A Family Adventure Begins

As a family travel writer, I’m always on the lookout for experiences that promise both adventure and bonding time. When I heard about the Surin Islands Snorkeling Tour from Phuket, I knew it was a must-try for our family. The idea of exploring vibrant coral reefs and meeting the local Moken community sounded like the perfect blend of education and fun for my kids.

Our day started bright and early with a 6 AM pickup from our hotel in Patong. The two-hour van ride to Seastar’s dock was surprisingly pleasant, especially since we were among the first to be picked up, allowing us to snag the coveted window seats. My kids, ever the early risers, were buzzing with excitement, while my husband and I sipped on the industrial-strength coffee provided at the dock to kickstart our day.

Diving into the Underwater World

Once we boarded the boat, we settled at the rear, trading off the bounce of the waves for the hum of the engines. The journey to our first snorkeling spot was just over an hour, and the anticipation was palpable. My daughter was initially apprehensive about snorkeling, but as soon as she dipped her head underwater, the vibrant marine life captivated her. It was a joy to see her face light up with wonder.

We made sure to slather on reef-safe sunscreen, a tip I always emphasize in my guides. The sun’s rays can be relentless, especially when they reflect off the water. Our first snorkeling stop was a kaleidoscope of colors, with angelfish, starfish, and even a couple of moray eels making an appearance. My son, armed with a fish ID chart, was thrilled to identify the various species we encountered.

A Day of Discovery and Delight

After a morning of snorkeling, we headed to an island for a delicious lunch and some beach time. The kids were fascinated by the turtle hatchery, and we all enjoyed watching shoals of fish leap from the water. It was a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.

Our next stop was the Moken village, where we had the chance to learn about the sea gypsies’ unique way of life. The kids were intrigued by the local crafts, and we couldn’t resist picking up a few souvenirs. As the day drew to a close, we had one final snorkeling session, which left us all wishing for more time in this underwater paradise.

The journey back to Phuket was a mix of exhaustion and contentment. Despite the chaos of returning gear and finding our van, the day had been a resounding success. As we headed back to our hotel, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the memories we’d created and the stories we’d have to share.