A popular snorkelling day trip from Koh Phangan heads to the northern island of Koh Tao and the tiny but beautiful island of Koh Nang Yuan. Both locations have large coral banks teaming with varied marine life and are perfect for snorkelling day trips. This snorkelling day trip easily compensates for the limited coral ecosystems around the south and western coastlines of Koh Phangan.

The only drawback of the highly recommended day trip is the price, which at first glance may seem very expensive for typical Thailand tours. The 2013 price is 1,800THB (approximately $55) per adult but the day trip does provide the opportunity to visit some of the best snorkelling locations in the gulf of Thailand.

A single ferry ride between Koh Phangan to Koh Tao costs 670THB and include in the price of lunch, snorkel hire and taxi transfers, the price can be semi-justified. Commonly the Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan tours from Koh Phangan heads to the islands on the large passenger ferries which also caters for island transferring tourist. On the outward route the ferry appears very full but most passengers disembark at Koh Tao and the ferry refills on the return journey. The ferry transfer time is approximately an hour and a half each way.

For the tour of Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan the day is split equally between the two destinations with a buffet lunch provided on board the boat. Buffet lunches generally conjure images of bland and poor food but the quality was surprisingly good and able to cater for special dietary requirements.

The small island of Koh Nang Yuan has a stunning beach which connects three rock outcrops, to read more about Koh Nang Yuan please click here. The second destination of the tour is the northern side of Koh Tao which contains deep corals that lead into the coast line. The quieter seas are teeming with marine life, that are enticed to the boats by food being thrown into the waters. The snorkeling at the second location is slightly more suited to experience swimmers due to depth of water but life jackets can be provided to less able swimmers.

In conclusion the tours are managed very professional and the destinations visited are great. The varied coral ecosystems of Koh Tao compensates for Koh Phangan’s slightly lacking shallow water marine life. The snorkelling day trip tour to Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan is highly recommended but it is a shame about the inflated price.