In short
- Standard tours cost 2,800 to 4,500 THB from Khao Lak.
- Phuket departures include an extra 1.5 to 2 hours of driving.
- The 500 THB foreign adult park fee is often included, but check your ticket.
In this article
Pricing for the Similan Islands depends heavily on where you stay and the type of boat you choose. Most standard speedboat tours cover your food, snorkeling gear, and guide, leaving you with few extra expenses on the day.
How much does a tour from Khao Lak cost?
A standard group speedboat tour from Khao Lak costs 2,800 to 4,500 THB per adult.
Khao Lak is the closest base for the Similan Islands. The speedboat crossing from Thap Lamu Pier takes 70 to 90 minutes. Because the drive to the pier is short, these tours are generally the cheapest and most direct option.
How much does a trip from Phuket cost?
Tours from Phuket start around 94 USD (approximately 3,300 THB), depending on the booking platform.
Boats still depart from Khao Lak or nearby piers. Booking from Phuket means an overland transfer of 1.5 to 2 hours each way. Pickups begin as early as 5:30 AM. Expect to pay slightly more to cover the long driving distance.
Is the national park fee included?
Most tours include the foreign adult fee of 500 THB in the total price, but you must verify this before booking.
Some cheaper tickets require you to pay this fee in cash at the pier before departure. Passports or certified copies must be brought for national park entry checks.
Are luxury catamarans more expensive?
Yes, power catamarans cost more than standard speedboats but offer a smoother ride.
If you are prone to seasickness, the extra cost is worth it. Catamarans offer more stability on the 65 to 70-kilometer crossing. Standard speedboats are cheaper but bounce heavily in choppy water.
Do prices change?
Yes, tour prices vary slightly between booking platforms and seasons.
The prices listed are starting rates. The park is only open from October 15 to May 15. The daily visitor cap is strictly limited to 3,850 people per day, so booking early secures the standard rates before boats sell out.
Questions travellers ask
How much is the national park fee?
Foreign adults pay 500 THB and children ages 3 to 14 pay 250 THB. Thai adults pay 100 THB and Thai children pay 50 THB.
Are there any extra fees for luggage?
Day trip boats do not have space for luggage. One premium tour charges 200 THB for oversized bags left at the pier.
Do I need cash on the islands?
Your food and transport are covered, but a small amount of cash is useful for tips or extra snacks at the mainland pier.
