Private Long-Tail Boat Trip to Pig Island Koh Samui

Pig Island (Koh Madsum)

Pig Island, known locally as Koh Madsum, is a small island off the north-east coast of Koh Samui, close to Koh Phangan. It became famous because a group of pigs lives freely on its beach, wandering between the palms and into the shallow water. The pigs are used to visitors and come over to greet boats, which makes the stop a favourite with children and anyone who enjoys animals in a natural setting.

Visitors often wonder if Pig Island is worth visiting. It is a short, cheerful stop, especially when you reach the beach early and have it almost to yourselves. Your captain explains how to behave around the pigs: keep a respectful distance, do not feed them unsuitable snacks and stay calm. The entry fee for Koh Mat Sum is paid on the day and is not included, so bring a little cash in local currency.

The long-tail boat ride around Koh Samui

The long-tail boat is the traditional boat of southern Thailand, with a slim wooden hull, a long propeller shaft that sticks out behind and a canopy against the sun. Boats like this have carried fishermen and villagers between the islands for generations, and a private trip lets you enjoy that character without sharing the boat. The ride from Samui to Pig Island takes about half an hour, depending on where you meet, and shows you the coast from the water.

While you cruise, your captain points out small bays, fishing boats and neighbouring islands, and you can ask to slow down for photographs. A long-tail boat is open to the air, so the ride is breezy and relaxed, with a sea view in every direction. The captain knows the local tides and the calmest route, which makes this a comfortable answer to the question of how to get to Pig Island from Koh Samui.

Snorkelling at Koh Tan

Koh Tan is a small island with a rim of rocks and corals, and the water around it is clear and often shallow, so it is a gentle place to snorkel. Colourful fish and patches of coral grow close to the shore, and the reef is visible from the surface even for beginners. Snorkel masks and life jackets are included on the boat, and children and non-swimmers can float safely in a jacket while looking down at the reef.

Your captain chooses the best spot for the sea conditions on the day, and you can stay in the water as long as you like within the time. Many guests search for the best snorkelling near Koh Samui, and Koh Tan is a good quiet option for a half-day boat trip. Please look but do not touch the coral, avoid standing on it and use reef-safe sun cream to protect the marine life.

White beaches and quiet coves

Beyond the main stops, the island chain around Samui has small beaches with pale sand, rocks and clear water where you can swim, rest in the shade and take photographs. Because the boat is private, you can ask to anchor for a swim or to spend more time at a beach that looks particularly inviting. The trip does not run to a fixed script, so you can slow down when you see a good spot.

The ice box on board keeps your drinking water cool, and you are welcome to bring snacks, towels and a bag with your belongings. Food and other drinks are not included, so many guests bring fruit or sandwiches to enjoy on a quiet beach. If you plan a private beach day by long-tail boat, a morning departure usually has the calmest sea and the softest light.

Planning your trip: best time and practical tips

The best time to visit Pig Island is early in the morning or in the late afternoon, when the sun is gentler and boats are fewer. On Koh Samui the sea is generally calmest from about January to September, while the heaviest rains arrive in the last months of the year. Your captain decides on the day whether conditions are safe, and our team will help you reschedule if the weather is not suitable.

Wear swimwear under light clothes, bring a hat, sunscreen, a towel and a dry bag for your phone, and take water shoes if you have them. Hotel pickup is not included, so you meet at the departure point that we send you with the confirmation. A private long-tail boat trip from Koh Samui to Pig Island and Koh Tan is simple to arrange, and our team is happy to help with the details.