The two options at a glance
| Trip | Boat | Duration | Price seen in October 2026 | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Similan from Phuket or Khao Lak, snorkeling, lunch | Speedboat | Full day | From about €89 per person | The best all-round choice, rated 4.5 (1,800+ reviews) | See |
| Similan by premium fast catamaran from Phuket | Fast catamaran | Full day | From about $109 per person | Those who want more space and stability, rated 4.4 (88 reviews) | See |
Prices and ratings were read on GetYourGuide in October 2026 and change with the date and group size: confirm them on the page. The national park fee (about 500 THB per adult according to our Similan Islands page) is either included or payable on the day depending on the operator: read the "included / not included" line before paying.
Speedboat day trip, Phuket or Khao Lak
What you do. Hotel pick-up, minibus to the pier on the Phang Nga coast, then a speedboat crossing to several swimming and snorkeling stops (the usual names: Koh Miang, Donald Duck Bay, Koh Payu, Koh Ba Ngu), a Thai buffet lunch and, on some trips, the climb to the Sailing Rock viewpoint.
Good to know. It is the most popular option, so also the busiest: several reviews say nearly half the day goes on transport, and that stops can be short. If you are staying in Khao Lak, leave from there: the road leg almost disappears.
Worth it? Yes if you come for clear water and snorkeling: it is the cheapest way to see the Similans without a night on board.
Fast catamaran day trip
What you do. The same general circuit (snorkeling and beach stops) on a high-speed catamaran, with breakfast, lunch, snorkeling gear, a guide and insurance according to the listing.
Good to know. The catamaran rides more smoothly in a swell and has shaded areas, but costs more. Not all catamaran trips are equal: several have few reviews or lower ratings, and we kept only this one (4.4 from 88 reviews). Check the announced group size.
Worth it? Yes for families and anyone prone to seasickness; otherwise the speedboat is enough.
Season, sea and preparation
- Season: park open from about 15 October to 15 May (dates set each year by the park). December to March brings calm seas and the best visibility. Outside the season there are no trips: be wary of any offer that sells one.
- Bring: seasickness tablets, reef-safe sunscreen, a towel, cash, dry clothes. There is no accommodation on the islands: you visit for the day.
- Booking: weekends from December to March fill first, because daily visitor numbers are limited.
For divers, a snorkeling day trip is not a dive: see the discover scuba diving guide for Phuket instead. For a shorter trip possible all year, see Coral Island, Racha Island or Phang Nga Bay.
FAQ
What is the best Similan Islands trip from Phuket?
The speedboat day trip with hotel transfer, lunch and snorkeling is the best compromise (rated 4.5 from over 1,800 reviews). The fast catamaran is better if you fear the sea.
When are the Similan Islands open?
About 15 October to 15 May; the exact dates are set by the national park each year. They are closed during the monsoon.
How long is the trip from Phuket?
A full day. Allow about an hour by road and an hour by boat each way, with a very early start and a return in the late afternoon or evening.
Is the park entry fee included?
It depends on the operator: sometimes included in the price, sometimes paid on the spot (about 500 THB per adult according to our page). Check the listing.
Can you stay overnight on the Similan Islands?
No, the bungalows and campsite have been closed since 2018. You visit for the day or on a diving cruise.
