From Phi Phi: Half-Day Longtail Boat Tour to Maya Bay

From Phi Phi: Half-Day Longtail Boat Tour to Maya Bay — A Complete Review

If you’re dreaming of stunning island scenery and crystal-clear waters, the Half-Day Longtail Boat Tour to Maya Bay offers an authentic taste of what the Phi Phi Islands have to offer. While it’s not the longest or most exhaustive tour, it packs in some of the most iconic spots into a compact, budget-friendly experience.

What we love about this tour? First, the chance to see Maya Bay from the water, which means spectacular views without the crowds on the beach. Second, snorkeling in Pileh Lagoon, where the vibrant marine life and turquoise waters make for memorable underwater moments. Third, the small group size, limited to 20 people, ensures a more intimate vibe.

However, one consideration is Maya Bay’s temporary closure from August 1 to September 30, 2025, for conservation efforts. Visitors will only be able to admire it from the boat during this period, which might be disappointing if you were hoping to walk on the famous sand.

This tour suits travelers seeking an affordable, scenic, and active half-day on Phi Phi, especially those who appreciate snorkeling, wildlife viewing, and classic Thai island landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable price point makes this tour accessible for most travelers.
• Small group size guarantees a more personalized experience.
• Snorkeling in Pileh Lagoon offers vibrant marine life and clear waters.
• Visit Viking Cave and Monkey Beach for cultural and wildlife encounters.
• Maya Bay’s closure from August to September limits beach access during that time.
• Tour duration is approximately 4 hours, perfect for a half-day adventure.

How the Tour Unfolds: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Early Morning Departure and Meeting Point

The tour starts at 9:00 AM, with flexible options at 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, or 2:00 PM, giving you some wiggle room depending on your plans. You’ll meet the friendly Pantawan Tour staff 20 minutes before departure at the front of the Marlin Statue in Tonsai Bay, Koh Phi Phi. Expect a relaxed start, as the small group (limited to 20 people) helps keep things cozy and manageable.

Monkey Beach: Playful Encounters

Your adventure kicks off at Monkey Beach, where the wild monkeys are free to roam. These cheeky creatures are known for their lively antics, making this a fun photo opportunity. Reviewers mention their amazement at how playful and unbothered the monkeys are, but it’s wise to keep your distance and secure your belongings.

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Viking Cave: A Cultural Stop

Next, you’ll cruise over to Viking Cave, a spot that’s more than just a scenic photo op. Here, you’ll see ancient drawings on limestone walls that some find fascinating, along with the cave’s historical significance. A couple of reviewers highlight the importance of this stop as a window into local history, and it’s a chance to learn a little about the island’s past.

Pileh Lagoon: Snorkeling Heaven

One of the tour’s highlights is snorkeling in Pileh Lagoon. The water here is incredibly clear, revealing a vibrant world of colorful fish and coral. Expect to spend some quality time swimming and capturing photos of the stunning surroundings. It’s a favorite among travelers who love aquatic adventures, and many mention that the marine life is lively and accessible even for beginners.

Loh Samah Bay to Maya Bay

From Pileh Lagoon, you’ll sail to Loh Samah Bay, a sheltered cove with calm waters. From a floating pier, you’ll take a short ride to the famous Maya Bay. While the bay’s natural beauty is undeniable, it’s important to note that Maya Bay is closed from August to September 2025 for conservation. During this time, visitors can only admire the bay from a boat, unable to walk on the beach. Still, the view from the water is stunning enough to satisfy most.

Relaxing at Maya Bay

When accessible, Maya Bay’s wide white sands and towering cliffs make it one of the most photographed spots in Thailand. Some reviews mention how peaceful and pristine the beaches feel—especially when fewer boats are around. Expect to relax, take photos, and soak in the views, even if the actual beach walk isn’t possible.

Return Journey

The boat ride back offers more scenic views of the islands, and many travelers mention how the entire trip feels like a peaceful cruise. As the tour wraps up in about 4 hours, it’s a gentle, well-paced way to experience Phi Phi’s highlights without feeling rushed or exhausted.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included

• English-speaking guide helps enrich your understanding of each stop.
• Life jacket for safety during snorkeling.
• Snorkeling equipment, so you can explore underwater life with ease.
• Drinking water, sandwich, and fruits to keep you energized.

Not Included

• Accommodation and hotel transfers are not provided, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.
• The national park entry fee of 400 THB (cash only) is required at Maya Bay. This fee is paid once per day, covering access to multiple parks, including Maya Bay and Bamboo Island.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participating

Meeting Point

Meet the Pantawan Tour staff in front of the Marlin Statue in Tonsai Bay, Koh Phi Phi, 20 minutes before your scheduled start. The staff will display a sign that says “GetYourGuide,” so look out for that.

What to Bring

Travel light but be prepared for sun and water activities. Pack comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and water shoes. Don’t forget cash for the park fee or any souvenirs.

Considerations

• Maya Bay’s closure during September 2025 means you’ll only see it from the water if traveling during that period.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those over 243 lbs (110 kg), as per safety guidelines.
• If the weather is bad, the schedule might shift or the trip could be canceled for safety reasons, with options to reschedule or receive a full refund.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One reviewer shared that “the boat drivers are remarkably skilled at navigating the longboats,” especially considering the often crowded waters. Another mentioned that even when the tour was canceled due to rain, they appreciated the flexibility, noting they didn’t get a guide or snacks but still enjoyed the experience.

Multiple travelers praised the stunning views at Pileh Lagoon and Maya Bay, emphasizing how much these spots look like postcards. The small group size was also appreciated, allowing for more personal moments and better photo opportunities.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for those who want a quick, affordable taste of Phi Phi’s most iconic sights without the hassle of full-day commitments. It’s great for snorkelers and nature lovers eager to explore vibrant marine environments. It’s also ideal if you prefer a more intimate experience with fewer people on board.

However, travelers looking for a beach day at Maya Bay should be aware of the seasonal closure and plan their visit accordingly. It’s best suited for those comfortable with boat rides and outdoor activities, and who don’t mind a busy, sometimes crowded, water-based excursion.

Final Thoughts

The Half-Day Longtail Boat Tour to Maya Bay offers a straightforward, cost-effective way to see some of the most famous spots of the Phi Phi Islands. While the tour doesn’t include walking on Maya Bay during its closure, the views from the water are still breathtaking, and snorkeling in Pileh Lagoon provides colorful underwater encounters.

The small-group format, friendly guides, and scenic stops make this a solid choice for travelers wanting an authentic, uncomplicated island adventure. It’s especially suited for those who value natural beauty, marine life, and cultural sights like Viking Cave, all within a manageable half-day timeframe.

For anyone visiting Phi Phi and eager to explore without breaking the bank, this tour strikes a good balance between value and memorable moments.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
The tour is generally suitable for older children who can handle boat rides and snorkeling. However, it is not recommended for babies under 1 year or people over 95 years old.

What should I bring for snorkeling?
You should bring your swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water shoes, and possibly a swimming cap. Snorkeling equipment is provided, but feel free to bring your own if preferred.

Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, a sandwich and fruits are included to keep you energized during the trip.

What happens if it rains or weather is unsafe?
Tours may be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are unsafe. Some rain showers are manageable, and shorter tours can still run if safe, but safety is the priority.

How much is the national park fee?
The fee is 400 THB, payable in cash at Maya Bay, and is required once per day for access to the park and nearby attractions.

Can I join the tour if I don’t speak English?
The tour offers English and Thai language options. Make sure to specify your language preference when booking if available.

This Phi Phi boat tour is a straightforward, budget-friendly way to tick off some of Thailand’s most beautiful sights, with enough flexibility to suit a variety of travelers’ needs.

You can check availability for your dates here: