Hiring a private boat in Koh Samui gives you complete freedom to explore the islands at your own pace. No fixed schedules, no rushing, no strangers on board — just you, your group, and the Andaman Sea. Here's everything you need to know about private boat charters in Koh Samui, from pricing to boat types to the best itineraries.
Types of Private Boats Available
At Samui Authentic, we operate two types of boats for private charters. Each has distinct advantages depending on your destination, group size, and budget.
Longtail Boats
Traditional Thai longtail boats are wooden vessels with a distinctive long propeller shaft extending from the stern. They're iconic to Thailand and offer an authentic, local experience.
Best for: Nearby islands like Koh Tan, Koh Madsum (Pig Island), Koh Rap, and coastal beaches within 30 minutes of Koh Samui.
- Capacity: Up to 10 passengers comfortably
- Speed: 15-20 km/h (moderate)
- Shade: Canvas canopy provides partial shade
- Comfort: Cushioned bench seating, more open to elements
- Character: Authentic Thai boat experience
We have 6 longtail boats in our fleet, all maintained to strict safety standards.
Speedboats
Modern speedboats are faster, more stable, and designed for longer trips. They're fiberglass vessels with powerful outboard engines.
Best for: Ang Thong Marine Park, Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, or any destination requiring speed and comfort.
- Capacity: 10-pax or 20-pax models
- Speed: 40-60 km/h (fast)
- Shade: Full canopy roof, sun deck area
- Comfort: Cushioned seating, ladder for easy water access, storage compartments
- Range: Can reach distant islands quickly
We operate 2 speedboats: a 10-passenger model and a 20-passenger model for larger groups.
Private Boat Charter Pricing
Private boat pricing depends on boat type, duration, and destination. Here are realistic price ranges:
| Boat Type | Half-Day (4-5h) | Full Day (7-8h) | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Longtail Boat | 3,500 - 6,000 ฿ | 6,000 - 10,000 ฿ | Up to 10 pax |
| Speedboat (Small) | 12,000 - 18,000 ฿ | 18,000 - 28,000 ฿ | Up to 10 pax |
| Speedboat (Large) | 18,000 - 25,000 ฿ | 25,000 - 38,000 ฿ | Up to 20 pax |
Per-person cost example: A full-day private speedboat at 25,000 THB for 8 people = 3,125 THB per person. That's comparable to shared tour pricing, but with total flexibility.
What's Included in the Charter Price
- Exclusive use of the boat and crew
- Experienced captain
- Fuel for the agreed itinerary
- Snorkeling equipment (masks, snorkels, fins)
- Life jackets (all sizes, including children)
- Drinking water and ice
- Travel insurance
What's NOT Included
- Hotel transfers (add 500-1,000 THB depending on hotel location)
- Lunch (can be arranged at beachside restaurants, typically 200-400 THB/person)
- National park entry fees (300 THB/adult for Ang Thong)
- Kayak rental (if requested, 500 THB per kayak)
- Fishing equipment (available on request, 1,000 THB)
Get a Custom Quote
Tell us your group size, preferred destinations, and dates. We'll send you an exact price within 2 hours.
Message Us on WhatsAppPopular Private Charter Itineraries
Here are our most requested private boat itineraries. You can customize any of these or create your own.
1. Koh Tan + Koh Madsum + Koh Rap (Full Day Longtail)
Duration: 7-8 hours | Boat: Longtail | Price: 8,000-10,000 THB
Visit three nearby islands in one day. Snorkel at Koh Tan's coral reef, meet the pigs on Koh Madsum, BBQ lunch on the uninhabited beach at Koh Rap. Perfect for families.
2. Ang Thong Marine Park (Full Day Speedboat)
Duration: 7.5 hours | Boat: Speedboat | Price: 25,000-30,000 THB
The classic Ang Thong tour but on your own schedule. Hike to the viewpoint, kayak in the Emerald Lagoon, snorkel at Wua Talap Island. Depart anytime you want.
3. Koh Tao Private Day Trip (Full Day Speedboat)
Duration: 8-9 hours | Boat: Speedboat | Price: 35,000-38,000 THB
Reach Koh Tao in under 2 hours. World-class snorkeling and diving. Visit Shark Bay, Mango Bay, and Japanese Gardens. Lunch at a beachfront restaurant.
4. Sunset Cruise with Snorkeling (Half-Day Speedboat)
Duration: 4 hours (15:00-19:00) | Boat: Speedboat | Price: 18,000-22,000 THB
Afternoon snorkeling at Koh Rap or Koh Tan, followed by sunset viewing from the water. Bring your own drinks and snacks, or we can arrange catering.
5. Island Hopping Combo (Full Day Speedboat)
Duration: 7-8 hours | Boat: Speedboat | Price: 28,000-32,000 THB
Custom route visiting 4-5 islands. Popular combo: Koh Tan (snorkeling) → Koh Madsum (pigs) → Koh Rap (BBQ) → Five Islands viewpoint.
How to Book a Private Boat
- Contact us via WhatsApp at +66 988 131 579 with your preferred dates, group size, and destination ideas.
- We design a custom itinerary and send you a detailed quote including boat type, timing, and total price.
- Confirm the booking with a 30% deposit (bank transfer or credit card).
- Final payment on the day of the trip (cash or card accepted).
Advance booking required: We recommend booking at least 3-5 days in advance, especially during peak season (December-March). Last-minute bookings may be possible depending on availability.
Tips for Your Private Charter
- Communicate your priorities — tell us if you prefer more snorkeling, beach relaxation, or island exploration.
- Be realistic about timing — full-day charters typically leave at 09:00 and return by 16:00-17:00. Half-day charters are 4-5 hours.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen — regular sunscreen damages coral. Available at dive shops if you forget.
- Pack light — boats have limited storage. Bring a waterproof bag for valuables.
- Ask about lunch options — we can arrange beachside restaurant stops or prepare a BBQ on a private beach.
- Check weather forecasts — we monitor conditions closely and will advise if a trip should be rescheduled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Private longtail boats cost 3,500-10,000 THB depending on duration. Private speedboats range from 12,000-38,000 THB per day depending on boat size and itinerary. The per-person cost decreases significantly with larger groups.
Speedboats are faster, more comfortable, and can reach distant islands like Ang Thong or Koh Tao quickly. Longtail boats are traditional wooden Thai boats — slower but more affordable, and perfect for nearby islands like Koh Tan, Koh Madsum, or Koh Rap.
Yes, that's the main advantage of a private charter. You choose the departure time, which islands to visit, how long to stay at each stop, and can combine multiple destinations. Contact us via WhatsApp and we'll help you design the perfect route.
Our longtail boats carry up to 10 passengers. Small speedboats carry up to 10 passengers comfortably. Large speedboats accommodate up to 20 passengers. All capacities comply with Thai maritime safety regulations.
Lunch is not included in the base charter price, but we can arrange it. Options include stops at beachside restaurants (200-400 THB/person) or a private beach BBQ (500-800 THB/person depending on menu).
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