Khao Lak/Phuket: Wow Andaman Snorkeling Trip to Surin Islands

We are snorkelers. Have been for > 30 years. Do not scuba. This was the best snorkeling experience since the Great Barrier Reef 30 years ago. Coral is alive, reefs are vibrant, fish are plentiful and many species were new to us. Giant clams with their blue and gold were amazing. If you are into snorkeling and you have only time for one trip, this is it. We did Similan trip also--separate review. We were staying in Khao Lak so hotel to pier transit time was 15 minutes. Staying in Phuket, adds another 60-70 minutes of travel on each end. Details: Trip is a long day. Two hours solid travel each way to and from the pier to the island cluster. Boats have two (2) or three (3) 250 hp outboard engines that run constantly at @ 5000 rpm for the four (4) hour total. They are loud and monotonous. I used earplugs during the trips and perceive they made a huge difference. I considered our trip to be mildly-moderately rough. Some segments much worse than others. If one is prone to motion sickness, preparation ahead of time is worthwhile. Onboard head (toilet) is a nightmare! It literally is in a crawl space requiring hands & knees entry and limited manueverability. Best to plan ahead in this respect also. Crew was competent, friendly, and attentive. You do get fed light foods, snacks, water, soft drinks, and the not-to-be-missed coconut ice cream. Lunch is provided. Actually, a breakfast prior to leaving and supper on return are both served at the dock reception area and are adequate and refreshing. If coconut ice cream were available at breakfast, it would be outstanding. Moken village stop seems perfunctory, but local crafts are for sale. As mentioned, did the Similan trip also. My opinion: That trip is much more "socially" oriented, has less spectacular snorkeling experiences, but shorter travel times. If snorkeling is your thing and you have only time for one trip, Surin is the one.

Snorkeling through the coral reefs was a stunning experience. It was our first time doing anything like this, so we were blown away the first time we got a look at the corals and various fish. Our guide was really cool and gave us good instructions. Food and snacks on the boat and at the dock were great, the lunch on the island was okay.

We loved our experience with WOW Andaman to explore the Surin Islands. Nancy and the crew looked after us so well. We chose WOW Andaman as it was recommended by the Khao Lak Paradise Hotel manager, catering for a group of 20 people. The speed boat trip is 2 hours from Khao Lak pier each way but well worth it. The speed boat was well equipped and well organised to ensure everyone was kept safe and comfortable through the whole trip. The itinerary was very good with 3 snorkelling stops of about 30 mins - 40 mins each and a trip to the sea gypsy Moken village where you can buy local hand-made crafts. The coconut ice-cream and fruits on board were a real treat. Great lunch on the island, make sure you allow enought time to go to the secluded side of the island to take in the beautiful landscape and swim in the blue-green sea.