They experience a love-it-or-hate-it excursion with the Similan Islands tour from Phuket, where snorkeling and swimming in crystal-clear waters meet crowded boats and mediocre food. Travelers praise the staff’s exceptional service and well-organized logistics, but some complain about the long travel time and seasickness. This 8-hour speedboat ride can be rough, and comfort shouldn’t be expected. With mixed opinions from fellow travelers, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons before booking. Want to know what else to expect from this polarizing adventure?
Key Takeaways
• The Similan Islands tour from Phuket operates from October 15 to May, offering snorkeling, swimming, and island exploration.
• The tour includes transfers, snorkeling equipment, and accident insurance, but excludes the national park fee (500 THB for adults, 300 THB for children).
• Travelers with certain medical conditions, pregnant women, and those prone to seasickness may not be suitable for the tour.
• The tour has a non-negotiable cancellation policy, with full refunds available for cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance.
• Mixed reviews praise the tour’s staff, scenery, and marine life, but criticize overcrowding, food quality, and long travel time.
Tour Overview and Itinerary
This full-day tour explores the Similan Islands from October 15 to May, offering travelers a chance to snorkel around coral reefs teeming with marine life and visit several islands.
The tour is packed with exciting activities, including snorkeling around coral reefs, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and exploring multiple islands.
Travelers will be treated to a light breakfast, lunch, and light dinner, as well as fruits and soft drinks throughout the day.
The tour includes transfers from the hotel, snorkeling equipment, and accident insurance, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
With an experienced tour guide and boat staff, travelers can relax and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Similan Islands.
Important Details to Consider
While the Similan Islands tour promises an unforgettable experience, it’s essential to consider a few critical details before booking to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
One crucial aspect is the national park fee, which isn’t included in the tour price, and travelers need to factor in an additional 500 THB (or 300 THB for children).
Plus, travelers with back problems, heart conditions, or serious medical conditions aren’t recommended to participate. Pregnant travelers are also not allowed to join the tour due to safety reasons.
These restrictions are in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Sixty-two reviewers have helped shape the tour’s refund policy, which allows cancellations up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with no refund available for cancellations made less than 24 hours before the experience.
This policy provides flexibility for travelers who need to adjust their plans.
However, it’s essential to note that last-minute cancellations won’t be refunded.
Travelers should carefully review their schedules and commitments before booking the tour.
It’s also crucial to understand that the cancellation policy is non-negotiable, and refunds won’t be provided for cancellations made within the 24-hour window.
Logistical Details and Schedule
Phuket-based travelers can expect a 5:50 am pickup from their hotel, villa, or apartment, marking the start of their full-day Similan Islands tour.
The journey begins with a 7-hour travel time to the islands, which includes an 8-hour speedboat ride.
Throughout the day, travelers will have ample opportunities to snorkel and swim in the crystal-clear waters, exploring coral reefs teeming with marine life.
The tour schedule is packed, with pickups starting early and returns expected around 8:30 pm.
Travelers should be prepared for a long, action-packed day, but one that promises unforgettable experiences in the stunning Similan Islands.
The Good and Bad of the Tour
Despite the tour’s promise of an unforgettable experience, some travelers have expressed mixed feelings about their Similan Islands tour.
On the positive side, many praised the staff’s exceptional service and the tour’s well-organized logistics.
The snorkeling experience and crystal-clear waters were also major highlights.
However, some travelers complained about the long travel time, overcrowding, and mediocre food quality.
A few even experienced seasickness due to the speedboat ride.
While the tour’s beauty and unique experiences can’t be denied, these drawbacks are significant enough to impact one’s overall experience.
It’s essential to weigh these pros and cons before booking the tour.
What to Expect on the Speedboat
As you step onto the speedboat that will take you to the Similan Islands, expect a thrilling but potentially bumpy ride that may test your endurance.
The 8-hour speedboat ride can be rough, and seasickness is a real possibility. Hold on tight to your seat and try to enjoy the ocean views.
The boat will stop at several islands, giving you ample time to snorkel and explore. Be prepared for a crowded boat, and don’t expect too much comfort.
The ride can be tiring, but the scenery and marine life will make it worthwhile. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and be ready for an adventure.
Feedback From Fellow Travelers
Travelers who’ve taken the Similan Islands tour have mixed opinions, with some praising the stunning scenery and others criticizing the overcrowding and food quality.
Some reviewers raved about the friendly staff and delicious food, while others were disappointed with the long travel time and seasickness caused by the speedboat ride.
A few travelers felt the tour was overcrowded, making it difficult to fully enjoy the experience.
On the other hand, many praised the crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, making the trip worthwhile.
Recap
The Similan Islands Tour from Phuket delivers on its promise of an unforgettable island-hopping experience, but it’s not without its flaws.
While the crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs are a snorkeler’s dream, some travelers may find the speedboat ride too long and the lunch options limited.
With meticulous planning and exceptional service, this tour is worth considering, but don’t expect luxury.
It’s a solid choice for adventurous travelers seeking a fun, no-frills experience.
