All-in Phi Phi, Maiton, MayaBay, Khai, Bamboo islands Tour

Travelers looking to explore the famous Phi Phi Islands and surrounding gems from Phuket often wonder if a day trip is worth it. This all-inclusive speedboat tour offers a fantastic way to see some of the most stunning spots in the region, with a mix of snorkeling, sightseeing, and relaxing on pristine beaches. Based on numerous reviews, it’s clear this trip has a lot to offer — and at a very reasonable price.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you get expert guidance from knowledgeable guides like Mint or Jenny, who keep the day engaging and safe. Second, the delicious buffet lunch with halal and vegetarian options makes the experience more comfortable for diverse dietary needs. Third, the tour’s value for money is impressive, including all fees, transfers, and snorkeling gear.

That said, a key consideration is the crowd size — with up to 40 people on the boat, it’s a lively, social environment but not the most private experience. Some reviews mention the boat being a bit cramped, especially during the ride between islands. It’s also worth noting that weather can affect the day, with rough seas or high waves sometimes limiting stops or snorkeling time.

This tour feels ideal for travelers who want to hit all the highlights without breaking the bank and are happy with a lively, guided group adventure. It’s perfect for those wanting a comprehensive, well-organized day out on the water, especially if they’re new to snorkeling or island hopping.

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Key Points

Great value: All fees, lunch, transfers, and snorkeling gear are included for just over $70 per person.
Multiple stops: From Maya Bay to private islands, each site offers unique scenery and photo opportunities.
Experienced guides: Guides like Mint and Jenny are praised for their helpfulness and knowledge.
Flexible for dietary needs: Halal, vegetarian, and western options are available at lunch.
Hassle-free transfers: Hotel pickup and drop-off in Phuket make the day seamless.
Crowd size: Up to 40 travelers on the boat mean lively social atmospheres, but less privacy.

The Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Looking for more options in Phuket? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

From Phuket to the Islands: Smooth Transfers and a Friendly Welcome

The day begins with hotel pickup in air-conditioned vans, taking you comfortably from your Phuket accommodation to the private pier. We loved the way the guides like Mint or Jenny introduced themselves and explained what to expect. They’re clear, friendly, and genuinely interested in making sure everyone feels comfortable and informed. The briefings are practical — don’t touch the monkeys at Monkey Beach, respect the marine life, and follow safety instructions.

Monkey Beach: Up Close with Macaque Monkeys

Your first stop is Monkey Beach, a 30-minute visit where you can see wild macaques in their natural habitat. The reviews highlight the monkeys’ playful, curious behavior — some reviewers mentioned that monkeys occasionally jump into boats! It’s an exciting chance for photos, but it’s wise to avoid physical contact, as the guides emphasize. The experience is simple but memorable, especially for animal lovers.

Maya Bay: The Star of the Show (But With a Catch)

Maya Bay is undeniably the highlight for most visitors. Its breathtaking cliffs, soft white sand, and crystal-clear waters are exactly what makes the Phi Phi Islands famous. The bay remains closed to tourist attractions, so you’ll only be able to take photos and marvel at the scenery from the boat. Expect about an hour here, which is enough for photos and a quick swim if permitted by the conditions.

Reviewers like Valerie praised the organized nature of the visit, noting that while Maya Bay is busy, the guides help find good angles for photos. Others, like Carol, appreciated the safety measures, especially during rough seas that occasionally limit the stop’s duration. Be prepared for crowds, but know that the scenery still holds a magical allure.

Phi Phi Don: Lunch and Local Flavors

Next, the tour stops at Ko Phi Phi Don, the main island. Here, a buffet lunch awaits with halal, vegetarian, and western options, plus fresh tropical fruit. Many reviewers, including Beatrix and Nicola, rave about the quality of food, often calling it “delicious” and “well-organized.” The lunch break is usually around an hour, giving plenty of time to relax, refuel, and soak in the lively island atmosphere.

There's plenty more to explore in Phuket

Viking Cave and Lok Samah Bay: Unique Visuals and Cultural Spots

The Viking Cave is a quick stop, famous for its ancient paintings of Scandinavian-style boats. Though you can’t go inside, the cave’s dramatic limestone backdrop makes for great photos. Some travelers noted that the cave is protected — no entry allowed, but the view from the boat is enough to appreciate its significance.

Lok Samah Bay offers remarkable geological formations and a striking greenish ocean hue. Reviewers mention that it’s a perfect spot for sightseeing and snapping some memorable pictures.

Khai Island: White Sands and Snorkeling Paradise

The tiny Khai Island, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and white sand, is a favorite stop for many. You’ll have about 40 minutes here to swim, sunbathe, or snorkel — and many reviewers, like Lara, emphasize that it’s one of the most beautiful places they’ve seen. The island’s cleanliness and gentle waves make it ideal for families or anyone wanting a relaxing beach escape.

Pileh Bay and Bamboo Island: Nature’s Masterpieces

Pileh Bay is often described as a green lagoon surrounded by towering limestone formations. Snorkeling here offers glimpses of marine life amidst stunning scenery. Reviewers love the opportunity to snorkel in calm waters and take photos of the impressive geological structures.

Bamboo Island, included in premium packages, is praised for its white sand beaches and excellent snorkeling. It’s a crowded but beautiful spot where you can relax, swim, or snorkel with colorful fish just a few meters from the shore.

Maiton Private Island: A Bit of Exclusivity

The last stop is Maiton Island, a private getaway. While you’re not allowed to walk on the beach, there’s time for snorkeling in the bay. Reviewers mention seeing dolphins and lots of colorful fish, making it a highlight for marine life lovers. It’s a quieter, more exclusive feel compared to the other stops.

Return to Phuket: A Bumpy but Beautiful Ride

The day wraps up with a scenic, if sometimes choppy, ride back to Phuket. The guides ensure safety and keep spirits high despite the sometimes rough seas. Hotel drop-offs are smooth, with comfortable air-conditioned vans returning you to your accommodation by around 5:30 or 6 pm.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

Transportation and Duration

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Phuket, mainly in popular areas like Patong, Kata, Karon, Chalong, Phuket Town, and Kathu. For other locations, an extra charge may apply. The total duration is about 8 to 10 hours, making it a full-day adventure.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 40 travelers on each boat, expect a lively, social environment. Some reviews mention that the boat can feel crowded, especially during the ride between stops, which some found uncomfortable. Still, others appreciate the energetic, bustling vibe.

Food and Equipment

The included buffet lunch is well-received — especially the variety of options catering to different dietary needs. Snorkeling gear, masks, and life jackets are provided, and safety standards are emphasized with full safety equipment onboard.

Cost and Value

At $72.40 per person, the tour offers great value, covering all major expenses like park fees, lunch, transfers, and snorkeling gear. Some reviews compare this to paying a lot more for similar experiences elsewhere, making it an accessible way to see many island highlights.

Weather and Safety

The tour operates in most weather conditions but might be canceled or postponed during rough seas, lightning, or strong winds. The guides are attentive, and safety instructions are clear, which is reassuring.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who want a comprehensive day on the water without the hassle of organizing multiple activities themselves. It’s perfect for those who enjoy snorkeling, scenic views, and lively group atmospheres. Families, first-timers, or anyone eager to see Maya Bay and nearby islands with minimal fuss will find this tour ideal.

If you’re after private, quiet beaches or more personalized experiences, this may not be the best fit, given the size of the groups and busy sites. Still, for value-minded travelers seeking a well-organized, fun-filled day, this tour hits most marks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel transfers?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in most Phuket areas, making the day seamless. For other locations, an extra fee might apply.

Is lunch included?
Absolutely. A buffet lunch with halal, vegetarian, and western options is served at the Phi Phi Don Island, with plenty of fresh fruit and drinks.

Can I snorkel at each stop?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided, and many stops like Khai Island and Maiton Island are perfect for snorkeling with colorful fish and marine life.

What’s the maximum group size?
The tour caps at 40 travelers per trip, creating a lively but not overly crowded atmosphere.

How long do we spend at each island?
Most stops are about 30 to 50 minutes, depending on the site and weather conditions. Maya Bay itself is approximately an hour.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in most weather, but if conditions are unsafe, it may be canceled or rescheduled. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This all-inclusive Phi Phi and surrounding islands tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Thailand’s most iconic landscapes without breaking the bank. With expert guides like Mint and Jenny, a delicious buffet lunch, and visits to multiple islands, it balances sightseeing, relaxation, and adventure.

While it’s lively and somewhat crowded, the overall value and the variety of stops make this a great choice for first-time visitors or families wanting a hassle-free experience. Be prepared for the group dynamic and some sea conditions, but trust that the scenic beauty and marine adventures will be worth it.

If you seek a well-organized, fun-packed day with plenty of snorkeling and photo ops, this tour will definitely satisfy your wanderlust. Just remember to bring your sun protection, a good mood, and an appetite for adventure.