Snorkeling Tour with meals and BBQs – Cocktail – Sunset⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The best reason to choose this Koh Tao trip is the small-group setup. The boat can take up to 20 people, but many departures have had only 2 to 10 aboard. That gives you more room, less waiting, and a better chance to change the plan when one bay is crowded. Chart, his wife, and their crew keep the day personal rather than running it like a floating bus tour.

I like the fresh Thai lunch and the thoughtful food service, with Massaman curry, holy basil chicken, fried rice, vegetables, Thai tea, coconut, water, and a later BBQ. I also like that Chart gets in the water, points out marine life, and takes underwater photos and videos. The main consideration is that sea conditions and wildlife are never guaranteed, and a stop such as the Koh Nang Yuan viewpoint may involve an extra 250 baht entry fee.

Key points at a glance

• Only up to 20 people: Many departures are much smaller, sometimes operating with just two to six people.
• Four snorkeling stops: The route can change to avoid crowded bays and make better use of local knowledge.
• Homemade Thai lunch: Expect four dishes prepared by the guide’s wife, followed by drinks and a BBQ.
• Turtles and reef sharks: These animals have been seen, but no wildlife sighting can be promised.
• Underwater photos included: Chart and his crew may film your snorkeling and send the files through WhatsApp.
• Sunset finish: A cocktail and BBQ turn the last part of the seven-hour outing into a relaxed evening on the water.

Why the small boat matters around Koh Tao

Koh Tao is famous for clear water and easy access to coral reefs, but the popular bays can get busy. A lower-priced boat may carry a large crowd, then arrive at the same stops as several other boats. You can still see fish, but the water feels less peaceful when swimmers, fins, and boat traffic fill the same patch of sea.

This trip limits numbers to 20, and actual group sizes can be far smaller. Some departures have operated with only two, three, four, six, eight, or ten people. That changes the whole rhythm of the day. You have room to sit on the upper deck, spread out with your towel, and get back aboard without squeezing past a crowd.

The crew can also adjust the timing. If one bay looks too busy, Chart may take you elsewhere first and return later. That flexibility is a real advantage in Koh Tao, where several boats often target the same well-known places.

The boat itself is described as comfortable, with a top deck, seating, and space to sunbathe or rest in the shade. This is not just useful between swims. A seven-hour outing can feel long if you have nowhere to get dry, eat, or sit away from the sun.

Hotel pickup and a relaxed start

Pickup is included from your accommodation on Koh Tao. The boat returns to Koh Tao at the end of the day, so you do not need to arrange separate transport to the pier or find your own way home after sunset.

The tour is offered with English and Thai-speaking guides. Chart is the main name connected with the trip, while his wife and son may also help with food, snorkeling, and general care. The family-run nature of the operation shapes the day. Food is prepared by his wife, and the crew stays involved rather than leaving you to work out the snorkeling on your own.

If you are uneasy in open water, tell the crew early. The guides have helped nervous swimmers, provided reassurance, and stayed close in the water. Life jackets are included, and snorkeling equipment is sterilized before use.

Bring swimwear, a towel, dry clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, flip-flops, and a charged phone. Biodegradable sunscreen is specifically requested, which matters around coral and marine life. Cash is also sensible, especially if your route includes an optional viewpoint fee.

Four snorkeling stops and changing sea conditions

The day usually includes several snorkeling locations, with many accounts describing four stops. The precise route can change with weather, crowds, and your group’s preferences. That is a strength, but it also means you should not expect a fixed list of bays.

At the first stop, the crew gets you settled with masks, snorkels, and life jackets. Chart may snorkel alongside you and point out fish, coral, turtles, or small reef sharks. This personal guidance is useful for first-time snorkelers, who can easily swim past marine life without noticing it.

Later stops offer variety. One bay may have clearer water, another may have more coral, and another may be better for spotting fish. The crew has taken groups to quieter areas when popular spots were too busy. You should still expect some crowding around turtles if one is feeding or resting in an easy-to-reach area.

Turtles and baby blacktip reef sharks have been seen on this route, along with stingrays and many smaller fish. These are genuine possibilities, not guarantees. Wildlife moves freely, visibility changes, and the ocean does not follow a schedule. The best approach is to appreciate the coral and fish even if the headline animals stay out of sight.

The guide’s presence in the water is one of the strongest parts of the trip. Chart can help you find interesting marine life, keep an eye on the group, and take GoPro photos and videos. Files have been sent by WhatsApp, often on the same day. You will want a charged smartphone for receiving them.

Koh Nang Yuan and the optional viewpoint

Some routes include the famous Koh Nang Yuan viewpoint. Reaching it involves a short hike, and an additional 250 baht entrance fee has been reported. That cost is not part of the listed $54 price, so carry cash if you want to visit.

The viewpoint adds a land-based break to a day spent on the boat. You get a different angle on the island and surrounding sea, but it is not essential to the snorkeling. If you have already visited Koh Nang Yuan, tell Chart. One group skipped it and received a different stop instead.

This is a good example of the tour’s flexible character. A large scheduled boat may stick to its route. Here, the crew has shown a willingness to adjust the plan when a group has already seen a particular sight.

Homemade Thai lunch, drinks, and the BBQ

Lunch is a major part of the value. The meal includes four Thai dishes prepared by Chart’s wife:

• Chicken Massaman curry
• Stir-fried chicken with holy basil
• Fried rice with eggs
• Mixed vegetable stir-fry

Thai tea, bottled water, and fresh coconut are also included. The food is served during the day, giving you a proper break rather than just a packet of snacks between swims.

The homemade cooking is especially useful for anyone who wants more than the standard boat-tour sandwich. Massaman curry has a mild, creamy profile compared with many spicy Thai dishes, while holy basil chicken brings more savory heat. The vegetables and fried rice make the meal easier to share across different appetites.

Dietary needs can sometimes be accommodated. A vegan couple received suitable food, but you should state your requirements when booking rather than assume every request can be handled at the last minute.

The BBQ comes later, usually as the day moves toward sunset. It adds a second food stop and helps justify the long duration. You are not simply paying for transport and a few hours in the water. You receive a full day of meals, drinks, and hosted time aboard the boat.

Sunset, cocktail, and the pace of the last hour

The final part of the trip is designed to slow down. After the snorkeling and lunch, you can sit on the deck, watch Koh Tao’s coastline, and enjoy a cocktail while the sun goes down.

The sunset is weather-dependent, of course. Cloud can hide the colors, and the sea can become rough. Still, ending on the water gives the day a clear finish, especially after several active swims.

The cocktail is included, as are water and other drinks during the outing. Alcohol and open water require sensible choices. If you plan to keep snorkeling late in the day, wait until you are finished before drinking.

The BBQ and sunset also make this a possible choice for a birthday, anniversary, proposal, or small private gathering. Custom arrangements are available, though the exact extras and prices should be agreed on before booking.

What the $54 price really covers

At $54 per person, this costs more than the cheapest crowded snorkeling trips, but the comparison is not simply boat against boat. The price includes pickup, a seven-hour outing, snorkeling equipment, marine insurance, life jackets, a local guide, a substantial Thai lunch, drinks, coconut, BBQ, and cocktail.

You are also paying for space. If your alternative is a boat carrying 40 or more people, the smaller group may be worth the difference even if you care only moderately about food. The ability to avoid a crowded bay can save time and make each swim more enjoyable.

The value is strongest for people who want one full sea day rather than a short snorkeling transfer. It is also strong for couples, solo visitors, and families who prefer a more personal setting. A solo traveler can join without hiring an entire private boat, while a small group may sometimes have the boat almost to itself.

The price is less compelling if you want a quick, basic snorkeling trip and do not care about meals, sunset, or personal guidance. It is also not the right pick if you need a guaranteed wildlife encounter or a rigid itinerary.

Who will enjoy this trip most

I would choose this tour if you want a calm day with plenty of time in the water, but also care about food and comfort. First-time snorkelers benefit from the crew’s help, while experienced swimmers can appreciate the route changes and quieter bays.

Families may like the pickup, included meals, and life jackets. Nervous swimmers should tell the crew about their concerns. The guides have supported beginners in the water, but you still need to be comfortable taking part in a sea-based activity.

Couples and small groups get the most from the flexible format. The sunset cocktail and BBQ give the day a festive finish without requiring a separate evening booking.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, but sea access and movement aboard a boat can vary. Confirm the practical details before paying if you use a wheelchair or need specific assistance.

Booking details worth knowing

The tour lasts seven hours, with starting times based on availability. Some departures have begun around 11:00 in the morning and returned after sunset, but you should confirm the exact time for your date.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, which helps if your island plans are still shifting.

Pack light. Your most useful items are a towel, dry clothes, sun protection, swimwear, a waterproof phone setup, and cash for an optional viewpoint. Do not forget biodegradable sunscreen, and bring goggles if you prefer your own fit.

Should you book the Koh Tao sunset snorkeling tour?

Yes, if you want a small-group sea day with real meals, flexible snorkeling stops, and a sunset finish. The strongest reasons are the limited group size, Chart’s hands-on guiding, the homemade Thai food, and the included BBQ and cocktail.

Choose another option if you want the absolute lowest price, a short trip, or a guaranteed set of animals. The sea can change, and the best route depends on conditions.

For most people who value space, personal attention, and a full day rather than a basic boat ride, the $54 price is fair. Book it for the quieter format, and treat turtles, reef sharks, and perfect sunset colors as welcome extras.

FAQ

How long is the snorkeling tour?

The activity lasts seven hours. Starting times vary, so check availability for your chosen date.

Where does pickup take place?

Pickup is included from the front of your accommodation on Koh Tao. The tour also returns to Koh Tao.

How many people can join the boat?

The maximum group size is 20 people. Actual departures may be much smaller, including trips with only two to ten people.

What food is included?

You receive a homemade Thai lunch with chicken Massaman curry, holy basil chicken, egg fried rice, and mixed vegetable stir-fry. Thai tea, bottled water, fresh coconut, a BBQ, and a cocktail are also included.

Are snorkeling masks and other equipment provided?

Yes. Sterilized snorkeling gear and life jackets are included. Marine insurance and a local guide are also part of the activity.

Can I see turtles and reef sharks?

Turtles, baby blacktip reef sharks, stingrays, colorful fish, and coral have been seen during the trip. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed because conditions and animal movements change.

Is Koh Nang Yuan included?

Some routes include Koh Nang Yuan and its viewpoint, but the itinerary can change. The viewpoint may require an additional 250 baht entrance fee.

What happens if I need to cancel?

You can cancel up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund. Reserve now and pay later is also available.