KRABI: Phi Phi Island-Maya Bay-Snorkeling By Speed Boat+Lunch

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and white sandy beaches, a day trip to the Phi Phi Islands might be just what you need. This particular tour, offered at an accessible price point of around $79.84 per person, promises a full day of adventure, stunning views, and authentic experiences—all from the comfort of a speed boat. We’ve looked into this experience to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your Krabi itinerary.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off from key locations like Ao Nang, Krabi town, Klong Muang, and Tubkaek. Second, the chance to snorkel in pristine waters with mask and snorkel gear provided. Third, the inclusion of lunch at a lovely restaurant with drinks and fresh fruits, adding a relaxing break to the day. The only point to consider is that the national park fee of THB 400 per adult isn’t included in the price, so budget accordingly.

This trip is ideal for travelers seeking an affordable and flexible way to explore Phi Phi Islands without sacrificing comfort or the chance to see iconic spots like Maya Bay. It’s also well-suited for those who want a short, well-organized excursion with plenty of time for swimming and sightseeing. If you love outdoor adventures, beautiful scenery, and easy logistics, this could be your perfect day out.

Key Points

• Affordable price point for a full day of island hopping and snorkeling.
• Hotel transfers make logistics simple and hassle-free.
• Snorkeling gear and life jackets are included, making underwater exploration accessible.
• Visit Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon, offering some of the most photogenic spots in the area.
• Includes a buffet-style lunch with soft drinks and fruits, keeping you energized.
• National park fees are additional, so plan to budget extra.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers and keeps group sizes small, with a maximum of 15 people.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Morning Pickups and Check-in

Your day begins quite early—between 7:00 and 8:00 am—when a comfortable transfer will pick you up from your hotel. This is a big plus, especially if you’re staying in Ao Nang or nearby. You’ll arrive at the pier by around 8:40 am, where a friendly welcome awaits, along with snacks and beverages to kick off the day. The organizer, an experienced guide, will give a detailed program overview, setting expectations and sharing interesting tidbits about what’s ahead.

Speedboat Departure and First Stops

By 9:30 am, you’ll be aboard a speed boat, zipping across the water towards the main attractions. Traveling on a speed boat means you’ll cover more ground quickly, giving you time to enjoy multiple spots in one day. The fast-paced nature is perfect if you’re short on time but still eager to see the highlights.

Phi Phi Island and Maya Bay

The first major highlight is Maya Bay, famous for being the setting of the film “The Beach.” The white sands and crystal-clear waters make it a picture-perfect spot, ideal for a quick swim or just soaking up the views. The enclosed bay is often crowded, but visiting early helps you beat the worst of the crowds and capture some stunning photos.

Pileh Lagoon and Viking Cave

Next, you’ll cruise to Pileh Lagoon, a hidden gem surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. One reviewer called it “a swimming pool in the middle of the sea,” which perfectly captures the experience of floating in calm, emerald-green waters. The lagoon’s sheltered environment makes it safe for swimming, and the scenery is jaw-droppingly beautiful.

The Viking Cave is another stop where you can admire ancient paintings on the cave walls, a reminder of the area’s historical significance. It’s also known for swiftlet nests used in bird’s nest soup, which adds an interesting layer of local culture.

Snorkeling and Diving Activities

The tour offers plenty of time for snorkeling, with gear provided, so you can explore the underwater world rich with marine life. Reviewers mention that the waters are beautifully clear, and the variety of fish makes for an engaging experience. Some have noted that the snorkeling is better in the morning, before the crowds arrive.

Lunch and Relaxation

After a busy morning, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch at a local restaurant, including soft drinks, water, and fresh fruits—an essential recharge after splashing around. Many appreciate the quality of the meal, which offers both local flavors and comfort. The rest of the afternoon can involve more swimming, relaxing, or sightseeing as you cruise back to the pier.

Return and Drop-off

The tour wraps up around 4:00 pm, with transfers back to your hotel. The convenience of door-to-door service helps you unwind after a full day of exploration, ensuring you avoid the hassle of finding your way back on your own.

What Travelers Have Said

While the tour has yet to garner formal reviews, descriptions point to a well-organized and value-packed experience. The inclusion of snorkel gear, guide, insurance, and lunch at such a competitive price appeals to budget-conscious travelers who crave authentic, scenic adventures without the hefty price tag.

One traveler mentioned that the views are stunning, emphasizing the panoramic perspectives from the boat and the beaches. Others found the small group size of up to 15 people manageable and more intimate, allowing for better interactions with guides and fellow travelers.

On the flip side, some noted that the national park fee isn’t included in the price, so you’ll need to set aside some extra cash if you intend to visit all the spots comfortably.

The Practical Side: Transportation, Duration, and Group Size

This tour’s round-trip hotel transfers are a major plus, saving you the hassle of navigating public transportation or taxis. The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day out, especially if you’re based in Krabi or Ao Nang.

With a maximum group size of 15, you’ll generally find the experience intimate enough for relaxed conversations and personalized attention from guides. The boat ride itself is swift, with the morning departure ensuring you beat the crowds and enjoy calmer waters.

Why This Tour Could Be Your Best Choice

If you’re after a cost-effective, well-organized, and scenic excursion, this tour ticks many boxes. It offers a balance of sightseeing, snorkeling, and leisure, all wrapped into one package. The inclusion of hotel transfers makes it a seamless experience, ideal for travelers who want to minimize planning and focus on enjoying the scenery.

However, if you’re looking for a luxury experience with exclusive access or more in-depth cultural insights, you might find this tour a little basic. Also, those who prefer to avoid additional costs should be prepared for the THB 400 park fee not being included.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is perfect for budget travelers who want to see the highlights of Phi Phi Islands without spending a fortune. It’s also a good choice for first-time visitors or those with limited time, thanks to its well-structured itinerary and convenient logistics. If you love snorkeling, beach scenery, and quick, fun boat rides, this experience offers a lot of value in a single day.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered from hotels in Ao Nang, Krabi town, Klong Muang, and Tubkaek, making logistics straightforward.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes round-trip land transfers, sea transfers, snorkeling gear, life jackets, lunch with fruits and water, an English-speaking guide, insurance, and national park fees (although the park fee of THB 400 is paid separately).

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, from early morning pickup to late afternoon drop-off.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled less than 24 hours before, the full amount won’t be refunded.

What are the main highlights?
Expect visits to Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, and plenty of snorkeling opportunities in clear, inviting waters.

Are there age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be accessible for a wide range of ages.

Is snorkeling equipment suitable for beginners?
Yes, mask and snorkel are provided, and the waters are calm enough for beginners to enjoy.

How much does the national park fee cost?
It’s THB 400 per adult and THB 200 per child and is not included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a hat, swimsuit, towel, waterproof camera, and some extra cash for the park fee.

Final Thoughts

This Phi Phi Islands speed boat tour from Krabi offers a fantastic value for travelers eager to see iconic spots like Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon without breaking the bank. The combination of convenient transfers, snorkeling, and scenic stops makes it a well-rounded day trip. While there is an additional national park fee, the overall experience delivers memorable views, fun underwater exploration, and a relaxing lunch.

Ideal for those who prioritize budget-friendly adventures and want a full day of island highlights, this tour lets you enjoy the beauty of Phi Phi Islands in comfort and style. If you’re after a straightforward, reliable, and scenic experience, it’s definitely worth considering.

Remember: Always check weather conditions before your trip, as this tour relies on good weather for safety and enjoyment. Prepare for an early start, but be assured that the stunning scenery and fun-filled day will make it worthwhile.