Things to Do · Water Activities & Adventures

Boat Trips & Sailing Around Koh Samui

Short answer

The most popular boat trip from Koh Samui goes to Ang Thong Marine National Park, a group of limestone islands north-west of the island, usually closed from around 1 November to mid-December. Other day trips visit the southern islands such as Koh Tan and Koh Madsum (Pig Island), or Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan. You can choose between fast speedboats, larger tour boats and more relaxed catamarans.

On board a day-trip boat in Ang Thong Marine National Park, north-west of Koh Samui. Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Ang Thong Marine National Park

Mu Ko Ang Thong is a protected archipelago of steep limestone islands, beaches and lagoons north-west of Koh Samui. A typical day combines a viewpoint hike, kayaking, swimming or snorkelling and time on a beach. Trips usually leave from piers on Koh Samui such as Nathon or Bang Rak.

The park usually closes from around 1 November to mid-December for the monsoon and for environmental recovery. Some sources give a later reopening date, so always check before booking. Park entry fees may apply in addition to the tour price.

Southern islands & Pig Island

Off Koh Samui’s south coast lie several small islands that are easy to reach on shorter trips. Koh Tan is good for snorkelling, and Koh Madsum, nicknamed Pig Island, is known for its beach. Trips in this area may also stop at the Five Islands. This is a good choice for families or anyone who prefers less time on the boat.

Koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan

Further north, Koh Tao and the linked islets of Koh Nang Yuan are known for clear water and snorkelling. The crossing is longer, so expect a full day. See the snorkelling guide for a comparison.

Speedboat, big boat or catamaran?

Boat	Pros	Consider
Speedboat	Fast, more stops in a day	Bumpier, less shade and space
Large tour boat	Stable, often with food and facilities	Bigger groups, slower
Catamaran / sailing boat	Relaxed, roomy, good for groups and sunsets	Slower, fewer stops

Private charters are also available if you want your own route and timing. Check what is included: transfers, food, snorkelling gear, kayaks and park fees vary between operators.

Weather and seasons

Sea conditions decide how comfortable a boat day is. The roughest period is usually around October to December, and the crossing to Ang Thong can be rough in some months. Operators may cancel trips in bad weather. Keep a spare day in your plans if a boat trip matters to you.

What to bring

Reef-friendly sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
Swimwear, a towel and a dry bag for your phone
Shoes with grip for viewpoint walks
Seasickness medication if you need it
Some cash for park fees or extras

FAQ

What is the best boat trip from Koh Samui?

For scenery, Ang Thong Marine National Park. For a shorter, family-friendly day, the southern islands such as Koh Tan and Koh Madsum. For clearer water and snorkelling, Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan.

When is Ang Thong closed?

The park usually closes during the north-east monsoon, typically from around 1 November to mid-December. Dates can change each year, so check the official announcement.

Speedboat or catamaran?

Speedboats are faster and reach more places in a day. Catamarans are steadier, roomier and more relaxed, but slower.

Will I get seasick?

It depends on the sea and the boat. If you are prone to seasickness, choose a larger or steadier boat, take medication before leaving and avoid rough days.

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Snorkelling stop in Mu Ko Ang Thong Marine National Park: Photo: Steve Jurvetson, CC BY 2.0, via Flickr
Mu Ko Ang Thong Marine National Park, north-west of Koh Samui: Photo: WeI-chieh Chiu, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Flickr
Sail Rock, between Koh Samui and Koh Phangan: Photo: Titofan (Wikivoyage), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons