Crystal water makes the trip feel worth it. This private boat day to Koh Ha and the Koh Rok islands is all about top-notch snorkeling, soft sandy beaches, and calmer vibes than the more famous Similan route. What I like most is the way this trip strings together two serious snorkeling areas in one go, and then actually gives you beach time where you can slow down. Only watch out for the extra travel time out of Phuket compared to shorter day trips.

I also like the start. At the 5 Star Marine office, you check in, get a complete briefing, and they bring out drinks while you wait. In the real world, that matters: you’re not rushed, and you’re set up with the right plan before you hit the water.

This is a true private outing for your group (up to 15), with snorkeling gear and onboard basics included, like snacks, soda/pop, bottled water, and a restroom on the boat. One more thing to factor in is that the national park fee is not included, so budget for it so there are no surprises when you pay on the day.

Key highlights that make Koh Rok and Koh Ha special

• Koh Haa snorkeling time built in, with lots of water time rather than quick stop-and-go
• Picnic lunch on the beach at Koh Rok Noi, set up for you so you can actually relax
• More than one clear-water snorkeling location off Koh Rok Noi and Koh Rok Yai
• Ko Rang Yai beach break for fruit and light refreshments after the main snorkeling
• Private group only (up to 15), so your pace and photos don’t feel like a scheduled line

A Private Speedboat Day to Koh Haa and Koh Rok (Mu Ko Lanta National Park)

If you’re craving something more “out there” than the typical big-name islands, this route is a strong pick. The Koh Rok and Koh Ha area sits just south of Koh Lanta inside Mu Ko Lanta National Park. That park setting is a big part of the appeal: you get a protected feel, and the snorkeling is known for clear water and colorful marine life.

Seasonally, you can also have a chance to see whale sharks between these islands. That’s not something you should bet your whole day on, but it’s enough of a reason to choose this over a generic island hopping day—especially if you enjoy spotting wildlife from the water.

This is also a way to avoid some of the crowds you might expect on the flashier Similan-style itineraries. Not every day will feel empty, but the structure here is clearly aiming for a more relaxed rhythm: snorkel, then beach, then snorkel again.

Getting There: Pickup, 5 Star Marine Check-In, and a Real Briefing

One of the most practical parts of this experience is the way it starts. Pickup is offered, and once you’re at the 5 Star Marine offices, you check in and receive a complete tour briefing. While you’re getting oriented, there are coffee, tea, and cool drinks.

They also help you get ready for the day by letting you store luggage you won’t need. That sounds small, but it means less scrambling before you board and more time focusing on what you came for.

From the reviews, the handoff is consistently friendly and well-organized. People note that drivers sometimes arrive ahead of the scheduled time, and that the team tends to treat you with care right from check-in. Names that came up include Shaun with help during planning, Alex as captain and guide, Mai as guide, and Captain Ron mentioned by name on other private trips with the company.

Koh Haa Island Snorkeling: More Water Time, Better Chances to Enjoy It

Koh Haa is the first major snorkeling stop, and this is where the day earns its reputation. After you board the VIP speedboat, you transfer to Koh Haa—about 90 minutes—then you get around 2.5 hours at the island.

This is a big deal for two reasons. First, longer time in the water usually means you spend less time rushing. Second, the snorkeling here is set up around you enjoying a mix of marine life and coral, not just floating past it.

If you like snorkeling that feels alive—fish around you, corals nearby, and clear visibility—this portion is the heart of the itinerary. I’d treat this stop as the one you mentally prepare for: charge your phone for a few pics tops, re-check your fit with the snorkel gear, and take a few minutes to settle before you swim far.

Also, because Koh Haa is positioned as one of the best snorkeling stops within VIP speedboat range, it tends to attract the right kind of day-trip attention. Translation: you’re going to spend real time on the water instead of getting a token taste.

Koh Rok Noi Picnic Beach Lunch: Soft Sand and a Pause from the Boat

After Koh Haa, the day moves to Koh Rok Noi. You transfer by VIP private speedboat for about 30 minutes.

Then comes one of the best breaks: lunch on the beach. The crew helps set up a picnic lunch on the soft, white sandy shore. Even if you’re not a “beach lunch” person, this matters because it turns the schedule from constant water time into a balanced day.

You get a chance to dry off, cool down, and reset. You also avoid the common travel-day frustration where lunch feels like a snack you eat while standing up or packing things away. Here, you’re set up for a slower pace.

One practical tip: plan to use that beach break to hydrate too. Even if snorkeling is “only” a few hours total, you’re in the sun and on salt air, so it adds up fast.

Koh Rok Noi and Koh Rok Yai: Clear-Water Snorkeling Off the Beach

Once lunch is done, the crew takes you to one or two clear-water snorkeling spots just off the beach of Koh Rok Noi and Koh Rok Yai. This portion runs about 1.5 hours.

This section is different from the Koh Haa time in feel. Koh Haa is the larger transfer-and-settle snorkeling anchor. Koh Rok Noi and Koh Rok Yai is more about continuing the experience right where the scenery is the point too: you’re snorkeling close to shore, with easy access back onto sand.

You can expect a wide array of marine life and colorful coral. The goal here is not just swimming; it’s enjoying the underwater scenery at a comfortable pace. If you get tired, you can float back toward the shore area and take a breather without turning it into a full “return to the boat” moment.

If you’re the type who wants photos, this is also a good window—because being near shore usually makes it easier to manage your breathing and keep your timing.

Ko Rang Yai Beach Break: Fruit, Light Refreshments, and a Final Relax

After Koh Rok snorkeling, you head to Ko Rang Yai. You transfer back by VIP speedboat, and then you get about 1.5 hours to sit on the beach and relax.

This is where the day finishes more human-scale: you’re not only fighting waves and gear logistics. You can take your time, soak up the beach feel, and enjoy fresh fruit and light refreshments.

If you’re planning your day around snorkeling, this last beach break still matters. It’s the moment where you can actually enjoy the view without thinking about the next gear change or the next swim window.

In other words: snorkeling days often rush you. This one tries to give you a landing.

Snorkeling Gear and Onboard Comfort: What You Don’t Have to Worry About

The included setup is straightforward and useful. You get snorkeling equipment, plus snacks, restroom access onboard, soda/pop, and bottled water.

There’s also a practical comfort factor: the tour is structured around a private transportation setup, so you’re not squeezed into tight timing with strangers. That matters if your group prefers a calmer pace or needs a minute to regroup.

One small “day-trip sanity check” to do before you go: even though equipment is provided, confirm your snorkel fit in the first moments you’re on the boat. A good seal and comfortable mask reduce fogging and help you enjoy the water rather than constantly readjusting.

Price and Value: What $1,637.49 Covers for a Private Group

The price is $1,637.49 per group, up to 15 people. For a private boat day with multiple island stops, snorkeling equipment, and onboard food and drinks, that can actually pencil out well—especially if you’re traveling with friends or family who want the privacy more than the cheapest ticket.

A key part of value is the mix of inclusions. You’re not only paying for a boat ride. You’re paying for:

• snorkeling gear
• snacks and drinks onboard
• bottled water and soda/pop
• restroom access
• planned beach time plus snorkeling time at two distinct island areas

Then there’s the park fee reality. The national park fee is not included: 500 THB per adult and 250 THB per child. That means your all-in cost will depend on your group makeup, but it also means you should expect a straightforward day rather than a complicated add-on schedule.

One more practical detail: this tour is often booked about 11 days in advance on average. That’s a good sign. If you wait too long, you might lose the date flexibility you want.

Timing and Weather: The Part Nobody Can Control

This experience runs about 6 to 8 hours and operates between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM. The company also notes that it requires good weather.

That’s not a scare tactic—it’s just reality for island water days in Thailand. If conditions aren’t right, you should expect your plan to shift. In these situations, the offer is typically another date or a full refund, so keep your calendar flexible if possible.

If you hate uncertainty, pick a trip day where you don’t have tight downstream plans. Build in some cushion so weather doesn’t derail your whole itinerary.

Who Should Book This Tour (and Who Might Be Happier Elsewhere)

This tour is a great fit if:

• you want private transportation and your group has its own rhythm
• you care about snorkeling quality and time in the water
• you want beach time built in, not just a quick landing
• you’re choosing a less crowded-feeling alternative to the most famous island routes

It may not be the best match if:

• you want the shortest possible day trip from Phuket (this route takes longer travel time than many others)
• you’re trying to keep total costs extremely low once the national park fee is added

If your group includes snorkel beginners, you might find this works well because the day includes gear provided and clear structure. For strong swimmers, it also helps that you have multiple snorkeling windows rather than one short stop.

Should You Book Koh Rok and Koh Ha Private Boat Tour?

I’d book it if you want a private, snorkeling-forward day that still gives you time to relax on sand. The combination of Koh Haa snorkeling, a picnic lunch setup at Koh Rok Noi, and then additional snorkeling near Koh Rok Yai makes this feel like more than a checklist trip.

I’d hesitate only if you’re chasing the shortest day trip from Phuket or if your group hates the idea of a separate national park fee. Otherwise, this is the kind of tour where you’ll feel the value in the structure: the schedule doesn’t just move you around—it gives you time to enjoy what you paid for.

FAQ

Is lunch included on the Koh Rok and Koh Ha tour?

Lunch is not included. The itinerary includes a picnic lunch setup on Koh Rok Noi, but the listing notes lunch as not included, so plan to cover your lunch as needed.

Are snorkeling equipment and onboard drinks included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included, along with snacks, soda/pop, and bottled water. There is also a restroom onboard.

Do I have to pay a national park fee?

Yes. The national park fee is 500 THB per adult and 250 THB per child, and it is not included.

How long is the tour, and what time does it run?

The duration is approximately 6 to 8 hours. The tour operates between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM.

Does the tour offer pickup from where you are staying?

Pickup is offered.

Is this a private tour for just your group?

Yes. It is private, and only your group participates. The group size can be up to 15.