Thailand with Pilot Pete

Dates

Jan 29 – Feb 6, 2024

Group Size

8–20 Travelers

Duration

9 days, 8 nights

Activity Level

Exploration

About This Trip

Southern Thailand is full of hidden gems and this 9-day adventure will uncover many of them. We are going to explore the beauty of Thailand, from the sun-kissed, white sand beaches to the colorful and abundant marine life in the crystal-clear turquoise waters. We will be visiting during the best time of year weather wise. One of the nights we will be staying in our own personal floating bungalows offering an experience we’ll never forget. We’ll be swimming, snorkeling and boating throughout the entire trip as well as enjoying delicious Thai cuisine every day. I’ll be coordinating special gatherings outside of our planned itinerary throughout the trip as well! This is going to be epic!
$2,215USD
$2,415USD
Jan 29 – Feb 6, 2024
9 days
Trip Closed

Meet Your Host

Pilot Pete
Pilot Pete

You all know I love to travel! I’ve decided to share my passion with whoever wants to join and aim to touch all the corners of this beautiful world! My goal is to curate trips that feed the soul and inspire a lifetime of wonder. I always go big in everything I do so buckle up, adventure calls!

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Trip Activities

  • Snorkeling in Surin National Park Day 1

  • Kra Ting Bay Sunset

  • Snorkeling in Surin National Park Day 2

  • Boat Journey to Khao Sok

  • Khao Sok National Park Hike

  • Cheow Lan Lake Kayak

  • Coral Cave Boat Tour and Jungle Hike

Optional Activities*

  • Thai Cooking Class

  • Phang Nga Island Tour by Long-tail Boat

*Add-ons available at checkout for an additional fee.

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in 3-star hotel, tent camping, and lodges (limited single rooms available at hotel only)

  • Local Guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

  • Arrival airport transfer (until 5 pm on first day)

  • One transfer to Phuket International Airport (HKT) on the last day. Domestic flight - must be after 10am | International flight - must be after 11am

Not Included

  • International flights

  • Food and Alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas and travel insurance

  • Airport transfers outside of designated times

  • Tips for Guides

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

Welcome to Thailand! Settle in and get ready for an incredible week.

Airport Transfer

1 Hour 30 Mins

TrovaTrip will provide 3 transfers from Phuket International Airport (HKT), between 9:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M.

dinner

7:00 P.M.: Enjoy an included welcome dinner with your group at the Palm Galleria Hotel.

Palm Galleria Resort (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight in Khao Lak.

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Day 2

Info

Your water adventure begins when you set sail for the beautiful Surin National Park. This protected archipelago consists of five islands surrounded by the clear jade and turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea.

breakfast

6:30 A.M.: Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Boat Transfer to Surin Islands

1 Hour

7:30 A.M.: Get picked up from your hotel lobby and depart to Baan Nam Khem Pier for your private boat to Surin National Park. (~30 min). At 9:00 A.M., board your private boat for a 1.5 hour trip to the beautiful archipelago of Surin National Park, known for its colorful coral reefs and white sand beaches. This area is one of the most popular diving, snorkeling and marine viewing sites in the world. (~2 hours)

Snorkeling in Surin National Park Day 1

3 Hours

10:20 A.M.: Arrive at Surin Island. Surin National Park is one of Thailand’s most popular island locations, with its shallow protected reefs and exotic and colorful marine life, including 4 species of sea turtles. Spend your day snorkeling in crystal-clear water with perfect visibility (with baggage), and at 11:50 A.M. return to the accommodation in Surin Island approx. 10 mins boat transfer. (~1.5 hours)

lunch

12:00 P.M.: Included lunch at the National Park's canteen.

Kra Ting Bay Sunset

1 Hour

4:30 P.M.: Travel from Surin by small boat around 10 mins distance. Visit the perfect spot to gaze at island and rock formation views in the distance on Mai Ngam beach (free time) or meet up for a jungle walk to Kra Ting Bay. Transfer back to Surin is within 30 mins. (~2 hours)

dinner

7:00 P.M.: Included dinner at the National Park's canteen.

Surin National Park (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight in Surin National Park.

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Day 3

Info

Good morning. Another perfect day on the beautiful beaches of Surin National Park, where you’ll be taking to the turquoise waters to snorkel at some of the best sites in the world, Pakkhad Bay, Hin Kong Bay and Ko Stork.

breakfast

8:00 A.M.: Breakfast at camp is included.

Snorkeling in Surin National Park Day 2

3 Hours

9:30 A.M.: Today you will snorkel at Pakkhad Bay, Hin Kong Bay and Ko Stork, with their pristine coves of crystal-clear water and pure white sand and 1:30 P.M. go to snorkeling at Hin Kong and Ko Stork by long tail boat is approx 20 minutes distance. (~3.5 hours)

lunch

12:00 PM. : Included lunch at the National Park's canteen.

dinner

7:00 P.M.: Included dinner at the National Park's canteen.

Surin National Park (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight in Surin National Park.

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Day 4

Info

Rise and shine to the cool ocean breeze and the soft sand between your toes. Head down to the ocean for a morning snorkel and in the afternoon, a short boat ride will take you to Khao Sok for the evening.

breakfast

8:00 A.M.: Breakfast at camp is included.

lunch

12:00 P.M.: Included lunch at the National Park's canteen.

Boat Journey to Khao Sok

1 Hour 30 Mins

3:30 P.M.: Transfer to Surin National Park to Khao Sok by boat (~1 hour) followed by a vehicle transfer (~2 hours)

Art's Riverview Lodge (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight in Khao Sok.

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Day 5

Info

Khao Sok National Park is the world’s oldest evergreen rainforest, estimated to be 160 million years old, and home to some of the most unique plant species.

breakfast

8:00 A.M.: Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Khao Sok National Park Hike

3 Hours

8:30 A.M.: Your local guide is an expert of this jungle and will help you spot wildlife like gibbons, macaque monkeys, exotic birds, and maybe even wild boar or wild elephants on this half day hike of Khao Sok National Park. This prehistoric forest has towering trees with leaves the size of dinner tables and medicinal plants and herbs that your guide will teach you about. This trail is a combination of paved nature and jungle trails, where some parts can be muddy when it rains, a mix of mostly wide and some narrow sections. Duration: 4 hours / Distance: 3.75 miles / Difficulty: Moderate

Thai Cooking Class (optional)

2 Hours

3:45 P.M.: Learn how to cook authentic Thai dishes using fresh local ingredients in this Bamboo Jungle Cooking Class. Farm cooking class, menu can be vegetables from farm, deep fried banana flowers, green curry, stir fried holy basil or stir-fried loofa with eggs, cook steam rice in bamboo. The clients will have active participation, cook by themselves. , transfer from Art's Riverview Lodge is 20 minutes. (~3 hours)

Art's Riverview Lodge (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight in Khao Sok.

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Day 6

Info

After breakfast, you’ll travel to the beautiful man-made Cheow Larn Lake, or Rajjaprabha Dam, where you’ll board a long-tail boat for a tour of the lake. From Art’s to Lake Pier with minivan 1.5 hour, from Lake Pier to The Laguna Chiewlarn by longtail boat is 1 hour.

breakfast

6:30 A.M.: Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Cheow Lan Lake Kayak

4 Hours

11:30 A.M.: Before noon, you will check in to your floating bungalow where you’ll have free time to swim or grab a paddle and kayak around the lagoon. (1 hour)

lunch

12:30 P.M.: Enjoy an included lunch at Sai Chon Raft House.

Coral Cave Boat Tour and Jungle Hike

1 Hour

2:30 P.M.: You’ll board a long-tail boat for a tour of the lake, with its towering limestone cliffs and panoramic views. After a short hike through the jungle, a bamboo raft will take you across the lake to a set of wooden steps leading up to the Coral Cave for a short tour. The Coral Cave with its ancient stalagmites and stalactites, that look like delicately carved statues, is more than 10,000 years old. (~3.5 hours) Jungle Hike Duration: 45 minutes / Distance: 1.25 miles / Difficulty: Moderate Transfer: From Saichon to trekking area by longtail boat 20 mins. Trekking 45 mins, 10 mins Bamboo raft to Coral cave, visit coral cave 30 mins, then the return route is vice versa. If the time and weather allowed, the group might be going to evening safari. *case by case basis*

dinner

7:00 P.M.: Enjoy an included dinner at Sai Chon Raft House.

The Laguna Chiewlarn Raft House (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight in Cheow Lan Lake.

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Day 7

Info

10:00 A.M.: Depart the Laguna Chiewlarn Raft House and transfer to Nopparat Tara Pier in Aonang (~2.5 hours driving). Enjoy a boxed lunch during your journey. Upon arrival, take a speedboat transfer from Nopparat Tara Pier to Koh Yao Noi. Koh Yao Noi is part of the Ao Phang-Nga National Park, in the Strait of Malacca. Phang Nga Bay is surrounded by mangrove-covered islands and magnificent limestone karsts, jutting out of the bay. You will arrive to Koh Yao Noi at approximately 2:30 P.M. (~5 hours)

breakfast

8:00 A.M.: Breakfast at the hotel is included.

The Simple Koh Yao Noi (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight in Koh Yao Noi.

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Day 8

Info

Today is a leisure day to swim, soak up the sun and enjoy the island vibes.

breakfast

7:00 A.M.: Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Phang Nga Island Tour by Long-tail Boat (optional)

2 Hours

9:00 A.M.: Optional tour of Phang Nga Island by long-tail boat. (~4.5 hours)

dinner

7:00 P.M.: Enjoy an included farewell dinner at the Sawasdee Koh Yao Restaurant.

The Simple Koh Yao Noi (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight in Koh Yao Noi.

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Day 9

Info

All good things must come to an end! You'll transfer to the airport and bid farewell for now.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Airport Transfer

1 Hour

On Feb 6, you will fly out of the Phuket International Airport (HKT). There will be one provided transfer from the hotel to the airport at 5:45 A.M. You will depart the hotel at 5:45 A.M. and transfer to the Leam Sai Pier. Upon arrival, you will board a 6:15 A.M. boat transfer to the Bangrong Pier in Phuket (~45 minutes). Upon arrival to the Bangrong Pier, you will then take a 1 hour transfer to the Phuket International Airport (HKT). You will arrive to the Phuket International Airport (HKT) at approximately 8:00 A.M. This means that travelers whose flights depart in the morning will be affected as they will need to be in the airport at least 2 hours before their flights (if domestic flights) or 3 hours before (if international flights). Domestic flights: Travelers must book flights after 10:00 AM | International flights: Travelers must book flights after 11:00 AM

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Physical Activity Level:Exploration

These trips require some movement, but slow and steady is the name of the game. Maybe a mid-length walking tour or at-your-pace sightseeing. No rush.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

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Reserve your spot with just 25% down, pay in full, or apply for a payment plan at booking. Your dream trip, your way.

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FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.