Explore Phi Phi Islands Speed Boat Day Tour from Krabi

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and picture-perfect beaches, then a speedboat tour of the Phi Phi Islands from Krabi might be on your radar. While this particular tour offers a convenient way to visit multiple highlights in a single day, it’s worth looking beyond the glossy brochure to understand what you’re signing up for.

We’ll explore what makes this tour appealing — including its intimate group size, scenic stops, and value — but also discuss some of the limitations and things to watch out for. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned island hopper, you’ll get a clear picture of whether this experience fits your style and expectations.

Three things we like about this tour:
– The chance to tick off multiple famous sights in one day
– The inclusion of a buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don
– Round-trip transfers, which simplify logistics

One possible drawback:
– The tour has a mixed review record, with some travelers feeling aspects of the itinerary weren’t fully honored, such as not getting access to all stops.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a cost-effective, guided day trip that packs in key Phi Phi highlights without the hassle of planning individual transportation. If you’re after a quick, scenic overview and enjoy small-group experiences, this could be a good option — just keep expectations realistic.

Key Points

• Small-group tour offers a more personal experience compared to larger boat trips
• Round-trip transfers from Krabi and Ao Nang simplify travel logistics
• Stops at major sites including Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach
• Includes buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don for a relaxed midday break
• Duration is approximately 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day out
• Mixed reviews suggest some experiences may vary depending on the day and guide

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

The Pick-Up and Departure Experience

The day begins early, with pickup from Krabi Town, Klong Muang, or Ao Nang around 8:00 am. This setup is convenient, especially if you’re staying in those areas — no need to worry about arranging your own transport. The ride to the pier is usually smooth, but keep in mind that transfer times are approximate and can fluctuate based on traffic.

Once at the pier, you’ll join a small group of up to 35 travelers, making this a more intimate experience than some larger boat excursions. This group size can mean better interaction with your guide, but it also means the experience might be affected by the individual attitudes and skills of the crew.

The Speedboat Ride: Fast, Fun, and a Little Choppy

Departing around 9:00 am, the speedboat whisks you across the water with a sense of adventure. Speedboats are generally a thrilling way to cover the distance quickly, especially if weather conditions are good. However, they can get a bit bumpy, which might not be suitable for those prone to seasickness or looking for a very smooth ride.

First Stop: Bamboo Island

The first stop is Bamboo Island, renowned for its powder-white sand and calm, clear waters. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to relax on the beach, take photos, or dip your toes in the ocean. Several travelers appreciated the peacefulness of this spot — perfect for a quick chill. One reviewer noted, “It’s a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the beach before the crowds arrive.”

Viking Cave: A Peek into Local Traditions

Next, the tour visits Viking Cave, famous for its ancient wall paintings and the nests harvested for bird’s nest soup. Photography here is popular, and the cave offers a glimpse into local traditions. However, some reviews mention that the visit can be rushed, with limited time to explore or take photos, which might disappoint those wanting a more immersive experience.

Lohsamah Bay and Pileh Bay: Snorkeling Highlights

The itinerary includes Lohsamah Bay, where snorkeling enthusiasts will love the vibrant fish and coral reefs. One reviewer shared, “The snorkeling here was fantastic; the water was so clear I could see all the way to the bottom.” Following this, Pileh Bay offers a tranquil lagoon setting, surrounded by imposing limestone cliffs, perfect for photos or a quick swim.

Maya Bay: The Iconic Attraction

The crown jewel of the tour is Maya Bay, made famous by the movie The Beach. Surrounded by towering limestone mountains and soft white sand, it’s often the highlight for visitors. However, some travelers have expressed frustration with the timing; due to the popularity, access may be restricted or limited, and some tours skip it altogether, citing crowd control issues. One reviewer commented, “We didn’t get to go into Maya Bay because they said it was closed, which was disappointing since that’s what I was looking forward to most.”

Monkey Beach: A Fun and Sometimes Chaotic Stop

Next, the boat stops at Monkey Beach, where you can watch monkeys and explore a relatively deserted stretch of sand. Some guests have noted that the beach can get crowded with other boats and visitors. A reviewer pointed out, “The monkeys were fun, but the crowd was a bit overwhelming — still, a unique experience.”

Lunch on Phi Phi Don

Around midday, the tour includes a buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don, giving travelers a chance to relax and refuel. The included meal is a practical perk, saving time and money. The chosen restaurant is typically beachfront, with decent variety, though travelers should manage expectations — it’s a buffet meant for quick service, not gourmet dining. A comment from a traveler stated, “The lunch was simple but satisfying, and the setting was lovely.”

Afternoon Relaxation and Optional Swimming

Post-lunch, you’re free to explore Phi Phi Don a bit more or relax before heading back. Some travelers choose to stay at the beach, while others walk around or shop for souvenirs. This flexible period is appreciated, but be aware that if the tour is running late, the schedule might be tight.

Return Journey

The return trip generally departs around 4:00 pm, giving you roughly 7 hours of exploration. The boat ride back is a quick, exhilarating ride. It’s worth noting that some reviews mention the journey home can be a little rough, especially if the sea is choppy.

What Travelers Say: Insights from the Reviews

The most common praise is for the stunning views. One reviewer specifically highlighted Maya Bay as “spectacular,” which aligns with what many expect from a trip to Phi Phi. However, not all experiences match expectations. For example, one traveler shared, “On the Monkey Beach, I felt they didn’t let us all go ashore equally, and on Maya Bay, we didn’t get to enter because of restrictions.” Such comments suggest that public access and tour policies can sometimes limit what you expect to see.

The tour is also noted for its flexibility and convenience. The round-trip transfers are a big plus, particularly if you don’t want to worry about local transportation. Still, some travelers felt that the program was not fully adhered to, with stops being rushed or skipped, such as Maya Bay in some cases.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those who want a guided overview of Phi Phi’s top sights, without the need for extensive planning. If you’re okay with a full day on the water and don’t mind some unpredictability, you’ll find value here. It’s also a good choice for travelers on a budget or those staying in Krabi or Ao Nang, thanks to the included transfers.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying the Tour

• Book early if you want to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.
• Arrive prepared for a full day — bring sun protection, water, and possibly a waterproof case for your electronics.
• Be aware that it’s a busy day, and the itinerary might shift depending on weather and local regulations.
• Snorkeling gear is often provided, but check beforehand if you want to bring your own.
• Bring cash for souvenirs or additional food/drinks at stops.
• If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking medication beforehand, as the boat ride can be bumpy.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

This speedboat trip around Phi Phi offers a great way to see many of the iconic sights in a single day without breaking the bank. The inclusion of transfers and lunch adds to its convenience, especially for travelers staying in Krabi or Ao Nang. The small-group setting creates a more relaxed atmosphere, and the stops at beaches and bays promise plenty of photo opportunities.

However, the experience can vary depending on factors like weather, guide quality, and crowd control policies. Some travelers have expressed disappointment about not being able to access certain sites or feeling rushed at key spots like Maya Bay and Monkey Beach. Therefore, it’s best suited for visitors who value efficient sightseeing and are flexible with the day’s pace.

If your priority is stunning scenery and a taste of the Phi Phi Islands’ highlights without huge crowds or high costs, this tour can be a solid choice. Just keep expectations realistic and be prepared for a lively, sometimes hectic, day on the water.

FAQ

Does the tour include round-trip transportation?
Yes, the tour offers round-trip transfers from Krabi Town and Klong Muang, making your day hassle-free.

How long is the total tour duration?
The whole experience lasts about 8 hours, including transfers, stops, and the boat ride.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don is part of the package, providing a quick, convenient meal in a scenic setting.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Snorkeling is available at Lohsamah Bay and other stops. Equipment is often provided, but check with your operator.

What are the main sites visited?
Key stops include Bamboo Island, Viking Cave, Lohsamah Bay, Pileh Bay, Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, and Phi Phi Don.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the boat ride can be bumpy, so consider this if traveling with very young children or those sensitive to seasickness.

What if I want to skip Maya Bay?
Some travelers report that Maya Bay might be skipped or its access limited, depending on regulations and timing. Confirm with the provider beforehand.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour caps at 35 travelers, allowing for a more personal experience than larger boat trips.

In the end, this Phi Phi Islands speedboat tour presents a practical, budget-friendly way to see many of the iconic sights. It’s a good fit for travelers wanting a quick, scenic, guided experience, provided you’re flexible with the day’s flow and aware of potential limitations.