Koh Phaluai & Ang Thong Marine Park Speedboat Tour

We didn't get what we were promised. We booked especially with this organization because of snorkeling and kayaking besides visiting the Viewpoint. Upon arrival, however, it turned out that we could choose between visiting the Viewpoint or kayaking, so this is not stated correctly in the program. No matter which organization you book with, all travelers are lumped together. Ang Thong is a beautiful park, but this is mass tourism in its worst form. 15 min. snorkeling with 150-200 people on 200 m2. In the traffic jam on the steps to the Viewpoint. At Emerald Lake, nature is drowned out by a loud generator, because the ice creams must of course stay cold. Not recommended.

This is a great intro tour to decide which island and activities you want to spend more time exploring later. There is a lot packed into this excursion for the price: Hotel pick-up/return, light breakfast, snorkeling, multiple island visits, free photos and lunch. My only complaints are (1) you need to purchase water shoes from the crew or bring your own (didn't know) and (2) you need good quality hiking shoes for the optional climbing. I had off-brand Keen-types that worked well luckily. The first climb is steep (1400 meters) with rest stops and the second (lagoon) has very steep steps.

I had been looking forward to views of the park from the speedboat. As it turned out the boat had only small high windows and we had to sit on side benches facing inwards without any view. It was slightly windy so the sea was a bit rough, but we drove so fast the waves were quite uncomfortable and people were sick on the way out and back. Having 29 people in the boat was also a bit of a stretch, felt like a crowded bus. At the snorkeling site there were roughly 80 tourists in a small area so I had to focus on not bumping into anyone. It was well organised and the guides were fun, but for the price of around 65 Euros pp I would have liked a bit more comfort and exclusivity.

This trip was really great. First snorkelling behind the marine park, you can see some fish and corals, not the most amazing snorkelling but still good. Then at the marine park you have time to do what you want so we walked up to the viewpoint which has amazing views. It is quite a tricky, long walk and very sweaty in the heat but stop or view points on the way. The lunch afterwards on a small island made by locals was amazing with Thai green curry, soup, vegetables, fried chicken and shrimp. They also cater for vegetarians which is great. The lagoon afterwards is an amazing view too. The staff were all so kind and allowed enough time at each destination. They also took lots of pictures throughout the trip which they don’t try and charge you for which is great! I would really really recommend!

The small group of participants and the service offered was nice. Everything was to our satisfaction.