Go Travel Phuket Reiseführer & Tipps Similan Inseln ab Khao Lak

Inselausfluege - Khao Lak

Similan Inseln Ausflug ab Khao Lak -
Alles was du wissen musst (2025/2026)

Tuerkisblaues Wasser, puderweisse Straende, gigantische Granitfelsen mitten im Meer - die Similan Inseln gehoeren zu den beeindruckendsten Schnorchelzielen weltweit. Und ab Khao Lak kommst du schneller und direkter dorthin als von ueberall sonst in Thailand. Dieser Guide erklaert dir alles, was du fuer deinen Similan Inseln Ausflug wissen musst - von der besten Reisezeit bis zur Frage Speedboot oder Katamaran.

Von Go Travel Phuket - Lesezeit: ca. 15 Min. - Aktualisiert 2026

Similan Islands tour from Khao Lak – Donald Duck Bay with turquoise water and granite boulders
Donald Duck Bay am Similan Insel No. 8 — ein der meist fotografierte Aussichtspunkte Thailands © Go Travel Phuket
🗓️ Wichtiger Saisonhinweis: Der Mu Ko Similan Nationalpark ist jedes Jahr nur von Mitte Oktober bis Mitte Mai geoeffnet. Wer seinen Urlaub zwischen November und April plant, sollte den Similan Ausflug so frueh wie moeglich buchen - Touren sind in der Hochsaison oft wochenlang im Voraus ausgebucht.
9
Inseln im Archipel
~70 km
Entfernung von Khao Lak
30 m+
Unterwassersicht
Okt - Mai
Saison geoeffnet

🏝️ Was sind die Similan Inseln?

Die Similan Inseln - offiziell Mu Ko Similan Nationalpark - sind eine Gruppe von neun Granitinseln in der Andamanensee, rund 70 Kilometer vor der Kueste von Khao Lak. Der Name stammt aus dem Malaiischen und bedeutet schlicht neun. Seit 1982 stehen die Inseln unter Nationalpark-Schutz. Kein Zufall: Die Similan Inseln gelten als eines der besten Tauch- und Schnorchelgebiete der Welt - mit einer Unterwasserwelt, die jeden Besucher sprachlos macht.

Ueber Wasser beeindrucken riesige Granitfelsen, die dramatisch aus dem Meer ragen, puderweisse Sandstraende und dschungelbedeckte Inselinnere. Unter Wasser erwarten dich Korallenriffe mit tropischen Fischen, Meeresschildkroeten, Riffhaien und einer Sichtweite von haeufig ueber 30 Metern. Wer einmal an den Similan Inseln geschnorchelt hat, versteht sofort, warum dieser Ort auf jeder Bucket-List stehen sollte.

Die wichtigsten Stationen beim Similan Inseln Tagesausflug:

  • Insel Nr. 8 - Similan Island (Donald Duck Bay): Das bekannteste Motiv der Similan Inseln. Gigantische Granitfelsen, ein Aussichtswanderweg mit Panoramablick und die beruehmte tuerkisfarbene Bucht zum Schwimmen und Fotografieren.
  • Insel Nr. 4 - Koh Miang: Nationalpark-Hauptquartier mit wunderschoenen Straenden. Die Princess Bay ist einer der besten Schnorchelspots fuer Einsteiger - ruhiges flaches Wasser mit bunten Korallen direkt unter der Oberflaeche.
  • Insel Nr. 9 - Koh Ba Ngu: er gesamten Andamanensee - dichtes Korallenleben, viele Fischarten, perfekte Sichtweite.
  • Inseln Nr. 5 & 6: Ausgezeichnete Riff-Schnorchelspots auf dem Weg zu den Hauptinseln. Hier halten sich besonders viele Fische und Schildkroeten auf.
Snorkeling at the Similan Islands – colourful coral reef and tropical fish in crystal-clear water
Kristallklare Sicht auf den Similan Inseln – eines der schönsten Schnorchelreviere Thailands © Go Travel Phuket
Important to know: since 2023 overnight stays on the Similan Islands are no longer permitted. All visitors must arrive as day-trippers or via multi-day liveaboard boats. This makes choosing the right tour operator and departure time more important than ever.

📅 Wann ist die beste Reisezeit fuer die Similan Inseln?

Der Similan Inseln Nationalpark ist jedes Jahr von ca. Mitte Oktober bis Mitte Mai geoeffnet. Waehrend der Monsunzeit von Juni bis Mitte Oktober bleibt der Park geschlossen - eine Schutzmassnahme fuer die Korallen und das Meeresoekoystem.

Die besten Monate fuer einen Similan Inseln Ausflug sind Mitte November bis Mitte April</strong. In dieser Hauptreisezeit kannst du mit Folgendem rechnen:

  • Ruhige See, kaum Wellengang - ideal fuer Schnorcheln und Booten
  • Unterwassersicht von 20 bis ueber 30 Metern - Traumkonditionen fuer Schnorchler und Taucher
  • Sonnige Tage, trockenes Wetter, Wassertemperatur 28-30 Grad
  • Alle Touroptionen buchbar, volles Inselprogramm moeglich

Oktober und Mai gelten als Nebensaison: Der Park ist geoeffnet, aber der Seegang kann deutlich rauer sein. Diese Monate eignen sich besser fuer erfahrene Schwimmer und Taucher. Fuer Familien mit Kindern sind Dezember bis Maerz die klar besten Monate - ruhigste See, perfekte Bedingungen, volles Programm.

💡 Fruehbucher-Tipp: The Similan Islands are one of the most popular day trips in all of Thailand. Tours regularly sell out weeks or months in advance — especially around Christmas, New Year, and the February–March high season. If your Thailand holiday falls in the November–April window, book your tour as early as possible. You secure your preferred date and avoid finding your dates fully booked on arrival.

Similan Inseln ab Khao Lak oder ab Phuket - warum Khao Lak klar gewinnt

Kannst du den Similan Ausflug auch direkt ab Phuket buchen? Ja, das ist moeglich. Aber Khao Lak ist der deutlich bessere Ausgangspunkt - und hier ist der Grund:

Die Similan Inseln liegen rund 70 km vor der Kueste Khao Laks - aber ueber 100 km von Phuket entfernt. Unser Abfahrtspier liegt in Ban Nam Khem, noerdlich von Khao Lak, noch naeher an den Inseln. Fahrzeit mit dem Speedboot: ca. 60-80 Minuten. Ab Phuket dauert nur die Strecke bis zur Anlegestelle 2,5 bis 3 Stunden. Es ist machbar, man kann sich drauf einstellen, ist aber ein anstrengder Tag.

Wer ab Khao Lak startet, hat eine relativ kurzen Weg bis zue Anlegestellen und man kehrt zu einer vernuenftigen Abendstunde ins Hotel zurueck. Fuer Familien mit Kindern ist dieser Unterschied besonders gross.

🚤 Speedboot oder Speedkatamaran ab Khao Lak - welche Tour passt zu dir?

Go Travel Phuket bietet zwei verschiedene Similan Inseln Ausfluege ab dem Ban Nam Khem Pier noerdlich von Khao Lak an. Beide Touren haben etwas, das du bei kaum einem anderen Anbieter findest: einen deutschsprachigen Reiseleiter. Du bekommst den gesamten Tag - Einweisung, Schnorchelfuehrung, Erklaerungen auf den Inseln - auf Deutsch. Das macht einen echten Unterschied.

Speedboat departure from Ban Nam Khem pier Khao Lak for Similan Islands early bird tour
Early departure from Ban Nam Khem pier by speedboat — beating the crowds to the Similan Islands © Go Travel Phuket

🚤 Option 1: Similan Islands Early Bird by Speedboat

Our most popular tour, and the one we recommend for most guests. Pickups begin at 05:00 for southern Khao Lak beaches and up to 06:00 for northern beaches — meaning you arrive at the islands before the main wave of day-trippers from Phuket and other operators. This early bird advantage is real: quieter beaches, undisturbed snorkeling spots, more space to enjoy the experience.

🧒 Age note for the Speedboat: The speedboat crossing involves some wave motion and spray — exhilarating for older children and adults, but more demanding for very young children. We recommend this option for children aged 5–6 years and above.
Similan Islands speed catamaran from Khao Lak – spacious and stable boat for families with children
The Speed Catamaran — smoother, more spacious, ideal for families with young children © Go Travel Phuket

🛥️ Option 2: Similan Islands by Speed Catamaran

The twin-hull design of the catamaran significantly reduces motion compared to a monohull speedboat, offering a smoother, more spacious crossing. This makes it the preferred choice for:

  • Families with young children — from approximately 2–3 years old
  • Guests who are prone to seasickness
  • Travellers who prioritise comfort during the transfer
👶 Honest note for parents: While the catamaran can accommodate very young children, a full Similan day trip is long and demanding. Even on the catamaran, children under 3 need to be comfortable with an extended boat journey. We have successfully taken many families with toddlers — but please contact us before booking so we can advise based on your specific situation and the expected conditions on your tour date.

Side-by-side comparison

Merkmal 🚤 Speedboat (Early Bird) 🛥️ Speed Catamaran
Travel time to islands~60–80 minSlightly longer, much smoother
Minimum recommended age5–6 years2–3 years
Ride characterDynamic, adventurousSmooth, spacious, comfortable
Early bird advantage✅ Yes — arrive firstDepends on departure time
German-speaking guide✅ Ja✅ Ja
Departure pierBan Nam Khem, N. Khao LakBan Nam Khem, N. Khao Lak
Am besten geeignet fürCouples, families 5+, adventurersYoung families, sensitive guests
Our honest recommendation: If your youngest child is 5 or above, choose the speedboat — the early arrival advantage is genuine and meaningful. If you're travelling with a toddler or have concerns about sea conditions, choose the catamaran. Either way, it will be a day you remember for years.

✅ What's Included in the Tour?

  • Hotel pickup & drop-off (Khao Lak area)
  • Hotel pickup & drop-off (Phuket -extra 400 Baht/Person NUR beim Speedboot Tour)
  • Return boat transfer to the Similan Islands
  • German speaking guide
  • Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins)
  • Handtuch (nur beim Speed Catamaran)
  • Breakfast at pier before departure
  • Thai-style lunch on the islands
  • Drinking water, fruit & soft drinks
  • National Park entrance fee
  • Life jackets
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
🔹 Passport Information: For insurance purposes, a copy of your passport is required for all Speed Catamaran tours. You can send it to us via WhatsApp or email after booking.

You do not need to bring your original passport on any of our tours. We recommend carrying a copy, either printed or stored on your phone.

🎒 What to Bring on Your Similan Islands Day Trip

  • 🛂 Copy of your Passport (print or on phone) — for national park entry (in case they would check)
  • 👙 Badebekleidung — wear it under your clothes, saves time on arrival
  • 🧴 Riff-sichere Sonnencreme — standard sunscreen damages coral reefs; reef-safe options are available in Khao Lak shops
  • 🕶️ Sunglasses
  • 🧢 Hat or cap — both the boat ride and beach time involve sustained sun exposure
  • Strand Towel (with the tour by Speed Catamaran towels are provided)
  • 📷 Waterproof camera or underwater housing — you will regret not having one
  • 👟 Water shoes or sandals — helpful for rocky entry points at snorkel sites
  • 💊 Seasickness medication (if needed) — take it before departure, not after you feel sick
  • 👕 Light long-sleeve layer — for the return journey, which can feel cool in the afternoon breeze
  • 🎒 Dry bag — to keep phone, camera and valuables dry
Sonne Sun protection tip: UV levels in the Andaman Sea are extreme — especially on the water and white-sand beaches. Use SPF 50+ waterproof sunscreen, reapply every 90 minutes, and bring rash guards for children. Quality sunscreen is expensive in Thailand — bring it from home if you can.

🗺️ Typical Day Itinerary — Early Bird Speedboat Tour

Guests enjoying lunch and beach time on the Similan Islands day trip from Khao Lak
Swimming, snorkeling and relaxing at Honeymoon Bay — a perfect Similan Islands day © Go Travel Phuket
  • 05:00–06:00Hotel pickup — south Khao Lak beaches from 05:00; north beaches up to 06:00
  • ~06:15Arrival at Ban Nam Khem Pier. Light breakfast (coffee, tea, toast, fruit). Safety briefing & snorkel gear fitting.
  • ~06:30–07:00Departure from pier. Speedboat journey to the Similan Islands (~70 minutes).
  • ~08:00Visit to Similan Island No. 8 — Donald Duck Bay. Optional viewpoint hike (~20–30 min, moderate). Swimming & photos at the iconic granite boulders. You're among the first boats of the day — quiet, calm, spectacular.
  • Morning1 or 2 snorkel stops at coral gardens around Islands No. 5, 6 or 9. Guided snorkeling with German/English assistance.
  • ~12:00Lunch at Koh Miang (Island No. 4). Thai-style buffet.
  • AfternoonBeach time & swimming at Princess Bay or walk to the other side and enjoy paradise at Honeymoon Bay. One more snorkel stop on the way back .
  • ~15:00–15:30Departure from the islands back to Ban Nam Khem Pier.
  • ~17:00–18:00Return to pier. Hotel transfer. End of tour.
ℹ️ Actual itinerary may vary slightly depending on sea conditions, tides, and national park regulations on the day. Your guide will brief you fully at the pier.

🤿 Similan Islands vs. Surin Islands — Which Should You Choose?

One of the most common questions we receive: "Should we go to the Similan Islands or the Surin Islands?" Both are protected marine parks in the Andaman Sea, both open October to May, and both reachable from Khao Lak. Here's our honest comparison:

🏖️ Most Popular
Similan-Inseln
  • Thailand's most iconic snorkel destination
  • Dramatic granite boulders above & below water
  • Beautiful white sand beaches
  • Multiple islands visited in one day
  • Closer to Khao Lak (~60–80 min from pier)
  • Busy in peak season — early departure helps
  • Higher chance to see sea turtle during snorkeling
  • Best for first-timers, families, all-round experience
🌿 Pristine & Quiet
Surin-Inseln
  • Less visited — quieter, more unspoilt atmosphere
  • Arguably better coral reef condition
  • Higher chance of whale sharks, dolphins (March–April)
  • Moken (sea gypsy) village — unique cultural encounter
  • Further north — longer boat journey (~80-90 minutes
  • Best for repeat visitors, divers, nature lovers
Our verdict: For most visitors — especially first-timers, families and those with limited time — the Similan Islands are the right choice. The scenery is iconic, the variety of snorkel sites is excellent, and the overall day-trip experience is hard to beat. If you've done the Similans before, the Surins will blow you away. And if you have the time — do both.
View from the Similan Islands viewpoint hike on Island No.8 over the Andaman Sea
The viewpoint hike on Similan Island No. 8 rewards with one of the finest panoramas in Southeast Asia © Go Travel Phuket

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
You don't need to be an advanced swimmer, but basic swimming ability is important. Life jackets and flotation noodles are available on the boat. Non-swimmers can enjoy the islands from the beach and the boat — but snorkeling naturally requires comfort in the water. If you or your children are weak swimmers, let us know when booking. Our guides will give you extra attention.
Is the Similan Islands tour suitable for children?
Yes — with the right boat choice. We recommend the speedboat from age 5–6 und die catamaran from around age 2–3. The islands are magical for children: calm shallow bays, colourful fish, white-sand beaches. Pack reef-safe sunscreen and a hat. Contact us before booking and we'll advise on expected conditions for your specific dates.
Can I get seasick on this tour?
The Andaman Sea is generally calm from November to April. In October and May, waves can be higher. If you're prone to seasickness, choose the catamaran and take medication (e.g., Dimenhydrinate or ginger tablets) before departure — not after you already feel unwell. Our crew always has seasickness bags on board just in case.
Why do I need a copy of my passport?
The Thai National Parks Department requires valid ID to purchase park entry tickets for Mu Ko Similan National Park (this is with our tours always included!). This is a government requirement, not our policy. A copy or phone photo is sufficient
What if the weather is bad on my tour day?
Safety is always our first priority. In the rare event of severe weather or unsafe sea conditions, we contact you as early as possible and offer a reschedule or full refund. The Similan Islands season (mid-October to mid-May) generally brings stable, predictable weather — cancellations due to conditions are uncommon.
Should I book in advance or can I book when I arrive in Khao Lak?
Book in advance — especially December through March. Our tours fill up quickly, particularly in the peak weeks (Christmas, New Year, February half-term). We recommend booking as soon as you know your travel dates — even months ahead. WhatsApp us and we can hold your spot with minimal fuss.
Do you have German-speaking guides?
Yes. Both our Similan Islands speedboat and catamaran tours include German-speaking guides. Your guide will explain what you're seeing underwater, brief you on the itinerary in German, and answer questions throughout the day. English guidance is included as standard. This is one of the features our German-speaking guests appreciate most.
Do you offer free cancellation?
Yes. All Go Travel Phuket tours can be cancelled free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour start time. No hidden fees, no questions asked. We understand that holiday plans change.

Ready to Book Your Similan Islands Tour?

Don't wait until you arrive in Khao Lak. Spaces fill fast — especially in peak season. Contact us on WhatsApp for instant advice in German or English, or book directly via our tour pages.

© 2026 Go Travel Phuket · Similan Early Bird Speedboat · Similan Speedcatamaran · Surin-Inseln