Phuket: Phi Phi, Bamboo & Maiton Speed Catamaran Tour

Planning a day on the water in Phuket? The Speed Catamaran Tour to Phi Phi, Bamboo, and Maiton Islands offers a blend of luxury, adventure, and genuine Thai island charm. While we haven’t personally cruised it, the glowing reviews, detailed itineraries, and premium amenities paint a vivid picture of what you can expect.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the high-speed luxury catamaran, which promises comfort and pace — no slow, bumpy rides here. Snorkeling at multiple stops, a delicious Thai buffet lunch, and family-friendly water activities make it a versatile choice. A potential consideration? The full-day commitment might be long for some, and weather-dependent cancellations could happen, so flexibility is key.

Ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends seeking a mix of relaxation and action, this tour suits those who appreciate comfort and authentic experiences on the water. If you want a seamless, well-organized day exploring some of Thailand’s most iconic islands, this one might just be your perfect match.

Key Points

• Luxury & Speed: Travel aboard a 2025 high-speed catamaran with leather seats and sea-view decks for a smooth, stylish journey.
• Comprehensive Island Stops: Visit Bamboo Island, Phi Phi Leh, Maya Bay (seasonal), and Maiton Island for snorkeling, beaches, and water activities.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Includes hotel transfers, meals, snorkeling gear, water slides, paddleboards, and soft drinks.
• Family & Couple Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with fun activities like water slides and transparent kayaks.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides, especially noted for their friendliness, enthusiasm, and care — like Mike, who gets rave reviews.
• Value for Money: At just $88.48 per person, it offers a full day of activities and comfort that many reviewers say exceeds expectations.

Introduction: What to Expect from the Phuket Speed Catamaran Tour

If a day exploring Thailand’s famous islands sounds like your kind of adventure, then this speed catamaran tour could be a fantastic pick. It combines luxury, speed, and a variety of activities that cater to different interests, whether it’s snorkeling, relaxing on pristine beaches, or enjoying a quality Thai meal.

What truly makes this tour appealing? First, the luxury vessel, Sweetie, a 2025 high-speed catamaran, is described as a smooth and elegant way to traverse Phuket’s waters. Guests get leather seating, sea-view decks, and full onboard amenities—perfect for those wanting comfort alongside adventure. Second, the itinerary is thoughtfully designed to maximize time on each island, with stops at Bamboo Island, Phi Phi, Maya Bay, and Maiton Island, offering a mix of snorkeling, sunbathing, and water fun. Lastly, the tour’s reviews highlight excellent guides, especially Mike and the Monkey Team, known for their friendliness, professionalism, and infectious enthusiasm.

A potential caveat? The tour lasts about eight hours, which might feel long for some, especially if weather conditions aren’t ideal. And since the tour is weather-dependent, cancellations due to poor weather could happen, but the policy is flexible with full refunds or rescheduling options.

If your group includes families, couples, or friends looking for a balanced day of relaxation and activity, this tour fits well. It’s particularly suited for travelers wanting a package that combines comfort, adventure, and authentic Thai island scenery.

What Are the Key Highlights of This Tour?

Luxury Speed & Comfort: Traveling on Sweetie, the high-speed catamaran, is a step above typical boat rides. The fast yet smooth voyage means less time traveling and more time enjoying the islands.

Diverse Island Stops: Bamboo Island’s white sands, Phi Phi Leh’s colorful coral reefs, Maya Bay’s world-famous beach, and Maiton Island’s water activities offer a well-rounded experience. Each stop has its unique charm, whether it’s snorkeling, relaxing, or exploring.

Inclusive Activities & Amenities: Snorkeling gear, paddleboards, transparent kayaks, and floating sea slides make the day lively. The plentiful soft drinks, fruit, and snacks ensure you stay refreshed.

Culinary Delight: The Thai buffet lunch at Phi Phi Don offers a satisfying break, especially after a morning of activity. Reviewers consistently praise the quality and variety of the food, often describing it as a highlight.

Family-Friendly Fun: The water slide, paddleboards, and calm beaches make this tour accessible to children and families. Reviewers mention kids having a fantastic time, especially with the transparent kayaks and water slides.

Guides & Service: Guides like Mike are often singled out for their engaging, respectful approach, making the day more enjoyable. Many reviews mention how guides kept the atmosphere lively and fun, even in unpredictable weather.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Bamboo Island

Your day kicks off with a hotel pickup, usually scheduled based on your location, giving you a hassle-free start. Arriving at the pier, you’ll step aboard Sweetie, a modern, luxurious vessel promising a comfortable cruise. Bamboo Island is your first destination—famous for its white sands and clear shallow waters, ideal for a quick swim or relaxing on the beach.

Guests report that Bamboo Island is a perfect spot for photos and unwinding, with its tranquil waters and scenic sands. The 50-minute stop allows enough time to dip your toes in the water, sunbathe, or take a few memorable photos before heading to the next destination.

Stop 2: Phi Phi Islands & Buffet Lunch

Arriving at Phi Phi Don, you’re treated to a buffet lunch by the sea—an aspect many reviewers cherish. The buffet is described as tasty, with plenty of options to satisfy all tastes, complemented by fresh fruit and soft drinks.

Post-lunch, the boat takes you to a snorkeling point around Phi Phi Leh. Colorful fish and coral reefs await, with the guides ensuring everyone is kitted out with snorkeling gear and safety equipment. Many reviewers loved the snorkeling here, highlighting the vibrant marine life and clear waters.

Stop 3: Maya Bay & Viking Cave (Seasonal)

Maya Bay, the film-famous beach, is included in the itinerary, but travelers should note it’s seasonally closed after August 1st for conservation. The boat passes by Viking Cave on the way, providing plenty of photo opportunities. Guests have the freedom to explore Maya Bay’s beach during the stop, with some reviewers emphasizing how stunning it is—though the closure might mean a different nearby beach is substituted at certain times.

Stop 4: Maiton Island & Water Activities

The final stop is Maiton Island, where water fun takes center stage. Guests can snorkel again, try paddleboarding, or enjoy the water slide and floating platform. Reviewers mention that these activities add a fun, playful element to the day, especially enjoyable for families and kids.

After about an hour here, it’s time to head back, with snacks, drinks, and a relaxed vibe onboard. Many reviewers say this final stretch is a perfect way to wind down, soaking in the views or lounging on the deck.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For $88.48 per person, the tour packs an impressive amount of inclusions: hotel pickup, multiple island stops, snorkel gear, water activities, and a buffet. The luxury vessel elevates the experience, providing comfort that’s often missing from speedboat trips.

The expert guides, notably Mike and the Monkey Team, are praised for their attentiveness, humor, and professionalism, making the trip more enjoyable. The well-organized itinerary maximizes your time on each island, ensuring you get to see, snorkel, and relax without feeling rushed.

Reviewers highlight the quality of the food, the fun activities, and the ease of the entire process—from pickup to return. The tour’s speed and smoothness are often mentioned as key advantages, especially for those tired of rougher rides.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for anyone wanting a luxurious, all-inclusive day on the water. Families with kids will enjoy the water slides and gentle beaches, while couples can indulge in the scenic beauty and peaceful moments. Friends looking for a fun, active day will appreciate the snorkeling, paddleboarding, and lively atmosphere onboard.

Those who value professional guides, good organization, and a high level of comfort will find this tour meets or exceeds expectations. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer a seamless experience without worrying about logistics or what to bring—everything is arranged for you.

However, travelers with very tight schedules or those who dislike long days might want to consider the full duration before booking. Also, weather can affect plans, but the flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes Phuket island-wide hotel transfers, making your day hassle-free from start to finish.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, from pickup in the morning to return in the late afternoon.

Are water activities suitable for kids?
Yes, activities like paddleboarding, water slides, and snorkeling are family-friendly, with many reviews mentioning kids having a fantastic time.

What should I bring?
Though snorkeling gear, towels, and beach mats are provided, it’s a good idea to bring sunscreen, a hat, and a waterproof camera for capturing the fun.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Less notice means no refund.

Is Maya Bay included?
Yes, Maya Bay is part of the itinerary, but note that it’s seasonally closed from August 1st, so the tour may substitute other beautiful beaches during that time.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 75 travelers, ensuring plenty of space and a lively but not overcrowded atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

This speed catamaran tour in Phuket offers a compelling mix of comfort, adventure, and authentic island charm. The luxury vessel, combined with well-planned stops at iconic islands, makes for a memorable day—whether you’re snorkeling coral reefs, relaxing on pristine beaches, or enjoying Thai cuisine.

The guides’ friendliness and professionalism shine through in reviews, making the trip feel more personalized and fun. With a great value price point and inclusive amenities, this tour is a solid choice for travelers who want to maximize their island time without sacrificing comfort.

While weather can sometimes cause hiccups, the flexible policies and comprehensive experience make it worth considering for your next Phuket adventure. Perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends, it’s a day you’re unlikely to forget.

In summary, this tour is best suited for those seeking a hassle-free, comfortable, and activity-packed day. It’s well-balanced for travelers who appreciate good organization, excellent guides, and a variety of fun water-based activities. If that sounds like your ideal day in Phuket, you’ll likely find this experience worth every baht.