Ang Thong Marine Park Semi-Private Yacht Trip with Kayaking Koh Samui

Ang Thong National Marine Park

Ang Thong National Marine Park lies about 30 km north-west of Koh Samui and protects an archipelago of steep limestone islands rising out of turquoise water. Declared a national park in 1980, its name means golden bowl, and its jungle-covered cliffs, sea caves, white-sand coves and coral reefs make it the most beautiful day trip from Koh Samui. Dusky langurs, long-tailed macaques, monitor lizards and white-bellied sea eagles live on the islands, and there are no resorts or towns inside the park.

Most visitors arrive by speedboat on a fixed route, but a yacht lets you reach the quieter northern corner and enjoy the journey itself. The crossing takes around two hours each way at a relaxed pace, with breakfast on the way out. The marine park entrance fee is set by the national park and paid on the day; it is not included in the booking. The best time to visit Ang Thong is from February to September, when the sea is usually calm and clear.

Sea Kayaking to the Hidden Lagoon and Paradise Beach

In the remote northern part of the park, the yacht anchors near a group of limestone islands that few day-trippers see. Here you can paddle a sea kayak along sheer cliffs streaked with orange and grey, into small caves and through narrow passages to a hidden lagoon, finishing at Paradise Beach, a sheltered cove of soft sand backed by forest. Ang Thong kayaking is the best way to get close to the rock formations and hear nothing but birds and the water.

Kayaking is optional and paid as an extra on the day, so you can decide once you see the conditions. If you prefer not to paddle, ride along in the dinghy that follows the kayaks and meet the group on the beach. Guides accompany the kayakers, and the route is chosen for calm, protected water. Bring a waterproof bag for your phone, as you may get splashed.

Snorkelling at the Ko Wao Coral Reef

After the morning in the park, the yacht heads out to the reef at Ko Wao, a small island on the edge of the marine park. Its coral gardens shelter friendly reef fish such as sergeant majors, parrotfish, angelfish and butterflyfish, and the shallow sections are perfect for relaxed snorkelling. Because the yacht reaches the site at a different time from the speedboats, the crew can choose the calmest spot of the day.

Masks, snorkels, fins and life vests are provided, and the guides help beginners into the water from the boat. Non-swimmers can glide above the reef on a floating platform, so everyone can see the colours below. Please use reef-safe sun cream and avoid touching the coral. Expect around an hour in and around the water, before climbing back on board for lunch.

The Emerald Lagoon Viewpoint on Koh Mae Ko

On Koh Mae Ko, the Emerald Lagoon, known in Thai as Thale Nai, is a saltwater lake completely enclosed by towering limestone walls and fed from the sea through hidden underground channels. Its green-blue water changes colour with the tides and the light. A steep trail of stairs and ladders climbs through narrow ravines to a viewpoint high above the lagoon, with a sweeping view over the islands of the park.

The climb takes around 15 to 20 minutes each way and needs sturdy sandals or trainers; swimming in the lagoon is not allowed. If you prefer, stay on the beach below and relax in the shade. Visiting in the afternoon, when most speedboat groups have left, makes the viewpoint quieter. Is Ang Thong worth visiting? Standing above the Emerald Lagoon, few travellers would say no.

Life on Board and the Sunset Return

The yacht is a classic Thai wooden vessel built for days in the marine park, with a broad sun deck, a shaded lounge and dining area, and a small splash pool to cool off between stops. Light breakfast and snacks are served on the way out, and a freshly cooked Thai lunch is prepared on board by the crew while you cruise past the park's most dramatic cliffs and untouched islands. Fresh fruit and soft drinks are included throughout the day.

In the late afternoon the yacht heads back towards Koh Samui. This is the time to relax on deck, take a dip in the splash pool and watch the islands turn to silhouettes against the sunset. Shoes are removed when boarding, so sandals are ideal. Our driver meets you at the pier and takes you back to your hotel at the end of a day of about ten hours.