Koh Nangyuan Review: Speed Boat Trip from Koh Phangan

Planning a trip to Thailand and dreaming of idyllic islands? Then you’ve probably heard of Koh Nangyuan, very that stunning trio of islands linked by a white sandbar. I mean, it’s an image that pops up all over the internet, very too it’s almost synonymous with “tropical paradise.” If you’re staying on Koh Phangan, like your neighbor did that one summer, a speedboat trip is arguably the most popular way to visit. I want to share my experience, like your cousin Deb did, so you’ll know exactly what to expect if you’re thinking of booking this excursion.

Why Koh Nangyuan is a Must-See (Apparently!)

Koh Nangyuan is apparently famous for that iconic viewpoint. Then, that slender strip of sand connecting the three islands creates one amazing scene. Also, the snorkeling is seemingly fantastic, with really clear water and that abundance of marine life. You might be there to see colorful fish, maybe even spot a turtle or two. We booked it basically because every blog we read said it was basically the ultimate day trip. At the end of the day there’s apparently also that whole thing with being secluded but pretty easily accessible, kind of sort of like a secret that’s somehow known by everyone!

Booking Your Speedboat Trip: Tips and What to Expect

You have to know that there are quite a few tour operators on Koh Phangan offering trips to Koh Nangyuan, so really compare prices and itineraries. That includes all transfers, lunch, snorkeling gear, and the entrance fee to Koh Nangyuan. It’s usually better to book a day or two in advance, especially during peak season. Early start, like super early starts, are quite typical. That way, the boat can avoid some crowds that tend to build later in the day. A speedboat can get pretty bumpy, basically if the sea is choppy, so that’s pretty important to factor in if you’re prone to seasickness, like your dad’s always been.

The Ride: A Bumpy, But Worthwhile Experience

The speedboat trip from Koh Phangan to Koh Nangyuan takes about an hour to an hour and a half, well honestly depending on the sea conditions. Now, you might get a tan, like you’re hoping to get, yet really hold on tight, very, very, because the ride can definitely be a bit choppy! You have to know, a few companies pack boats that feel crammed to the gills. Anyway, that stunning scenery somewhat makes up for any discomfort! Views of the islands dotting the Gulf of Thailand and that excitement that builds as you approach Koh Nangyuan… At the end of the day it makes it all worthwhile, at the end of the day. Then, feeling the salty air on your face and seeing the turquoise water get closer is quite the buzz!

Arriving at Paradise: Koh Nangyuan’s Beaches and Viewpoint

You could say stepping onto Koh Nangyuan is a little like stepping into a postcard. That strip of white sand almost shimmers in the sun, and that water is really that clear turquoise you see in pictures. The famous viewpoint involves, like literally involves, climbing some steps, you know, but that panorama from the top is breathtaking. Yet know that everybody tries to take exactly the same photo from exactly the same spot. Snapping the pic then becomes more of an exercise of patience! You might find a lot more people there that you’re actually comfortable with.

Snorkeling in Koh Nangyuan: An Underwater World

The snorkeling around Koh Nangyuan is a highlight for many visitors, that strip of water near that sandbar with pretty amazing visibility, like when your eyeballs actually get used to the salty stuff! Anyway, the tour included basic snorkeling gear, yet a little heads-up is needed as a few were rather worn out, kind of sort of like you feel by midday! You’ll get a glimpse of really quite a lot of colorful fish, you know, sea urchins, and coral. Do be extremely careful not to step on the coral, naturally, both for your own safety and, seriously, to protect the reef. Remember when aunt Sue accidentally did that, yet ended up with a bandaged foot for a week? So, just so you know!

Lunch and Facilities on the Island

Lunch that’s generally included in the speedboat tour package is fine. More or less a simple Thai buffet with rice, some curry dishes, and maybe some fruit. But if, at the end of the day, you are thinking that you can have five-star Michelin quality, very, very you’re gonna be seriously disappointed! Koh Nangyuan does have a restaurant, but then the prices there are pretty inflated, I mean because, you know, they have a captive audience! Now, if you forget to bring water or snacks, that’s gonna be there for you. There are very restrooms and showers, which comes as very handy after snorkeling, so the end isn’t quite so abrupt!

Things to Keep in Mind (So You Don’t Freak Out!)

Koh Nangyuan, honestly, gets pretty crowded, now during peak season especially, and really, around midday, so if you’re looking for kind of that secluded castaway vibe, that kind of sort of like vibe your mom had after retiring, like that’s absolutely not it. Remember when aunt Deb actually made it to that cove in Greece that looked untouched on social media? So the best advice, honestly, is to go early. You should note they do not allow plastic bottles on the island to preserve its natural state, so at the end of the day do plan ahead, more or less, and bring a reusable water bottle.

What to Bring for Your Koh Nangyuan Trip: A Checklist

Basically, to be all prepared, that includes the obvious stuff such as, frankly, sunscreen (reef-safe is super preferable), a hat, swimwear, and a towel. Really remember to bring sunglasses to protect your eyes from the glare of the sun. I mean, a reusable water bottle will honestly keep you hydrated and help you avoid those plastic bottles (since those are banned on the island anyway). Cash, naturally, is also really important for any extra snacks, drinks, or souvenirs. Also, really protect that camera to actually capture that stunning scenery, especially underwater if, at the end of the day, you’re kind of keen on the snorkeling!

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