Setting Sail to Surin Islands

After leaving my finance job in Seoul to backpack through Southeast Asia, I’ve been on a quest to find the most budget-friendly yet awe-inspiring experiences. The Surin Islands Adventure by SeaStar Andaman came highly recommended, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype. The day began with a convenient pickup from my accommodation in Khao Lak. The early morning air was crisp, and the anticipation of the day ahead was palpable. Upon arrival at Nam Khem Pier, I was greeted by the enthusiastic SeaStar Andaman crew and treated to a light breakfast. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as fellow travelers and I prepared for our journey to the Surin Islands.

The speedboat ride to the islands took about 90 minutes, and while the sea was a bit choppy, the boat was comfortable and well-equipped. I was grateful for the travel sickness pills provided, just in case. As we approached the islands, the vibrant turquoise waters and lush greenery were a sight to behold. It felt like we were entering a hidden paradise, far removed from the usual tourist trails.

Snorkeling in a Tropical Aquarium

Our first snorkeling stop was at Chong Khat Bay, a shallow area between the two main Surin Islands. The guides were knowledgeable and emphasized the importance of following the Green Fins guidelines to protect the coral reefs. Equipped with snorkels, masks, and flippers, we plunged into the crystal-clear waters. It was like swimming in a tropical aquarium, with schools of colorful fish darting around us and vibrant coral formations stretching as far as the eye could see.

We visited three snorkeling sites in total, each offering a unique underwater landscape. At Bon Bay, I was mesmerized by the variety of marine life, from playful clownfish to graceful sea turtles gliding by. The crew was attentive, ensuring everyone was comfortable and safe, with lifeguards stationed on the boat’s roof. Drinks were available throughout the day, keeping us refreshed and hydrated.

The highlight of the snorkeling experience was undoubtedly the abundance and diversity of marine life. It was a magical opportunity to witness the beauty of the ocean up close, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder and gratitude for the experience.

Discovering the Moken Sea Gypsies

After a morning of snorkeling, we made our way to Koh Surin Tai, the southern Surin Island, to visit the Moken village. Known as the “Sea Gypsies,” the Moken people have a rich nomadic sea culture, spending much of their lives on boats called “kabang.” It was fascinating to learn about their way of life, which revolves around fishing and gathering marine resources.

Lunch was served at the park ranger station, a delicious buffet that provided the perfect fuel for the afternoon’s activities. We had some time to relax on Mai Ngam Beach, where I took a leisurely stroll along the hiking trail, soaking in the serene surroundings.

Our final snorkeling stop was at Mae Yai Bay, where the waters were teeming with vibrant coral and fish. As the day came to a close, we headed back to the pier, enjoying a spread of sweets and coffee before returning to our accommodations in Khao Lak.

Reflecting on the day, I realized that the Surin Islands Adventure was more than just a snorkeling tour; it was an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature’s beauty. For anyone seeking a unique and budget-friendly adventure in Southeast Asia, this is an experience not to be missed. Surin Islands Snorkeling