Half Day Tour Around Phi Phi Islands By Private Longtail Boat From Phi Phi

A Genuine Look at the Half Day Tour Around Phi Phi Islands By Private Longtail Boat

If you’re dreaming of exploring the stunning Phi Phi Islands but want a more personalized experience, this private longtail boat tour might catch your eye. It promises the chance to customize your route, enjoy scenic stops, and avoid the overcrowding often associated with group tours. We’ve looked into the details based on actual traveler reviews and tour descriptions to give you a balanced, honest picture.

What we love are the flexibility to choose your stops, the chance to encounter playful monkeys at Monkey Beach, and the stunning views of limestone cliffs at Pileh Lagoon. Plus, the value for money seems fair for a private experience, especially considering the personalized service and inclusive amenities. However, a potential drawback is that the tour duration is fairly short, clocking in at about 3 to 4 hours, which might leave some wanting more time at each spot. This tour is best suited for travelers who prioritize intimacy, flexibility, and scenic beauty over a full-day adventure.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary allows for personalized stops and pacing
• Authentic spots like Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, and Maya Bay
• Includes snorkeling, with equipment provided, to explore underwater
• Short duration suits those with limited time or looking for a quick escape
• Cost-effective for a private experience with up to two people
• Notable reviews mention knowledgeable guides and good organization

Discovering the Phi Phi Islands with a Private Longtail Boat

This tour offers a unique way to see the Phi Phi Islands—by hopping onto a traditional longtail boat for a half-day adventure. Unlike crowded group tours, you get the chance to tailor your itinerary, which means making the most of your time at each stop and skipping places that don’t interest you. The whole journey starts at Ton Sai Pier, a familiar and easy-to-find meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

Why Choose a Private Longtail Experience?

The main appeal here is personalization. You can decide whether to linger at Monkey Beach, where playful monkeys are often seen bouncing around the white sands, or spend more time snorkeling at spots like Lo Sa Mah Bay. The guide, who speaks enough English for smooth communication, is there to assist, offer insights, and ensure you get the most out of your trip.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour provides essentials like drinking water, ice, life jackets, and snorkeling masks. Fins are available for rent, and there’s also a first aid kit and accident insurance, which adds a layer of reassurance. You’re expected to pay a national park fee of 400THB per adult at the entrance, so factor that into your budget.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting at Ton Sai Pier, your boat will whisk you away to Monkey Beach. Here, you’ll have a chance to see the wild monkeys—some reviews mention these creatures jumping and playing freely, making for memorable photo ops. Afterward, the boat heads to Viking Cave, where you can observe swift birds nesting in the limestone cliffs. Be aware that the cave is more about viewing than exploring, but the views are worth it.

Next, the boat to Pileh Lagoon reveals towering limestone formations and vibrant turquoise waters—perfect for photos and just soaking in the scenery. Many travelers appreciate the “majestic limestone mountains” that surround this spot. Snorkeling here and elsewhere adds an exciting underwater dimension; some reviews mention seeing black-tip reef sharks and vibrant coral reefs, which is impressive given the short duration.

The tour also includes Lo Sa Mah Bay, known for its beach and black canyon, where snorkeling continues to be a highlight. The final stop is Maya Bay, made famous by the movie The Beach. While some reviewers feel the beach can be crowded, others enjoy relaxing on the white sands or taking a refreshing swim before heading back to the pier.

The Experience: What Sets It Apart

One of the standout features of this experience is the ability to customize your day. Reviews highlight guides who are knowledgeable and attentive, ensuring you get sufficient time at each location. “The boat driver gave us the time we needed,” a reviewer notes, emphasizing the relaxed pacing.

The stunning scenery is a highlight—limestone cliffs, emerald waters, and vibrant reefs create a perfect backdrop for your half-day. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and the chance to see marine life makes it more than just a sightseeing cruise; it becomes an immersive experience.

However, some criticisms from past travelers include the shorter duration—as one reviewer pointed out, even though it’s a half-day, the tour “did not last 4 hours,” and they were charged extra for additional stops outside the set route. Also, weather cancellations can occur, which may be inconvenient if you’re on a tight schedule.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Meeting Point: The tour departs from the McDonald’s on Koh Phi Phi, which is easy to locate and accessible by public transportation.
• Timing: Confirm your tour ahead of time; most travelers book about 22 days in advance, showing strong interest.
• Price vs. Value: At $120.15 for up to two people, it’s a fair price for a private experience—especially when compared to group tours that might not offer the same flexibility.
• Additional Costs: Remember the national park fee (400THB per adult), which isn’t included.
• Food and Snacks: You’re welcome to bring your own snacks or drinks. Alternatively, local vendors can prepare packed lunches for about 100THB per person, with options like Thai fried rice or baguette sandwiches.
• Health Restrictions: Pregnant travelers or those with certain health conditions should consider whether this tour suits their needs, as some reviews mention these warnings.
• Extra Charges: Extra hours or guests beyond the two-person limit are available at additional costs, so keep that in mind if planning to extend or bring more friends.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

While many reviews praise the good organization and beautiful views, there is a notable negative review from a traveler who felt the experience was poorly managed. This underscores the importance of confirming details and understanding what’s included.

Conversely, travelers who appreciated the friendly, English-speaking guides and the ability to explore at their own pace found this tour to be a worthwhile and memorable way to see the Phi Phi Islands without the crowds. The underwater snorkeling and the quiet beauty of spots like Wang Long Bay are consistently mentioned as highlights.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private longtail boat tour is best suited for couples, friends, or small groups seeking a flexible, intimate experience. If you enjoy snorkeling, scenic vistas, and the option to choose your stops, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also ideal if you’re pressed for time but still want a taste of the islands’ beauty without the hassle of large crowds.

Keep in mind, the tour’s short duration might not satisfy those looking for a full-day adventure, and the weather can impact plans. Still, for a half-day escape with personal touches, it offers great value and authentic island encounters.

FAQ

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, this is a private tour, so you can choose where to spend your time and which stops to prioritize.

What is included in the price?
The tour provides drinking water, ice, life jackets, snorkeling masks, a first aid kit, and accident insurance. Fins are available for rent.

Do I need to pay extra for park entry?
Yes, a national park fee of 400THB per adult is payable at the entrance.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, with flexibility depending on your preferences and guide’s discretion.

Is snorkeling equipment included?
Snorkeling masks are provided; fins are rented separately if needed.

What if the weather cancels the tour?
In case of poor weather, the tour can be rescheduled, or you will be refunded in full.

Summing It Up

This private longtail boat tour around the Phi Phi Islands offers a personal and flexible way to enjoy some of the most iconic spots in the area. With the ability to shape your experience, explore underwater life, and relax on famed beaches like Maya Bay, it provides excellent value for those who prefer intimate adventures over large groups.

While the short duration and potential for weather-related cancellations are considerations, the positive reviews about knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and snorkeling opportunities make this a solid choice for small groups or couples who want a tailored island getaway. If you’re after a laid-back, authentic, and customizable experience, this tour could be just what you need to make your Phi Phi visit memorable.