Phi Phi Islands Sunset Tour From Phi Phi by Longtail Boat

If you’re dreaming of catching those iconic sunset views over the Phi Phi Islands while experiencing some of Thailand’s best marine life, this sunset tour from Phi Phi by longtail boat might catch your eye. While it offers a budget-friendly way to see several highlights of this famous archipelago, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons based on real traveler experiences.

We love the way this tour gives you a speedy yet authentic glimpse of Phi Phi’s top spots, especially the chance to snorkel among glowing plankton and admire the scenery in the cooler evening hours. The cost, at just over $22, makes it accessible, and the small group size (up to 20 travelers) keeps things fairly intimate. However, some reviews highlight crowding and lack of guide commentary, which could impact your overall experience.

This tour is best suited for travelers craving a budget-friendly adventure with a focus on snorkeling, wildlife spotting, and breathtaking views—especially if you’re happy to go with the flow and appreciate natural beauty without too much fuss.

Key Points

• Affordable Price Point: At roughly $22.50, this tour offers good value considering the stops and activities.
• Multiple Key Stops: Including Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, Pi Leh Lagoon, and Maya Bay, each with its own unique appeal.
• Snorkeling & Wildlife: Opportunities to snorkel among marine life and see monkeys in their natural habitat.
• Sunset & Bioluminescent Plankton: Unique experiences like swimming with glowing plankton at dusk.
• Crowd Levels & Lack of Guide: Some travelers found the tour crowded, with limited guidance or commentary.
• Weather & Sea Conditions: The itinerary is weather-dependent, and activities could change if conditions aren’t suitable.

An Honest Look at the Phi Phi Islands Sunset Tour

When considering a sunset tour of the Phi Phi Islands, many are drawn to the idea of witnessing the remarkable scenery as the sun dips behind limestone cliffs, turning the sky into a painter’s palette. This particular tour from Phi Phi by longtail boat offers a quick, scenic way to enjoy this magic hour while visiting some of the most iconic spots, all packed into about five hours.

Transportation and Group Size
Travel is by traditional longtail boat, which provides that classic Thai island experience. The tour caps at around 20 travelers, which is a relatively small group compared to larger speedboat trips, helping to keep the experience more personal. That said, some reviews mention the boat can get crowded, especially at popular stops like Monkey Beach. The meeting point is straightforward—just head to the Marlin Statue near Ao Nang, making it easy to find without any complicated transfers.

Timing and Pacing
The tour departs at 2:00 pm and returns around 7:30 pm, making it a manageable half-day outing. The schedule is quite packed, with stops roughly every 30 to 60 minutes, giving you a taste of each location but possibly limiting time for extended snorkeling or exploring. Be prepared for a fairly fast-paced trip, which some reviewers found both a plus and a minus.

What You’ll See and Do
– Monkey Beach: The first stop, where you can watch monkeys frolic on the sandy shore. It’s a popular photo spot, but beware — the review by Cara_B describes the monkeys as “angry” due to crowds and warns against getting too close, especially with children.
– Viking Cave: A short sightseeing stop, mainly for viewing and photo opportunities, as it’s a known collection point for swift nests. No guided commentary is provided here, so don’t expect detailed insights.
– Pi Leh Lagoon: Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, this is the highlight for many—offering great snorkeling and swimming. The calm, clear waters make it ideal for relaxing and taking in the natural beauty.
– Maya Bay: The famed beach from “The Beach,” this stop is a highlight, but it’s also very crowded. One reviewer, Anne_K, called Maya Bay “amazing,” but emphasized that the water can be quite turbulent if windy, so seasickness may be an issue for some.
– Bioluminescent Plankton: Swimming among glowing plankton at sunset is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the tour provides a good chance for this enchanting activity. Be aware that the program’s schedule is weather-dependent, and if conditions aren’t favorable, some activities may be shortened or canceled.

Snorkeling & Marine Life
Snorkeling gear is included, and the waters around Phi Phi are teeming with colorful fish and coral. The opportunity to see marine life in such a setting is a major draw for many travelers. However, some reviews hint at overcrowding and the lack of an accompanying guide, which could mean less guidance on the underwater sights.

Wildlife Encounters
Besides the monkeys at Monkey Beach, the tour offers a good chance to catch glimpses of local birdlife and possibly other marine creatures. Watching monkeys in their natural habitat adds a special touch, although the review by Cara_B notes some tension due to the crowd, which might disturb the animals.

Sunset and Evening Atmosphere
The final part of the trip involves watching the sunset from the boat—a tranquil moment away from the land-based crowds. The chance to swim with bioluminescent plankton in the evening is a highlight, with many finding it magical. The tour wraps up with a leisurely cruise back, giving travelers time to unwind and reflect on the day’s sights.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Cost and Value
At just over $22, this tour is remarkably affordable, especially considering it covers multiple stops and activities. The included amenities—drinking water, fruit, life jackets, snorkeling masks, and insurance—add to the perceived value. Keep in mind, there’s a national park fee (400 THB per adult, 200 THB per child) payable separately at entry.

Comfort and Convenience
While the boat ride offers a quintessential Thai island vibe, it might not be super comfortable for everyone. The boat’s open design means exposure to sun and sea spray, and some travelers have noted the potential for seasickness if the waters are rough. Bringing seasickness pills might be wise if you’re prone to motion sickness.

Guidance and Tour Quality
Interestingly, reviews mention a lack of guide commentary or historical insights, which could appeal to those looking for a more relaxed, self-guided experience. However, others might find the absence of a guide limits understanding of the sites.

Weather and Cancellation
The tour operates in mostly good weather, but it can be canceled or rescheduled if sea conditions are unsafe. The provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing some peace of mind.

The Bottom Line: Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This Phi Phi Islands sunset tour is best suited for budget-conscious travelers eager to tick off multiple highlights in a short time. It’s perfect for those who want snorkeling, wildlife sightings, and breathtaking views in one affordable package. The small group size helps keep the experience intimate, but be prepared for some crowding at popular spots and limited guidance.

Adventure seekers who don’t mind a fast-paced itinerary will find it a good value, especially with the chance to swim with bioluminescent plankton—a truly memorable activity. If you’re craving a more guided experience with detailed commentary or more time at each site, you might prefer other options.

FAQs About the Phi Phi Islands Sunset Tour

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 4 to 10 can participate, but parental supervision is recommended, especially around monkeys and at crowded spots. The tour is a bit fast-paced, so younger kids should be comfortable with boat rides and snorkeling.

What should I bring on this tour?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, waterproof camera, seasickness medication if needed, and a towel. The tour provides life jackets and snorkeling masks, but you might want your own gear if you prefer a specific fit.

Will I be able to swim at all stops?
Yes, most stops like Pi Leh Lagoon and Maya Bay are suitable for swimming and snorkeling, weather permitting. The schedule is tight, so you’ll need to plan accordingly.

How crowded does it get?
Several reviews mention the stops can be quite crowded, especially Maya Bay and Monkey Beach, which might diminish the experience for some. Early mornings or less popular days could be quieter.

Is there a guide explaining the sites?
No, the tour does not include guided commentary. Travelers have noted the absence of explanations, so it’s more of a scenic cruise with stops for photos and snorkeling.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour may be canceled or rescheduled if sea conditions are unsafe. The provider offers a full refund if canceled due to weather, so check the forecast beforehand.

How long does the tour last?
It runs about five hours, from 2:00 pm to around 7:30 pm, covering multiple stops and ending with sunset views and plankton swimming.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking a cost-effective way to experience the Phi Phi Islands, this sunset tour offers a mix of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and snorkeling adventures. Its main advantage is the affordable price and the chance to see key sites like Maya Bay and Pi Leh Lagoon in a single afternoon.

However, being aware of the crowds and the lack of guided commentary can help you set realistic expectations. If you’re flexible, enjoy natural settings, and want a fun, laid-back boat trip, this could be a great fit. But if you’re after a more guided, relaxed, or less crowded experience, consider exploring other options or visiting earlier in the day.

Ultimately, this tour strikes a balance between value and adventure—making it a practical choice for those eager to explore Phi Phi without breaking the bank.

Remember: Always confirm weather conditions and review cancellation policies before booking. Pack appropriately, and keep an open mind—you might discover some unexpected treasures on this lively, scenic boat adventure.