Phi Phi Islands Snorkeling Tour with 7 Stops & Lunch from Phuket

Introduction

If you’re eyeing a full-day escape to the breathtaking Phi Phi Islands from Phuket, this snorkeling tour with 7 stops and lunch promises a well-rounded experience. From the moment you arrive at the pier, you’ll notice the friendly atmosphere and the promise of adventure. While some guests have reported mixed experiences, most appreciate the stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and good value for the price.

We like how this tour covers multiple iconic spots—Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and the Viking Cave—giving you a taste of everything, from snorkeling and swimming to island exploration. The inclusion of hotel pickup and lunch makes it a practical choice for those wanting a hassle-free day. The main consideration? The tour can be quite packed, so if you’re looking for quiet solitude, this might not be the ideal outing. Still, for travelers seeking a comprehensive day trip with plenty of opportunities, this tour could be just right.

This tour is perfect for those who want to see the highlights of Phi Phi, enjoy some snorkeling, and sample delicious Thai cuisine—all in one affordable package. If you thrive on a lively atmosphere, with plenty of beautiful scenery and good company, this experience could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary with 7 stops, including snorkeling, island exploration, and iconic sights.
• Affordable price point around $58.40 per person, offering good value considering the stops and included lunch.
• Expert guides and attentive staff enhance the overall experience, with some reviewers highlighting specific guides like Dee Dee and Amy.
• Stunning scenery at spots like Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Viking Cave offers excellent photo opportunities.
• Hassle-free logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off in Phuket, saving you time and effort.
• Variable experiences—some guests had memorable days, while others faced issues like overcrowding or buffet quality.

The Full Breakdown of the Tour

Starting Point and Early Morning Routine

The adventure begins at the Sea Angel Cruise Terminal in Phuket, where you’ll be greeted by friendly staff and offered a light breakfast with tea or coffee. This small touch sets a relaxed tone and helps you gear up for a day of exploration. The tour typically starts early, around the time you’re ready to leave Phuket’s bustling shores behind.

The First Stop: Wat Koh Sirey

This stop is a quick, 1-hour visit mainly for orientation and photos. It’s a chance to see local life and get a glimpse of the area before heading out to the islands. The included admission ticket makes this a smooth start, and many first-timers appreciate the peaceful introduction to the region.

Ko Phi Phi Lee: The Iconic Island

Next, you’ll cruise towards Ko Phi Phi Lee, which is often considered the heart of the Phi Phi islands. This leg lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes. While there’s no separate admission fee, you’ll get to see the island’s rugged cliffs and lush surroundings from the boat, setting the scene for the day ahead. Expect plenty of photo opportunities of Maya Bay, one of the most famous beaches globally thanks to its role in the movie “The Beach.”

Snorkeling at Loh Samah Bay

After cruising past Maya Bay, your group will stop at Loh Samah Bay for snorkeling. This is often highlighted as a favorite part of the trip—thanks to the vibrant coral reefs and the chance to swim among tropical fish. One reviewer notes, “Discover vast and colorful coral reefs home to a variety of tropical fish,” which makes it clear why snorkeling here is a highlight. The calm, warm water makes this accessible even for beginners. Expect to spend about an hour floating around with your gear, possibly with some expert guidance.

Viking Cave and Cultural Sights

Next, the boat will pass Viking Cave, famous for its ancient paintings and bird nests. While many guests only stop briefly here, the cave adds an interesting cultural element to the trip. You’ll cruise past Maya Bay again, taking in the views, which many find stunning even from the boat. This part of the tour is more about picture-taking and enjoying the scenery than delving into history, but it’s a neat sight nonetheless.

Lunch on Phi Phi Don

The large island of Phi Phi Don offers about an hour for exploration and relaxation. Here, you’ll enjoy a Thai-style buffet lunch, with some reviews mentioning the good quality of the food and options like cold cuts or even champagne. Many guests appreciate this break, as it provides a chance to stretch, explore the charming cafes, or hike to the viewpoint for panoramic views. One review praises the “delicious Thai-style buffet lunch” and calls the experience “hassle-free,” making it clear this is a good value for the overall trip.

Maya Bay Revisit and Swimming at Pileh Lagoon

After lunch, the boat moves to Maya Bay again—this time for a quick visit. The beauty of Maya Bay, with its towering cliffs and clear waters, is often described as postcard-perfect. Following this, you’ll head to Pileh Lagoon, where you’ll jump into the warm water for a relaxing swim. This lagoon, encircled by limestone cliffs, offers a peaceful moment to unwind and take in the stunning surroundings. Many reviewers mention the “relaxing swimming stop,” which is a perfect way to cool off after a busy morning.

Final Stop: Pileh Bay

The day concludes with a final swim or snorkel at Pileh Bay, giving you one last chance to enjoy the vibrant marine life and breathtaking scenery. This stop typically lasts about an hour, allowing ample time for photos and relaxing in the lagoon’s calm waters.

Return Journey to Phuket

The trip wraps up with a speedboat ride back to Phuket, offering about 1.5 hours to reflect on the day before being transferred back to your hotel. Many guests find this a relaxing end to a full day of adventure, although some note that the return trip can be tiring after a long day.

What Travelers Can Expect from the Experience

Transportation and Group Size

The tour is operated by Sea Angel Boat Trip, with a maximum of 35 travelers, which strikes a good balance between a social group and manageable crowds. The speedboat is the main mode of transport, offering a quick and exciting way to hop between islands. Reviewers mention that guides like Dee Dee and Amy are energetic, knowledgeable, and helpful, making the trip more engaging.

Duration and Timing

The entire tour lasts approximately 9 hours, with most of that time spent on the water and at various stops. Starting early and returning late means you’ll get plenty of time to see the major sights without feeling rushed. The flexible schedule allows for snorkel breaks, sightseeing, and a delicious lunch.

Cost and Value

At around $58.40 per person, this tour offers solid value considering the multiple stops, snorkeling gear, park fees, and lunch included. While some reviews mention the buffet could be better, most agree that the overall experience—stunning scenery, helpful guides, and hassle-free logistics—makes it worth the price.

Potential Drawbacks

A few guests have expressed dissatisfaction with overcrowding or the buffet quality. One review vividly described an experience of being “stuck in the hull of an overpacked speed boat” and missing some parts of the tour. Therefore, if you’re sensitive to crowds or gourmet food, this might be a consideration. However, for many, the highlights outweigh these issues, especially if you’re prepared for a lively, energetic day.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

A recurring theme among positive reviews is the presence of guides who go above and beyond. For instance, “Tourguide Amie was great and funny,” and “Spicy,” another guide, was praised for her energy and photography skills. These personal touches elevate what could be a standard tour into a memorable day.

On the flip side, some travelers felt the tour was too crowded or that the buffet and boat conditions didn’t meet expectations. One reviewer mentioned ending up at a fast-food joint instead of the buffet, illustrating how unpredictable the experience can sometimes be.

Despite these mixed reviews, most agree that the scenery, snorkeling, and overall organization tend to shine through. The inclusion of park fees and snorkel equipment in the price also means fewer hidden costs, which is a plus when budgeting.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers who want a full-day adventure with plenty of iconic sights, good snorkeling, and a taste of Thai cuisine. It’s ideal for those who don’t mind a lively crowd and are happy to spend most of the day on a boat. If you’re looking for peaceful solitude, this might not be the best fit. However, if you enjoy social atmospheres, stunning views, and a well-organized itinerary, you’ll likely find this tour rewarding.

The Sum Up

In essence, this Phi Phi Islands snorkeling tour offers a comprehensive, fun, and reasonably priced way to explore some of Thailand’s most famous spots. With expert guides, beautiful scenery, and included meals, it delivers solid value. While the experience might be a bit crowded at times and the buffet could vary in quality, the majority of travelers will enjoy the balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural sights.

It’s a good pick for those who want an active, full-day excursion packed with photo-worthy moments and snorkeling opportunities. If you’re craving a lively atmosphere with friendly guides and stunning views, this tour will likely leave you with plenty of memorable moments—and perhaps a few good stories to tell.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, from pickup in Phuket to drop-off back at your hotel.

What is included in the price?
Park fees, snorkeling equipment, lunch with soft drinks, and hotel transfers in Phuket are included.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
Personal expenses, such as souvenirs or additional snacks, are not included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but check with the provider if you have very young children or special needs.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and a waterproof camera. The tour provides snorkeling gear, but you might prefer your own mask and snorkel.

Can I snorkel at each stop?
Yes, snorkeling is available at Loh Samah Bay and Pileh Lagoon, with some stops specifically designated for underwater exploration.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel transfers are provided in Patong, Kata, Karon, and Phuket Town.

How crowded does this tour get?
With a maximum of 35 travelers, it’s relatively manageable, though some reviews mention it can get quite busy, especially at popular stops.

Whether you’re after the chance to snorkel in crystal waters, explore famous beaches, or simply enjoy a day on the water with good food and friendly guides, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to tick off the highlights of the Phi Phi Islands.