Koh Tao and Nang Yuan from Samui: tours, ferries and snorkelling

How to choose a format

Koh Tao, Nang Yuan and Phangan: what to choose

Koh Tao (“turtle island”) is famous for diving and snorkelling, and Koh Nang Yuan consists of three tiny islands joined by a sand spit with a view of both sides. The water over the reefs is clear, and from the viewpoint above Nang Yuan the whole spit is visible. Between them on the way lies Koh Phangan, known for Haad Rin and the Full Moon parties.

A ferry or a boat tour

On your own you can sail by ferry: Lomprayah catamarans leave from the Maenam pier in the north of Samui and take about two hours, arriving at Mae Haad on Koh Tao. Other operators, Seatran and Songserm, leave from other piers on Samui, so check the pier in your ticket. In high season it is better to buy tickets in advance. A speedboat tour takes you out in the morning and returns you in the evening: in 6.5–8.3 hours you manage Koh Tao, Nang Yuan, three snorkelling stops and lunch.

• If you want to stay overnight. Take the ferry, a one-way ticket with a return on another day.
• If you are returning the same day. Take a tour with a hotel transfer: it includes lunch, equipment and the boat there and back.
• Nang Yuan. The island is private, and entry is paid separately if it is not included in the tour. The island has its own rules, for example restrictions on bringing food and drinks.
• Snorkelling spots. Mango Bay and Shark Bay, Nang Yuan and the Chalok Ban Kao reefs.

Diving, snorkelling and who to bring

Koh Tao is one of the most popular places for beginner diving: there are dozens of schools on the island, and the Open Water course is usually completed in a few days. If you have no certificate, snorkelling in the bays is more than enough: there are many fish and the water is warm. For children and those who are afraid of depth, Nang Yuan with its gentle entry and viewpoint is suitable.

If you are choosing between a tour and an independent trip, go by the weather: on windy days it is better to skip the speedboat, and the ferry runs more steadily. Book the trip in advance, especially for holidays and in January–February.

Which tickets and tours there are

Prices are as of 10 October 2026. Check the contents, language and conditions on the page of the offer you choose.

What else on Samui

The selection also has active tours: quad bikes, off-road vehicles, a bungee jump. All offers: excursions on Samui. Ferries between the islands: transfers and ferries.

Restrictions and tips

• Season and wind. In the Gulf the best months are January to September. From November to December storms are more frequent, boats are cancelled and ferries run with delays.
• Seasickness. The journey across open sea is long; take a tablet an hour before departure.
• Sun cream. In marine parks creams harmful to corals are banned; bring a mineral one.
• Passport. Bring the original or a photo for boarding the ferry and registering for the tour.
• Belongings. A waterproof case, a hat, water, cash baht. Drones over Nang Yuan are banned.
• The return. Do not book the last ferry the same day: the wind may delay a service.

The description is based on Trip.com cards; opening hours and the contents of offers may change.