Tiny neighboring islands Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan are often overlooked for better-known locales around Ko Samui, which makes a day trip here ideal for people who want to enjoy nature and avoid crowds. Relax on quiet beaches and explore the reefs with a snorkel.

How long does a boat trip last?

Boat trips in Ko Samui last from 5 to 12 hours.

Where do boat tours leave from?

Most boat tours from Ko Samui begin at the pier in Nathon, located on the northwest coast, and include pickup and drop-off at local hotels.

When is the best time for a boat trip in Ko Samui?

A boat trip in Ko Samui can be amazing at almost any time of year. The area experiences warm to hot weather year round with October and November being the rainiest months.

Travel tips

If you suffer motion sickness, take medication one hour before your trip.
Bring swimwear, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen and a change of clothes.
Wear sport sandals or water shoes on tours that include hikes.
Carry cash in Thai baht for tips and incidentals.

Boat Tours in Ko Samui