Phi Phi Island Enjoy Snorkeling & Colourful Fishes From Phuket

If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and iconic scenery, the Phi Phi Islands are a must-see when visiting Thailand. This full-day guided tour by speedboat from Phuket promises an exciting mix of snorkeling, sightseeing, and relaxing on some of the most photogenic beaches in the region. While we haven’t done this particular tour ourselves, reviews and detailed itineraries give us a clear idea of what to expect.

What makes this experience especially appealing are the stunning views, well-organized schedule, and the chance to explore multiple islands in one day. We love that it includes lunch, snacks, and drinks, making it a hassle-free day of adventure. The round-trip transfers from select parts of Phuket also add to its convenience.

However, one point to consider is that the tour lasts around 8 to 9 hours, which might be long for very young children or travelers with limited stamina. This tour would suit those who enjoy active days, snorkeling enthusiasts, and travelers eager to see the iconic sights of Phi Phi without the hassle of organizing transport and meals themselves.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering major Phi Phi islands and beaches
• All-inclusive with lunch, snacks, beverages, and snorkeling gear
• Convenient pickup and drop-off from Phuket
• Ideal for active travelers who love snorkeling and island scenery
• Moderate group size, max 30 travelers, providing a more personal experience
• Weather-dependent; cancellations for poor weather are possible but full refunds or rescheduling are available

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Departure

The adventure begins bright and early at Asia Marina Port in Phuket at 7:30 am. The tour offers round-trip transfers from select Phuket locations, simplifying logistics and saving you the hassle of organizing transport. The group size is capped at 30 travelers, which strikes a balance between feeling like a guided experience and avoiding overcrowding.

The Speedboat Ride

Traveling by speedboat is a highlight in itself. The swift vessel whisks you across the water, often feeling like a short thrill ride. It’s a quick way to reach the islands, so you’ll spend more time exploring and less on transit. The boat is equipped with life jackets, masks, and snorkels, crucial gear that makes your underwater exploration straightforward and safe.

Stops and Highlights

Ratsada (Departure Point)

The tour kicks off at VCG9+238 Ratsada, where you’ll check in and board your boat. Expect about 30 minutes navigating through the waters before reaching your first stop.

Loh Samah Bay

Your first stop offers a chance to snap photos of the stunning scenery. This bay’s rocky formations and clear water make it a perfect intro to the islands’ beauty, with about 30 minutes to take in the views and enjoy some light snorkeling.

Maya Bay

Arguably the star of the tour, Maya Bay is famous worldwide thanks to the movie “The Beach.” Here, you’ll get around 30 minutes to admire the towering cliffs and pristine sands. It’s worth noting that Maya Bay can be crowded, but early visits like this usually help beat the biggest crowds.

Pileh Bay

Next, you’ll visit Pileh Bay for about 30 minutes, where the turquoise waters invite you for jumping and swimming. The calm, sheltered waters are excellent for snorkeling or just lounging with a view of the cliffs above.

Viking Cave

A quick stop at Viking Cave offers a fascinating peek into local history and snorkeling opportunities. The cave is famous for its ancient paintings and swift swifts nesting inside, making it a photo-worthy stop.

Phi Phi Don & Lunch

Lunchtime takes place at the Andaman Beach Resort on Koh Phi Phi Don. For about two hours, you get time to enjoy a buffet meal, relax on the beach, or explore a bit on your own. Reviewers mention the meal as well-organized and plentiful, providing a good energy boost for the afternoon.

Monkey Beach

Post-lunch, about 30 minutes are allocated for visiting Monkey Beach. As the name suggests, expect to see lively monkeys and perhaps some snorkeling with vibrant fish in the shallow waters.

Khai Nok Island

Your last stop is at Khai Nok Island, a small, gorgeous beach ideal for relaxing, swimming, and snorkeling. The crystal waters and soft sands make it a perfect spot to unwind before heading back.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour covers all the essentials: guidance in English, snorkeling gear, life insurance, and round-trip transfers. The lunch, fruits, and beverages ensure you’re fueled for the day.

Not included are tips, personal expenses, and the national park fee of 400 THB per adult (200 THB per child), payable at the entrance. This fee is typical of many Thai national parks, and travelers should be prepared for it.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the well-organized nature of the tour. One mentioned, “Very well organized and very friendly staff that looked after us from beginning to end,” highlighting the professionalism of the crew. The stunning views and the variety of stops, especially Maya Bay and Khai Nok Island, receive frequent praise for their scenery.

Some travelers noted that the long day can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to spending extended hours on the water or in the sun. Yet, many felt the value for money was excellent, considering the number of stops, included meals, and snorkeling gear.

Practical Tips

• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses; it can get hot on the boat and beaches.
• Consider bringing a dry bag to keep your valuables safe during water activities.
• The national park fee must be paid separately; ensure you have cash on hand.
• If you’re pregnant or have certain health conditions, this tour might not be suitable, so check the restrictions beforehand.
• The tour isn’t recommended for guests traveling by large boats or ferries, so plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This guided day trip is perfect for snorkeling lovers, photo enthusiasts, and those wanting to tick off iconic Thai scenery in a single day. It’s a great choice for travelers who prefer the convenience of organized transfers, meals, and gear all included.

If you’re eager to see Maya Bay’s famous scenery and enjoy multiple beaches in one outing, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy active days outdoors but also want some downtime on beautiful beaches.

Final Thoughts

The Phi Phi Island Snorkeling Tour from Phuket offers a fantastic blend of scenery, marine life, and convenience. With stops at world-famous spots like Maya Bay and quiet bays perfect for swimming or relaxing, it’s a trip that promises plenty of memorable moments. The inclusion of lunch, snacks, and transfers makes it a good value for the price, especially considering the accessibility and ease it provides.

While it’s a full day that might test some, the stunning views and variety of activities usually make it worthwhile. If you’re looking for a balanced, well-organized adventure that captures the essence of the Phi Phi Islands, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:30 am at Asia Marina Port in Phuket.

Are transfers included?
Yes, round-trip transfers from select Phuket locations are included, making pickup and drop-off straightforward.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, life jackets, masks, and snorkels are included, so you don’t need to bring your own.

How long is the lunch break?
Lunch at Phi Phi Don’s Andaman Beach Resort lasts about 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to eat and relax.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour caps at 30 travelers, balancing group intimacy with a lively atmosphere.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. The tour requires good weather, and cancellations due to poor weather will be fully refunded or rescheduled.

This day trip offers a well-rounded, scenic, and activity-packed experience ideal for those eager to explore the best of Phi Phi’s famous islands without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.