At a glance
| 5 Island | 6 Island | |
| Price | 500 Baht to the tour company (must bring national park ticket and an extra 100 baht to pay “coral fee” | 700 Baht to the tour company (must bring national park ticket and an extra 100 baht to pay “coral fee” |
| Includes | 5 islands, snorkeling, snacks, soft drinks, underwater photographs | 6 islands, snorkeling, snacks, soft drinks, underwater photographs, lunch |
| Departure / End Location | Luke Yon Bay | Luke Yon Bay |
| Times | 2pm – 5pm | 12pm – 5pm |
Introduction
If you’re visiting Koh Samet and want to explore beyond the main beaches, a boat tour is the perfect way to do it. The Nong Boom Boat Tour offers an island-hopping adventure, taking you to some of the most scenic and lesser-visited spots around the island. Whether you’re looking to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, relax on remote beaches, or simply enjoy the ocean breeze, this tour gives you a taste of what makes Koh Samet and the surrounding islands special.
I recently took this tour myself to see if it lives up to the hype. In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—what’s included, what to bring, and whether it’s worth your time and money. If you’re considering booking, read on to find out exactly what to expect!
Booking & Pricing
Booking a Nong Boom Boat Tour is easy and can be done directly through The Cocoon Hostel. There are two tour options available, each offering a slightly different experience:
- 6-Island Tour – 700 baht
- 5-Island Tour – 500 baht
Both tours include stops at some of the most scenic islands and snorkeling spots around Koh Samet, but before setting off, there are a couple of extra costs to keep in mind. You’ll need to bring your national park entrance ticket, and there’s an additional 100 baht “coral fee” required for conservation efforts.
What’s Included in the Tour?
Regardless of which tour you choose, you’ll get:
✅ Fresh fruit and snacks
✅ Water and soft drinks
✅ Snorkeling equipment
✅ Underwater photography (photos are later uploaded to the Nong Boom Facebook page)
✅The 6 island tour also includes lunch
With all the essentials covered, all you need to do is show up, relax, and enjoy the trip!
Tour Itinerary: What Happens on the Trip
Departure & Check-In
The 6-island tour departs at 12:00 PM, while the 5-island tour departs at 2:00 PM. Both tours leave from Luke Yon Bay, which is just a one-minute walk from The Cocoon Hostel, making it incredibly convenient for guests staying with us.
Upon arrival at the meeting point, you’ll check in with the crew and get given a coloured wrist band and a life jacket. Make sure you have your national park entrance ticket and the 100 baht coral fee ready before boarding. Once everyone is settled, the boat sets off for an afternoon of island hopping, snorkeling, and exploring Koh Samet’s stunning surroundings.
First Stop – Thalu Island (6-Island Tour Only)
If you’re on the 6-island tour, your first stop is Thalu Island, the largest and arguably the most exciting island on the itinerary. Here, you can:
✅ Hike to a scenic viewpoint on the cliffs for stunning panoramic views
✅ Take Instagram-worthy photos at the island’s famous stone arch
✅ Swim in crystal-clear waters and soak in the natural beauty
This is also where lunch is served, giving you time to relax and refuel before continuing the adventure.
After the stop at Thalu Island, everyone gets back on the boat for the first snorkeling or fishing stop. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can jump off the side of the boat into the clear blue waters—one of my personal highlights of the trip!
Snorkeling, Island Hopping & Fun
From this point on, both the 6-island and 5-island tours follow the same route. The tour continues with:
🏝 Island-hopping – Stopping at remote, picturesque islands with white sandy beaches in the Kram Islands National Forest Reserve
🤿 More snorkeling – Exploring coral reefs and spotting colorful marine life
🌊 Water-based fun – Swimming, floating, and making the most of the warm, tropical sea
The boat provides plenty of time at each stop to relax and enjoy the surroundings before heading to the next destination. It’s a perfect mix of adventure, sightseeing, and relaxation, making it a great way to experience Koh Samet’s natural beauty.
The Experience: Fun, Relaxation, and Memorable Moments
The Nong Boom Boat Tour is nothing short of a fun-filled adventure from start to finish. Whether you’re an avid snorkeler or just looking for a day of relaxation, there’s something for everyone. The crew is incredibly friendly, fun, and knowledgeable, making sure all guests are comfortable and having a great time. They’re always ready to offer advice on snorkeling spots, point out local wildlife, or just crack a joke to keep the vibe light and enjoyable.
One of the best parts of the experience is how the staff goes out of their way to capture the moments. They’ll take photos of you throughout the day—whether you’re snorkeling, jumping off the boat, or just enjoying the view—so you can focus on having fun. No need to worry about getting the perfect Instagram shot! The crew will later upload these photos to their Nong Boom Facebook page, so you can easily download and share your best moments without any stress.
It’s clear that the crew genuinely wants you to have a memorable experience, and their enthusiasm makes the whole day feel even more special. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on a quiet beach or diving into crystal-clear waters, this tour is a fantastic way to enjoy Koh Samet’s natural beauty while creating lasting memories.
What to Bring with You
To make the most of your Nong Boom Boat Tour, here’s a quick checklist of essential items you’ll need to bring:
- Towel – For drying off after a swim or snorkeling session.
- Swimming Clothes – Don’t forget your swimsuit for all the water activities!
- Sunscreen – Protect yourself from the sun’s rays while you’re out on the water.
- Mosquito Repellent – If you’re prone to bites, it’s a good idea to bring some protection, especially when stopping at the islands.
- Sun Protective Clothing – Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, hats, and sunglasses can help keep you cool and shielded from the sun.
With these items packed, you’ll be set for a comfortable and enjoyable day out on the water!