Setting Sail to Angthong

After leaving my finance job in Seoul to backpack through Southeast Asia, I’ve been on the lookout for unique experiences that won’t break the bank. When I heard about the Angthong Marine Park Snorkeling Tour, I knew it was something I had to try. The promise of an exclusive snorkeling tour with a small group was too tempting to pass up.

The day began with a punctual hotel pickup in a comfortable minivan. I was immediately impressed by the professionalism of the 100 Degrees East team. After a quick briefing at their main office, we were fitted with snorkeling gear and introduced to our friendly guides. The short walk to the beach was filled with anticipation as we boarded a spacious and comfortable boat, complete with an onboard toilet and a massive ice chest stocked with drinks. The crew was attentive, ensuring everyone’s comfort, especially those prone to seasickness, like myself.

Exploring the Marine Park

As we cruised towards the Angthong National Marine Park, the excitement was palpable. The limestone cliffs and emerald waters were a sight to behold. Once we arrived, we were divided into small groups for snorkeling, each led by a guide. The guides were attentive, offering life jackets and towing tired swimmers with a life ring. It was a relief to know that even non-swimmers could enjoy the underwater beauty without worry.

After snorkeling, we headed to a beach for lunch. Although a light rain prevented us from lounging on the sand, the crew quickly adapted, offering an impromptu hike to a lookout point. The view was breathtaking, and the hike added an unexpected twist to the day. It’s these little surprises that make travel so rewarding.

Kayaking and the Emerald Lake

Post-lunch, we ventured to another beach for kayaking. The crew’s attention to detail was evident as they took action shots of us paddling along the coastline. It was a fun and exhilarating experience, made even better by the guides’ enthusiasm.

Our next stop was the famous Emerald Lake. The guides were once again fantastic, helping us navigate the steep steps to the viewpoint and pointing out the best photo spots. The panoramic view of the archipelago was worth every step.

The day concluded with a visit to the ranger’s island, where we relaxed and spotted native monkeys. The crew’s dedication to ensuring we had a memorable experience was evident as they gathered us to observe the wildlife. As we sailed back, being dropped off right at the beach outside our hotels was the perfect end to a perfect day.

The Angthong Marine Park Snorkeling Tour exceeded my expectations in every way. The thoughtful touches and the crew’s commitment to providing an exceptional experience set a new standard for tours. It’s a must-do for anyone visiting Thailand, and I can’t recommend it enough.