Koh Samui Speedboat Snorkel to Koh Tan & Koh Madsum: Day Trip Guide
A fast, reef-rich day trip from Koh Samui that pairs easy snorkeling at Koh Tan with relaxing beach time on Koh Madsum. This guide covers what to expect, when to go, and practical tips to get the most from a six-hour speedboat excursion.
The Experience
Before You Go
Choose a morning departure
Mornings usually bring calmer seas and better visibility for snorkeling; aim for the earliest pick-up available.
Wear reef shoes
Entries can be rocky; reef shoes protect feet and make exits from shallow coral safer.
Use reef‑safe sunscreen
Sunscreen that’s free of oxybenzone and octinoxate reduces harm to coral—apply ashore before entering the water.
Protect valuables
Bring a small dry bag for phones, wallets, and cameras; boat decks and beachside sand are easy places to lose items.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Shallow western reef on Koh Tan where visibility is best at high tide
- •A quiet north‑facing sand spit on Koh Madsum favored by local picnickers for sunset views
Wildlife
- •Giant clams in shallow reef beds
- •Parrotfish and damselfish among branching coral
Conservation Note
Operate with reef‑friendly practices—avoid touching coral, anchor outside reef areas, and use reef‑safe sunscreen to limit chemical damage.
Koh Tan and nearby islets have long been fishing grounds for local families; small-scale resorts arrived more recently, keeping development limited.
What to Bring
Reef‑safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the coral ecosystems you’ll be visiting.
Lightweight towel and change of clothesEssential
Quick-dry towel and dry clothes for the return trip make the day more comfortable.
Reef shoes or water sandalsEssential
Protects feet on rocky shore entries and slippery boat ramps.
Small waterproof dry bag
Keeps phone, keys and camera safe from spray and sand.
Common Questions
Are transfers from hotels included?
Yes—round-trip hotel transfer from most major Koh Samui resort areas (Lamai, Chaweng, Bophut, Maenam, Bangrak, etc.) is normally included in the tour.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Basic snorkeling masks and life jackets are provided; if you prefer your own mask or fins, bring them for fit and comfort.
Is this suitable for children?
Yes—children ages 4–11 can join on a child ticket; guardians should supervise and ensure children can swim in open water.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The operator may cancel for safety; the policy typically offers a full refund if canceled 24 hours ahead for bad weather or insufficient participants.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
Koh Samui, Surat Thani
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; swimmers should be comfortable in open water and able to snorkel for short periods.
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