Escape to Phi Phi Islands: Ferry with Lunch

Introduction: A Practical Look at the Phi Phi Islands Ferry Tour

If you’re dreaming of exploring Thailand’s iconic Phi Phi Islands, the Ferry with Lunch tour offers a solid mix of scenic beauty, snorkeling, and relaxed island time — all at an accessible price point. While we haven’t personally signed up for this exact trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a clear picture of a well-organized day trip that appeals to many travelers.

What we love about it? First, the convenience of roundtrip transfers from Phuket, eliminating logistical stress. Second, the variety of stops — from sightseeing Viking Cave to lounging at Long Beach — giving a well-rounded experience. Third, the included buffet lunch and snorkeling gear, which add value and fun. The one potential snag? A few reviews mention organizational hiccups during mealtime and some seating comfort issues, so managing expectations is key.

This tour suits those who want a balanced day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and beach relaxation without breaking the bank. Perfect for first-time visitors or anyone eager to see the most famous spots in one go, this trip offers enough variety for a memorable day.

Key Points

• Ideal for budget-conscious travelers seeking convenience and diverse sights on a day trip from Phuket.
• Includes roundtrip transfers, buffet lunch, and snorkeling gear, providing great value for the cost.
• Multiple stop points allow for both sightseeing and leisure, catering to different interests.
• Some reviews highlight organizational issues during meal times, so a flexible attitude helps.
• The scenery and snorkeling opportunities are consistently praised, making it worthwhile for nature lovers.
• Early booking (20 days in advance on average) ensures you secure a spot during busy seasons.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect During Your Day

Pickup and Transfer to Rassada Pier

The day begins early, with pickup starting around 7:00 am from your hotel or a nearby meeting point. The transfer is straightforward, with most travelers finding the process smooth, and the ferry departs at 8:30 am from Rassada Pier aboard the Royal Jet Cruiser. Expect a 30-minute drive, giving you a brief window to enjoy the scenery or relax before the sea adventure begins.

The Voyage to Phi Phi Islands

The cruise itself is a highlight, with refreshments served on board. The cruise duration from the pier to the islands is about an hour, giving you a gentle introduction to the open waters and beautiful ocean views. Reviewers mention the cruise being comfortable, with the boat offering decent space for most, although some note that certain seats have limited views, especially if you’re in the lower, porthole-only sections.

Visiting Phi Phi Ley and Sightseeing

Arriving around 10:30 am, you’ll cruise past famous sites like Viking Cave, Pi-Le Cove, Loh Samah Bay, and Maya Bay — made popular by films and travel photos. Maya Bay’s closure for restoration (from August 1 to September 30, 2023) means you’ll see it from the boat but not set foot on the beach. This is a common frustration, but the cruise provides great vantage points for photos and understanding the geography.

Authentic insight: Reviewers note that passing by Phi Phi Ley Island is impressive, but some express disappointment about the limited time for actual exploration here — around just an hour.

Relaxing at Long Beach on Phi Phi Don

By 11:15 am, it’s time to land at Long Beach, a favorite among visitors for swimming, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the views. The roughly 1-hour stop allows you to jump into the water with snorkeling gear, sunbathe, or just relax on the sand. Many reviewers speak highly of the clear waters and the relaxing vibe, though a few mention that the beach can get crowded during peak times.

Buffet Lunch and Leisure Time

Around 12:30 pm, the tour provides a buffet lunch at Long Beach. While some reviews mention the chaotic organization of mealtime, most agree that the food itself — often described as a mix of local dishes and fresh fruits — is good value. It’s a relaxed 45-minute window, giving you time to enjoy the meal and a bit of downtime beforehand.

Reviewer tip: Some guests felt the meal service could be better organized, with a chaotic atmosphere reported during busy times, so patience is helpful.

Return Cruise & Disembarkation

Leaving the island around 2:15 pm, you’ll cruise back to Phuket, arriving at the pier by around 4:30 pm. The return trip offers more scenic views and a chance to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. The transfer back to your hotel is typically seamless, with transport arranged for most pickup zones.

What the Tour Includes: The Practical Details

Inclusions

• Accident insurance, which adds peace of mind
• Buffet lunch with fresh fruits, coffee, tea, bottled water — quite sufficient for a day trip
• Roundtrip transfers from select zones, simplifying your logistics
• Use of snorkeling equipment and life jackets, perfect for exploring the underwater world with ease
• An in-person guide, licensed or certified, to keep things organized and answer questions

Not Included

• National Park Fees (THB 400 for adults, THB 200 for children), which is a worthwhile investment for island conservation, but an extra expense to keep in mind
• Towels, alcoholic beverages, or any extras outside the provided amenities

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

The Scenic Highlights and Snorkeling

The main draw of this trip is the visual feast of Phi Phi’s dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters. Reviewers consistently mention how stunning the views are, especially from the cruise. Snorkeling gear is provided, and many guests appreciate having the chance to float over vibrant coral reefs and encounter tropical fish — a highlight for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers.

The Food and Picnic Atmosphere

The included buffet lunch is praised for offering good value, with fresh fruits and local dishes. One reviewer described it as “fish market-like,” highlighting the chaotic atmosphere during mealtime. Still, the food itself was deemed satisfying, especially after a morning of swimming and sightseeing. If you’re particular about hygiene or quiet dining, it might be worth managing expectations.

Tour Group Size and Logistics

Most trips accommodate up to 80 travelers, which means the boat can feel busy but not overcrowded. Early booking is recommended, as the tour is popular and often booked about 20 days in advance, especially during peak season. The group organization is generally smooth, but reviewers mention that the chaotic nature of the lunch can detract from the overall experience.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Great for those seeking a cost-effective way to see multiple spots quickly
• The scenery and snorkeling are consistently praised
• The roundtrip transfers save hassle and time
• The flexibility to relax at Long Beach or snorkel as much as you like

Cons:

• Some reviewers mention organizational issues during mealtime, with a chaotic atmosphere
• Limited time at key sites like Maya Bay, which is just a quick pass-by
• Seating comfort and view limitations on the boat, especially in lower sections

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for budget travelers or those who want a convenient overview of Phi Phi’s most famous sights without extensive planning. It’s ideal if you’re keen on snorkeling, beach lounging, and sightseeing in a single day, especially if you’re short on time.

While the tour delivers spectacular views and good value, those seeking a more leisurely or personalized experience might prefer private options or longer stays on the islands.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This ferry tour offers a well-rounded, affordable way to see the highlights of the Phi Phi Islands. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, a buffet lunch, and transfers makes it a practical choice for first-timers or travelers on a schedule. The experience, while sometimes marred by organizational hiccups, remains a solid introduction to the area’s natural beauty.

If you’re after stunning scenery, snorkeling adventures, and a snapshot of Phi Phi’s famous spots, this trip is a good pick — especially if you’re mindful of the limited time at each site and the potential for busy moments during lunch.

For those who prefer a more relaxed, unstructured day, or have specific dietary needs or comfort preferences, it might be worth exploring alternative options. But overall, it’s a value-packed, scenic, and fun way to tick off the Phi Phi Islands from your Thailand itinerary.

FAQ: Practical Questions About the Phi Phi Islands Ferry Tour

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with pickup at 7:00 am and the ferry departs Rassada Pier at 8:30 am.

Is pickup available from all hotels?
Pickup is offered from select zones; confirm your location when booking to ensure availability.

How long is the entire tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, with the return to Phuket around 4:30 pm.

What’s included in the price?
Roundtrip transfers, buffet lunch, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, coffee/tea, fresh fruits, accident insurance, and a licensed guide.

Are there any extra fees?
Yes. The National Park Fee of THB 400 for adults (and THB 200 for children) is paid on-site and is not included in the ticket price.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Absolutely. Snorkeling gear is provided, and the water conditions are typically suitable for snorkeling.

What should I bring?
Towels, sunscreen, and possibly a hat for sun protection. Towels are not included in the tour, so bring your own if you wish.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it family-friendly, but check the age restrictions and consider your kids’ comfort with boat rides and snorkeling.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether the Escape to Phi Phi Islands: Ferry with Lunch is the right choice for your Thai adventure — offering scenic beauty, snorkeling fun, and a taste of island life, all wrapped into a convenient day trip.