Phi Phi Islands One Day Tour By Ferry From Phuket

Discovering the Phi Phi Islands in a Day: A Balanced Look at the Phuket Ferry Tour

A trip to Thailand isn’t complete without experiencing the stunning Phi Phi Islands. While many travelers dream of island-hopping adventures, not all tours deliver on value or authenticity. Today, we’re reviewing the Phi Phi Islands One Day Tour By Ferry From Phuket, to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your travel plans.

What we love about this tour? First, the easy pickup and drop-off from Phuket make logistics simple. Second, the views from the ferry—including iconic sights like Maya Bay and Viking Cave—are genuinely impressive, especially for first-timers. Third, lunch and snorkeling gear are included, making it convenient and cost-effective.

However, there’s a noteworthy consideration: according to reviews, the tour’s limited beach access and short snorkeling window may leave some travelers feeling a bit rushed or underwhelmed. This tour is best suited for those who want a quick, affordable introduction to the Phi Phi Islands without the need for multiple days or high-end luxury.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Convenient transfer options make planning easier for Phuket visitors.
• Sightseeing from the ferry offers a good overview of Phi Phi landmarks.
• Inclusion of lunch and snorkeling gear adds value.
• Limited beach access and time constraints might not satisfy those seeking extensive beach days.
• Tour duration of 8-9 hours is perfect for a full-day escape.
• Open to most travelers but not recommended for pregnant women or those with certain health conditions.

An In-Depth Look at the Phi Phi Islands Day Tour

Planning a trip to Phi Phi Islands can be overwhelming, with many options available. This particular tour, offered by Oh-Hoo, promises a comprehensive day trip from Phuket, combining sightseeing, snorkeling, and good food. Let’s explore what this experience really entails.

How the Tour Begins: Seamless Transfers and Early Start

The day kicks off early—between 7:00 and 7:15 am—with shared van pickup from select Phuket areas. For travelers staying nearby, this chore is made simple, saving time and avoiding the hassle of navigating to the pier independently. The tour’s round-trip ferry transfer ensures you won’t need to worry about separate bookings, notably including both standard and premium options, with the latter offering a lounge and additional perks.

The Ferry Ride: Scenic Views and Landmark Sightseeing

The ferry ride from Phuket to Phi Phi is about 1.5 hours long. During this time, you’ll cruise past notable sights such as Viking Cave, Pileh Cove, Loh Samah Bay, and Maya Bay—famous worldwide for its movie fame and dramatic cliffs. According to reviews, the view from the ferry is quite nice, with some travelers noting that the boat’s large windows allow for good sightseeing without the need to disembark immediately.

One traveler remarked, “Transfer was on time. View was nice but with ferry you cannot visit beaches except one,” emphasizing that while the ferry offers fantastic views, it limits beach access to only one stop. The ferry’s onboard commentary, led by an English-speaking guide, adds context but doesn’t replace the experience of being on the actual beaches.

The Stops on Phi Phi Don: Snorkeling, Lunch, and Free Time

Upon arrival at Phi Phi Don, the main island, you’ll get a chance to swim and snorkel in the clear waters—an activity that’s included with free rental of masks and snorkels. The waters around Phi Phi are known for their tropical fish, and many reviews highlight the short but enjoyable snorkeling window (about an hour). As one reviewer pointed out, “We had just one hour time for snorkeling at that beach,” which might feel rushed for those eager to explore more underwater.

Lunch is served at a local island restaurant. The tour offers a buffet-style meal with seafood options, which travelers often find satisfying. The included refreshments—tea, coffee, and soft drinks—add to the comfort.

After lunch, guests enjoy a few hours of free time to explore the island or relax. Again, the experience is somewhat limited in scope—there isn’t extensive beach or island exploration, but enough time to soak in the atmosphere. Some travelers might feel that the limited beach access and short snorkeling window don’t fully satisfy those looking for a more relaxed or immersive experience.

Additional Notes: Transparency on Costs and Restrictions

It’s important to note that National Park Entrance Fees (THB 400 for adults, THB 200 for children) are not included in the basic ticket price and must be paid in cash during the tour. This can be a surprise if not prepared, so it’s wise to carry some extra cash.

The tour also offers different classes—Standard, First, and Premium. The Premium class includes an exclusive lounge, seafood buffet, and the Park Entrance Fee, making it more comfortable and premium, albeit at a higher cost.

The Downside: Limited Beach Access and Short Duration

While the tour covers the major sights, some reviews express disappointment about the limited beach time. A traveler commented, “You cannot visit beaches except one,” and with just about an hour for snorkeling, the opportunity to really enjoy the beaches is constrained. If you’re the type who dreams of lounging on soft sands or exploring many beaches, this tour might feel a bit hurried.

Another point to consider is the overall rating, with some travelers feeling it was “not special,” primarily due to the tight schedule and limited beach access. This highlights that while the tour offers the essentials, it may not satisfy those seeking a more leisurely or immersive island experience.

Does the Price Match the Experience?

At around $50 per person, this tour is quite affordable for a full day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and dining. It’s a good value if you’re short on time or prefer an organized, no-fuss experience. However, for those wanting more beach and underwater exploration, it might be worth considering other options that extend the time on the islands or include additional activities.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This trip is ideal for first-time visitors who want a quick look at the Phi Phi Islands without breaking the bank. It’s also suitable for those who prefer organized transportation and guided sightseeing over planning their own island day.

If you’re more interested in relaxing on the beaches or taking long underwater photos, you might find this tour lacking. It’s a good choice for travelers with limited time or those who simply want a straightforward, affordable introduction to Phi Phi.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Phi Phi Islands One Day Tour by Ferry from Phuket offers a solid, budget-friendly experience with memorable sights and included meals. The convenience of transfer and the scenic ferry ride make it attractive, especially for travelers who prioritize a no-hassle day trip.

However, the tour’s main limitations—short snorkeling periods, limited beach access, and a packed schedule—mean it’s not the best fit if you’re craving a relaxed, beach-heavy adventure. The inclusion of delicious food and snorkeling gear makes it a good value, but if you’re eager to spend more time on the sand or underwater, consider other options.

In essence, this tour works well for those looking for a quick, guided overview of Phi Phi’s highlights, especially if you’re okay with a somewhat fast-paced day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, the tour offers shared van transfers from select Phuket areas, making logistics easier for most travelers.

How long is the ferry ride from Phuket to Phi Phi?
The ferry trip takes approximately 1.5 hours, providing scenic views of landmarks like Maya Bay and Viking Cave.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers round-trip ferry transfer, lunch, snorkeling gear rental, an English-speaking guide, accident insurance, and different seating classes.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, the National Park Entrance Fee (THB 400 for adults) is not included in the ticket and must be paid in cash during the tour.

Is there enough time for snorkeling?
Most travelers get about an hour for snorkeling, which some find too brief. The focus is more on sightseeing and the experience of being on the water.

Can I explore multiple beaches on this tour?
No; the ferry stops at only one beach for snorkeling and swimming, limiting the beach exploration options.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 4-11 can participate, but those under 120 cm in height must be aware of the physical demands. Pregnant women or guests with certain health issues are advised against joining.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 100 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable group.

To sum it up, this ferry-based Phi Phi Islands trip is a practical, affordable way to see some of the most iconic sights. It’s perfect for travelers who value convenience, beautiful views, and good food in a single day. If relaxation and extensive beach time are what you crave, you might want to explore longer or more flexible options. But for a straightforward, scenic day out, this tour provides a solid, no-frills experience.