Phuket Phi Phi Island and Khai Island Snorkeling Tour with Lunch

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and picture-perfect beaches, a day trip from Phuket to the Phi Phi Islands and Khai Island could be just what you need. This tour, offered by PINK DUGONG, promises a blend of snorkeling, sightseeing, and relaxing on some of Thailand’s most iconic islands. We’ve gathered all the details to help you decide if this experience matches your travel style and expectations.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it offers a well-rounded mix of activities—snorkeling, beach relaxation, and a delicious Thai lunch. Second, it’s praised for the knowledgeable guides and stunning views, which elevate the experience beyond just data points. Lastly, the inclusion of hotel pickup and all necessary equipment makes it convenient and stress-free.

However, one thing to consider is the tour’s pace—it’s quite full-packed, which might leave some wishing for longer snorkeling stops or leisure time. That said, if you’re after a comprehensive day exploring the best of Phuket’s nearby islands, this could be an ideal choice. The tour suits travelers looking for an active day with plenty of opportunities to swim, capture photos, and enjoy nature in a relaxed group setting.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines snorkeling, sightseeing, and a Thai lunch, making it great value.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: Multiple stops at top spots like Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach.
• Excellent Guides: Known for professional, friendly guides who enhance the trip.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup, shared speedboat, and all necessary gear included.
• Limited Snorkeling Time: Reviews suggest snorkeling is a highlight but could feel rushed.
• Suitable for Moderate Fitness: Requires some walking, swimming, and physical activity but manageable for most.

An In-Depth Look at the Phuket Phi Phi and Khai Island Snorkeling Tour

The Booking & Planning Process

Starting at a price of $88.05 per person, this tour provides good value considering the full day of activities and inclusions. It’s popular, with bookings averaging 70 days in advance, so planning ahead is wise if you want to secure a spot. The company, PINK DUGONG, offers convenient hotel pickup around key areas like Patong, Kata, Karon, Chalong, and Phuket Town, which is a big plus for hassle-free travel. The tour lasts roughly 7 hours, from morning pickup to late afternoon return, making it a manageable day trip for most travelers.

The Journey Begins: Pickup & Departure

The tour kicks off early, with pickups starting around 7:15 AM. The transport is comfortable and timed to ensure a smooth transition to Sangrat Pier, where you’ll enjoy a quick snack and coffee while the team checks your paperwork. From there, it’s a short boat ride to the first stop, Phi Phi Leh, which is famed for its stunning scenery.

Phi Phi Leh & Maya Bay

Your first stop is at the legendary Maya Bay, made famous by the film “The Beach.” The bay’s high cliffs and white sand are picture-perfect, and the water clarity makes it ideal for snorkeling and taking photos. The tour allocates about 2 hours and 30 minutes here, giving plenty of time to relax on the beach or explore Pileh Lagoon with its shallow and deep-sea coral gardens.

A reviewer, Germaine_B, shared that the snorkeling was a highlight, mentioning she saw a baby black fin shark among vibrant fish and corals. She appreciated the professionalism of the guides, who helped ensure everyone could enjoy the underwater sights safely. Keep in mind, Maya Bay is closed from August 1 to September 30, 2023, so check the schedule before booking.

Viking Cave & Snorkeling

Next, the boat moves to Viking Cave, where you’ll snap photos of the ancient wall paintings and snorkel near the cave with an experienced guide. The stop lasts about 45 minutes, a good length to explore underwater life without feeling rushed. Reviewers note guides are very helpful, making sure everyone gets good views of the cave’s interesting features.

Lunch at Phi Phi Don

Around 12:45 PM, you’ll land on Phi Phi Don for a Thai lunch at Chao Koh Restaurant overlooking Tonsai Bay. The meal is included and offers a chance to recharge before more adventures. The time here is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, enough for a leisurely meal and a quick stroll along the beach.

Monkey Beach & Khai Island

The next stop is Monkey Beach, where the tour spends 1 hour and 20 minutes. Visitors often enjoy snapping photos with the monkeys, who roam freely in their natural habitat. Guests like Germaine_B mention enjoying snorkeling and swimming near Phi Phi Don, with the added thrill of observing monkeys up close.

Finally, heading to Khai Nok Island, you get about 1 hour and 10 minutes to relax on pristine white sands, swim, or snorkel. The island’s calm waters are perfect for unwinding after a busy morning.

Returning to Phuket

The trip wraps up around 4:30 PM, with the boat heading back to Phuket, arriving at the pier by 5:00 PM, just in time for a relaxed evening. The transfer back to your hotel is included, ensuring a stress-free end to your day.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour covers essentials like snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, life jackets, and accident insurance—all critical for a worry-free day. Fresh seasonal fruits and soft drinks are also included, plus a hearty Thai lunch.

However, some personal expenses such as towels, fins, or longtail boats at Pileh Lagoon are not included, so bringing your own or planning to rent on-site might be worth considering. The national park entrance fee for foreigners (400 Baht for adults) is covered in the tour price, which is a nice bonus.

Authentic Experiences & Practical Tips

This trip is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of activity and relaxation. The guides are praised for their professionalism, making the snorkeling stops enjoyable. One reviewer mentioned wishing they had longer snorkeling time, so if underwater exploration is your priority, consider the pace of your day.

On the logistics side, the group size is capped at 30 travelers, ensuring more personal attention from guides. The early start means you’ll beat some of the crowds, especially at popular spots like Maya Bay.

Travelers with moderate physical fitness will find the activities manageable—expect some walking, swimming, and standing at different stops. Bringing a waterproof camera or phone case is recommended to capture the stunning visuals.

The Experience on the Water

The shared speedboat offers a smooth ride between islands, with some guests noting the guides’ expertise in navigating the waters and pointing out interesting sights. The boat’s open design allows for great views and photo opportunities, especially when passing through narrow channels or near cliffs.

The Highlight: Snorkeling & Marine Life

The underwater stops are what many travelers rave about. The clarity of the water and the vibrancy of the coral reefs make even a short session memorable. The chance to see a baby black fin shark as mentioned in a review adds an element of excitement and authenticity to the trip.

The Food & Leisure Time

The included Thai lunch at Chao Koh Restaurant offers local flavors with a view, and the ample time at Khai Island allows for pure relaxation. The beaches here are quiet and clean, perfect for soaking up the sun or dipping into the calm waters.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see some of Thailand’s most stunning islands without the hassle of organizing multiple bookings. It’s particularly good for those who value professional guides and want a well-paced, full-day itinerary.

It suits families, couples, or groups of friends looking for shared fun and photo opportunities, especially if marine life and snorkeling are priorities. Those who prefer a more leisurely pace or longer snorkeling sessions might find the schedule a bit tight but will still enjoy the highlights.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this Phuket snorkeling tour offers a fantastic window into Thailand’s natural beauty, combining iconic sights like Maya Bay with vibrant underwater life at Viking Cave and Khai Island. The well-organized logistics and inclusive pricing make it a practical choice for those wanting a comprehensive day trip with minimal fuss.

While the pace might feel a bit brisk for those craving long leisure periods, the variety of stops and the expertise of the guides ensure you’ll come away with plenty of memorable moments. The tour’s emphasis on safety, comfort, and authentic experiences makes it a reliable option for travelers eager to explore without the stress of planning every detail.

Perfect for active explorers who want to maximize their island experience and enjoy the natural beauty and marine life of Phuket’s nearby islands.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with hotel pickups around 7:15 AM, with the actual start at the pier around 9:30 AM.

How long is the total tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, from pickup to return to the hotel in the late afternoon.

Is snorkeling equipment included?
Yes, all snorkeling gear, including life jackets and paddleboards, are provided for use.

Are meals included?
Yes, a Thai lunch at Chao Koh Restaurant is part of the package, along with seasonal fruits and soft drinks.

Can I expect to see marine animals?
Many guests have reported seeing colorful fish, coral reefs, and occasionally sharks, like the baby black fin shark.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a waterproof camera or phone case, and a towel if you want to dry off easily after swimming.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 3 are free, and the tour is generally suited for those with moderate physical fitness.

Are there any restrictions on Maya Bay?
Yes, Maya Bay is closed from August 1 to September 30, 2023, so check availability when booking.

How many people are on the tour?
The group is capped at 30 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Weather cancellations are also covered, with options for rescheduling or full refunds.

This detailed review aims to give you all the insights needed to decide if this snorkeling adventure fits your travel plans. With a balance of stunning scenery, engaging activities, and expert guides, it’s a day that promises both fun and unforgettable views in Phuket.