|
 There
are two distinct seasons at Laem Set Inn. From March to
November we can get the boats out most of the time. The fast
small boat above is used for skiing or for private trips for
just two guests, (and maybe a small child or two), to
snorkel on the outer reef, 2 Km offshore, or to visit nearby
islands. An entertaining and inexpensive way to get out on
the water. (Waterskiing is sometimes possible away from the
hotel so that it doesn't disturb other guests).
Our current
popular offering is a long-tail boat trip to the Eastern
side of the nearby island of "Koh-Tan". This lovely island
with no cars, (and, incidentally, no dogs), is a nature
reserve. Our boatman anchors while you snorkel on the lovely
reefs in the lee of the island and then drops you at the
head of a beautiful overhead walkway through the mangroves
where you can see fascinating wildlife and hear the clams
snapping shut below you. Information signs tell you about
the flora and fauna you will see.
You walk
across then island in this way, (30 minutes). while our boat
motors round to meet you on the West coast. You then
re-board and we cross to the island of Koh Matsum where
there is a nice sandy beach and a barbecue is set-up for
your lunch. One can return directly to the hotel from here
or stop for more snorkeling on the way.
Island Trip
 For
the past 15 years we have been using the same boatman to
take our guests to a nearby deserted island for the day. The
trip usually includes a stop at a reef on the way, (and
again on the way back if you like), for snorkeling, a
barbecue on the beach , usually a big fish, filleted and
marinaded in the Laem Set kitchens, accompanied by salads &
fruits, and the opportunity to explore and swim. The boatman
will take you fishing if you like.
Since 2000 we
have introduced an expanded day trip which adds much more
interest to the day-out. The nearby island of Koh-Tan has
been declared a national park and the Western side has
lovely coral. Our recommended day-trip now looks like this:
Depart Laem Set, (maybe about 0930), and proceed to the far,
(west), side of Koh-Tan. Snorkel before boatman drops you at
the end of the newly-constructed elevated walkway which
passes through the mangroves, (hear the clams snapping shut
below you). Walk along this to the firm ground and right
across the island to the east coast, (25 minutes). There are
informative signs naming the flora and fauna. Meanwhile our
boatman takes the boat to meet you on the east coast and you
re-board to continue to Koh-Matsum for the barbecue lunch.
Swim and return to the Inn mid to late afternoon. This is a
really great expansion on our old excursion and those who
have done this trip before we introduced this variation,
(this site is addressed not just to first-timers but also to
an audience many of whom have already visited and are
planning to come again), will enjoy doing it again with this
addition. |
