Phi Phi Islands One Day Tour by Speedboat From Phuket

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and picture-perfect beaches, then a day trip to the Phi Phi Islands from Phuket is hard to beat. This tour promises a full day of adventure, from swimming and snorkeling to exploring famous spots like Maya Bay, made famous by The Beach.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the luxury speedboat ride that whisks you across the Andaman Sea, the knowledgeable guides who bring each stop to life, and the delicious beachfront buffet lunch with stunning views.

Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing—be aware that national park entry fees aren’t included**, and the tour isn’t suitable for large ferry travelers or those with certain health conditions. Still, if you’re after an authentic and well-organized day of island hopping, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Who is this tour best for? It’s ideal for travelers eager for a mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxing on beautiful beaches, especially those who value comfort and good guides.

Key Points

• Comfortable round-trip hotel transfers make logistics simple.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Snorkeling gear and life jackets are included, making underwater exploration accessible.
• The speedboat offers a smooth, efficient way to see multiple locations.
• Beachfront buffet lunch provides a relaxing, scenic meal.
• Entry fee to the national park is additional, so budget accordingly.

The Experience in Detail

Starting the Day Early and Conveniently

The tour kicks off early at 7:30 am, with hotel pickup included. The early start means you’ll beat some of the crowds and enjoy the islands in a more peaceful setting. The transport is an air-conditioned minibus, which keeps you comfortable during the short drive from your Phuket hotel to the boat departure point.

This hassle-free pickup is a big plus, especially if you prefer to avoid navigating Phuket’s busy streets with your own transport. The tour’s overall size is kept friendly—a maximum of 30 travelers—which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

The Speedboat Adventure

Once aboard the luxury speedboat, you’ll immediately notice the quality of the vessels used—fast, stable, and designed for comfort. The crew, including the experienced captain and guides, are praised for their professionalism and friendliness—reviewers mention guides who are diligent, knowledgeable, and speak good English.

The ride itself is part of the fun, offering sweeping views of the ocean and the limestone karsts that define the landscape. Traveling by speedboat means you can cover multiple sites in a single day, with enough time at each stop to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

First Stop: Ko Phi Phi Le and Maya Bay

Your first destination is Ko Phi Phi Le, home to the world-famous Maya Bay. Made iconic by Leonardo DiCaprio’s The Beach, Maya Bay provides a dreamscape of white sand and towering cliffs. Reviewers highlight how beautiful the beach is and appreciate the opportunity to sunbathe or stroll among jungle paths and watch the wild birds.

If you’re into photography, Maya Bay offers plenty of Instagram-worthy moments. However, some travelers note that during peak times, the beach can be crowded, so an early start helps.

Loh Samah Bay and Pileh Cove

Next, the boat cruises to Loh Samah Bay, where you can see the lush jungle backdrop. Then, you’ll visit Pileh Cove, often called the Emerald Lagoon, a tranquil spot perfect for taking pictures or simply relaxing on deck.

Viking Cave and Monkey Beach

Another highlight is the Viking Cave, famous for its ancient cave paintings and nearby bird’s nests. Some reviewers mention that the guides provide interesting stories about Viking Cave, adding context to the visit.

From there, you’ll head to Monkey Beach, where the playful primates are a crowd favorite. Be prepared for some monkey selfies and photo ops, but remember to keep your belongings secure, as the monkeys are quite curious.

Lunch at Phi Phi Don

After a busy morning of exploring, it’s time for a scenic buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don Island. The meal is served beachfront, allowing you to enjoy your food with a view of the water and boats bobbing nearby. Reviewers describe the lunch as delicious and satisfying, with a good variety of local and international options.

Post-lunch, you can sunbathe on the white sand beaches or snorkel over coral reefs teeming with marine life. Many reviews highlight the quality of the snorkeling gear supplied, which helps you spot colorful fish and even small sharks.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At $78.54 per person, this tour provides a comprehensive experience, including hotel transfers, a guide, snorkeling gear, and a buffet lunch. Reviewers frequently mention how the guide’s local knowledge enhances the trip, turning simple sightseeing into a storytelling adventure.

The inclusion of insurance, life jackets, and fresh fruits also adds to the feeling of being well-cared-for. While the national park fee (400 THB for adults) is extra and paid at entry, this is a standard charge and worth budgeting for to access the pristine sites.

The Group Size and Overall Comfort

With a maximum of 30 travelers, the tour strikes a balance between social and private. Guests mention that the guides speak good English and are attentive, making the experience more personal.

Timing and Pacing

The tour lasts about 8 to 9 hours, a full day that covers both sightseeing and leisure. The early start means you’ll return before evening, giving you ample time to relax afterward or explore Phuket further.

The Authenticity of Experiences and Reviewer Insights

Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ professionalism and knowledge, which elevates the trip beyond just a boat ride. One reviewer mentions, “The guides are duktig på engelska,” highlighting the importance of good communication for understanding the sites’ significance.

Snorkeling is a popular activity, with many describing it as “toppen” (the best) and “fantastic”, with the reefs offering a variety of marine life. Guests also appreciate the care taken by staff—from providing fresh fruits and beverages to ensuring everyone is comfortable and safe.

A few reviewers note that this tour isn’t suitable for large ferry travelers or guests with certain health issues, such as pregnancy or heart problems. It’s designed for those seeking an active yet comfortable day on the water.

The Bottom Line: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This day trip is perfect for travelers who want a well-organized, engaging day of island exploration. It’s suited for those who value comfortable transportation, insightful guides, and diverse activities like snorkeling, beach lounging, and sightseeing.

If you’re after a more relaxed or private experience, or have mobility issues, you might want to explore other options. Plus, if you’re not comfortable paying extra for the national park entry fee, plan accordingly.

For adventurous travelers who love learning about new places, taking plenty of photos, and enjoying authentic Thai hospitality, this tour offers a compelling blend of adventure and comfort.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers round-trip hotel transfers by air-conditioned minibus, making planning easier.

What is the best time to start?
The tour departs at 7:30 am, allowing you to beat some crowds and enjoy the islands in the morning light.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, covering multiple stops and activities.

Are snorkeling gear and life jackets provided?
Yes, both snorkel equipment and life jackets are included, making underwater exploring safe and simple.

Do I need to pay the national park fee?
The national park fee of 400 THB (adults) and 200 THB (children) is paid at the entry point, separate from the tour price.

Is there a minimum group size?
Yes, a minimum of 10 people is required for the tour to run, although most bookings tend to meet this easily.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, with child tickets for ages 4-11, though with some restrictions regarding health conditions like pregnancy or heart issues.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, waterproof camera, and swimwear for snorkeling and sunbathing.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely—sites like Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Pileh Cove are stunning and perfect for capturing memorable photos.

In summary, this Phi Phi Islands day tour by speedboat offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and authenticity. It’s well-suited for travelers who want to see the highlights of the islands without sacrificing quality or convenience. With knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and a relaxing lunch, it stands out as a worthwhile addition to your Phuket itinerary—provided you’re comfortable with the small additional costs and the active nature of the day.