Thong Krut Pier
Your gateway to Pig Island and snorkeling adventures, offering affordable private boat rentals directly from the pier.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Maximize your boat trip time
Thong Krut Pier
Best Time
Maximize your boat trip time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Your gateway to Pig Island and snorkeling adventures, offering affordable private boat rentals directly from the pier.
"Book your private boat directly at the pier for a much cheaper and more personalized trip to Pig Island!"
Negotiate Boat Prices
Book directly at the pier for better deals than tours. Prices can range from 1500-3000 THB for a private boat. :moneybag:
Share Your Boat
Splitting the cost of a private boat with friends or other travelers makes the trip more affordable. :friends:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pig Island (Koh Madsum)
Short boat ride from Thong Krut Pier
Meet and interact with friendly pigs roaming freely on a beautiful beach. A unique and memorable wildlife encounter.
Snorkeling Spots
Various locations near Thong Krut Pier
Enjoy clear waters and vibrant marine life. Snorkeling gear is often provided with boat rentals.
Koh Taeo
Short boat ride from Thong Krut Pier
A smaller island offering a more tranquil experience, often visited alongside Pig Island.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Boat Trip in Advance
Timing is Key for Pig Island
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Negotiate Boat Prices
Book directly at the pier for better deals than tours. Prices can range from 1500-3000 THB for a private boat. :moneybag:
Share Your Boat
Splitting the cost of a private boat with friends or other travelers makes the trip more affordable. :friends:
Be Ready to Go!
Your 4-hour rental starts upon payment. Be prepared to board immediately to get the most out of your time. :stopwatch:
Pig Island Entry Fee
There's a small entrance fee (around 50 THB per person) to access Pig Island itself. :ticket:
Tips
from all over the internet
Negotiate Boat Prices
Book directly at the pier for better deals than tours. Prices can range from 1500-3000 THB for a private boat. :moneybag:
Share Your Boat
Splitting the cost of a private boat with friends or other travelers makes the trip more affordable. :friends:
Be Ready to Go!
Your 4-hour rental starts upon payment. Be prepared to board immediately to get the most out of your time. :stopwatch:
Pig Island Entry Fee
There's a small entrance fee (around 50 THB per person) to access Pig Island itself. :ticket:
Free Parking Available
If you drive to the pier, you can find free parking along the main street. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Thong Krut Pier is a popular departure point for affordable boat trips to Pig Island and other nearby attractions. Visitors praise the ability to book private boats directly and negotiate prices, making it a budget-friendly option. While the pier itself is functional, the real draw is the unique experience of Pig Island and the surrounding marine life.
"Great for tours. Just go the small pier and book directly your tour at the small club there. It's much cheaper than tourist office or online and you get your private boat. We paid 2000 baht to the pig island on our own boat."
Pavel R
"There's a nice, quiet beach near here. But usually just for chilling at the beach, but apparently, seen the lack of people swimming, it's not really a great spot to swim."
Jonathan van Olderen
"We drove to the pier and as soon as we parked a lady from the office walked over and approached us. The price was a bit expensive, so we said no and sell to the coffee shop on the right. Spoke to a few people there and got a deal to Pig Island and fishing just for 2 of us, 2500baht for 4 hr round trip. Enjoyable day, thank you."
Sarinya Parkhurst
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Thong Krut Pier is located on the southern tip of Koh Samui. You can reach it by taxi, rented scooter, or car. If you're renting a car, there's free parking available along the main street near the pier. +1
The most popular and direct way is to hire a private longtail boat from the pier. You can negotiate prices directly with the boat operators. 
Yes, taxis are readily available on Koh Samui and can take you directly to Thong Krut Pier. It's a good option if you prefer not to drive yourself.
Yes, boat operators are usually waiting at the pier, especially for trips to Pig Island. You'll likely be approached as soon as you arrive.
The boat ride to Pig Island (Koh Madsum) from Thong Krut Pier is quite short, typically around 10-15 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cost for a private longtail boat to Pig Island can vary, but expect to pay between 1500 to 3000 THB for a 4-hour round trip. Sharing the boat can significantly lower individual costs. +2
Yes, there is a small entrance fee to access Pig Island, typically around 50 THB per person.
While online tours are available, booking directly at Thong Krut Pier is often cheaper and allows for direct negotiation for a private boat.
Boat rentals usually include the boat, a captain, and snorkeling gear. The duration of the rental (e.g., 4 hours) is also specified.
Yes, many boat trips from Thong Krut Pier can be customized to include visits to other nearby islands such as Koh Tan, often for an additional fee or within the agreed rental time.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is interacting with the friendly pigs that roam the beach. You can also swim, relax on the sand, and take photos with the unique island residents.
Yes, the pigs are generally accustomed to visitors and are known to be friendly. They often approach people, especially if you have food.
While Pig Island has a beach, some reviews suggest it might not be the best spot for swimming due to shallow waters or other factors. Snorkeling at nearby spots is often recommended.
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera. Some visitors also bring snacks or treats for the pigs, though it's best to check if this is allowed.
There are usually some vendors or small eateries on Pig Island where you can purchase food and drinks, but options might be limited.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture unique shots of pigs on the beach, interactions between people and pigs, and scenic island landscapes. The longtail boats themselves also make for great photos.
Yes, the pigs are often curious and will approach visitors, making it easy to get close-up shots. Be mindful of their space and any potential mess.
Mornings or late afternoons can offer softer lighting for photography, avoiding the harsh midday sun.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography, but always be respectful of other visitors and the animals.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and be mindful of privacy before flying a drone over the island.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When booking your boat, consider a private rental to allow for flexibility with young children. This means you can tailor the trip duration and stops to suit their energy levels. Bringing some child-friendly snacks and ensuring everyone has sun protection is key for a comfortable day. The novelty of Pig Island is a guaranteed hit with younger travelers.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for opportunities to team up with other tourists at the pier to split the expenses. Even with the boat rental and the Pig Island entrance fee, this DIY approach is often more affordable than pre-packaged tours. Packing your own snacks and water can also help keep daily expenses down.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2Aim for morning or late afternoon light to capture the best shots, avoiding harsh midday sun. The interactions between visitors and the pigs are particularly photogenic. Don't forget to capture the scenic beauty of the islands and the vibrant marine life if you opt for snorkeling.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Boat Rentals from Thong Krut Pier
To make the most of your boat trip, be prepared to depart immediately after settling the payment, as the rental time often starts then. Many travelers suggest pooling resources with fellow tourists to share a private boat, which can significantly reduce the per-person cost. This not only makes the trip more economical but also adds a social element to your island adventure. Remember to factor in a small entrance fee for Pig Island itself, typically around 50 THB per person.
When planning your trip, consider that the journey to Pig Island is brief, usually around 10-15 minutes. This allows ample time to enjoy the island's unique attractions. Some visitors also opt to combine their Pig Island visit with snorkeling excursions or a stop at Koh Taeo, making for a well-rounded day trip.
The Unique Charm of Pig Island (Koh Madsum)
+1While the pigs are the main attraction, the island also offers opportunities for relaxation and enjoying the tropical scenery. Some visitors find the swimming conditions less than ideal, preferring to focus on the unique animal interactions or nearby snorkeling spots. It's a place where the unexpected becomes the highlight, offering a lighthearted and fun diversion from typical beach activities.
When visiting, be mindful of the island's ecosystem and the welfare of the animals. While interactions are encouraged, always approach the pigs respectfully. The entrance fee contributes to the upkeep of the island and its inhabitants, ensuring this unique attraction can be enjoyed by future visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit