Premium Phi Phi, bamboo island tour Speed Catamaran

Introduction

If you’re considering a trip to Phuket and want to explore the Phi Phi Islands without the usual crowds, the Premium Phi Phi, Bamboo Island tour by Speed Catamaran might just be your perfect match. This tour promises a more exclusive, organized experience with an emphasis on comfort, fewer travelers, and extended snorkeling time.

What immediately sets this tour apart is its focus on smaller groups—only 25 people maximum—versus the typical 45-50 on standard boats. That means less jostling, more personalized attention, and a calmer vibe. Starting later in the morning at 10:30 also means you won’t miss out on breakfast, and the places visited tend to be less crowded, giving you a more authentic feel of the islands.

One thing to keep in mind is that the boat ride can be choppy, especially if weather conditions aren’t ideal, so seasickness remedies are recommended. This tour is ideal for travelers who value comfort, intimate group sizes, and well-organized itineraries, making it perfect for those wanting a relaxed yet comprehensive day on the water.

Key Points

• Smaller Groups: Max 25 travelers for a more personal experience.
• Extended Snorkeling: Twice the snorkeling time compared to standard tours.
• Later Start: Begins at 10:30, avoiding early crowds and allowing breakfast.
• Luxury Speed Catamaran: Newly built and comfortable, with a semi-enclosed design.
• Varied Itinerary: Visits to Bamboo Island, Maya Bay, Koh Khai Nai, Pi Leh Bay, and more.
• Suitable for: Those seeking comfort, less crowded trips, and authentic island experiences.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This tour’s biggest selling point is its smaller group size, which enhances the overall comfort and allows for more personalized service. With only 25 people onboard, you won’t feel like just another face among hundreds, as is the case on larger boats. This also means fewer delays in moving between sites and a more relaxed pace—something many reviewers appreciated.

The luxury speed catamaran itself is a highlight. Built recently, it offers a smooth ride and a semi-enclosed design that balances fresh sea air with protection from wind and spray. Its modern facilities add a touch of class to what can otherwise be an overcrowded and noisy experience.

Another major plus is the extended snorkeling sessions—twice the time of more crowded tours—giving you ample opportunities to explore underwater life at different spots like Hin Klang reef near Bamboo Island and Pi Leh Bay. Such experiences are often praised for the vibrant marine life and healthy coral reefs, making for memorable underwater moments.

The tour also begins at 10:30 AM, a strategic choice that means guests can enjoy breakfast before departure and means the boat visits locations when they are less busy. Early morning tours tend to be crowded, noisy, and rushed, so this later start is a thoughtful feature.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Phuket Departure

The tour kicks off at Chalong Pier around 7:00 AM with a light snack and briefing. While this seems early, it’s important to note it leaves plenty of time to get to the boat and settle in before the main departure at 10:30 AM. The included snack and the chance to ask questions from guides ensure you are well-prepared for the day ahead.

Koh Khai Nai

Your first stop is Koh Khai Nai, a tiny island in Ao Phang Nga Bay known for its egg-shaped landforms. Here, you’ll enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing on a relatively quiet beach, with fresh fruits served by staff. With around 40 minutes allocated, it’s enough to get a taste of this secluded spot without feeling rushed. Reviews mention how this stop offers a peaceful environment, perfect for relaxing and spotting marine life.

Bamboo Island

Next is Bamboo Island, famous for its pristine, wide sandy beaches and colorful coral reefs. Here, you can snorkel in Hin Klang reef, which is described as feeling like swimming in an aquarium—an exhilarating underwater experience! This stop is praised for its beautiful beach and excellent snorkeling, with coral reliefs and Nemo fishes galore. The 40-minute visit allows plenty of time to swim, sunbathe, and explore.

Maya Bay

The iconic Maya Bay—famous from the film The Beach—is included for sightseeing only, as it’s now closed for tourism to protect the environment. Still, the breathtaking cliffs and clear waters offer perfect photo opportunities. Many reviews note how Maya Bay’s beauty remains striking, even from a distance.

Lok Samah Bay

A quick sightseeing stop to take in the remarkable greenish hue of the ocean and capture some memorable photos. It’s a peaceful interlude amid the busy day, allowing everyone to appreciate the natural beauty.

Pi Leh Bay

This lagoon is a highlight for snorkelers. Surrounded by limestone rocks and filled with colorful marine life, Pi Leh Bay offers a surreal bathing and snorkeling experience. With its protected status, it’s a spot where you’ll likely see Nemo and other tropical fish in their natural habitat. The 40-minute window here is enough for multiple snorkeling rounds.

Ko Phi Phi Don

This is your main island stop for lunch and exploration. A buffet with halal options is served, and you get 1 hour 30 minutes to stroll the narrow streets, relax on the beach, or take a dip. Guests often mention how this downtime is perfect for a quick taste of local life and culture, and the lunch is noted as satisfying.

Monkey Beach

Finally, a short stop at Monkey Beach on Phi Phi Don’s southwestern coast. Here, you can take photos of wild monkeys in their natural habitat and snorkel along the powdery shoreline. With about 30 minutes allocated, it’s enough to enjoy the scenery and observe wildlife without feeling rushed.

Return to Phuket

The boat arrives back at Chalong Pier around 5:30 PM, after a full day of stunning views, snorkeling, and island hopping. Hotel transfers with air-conditioned vans complete the experience, making the return journey comfortable.

Practical Details and Value

Pricing at $119.61 per person offers a solid value considering the all-inclusive aspects—luxury transport, snorkeling gear, lunch, and guided commentary. The small-group setting means you’ll receive more attention and better chances to ask questions or customize your experience.

The duration of about 9 hours balances a full day with enough downtime, avoiding the rushed feeling of some larger tours. The late start at 10:30 AM, compared to other tours, means you can enjoy a relaxed breakfast without feeling pressed for time.

Transportation and group size are practical considerations. The tour uses air-conditioned minivans for hotel pickups, and the speed catamaran is designed for comfort, stability, and safety. The maximum of 30 travelers ensures a less crowded, more intimate environment.

Weather considerations are important; the tour operates in most conditions but may be postponed if winds or rain are heavy. Seasickness remedies are available, and the boat’s semi-enclosed design helps shield guests from rough seas.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you prioritize comfort, smaller groups, and extended snorkeling, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a more relaxed pace and less crowded sites without sacrificing variety. The knowledgeable guides and modern boat design promise a safe, enjoyable day, even for those who might be sensitive to seasickness.

Those seeking a comprehensive day of island-hopping with a touch of luxury will find this tour offers excellent value. It balances scenic beauty, marine exploration, and cultural touches, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

However, if you’re after the wild party scene or don’t mind larger crowds, you might find this experience a touch subdued. Also, those highly sensitive to choppy waters should consider seasickness precautions.

FAQ

How early do I need to be at Chalong Pier?
The tour departs around 10:30 AM, but arrivals start from 7:00 AM for check-in, snacks, and briefing. It’s recommended to arrive early to settle in comfortably.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, shorts, sunblock, sunglasses, a beach towel, T-shirt, and a camera are suggested. Seasickness pills are provided, so consider taking them if you’re prone to seasickness.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers?
No, due to insurance policies, pregnant women are not permitted to join this tour.

What makes this tour different from others?
The smaller group size, later start, and longer snorkeling time are standout features. The modern speed catamaran also adds a level of comfort not always offered on larger boats.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the itinerary is fixed, the small group size allows guides to be more flexible and attentive to your needs during the day.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a halal buffet lunch is provided during your stop on Koh Phi Phi Don.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours operate in most weather conditions, but if heavy rain or strong winds occur, the tour may be postponed or canceled with full refunds or rescheduling options.

What is the maximum number of travelers?
Up to 30 people, ensuring a more personal and less crowded experience.

The Sum Up

This Premium Phi Phi, Bamboo Island tour by Speed Catamaran offers an excellent mix of comfort, intimacy, and adventure. Its focus on smaller groups and longer snorkeling sessions provides a more relaxed, immersive experience that appeals to travelers wanting to avoid the crowds and enjoy authentic island beauty.

The modern, well-designed boat combined with knowledgeable guides makes this outing both safe and highly enjoyable. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a laid-back day filled with scenic stops, marine exploration, and cultural highlights like local markets and wildlife.

In terms of value, the tour balances price with quality, offering a comprehensive experience without the feeling of being rushed or squeezed into a large crowd. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Phuket traveler, this trip promises memorable moments and plenty of opportunities for stunning photos and underwater discoveries.

If you seek a quieter, more curated island-hopping adventure with attentive service and stunning scenery, this tour is worth considering. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want a balance of adventure, comfort, and authenticity on their Phi Phi Islands journey.