The Similan Islands National Park is a group of 11 stunning islands located in the Andaman Sea off the coast of Phang Nga Province, Thailand. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, known for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. The park is open to visitors every year from October 15th to May 15th. The peak tourist season runs from December to March, when the islands can get quite crowded.
To fully enjoy your visit, it’s important to choose a tour operator that fits your needs, especially if you’re traveling with family. With many operators offering trips to the Similan Islands, each providing a unique service, this guide will help you select the right one based on key factors such as pier location, pick-up times, type of boat, meals, and additional services.
1. The Pier
The pier is the starting point for your trip to the Similan Islands, and it’s an important factor to consider. In my experience working in the field, I’ve noticed tourists often have differing opinions about the pier. For example, the journey from Phuket to the pier, which is typically located in Phang Nga Province, takes about 2.30 - 2.50 hours. Tourists also care about the cleanliness, comfort, parking availability, and safety of the pier.
2. Pick-up Time
Pick-up time can be a big deal for some tourists, especially those who prefer to sleep in. However, early risers can enjoy a quieter and more serene experience at the Similan Islands before the crowds arrive. Here’s a breakdown of pick-up options:
Early Bird (4:00 AM): If you prefer to be one of the first to arrive at the islands, I recommend Siam Adventure World. They offer the earliest pick-up time, which allows you to enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the islands before others arrive.
Normal Pick-up (6:00 AM): This is the standard pick-up time offered by most tour operators. While it’s not too early, you may encounter larger crowds, especially during the peak season (December to March). Recommended operators include Seastar, Fantastic Travel, and Love Andaman with Speed Boat and Speed Catamaran
Late Pick-up (7:30 AM): For those who prefer to start their day a bit later, some operators now offer a “Lazy Similan” option, with pick-up at 7:30 AM. Currently, Seastar is one of the few operators offering this option,opertae by speed boat and speed catamaran, allowing tourists to avoid early wake-ups while still having a great experience.
3. Type of Boat
The type of boat you choose is important for comfort, as the journey from the pier to the Similan Islands takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Here are the common types of boats available:
Speed Boat: Most trips to the Similan Islands are conducted using speed boats with three engines. Some boats have long bench seats, while others offer individual seats. Operators offering speed boat trips include Fantastic Travel, Love Andaman, Seastar, and Siam Adventure World. During peak times, some operators upgrade to speed catamarans for added comfort.
Speed Catamaran: This option is more spacious and comfortable, especially for longer trips. Some catamarans have two levels, allowing you to relax on the upper deck and enjoy 360-degree views. If comfort is a priority, consider choosing an operator that offers a speed catamaran is Seastar.
4. Meals
Since this is a long day trip, meals are an important part of the experience. Most operators provide a light breakfast, a lunch box (due to park restrictions on cooking), and a light dinner. From my experience, Seastar offers a more substantial breakfast, an average lunch compared to others, and a satisfying light dinner. They also cater to special dietary needs such as vegan, vegetarian, or halal meals upon request.
5. Additional Services
Lastly, it’s worth considering the additional services that each tour operator offers to enhance your trip. Here are a few extras that stand out:
More Crew Members: Some operators, like Seastar, provide additional crew members on board to ensure you have the best possible experience and convenient . With more than four crew members per speed catamaran, they can offer personalized service to make your trip more enjoyable.
Journey Bag: Fantastic Travel offers a journey bag containing a towel and a beach mattress,mermaid dress to take photos, perfect for relaxing during your free time on the islands.
In conclusion, the Similan Islands National Park, located in Phang Nga Province, is a breathtaking destination, but the trip may not be suitable for pregnant women, children under 1 year old, or elderly individuals with medical conditions due to the long boat ride. Keep in mind that the trip is subject to sea conditions, and the itinerary may change without notice based on the tides and weather.
If you have any questions or need assistance in selecting the right tour operator for your trip to the Similan Islands, feel free to reach out—we’re here to help!
Writer : Better Call Nika
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