Phi Phi Islands One Day Tour By Speedboat from Krabi

Planning a day trip to the Phi Phi Islands? We’ve gathered all the details about the popular one-day tour by speedboat from Krabi to help you decide if it’s worth your time and money. This tour offers a chance to see some of Thailand’s most iconic beaches and vibrant underwater life, all packed into about 7 to 8 hours of adventure.

What we love about this experience is the small-group setting, which promises a more intimate viewing of the islands, the excellent snorkeling equipment included, and the thoughtfully organized itinerary that aims to avoid peak crowds. That said, the trip can feel a bit rushed, especially with the packed schedule and some reviews mentioning overcrowding. So, if you’re after a relaxed, leisurely pace, this might not be the best fit.

This tour is ideal for travelers eager to pack a lot into one day—especially those who love snorkeling, scenic photography, and discovering new beaches. It’s perfect for active explorers who want all the major sights without the hassle of planning multiple trips or transfers.

Key Points

• Small-group experience: More personalized and less crowded than larger tours.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Multiple stops with snorkeling, sightseeing, and beach time.
• Full equipment and guides: Snorkeling gear, life jackets, and knowledgeable guides enhance safety and enjoyment.
• Delicious buffet lunch: Savor Thai cuisine along with fresh fruit and water.
• Door-to-door transfers: Convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off, though extra charges may apply outside Ao Nang.
• Value for money: At $56.50, it offers a lot of activities packed into a single day.

Why Choose This Tour?

The Phi Phi Islands One Day Tour by Speedboat from Krabi is a well-rounded, engaging way to tick off some of Thailand’s most famous islands in one go. With a solid rating of 4.5 from over 117 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this trip to be a worthwhile adventure.

The appeal lies in the combination of scenic stops, snorkeling, and local flavor. The small-group format (capped at 45 travelers) means you’re less likely to feel like a sardine, which is a plus for those who dislike overcrowded tours. Plus, the inclusion of full snorkeling equipment and an attentive guide (notably “Boat” and “Coke”, who are praised for their professionalism and friendliness) boosts confidence, especially for less experienced snorkelers.

The Itinerary: An In-Depth Look

Bamboo Island: A Nature Lover’s Dream

Your day kicks off with a visit to Bamboo Island, a picture-perfect stretch of white sand and coral reefs. Reviewers mention that this stop offers relaxing opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and exploring the vibrant marine life. One guest noted, “The snorkeling here was fantastic,” which hints at the clear waters and colorful reefs waiting just offshore.

This stop is about enjoying the tranquility and beauty of a relatively unspoiled island. However, since admission tickets are not included, keep in mind that there’s a small additional fee if you want to fully access certain areas.

Viking Cave: A Photographer’s Paradise

Next, you’ll stop at Viking Cave, famous for its cave paintings and seabird nests. Reviewers appreciate this as a sightseeing highlight, with about 30 minutes allocated for photos and taking in the scenery. Since admission is included, you won’t have to worry about extra costs, and it offers a glimpse into local sea life and traditional bird’s nest farming.

Pileh Bay and Loh Samah Bay: The Stunning Lagoons

Two of the most visually striking stops are Pileh Bay and Loh Samah Bay, both renowned for their crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. These areas are perfect for snorkelers and swimmers alike. Reviewers love the chance to dive into the water to admire the coral reefs and see an array of colorful fish, sometimes even mentioning encounters with small reef sharks.

The 45-minute sessions at each bay are generally appreciated for their quality, although some noted that the tour can feel a little hurried—so making the most of these stops relies on good timing and the guides’ efficiency.

Maya Bay: The Iconic Film Location

While Maya Bay has been closed for restoration, the tour still offers a viewing stop for photos and quick swims. Reviewers mention that the guide often plans to visit during less crowded times to maximize the experience, especially if weather conditions are favorable. Expect about 30 minutes here.

Ko Phi Phi Don: Lunch and Leisure

The tour provides a two-hour window on Ko Phi Phi Don, where you can relax, shop, and soak up the island vibe. Reviewers highlight that the lunch is a buffet featuring Thai dishes, water, and fresh fruit, which many find to be good quality and satisfying after a morning of activity.

This stop offers some free time for shopping and exploring local markets, making it a welcome breather in an otherwise busy schedule. It’s a great chance to pick up souvenirs or simply enjoy the island’s laid-back atmosphere.

Wang Long Bay and Monkey Beach: Unique Sightseeing

The remote Wang Long Bay is described as a beautiful mountain area where you can photograph the natural scenery and see swallow’s nests being farmed. The highlight here is the chance to capture some stunning landscape photos.

Following that, Monkey Beach offers a chance to see primates up close. Reviewers mention that the monkeys here are quite familiar with travelers, so bringing some snacks can enhance the experience. Be cautious with your belongings, as monkeys are known to be cheeky.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour includes hotel pickup (mainly in Ao Nang), lunch, drinking water, fruit, full snorkeling equipment, and a professional guide. All safety gear like life jackets and snorkeling masks are provided, making it an accessible trip even for beginners.

Extras include the national park fee (400 THB per adult / 200 THB per child) paid at entry, and an additional transfer charge (100 THB per person) from certain locations outside Ao Nang. Reviewers note that these costs are standard and clearly communicated, so travelers should budget accordingly.

The Importance of Transfers

Door-to-door transfers are a big bonus, making the day hassle-free. However, some reviews mention delays or feeling rushed due to the packed schedule. It’s worth noting that early booking (average of 20 days in advance) is recommended, as this tour is quite popular.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Knowledgeable guides like “Boat” and “Coke” are frequently praised for their professionalism and friendliness.
• The scenic stops and snorkeling opportunities are generally described as beautiful and worthwhile.
• The buffet lunch and refreshments are seen as generous and tasty, providing energy for a full day.
• The small-group setting offers a more personal and less hectic experience.

Cons:

• Some guests find the schedule rushed, with limited time at each stop, particularly at popular locations like Maya Bay.
• Crowding remains a concern, with reviews indicating the sites can be quite busy, which may detract from the feeling of tranquility.
• The price can seem high considering the additional fees and surcharges, but the value is often justified by the range of activities.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits active travelers who love snorkeling, beach-hopping, and sightseeing—particularly if you prefer a small-group experience over large, crowded tours. If you’re content with a fairly full schedule and don’t mind sharing the boat with others, you’ll appreciate the efficiency and the chance to see numerous sites in one day.

However, if you’re seeking a more relaxed, slow-paced day or prefer avoiding crowds, you might find this tour a little too hectic. It’s also best for those comfortable with short durations at each stop and who don’t mind paying the park fee separately.

Final Thoughts

The Phi Phi Islands One Day Tour by Speedboat from Krabi offers a value-packed, adventure-filled way to see some of Thailand’s most famous sights. With a focus on snorkeling, scenic views, and tasty local cuisine, it delivers plenty of opportunities for memorable moments. The guides’ professionalism, combined with the convenience of door-to-door transfers, makes it a practical choice for travelers who want an all-in-one day trip.

That said, the tour’s popularity means it can get crowded and a bit rushed, so managing expectations is key. If you’re a traveler who loves energetic days filled with diverse activities and don’t mind sharing the space, this trip could be just what you’re after.

In summary, this tour is best suited for adventure lovers, snorkelers, and those eager to tick off multiple highlights in one go. For a more relaxed experience or avoiding crowds, consider other options or private arrangements.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, free hotel pickup is available mainly for Ao Nang area. Extra transfer charges may apply if you’re outside this zone.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting at 8:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.

What’s the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 45, which helps keep the experience more intimate than larger boat tours.

Are snorkeling masks and life jackets provided?
Yes, full snorkeling equipment including masks and life jackets are included and available for use during the stops.

What about the park fee?
The national park fee (400 THB for adults, 200 THB for children) is paid at the entrance and is not included in the tour price.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 4-11 can join, but pregnant women, and guests with high blood pressure, heart, or bone issues are advised to consult their doctor beforehand.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for a well-organized, activity-rich day exploring the Phi Phi Islands with the convenience of transfers and knowledgeable guides, this tour offers good value. Be prepared for a busy schedule and potential crowds, but rest assured you’ll visit many key sites and enjoy some fantastic snorkeling and beach time. Perfect for energetic travelers eager to experience the essence of Phi Phi in just one day.