About this tour
When Charlie from our team booked this catamaran day tour to the Similan Islands, we were after something a step above the standard speedboat hustle. The double-deck setup genuinely makes a difference — more room to breathe, steadier in the swell, and the pace felt unhurried rather than tick-box tourism. You're based out of Phuket or Khao Lak, picked up from your hotel and dropped back the same day. The itinerary hits Island No. 8's famous white-sand beach and Sail Rock, then moves to snorkeling spots around Islands 9 and 7 depending on conditions. Three hot meals, gear, and a photographer who captures moments you'd otherwise miss round out the 14-hour experience.
Highlights
- Catamaran stability and space beat cramped speedboat vibes noticeably
- Unrushed morning on Island No. 8 before snorkeling sessions start
- Five complimentary photos from onboard photographer — candid, not posed
- Three full meals plus snacks included; no nickel-and-diming at sea
- Flexible snorkel site selection based on live sea conditions
- Round-trip hotel pickup saves the pre-dawn drive hassle
- Disposable mouthpieces and decent gear — hygiene and comfort covered
What to expect
The day kicks off with an early pickup (exact time depends on your hotel location and distance from the pier). Once aboard, you'll settle into the catamaran's two decks — genuinely spacious compared to the packed speedboats you see zipping past. The crew briefs you on safety and snorkeling basics while the boat motors out. Breakfast happens underway or shortly after departure.
You'll arrive at Island No. 8 with time to wander the beach, climb up to Sail Rock for the viewpoint, or just sit with a drink. No rush. Later, the crew ferries you to snorkel sites based on what the sea's doing that day — sometimes Island 9, sometimes 7. The water clarity and coral vary, but the spots are chosen for safety and sightability. Lunch is a proper buffet served on deck mid-afternoon. A final snorkel slot, then a light dinner as you head back. By evening, you're back at your hotel.
What travellers say
- Catamaran comfort and stability — no white-knuckle speedboat ride
- Three meals and snacks included — no hidden upsells at sea
- Onboard photographer captures five free keepsakes per person
- Unhurried morning beach time instead of rush-through snorkeling
- Hotel pickup and drop-off across Phuket included
- Long 14-hour day starting very early — not for night owls
- Medical exclusions are strict; check fitness and health requirements first
- Snorkel sites chosen by crew; you don't pick your destinations
Themes summarised by our team from public information about this tour. Verify specifics on the operator's page before booking.
Good to know
The catamaran genuinely rides better than speedboats — if you're prone to seasickness or just prefer comfort, this is worth the upgrade. Three meals mean no hunger or upselling. The photographer is a nice touch; you get candid shots without faffing with your own camera all day. Pickup from your hotel removes logistics stress. The crew speak English and stay attentive. National park fees are included, so no surprises at the gate.
The day is long (14 hours door-to-door), so early starts aren't optional. The itinerary explicitly excludes pregnant travellers and anyone with heart, back, neck, or recent surgical issues — check the medical exclusions before booking. Water entry requires moderate fitness; this isn't a lounge-on-the-deck tour. Snorkel site selection is at the crew's discretion, so you don't choose where you go. Tips aren't included, so factor in gratuities if the crew does right by you. Peak season (November–April) can mean more bodies on the beach at Island 8, though the catamaran size helps. Bring sunscreen (the sea reflects UV badly), a rash shirt if you burn easily, and cash for tips.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.