Private Speedboat vs Group Tour – Which Is Better for Ang Thong Marine Park?

Ang Thong National Marine Park is one of Thailand’s most extraordinary natural destinations. This protected archipelago of 42 islands features towering limestone cliffs, emerald-green lagoons, dense tropical jungle, soft white-sand beaches, and some of the clearest waters in the Gulf of Thailand. A visit to Ang Thong is considered a highlight for travellers staying on Koh Phangan, Koh Samui, or Koh Tao.

When planning a trip, visitors typically choose between two main options:

• A private speedboat charter
• A shared group tour

Both offer access to the same beautiful marine park, but the experience can be significantly different depending on which option you select. Choosing the right tour depends on your travel style, budget, comfort preferences, and how you want to explore the islands.

Private Speedboat Tour: Key Benefits

Total Flexibility and Custom Schedule

A private speedboat gives you complete freedom over your day. You decide:

• What time you depart
• How long you stay at each spot
• Which islands to visit
• Whether to snorkel, hike, kayak, or relax
• When to stop for lunch
• When to return

This flexibility is ideal for travellers who want a personalised experience rather than following a pre-set schedule. It is especially appealing to families with children, couples wanting privacy, and groups celebrating a special occasion. Because you control the timing, you can also avoid peak hours at popular attractions like the Emerald Lake viewpoint and the main beaches.

More Comfort, Space, and Privacy

Private speedboats offer a premium travel experience, as you do not have to share the boat with strangers or adjust to a large group’s pace. This makes private tours perfect for:

• Families wanting quiet time
• Couples seeking romance and privacy
• Groups of friends travelling together
• Honeymooners
• Celebrations such as birthdays or engagements

You can spread out, relax, and enjoy the scenery without interruptions. The experience is peaceful, exclusive, and tailored to your comfort.

Faster Travel Times and More Time at the Park

Speedboats used for private charters typically travel faster than larger group boats or catamarans. This reduces travel time significantly, meaning:

• More time snorkeling
• More time kayaking
• More time visiting lagoons and beaches
• The ability to add extra island stops

Private boats also leave the pier quicker, as you don’t wait for dozens of people to board, sign in, or gather equipment. Every minute saved increases your time enjoying Ang Thong.

Access to Remote and Less Crowded Locations

Because they are small and fast, private boats can access areas that group tours cannot. These include:

• Secluded snorkeling bays
• Narrow sea caves
• Quiet beaches
• Coastal lagoons
• Shallow lagoons
• Rocky coves perfect for kayaking

This gives you a more intimate and adventurous experience, often visiting areas where only a few travellers ever go.

Ideal for Special Requests and Unique Experiences

Private speedboat tours can include additions such as:

• Drone photography stops
• Longer visits at specific beaches
• Private beach picnics
• Custom photography sessions
• Special surprises for celebrations
• Extended time at the Emerald Lake viewpoint
• Extra snorkeling at remote reefs
• Tailored kayaking routes

This level of customisation is not possible with group tours and makes private charters particularly appealing for travellers wanting something unique and memorable.

Group Tour: Key Benefits

Best Option for Budget-Conscious Travellers

Group tours offer the most affordable way to visit Ang Thong Marine Park, with prices typically ranging from:

• 2,500 to 4,000 THB per person depending on the operator and inclusions

This makes group tours ideal for:

• Solo travellers
• Backpackers
• Budget-conscious couples
• Travellers who don’t mind sharing space

Despite the lower price, group tours still include essential features such as:

• Snorkeling
• Lunch
• Guide
• National Park fees
• Beach stops
• Hiking opportunities

You get excellent value for money.

Lively, Social Experience

Group tours attract travellers from all over the world, making the day feel energetic, social, and fun. This option is well-suited to those who enjoy meeting new people and sharing travel stories.

It is common to make friends on board or during activities such as snorkeling or hiking. Many solo travellers prefer this option because it turns the experience into a social adventure.

Hassle-Free and Organised Itinerary

Group tours operate with a fixed, well-planned itinerary that ensures you see the major highlights of Ang Thong:

• Snorkeling reefs
• Emerald Lake viewpoint
• Main beaches
• Designated lunch stop
• Kayaking (if included)

Everything is scheduled in advance, and travellers do not need to make any decisions about timing or navigation. This makes group tours ideal for visitors who want a simple, organised day without needing to coordinate anything themselves.

Larger Boats Provide Stability

Many group tours use large speedboats or catamarans, which can feel more stable on the water. This can be a big advantage for those prone to seasickness or anyone nervous about ocean travel.

Larger boats may also have:

• Onboard seating
• Sun-shaded areas
• Toilets
• More room to move around
• 

This can be more comfortable for some travellers, especially during windy seasons.

What You See on Both Tours

Regardless of whether you choose a private speedboat charter or a group tour, you can expect to visit most of the major highlights within the Marine Park.

Emerald Lake (Talay Nai Lagoon)

A saltwater lagoon hidden inside a limestone island. After a short but steep hike, you reach a wooden viewpoint overlooking the emerald-coloured lake and the archipelago below. It is one of the most photographed views in Thailand.

Snorkeling Sites

Both private and group tours typically stop at coral reefs where you can spot:

• Colourful fish
• Coral gardens
• Sea fans
• Occasionally turtles or reef sharks

Private boats, however, can reach more isolated locations and adjust snorkeling times depending on water conditions.

Hikes and Viewpoints

The main viewpoint on Koh Wua Talap offers a panoramic view of all 42 islands. Private tours can spend more time at the top, while group tours stick to schedule.

Beaches and Relaxation

Expect to stop at pristine beaches with soft sand, clear shallow water, and beautiful surroundings. Private boats can visit smaller, quieter beaches, while group tours generally visit the main organised stops.

Which Should You Choose?

When a Private Speedboat Is the Better Choice

Choose a private speedboat if you:

• Prefer privacy and exclusivity
• Want full control of your schedule
• Are travelling with a group or family
• Want to avoid crowds
• Are celebrating a special occasion
• Enjoy photography or want drone-friendly locations
• Prefer comfort and speed
• Want to explore hidden beaches and caves

Private tours offer more flexibility, more adventure, and more personalised service.

When a Group Tour Is the Better Choice

Choose a group tour if you:

• Are travelling alone
• Prefer a lower-cost experience
• Enjoy meeting new people
• Want a structured, organised itinerary
• Do not mind sharing the boat with others
• Prefer larger, more stable boats

Group tours provide a fun, social atmosphere at a more affordable price.

Price Comparison

Private Speedboat

• Price: 22,000–30,000 THB per boat
• Best for: Families, groups, couples

Group Speedboat Tour

• Price: 2,600–3,500 THB per person
• Best for: Solo travellers, budget-conscious visitors

Catamaran Group Tour

• Price: 3,500–4,800 THB per person
• Best for: Travellers seeking comfort and a smoother ride

Final Thoughts

Both private speedboat charters and group tours offer exceptional ways to experience Ang Thong National Marine Park. The right choice depends on your travel preferences and what kind of day you want to enjoy.

A private tour gives you the freedom to explore the archipelago at your own pace, visit quiet beaches, stay longer at your favourite spots, and enjoy a highly personalised experience.



A group tour offers great value, a lively atmosphere, and a convenient, pre-planned itinerary that covers all the must-see locations.

For travellers staying on Koh Phangan, Asia Blue Tours provides both private speedboat charters and group tours to Ang Thong Marine Park, ensuring a safe, well-organised, and memorable day exploring Thailand’s most stunning island archipelago.