Nestled cozily in the crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Thailand is a tiny little haven of pure deliciousness. Koh Tao a world-renowned diving mecca, and is slowly emerging at the forefront of Koh Samui’s most popular day-trip destinations. It’s hard to imagine that this tropical paradise was once a detention island for political prisoners. Blimey, even we would contest a political point or two if a few years here would be our punishment!

Glistening white sand, abundant sea life and perfect year-round temperatures are what await you in Koh Tao…an island that’s almost too perfect for words. Visiting on a snorkeling day trip from Koh Samui is absolutely imperative, and a great way to get away from it all for a few hours. To make your planning even easier, we’ve compiled a guide to the easiest and most enjoyable ways to discover this priceless gem; so book your Koh Samui holiday villa today and come see for yourself what paradise looks like.

Activity agents abound on Koh Samui, and tours offered are quite standard; so shop around for the best deal, and have an unforgettable snorkeling experience.

Tour by speed boat…

The most popular option is the day-trip from Koh Samui by speed boat. Getting there super-fast seems to be what most people desire so as to have more time to spend in (and out) of the water. All agencies will offer pick up from your villa, or a popular hotel nearby. You’ll be escorted to Bophut Pier where you’ll board your speedboat which will first head to Koh Nang Yuan. A morning snorkel session in this ocean planetarium will see you whet your appetite for even better things to come. A relaxing lunch upon arrival in Koh Tao will provide the perfect introduction to this most magical of all the Thai Gulf islands. Your afternoon options are plentiful…snorkel, sun-bake, snorkel, sun-bake, snorkel….you get the drift. These trips include entry to Koh Nang Yuan, a delicious lunch, an knowledgeable English speaking guide, your snorkel equipment and even accident insurance. Expect to pay around 2000THB, which is about 40GBP.

Some agencies offer this tour in reverse, spending the morning in Koh Tao and moving onto Koh Nang Yuan in the afternoon. It matters very little…the most alluring of aspects is that these islands are magnificent no matter what the order of your visit is!

Tour by catamaran…

Designed for those who enjoy the travel as well as the destination, a snorkeling day-trip by catamaran is pure bliss. As with the speed boat tours, pick-up and drop-off is also included, as is a full lunch and all the snorkeling equipment you’ll need. Catamarans leave from Lomprayah Pier and are inclusive of on-board English speaking guide. The trip may be slower than on a speedboat, but perhaps this adds to the charm. Sit back, relax and let the fresh sea breeze work its magic on your soul. Catamaran tours are slightly cheaper than speed boat tours, so expect to pay about 30GBP.

Tour by Seatran…

The largest of all the vessels here is the Seatran Discovery, a ferry which provides regular daily transfers to and from Koh Tao. The public transport of the East is said to be fabulous and, at merely 24GBP for a return trip, who’s to argue? Pack your own snorkeling gear and catch the 8am ferry from the Bank Rak Tourism Port. Once on Koh Tao, head to Sairee Beach, the largest and best established of all the Koh Tao beaches. Organize a taxi from the port and arrange a pick up time. Don’t forget that the last ferry will head back at 3pm!

Spend a day snorkeling in the pristine waters of Koh Tao and be swept away by the inherent beauty of Thailand.