Full-Day Phi Phi Islands Tour by Cruise VIP Ferry Experience

Setting out on a trip to the Phi Phi Islands is a dream for many travelers visiting Phuket, but not all tours deliver the same experience. We’ve taken a close look at the Full-Day Phi Phi Islands VIP Ferry Tour offered by Sea Angel Boat Trip to help you decide if this is the right choice for your island adventure. While this tour promises a scenic cruise with snorkeling, a Thai lunch, and plenty of time on beautiful islands, the actual experience seems to fall short in a few key areas.

What’s good? You’ll enjoy stunning views of Maya Bay, the opportunity to snorkel at Coral Bay, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. Plus, the tour includes a set Thai buffet lunch and all the necessary gear for snorkeling, which adds to the overall value. However, potential travelers should consider the not-so-great condition of the boat, some unexpected additional fees, and the mixed reviews on the overall quality.

This tour might suit those who prioritize a quick, organized way to tick off the main Phi Phi sights without fuss. If you’re after luxury and pristine boat conditions, or a highly personalized experience, you may want to explore other options. But if you’re looking for an affordable, straightforward island day, read on for all the details.

Key Points

• Scenic Highlights: Experience iconic spots like Maya Bay, Loh Samah, and Viking Cave.
• Snorkeling & Water Activities: Equipment is included, but reviews suggest the snorkeling quality may vary.
• Boat & Equipment: The boat is reportedly in poor condition, which could impact comfort.
• Meal & Free Time: Buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don offers local flavors, with some free time to explore.
• Additional Fees & Logistics: Expect a small cleaning fee at Tonsai Pier and some reviews mention delays.
• Overall Value: The price is fair, but the experience may not meet luxury expectations.

Setting Out on the Phi Phi Tour

The tour kicks off early, with a 7:00 AM pickup from your hotel in Phuket, including options for Phuket Town, Patong, Kata, and Karon. This early start is both a bonus and a challenge—be prepared for a long day, but the peace of mind is knowing your transportation is sorted. The transfer to Rassada Harbor is smooth, and the boat’s VIP seating promises a more comfortable ride—though some reviews suggest the vessel itself is quite dated.

Once aboard, the journey to Phi Phi feels scenic, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the coastline and the shimmering ocean. The boat itself, however, has drawn some criticism. Several reviewers describe it as very old, run down, and in poor condition, which could be a letdown if you’re expecting something more modern or luxurious. One reviewer even mentioned that the boat “looks like it was built in the 70s,” which, while amusing, might impact comfort levels during the trip.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll See and Do

First Stop: Ko Phi Phi Lee

Your first look at Phi Phi Leh is from a distance, but the highlight here is Maya Bay. The famous filming location of “The Beach” is likely to impress with its towering cliffs and clear water, though it can be crowded, especially during peak season. Tour operators typically stop briefly here for photos, but actual time on the beach is limited.

Second Stop: Ko Phi Phi Don

The larger island, Phi Phi Don, is where you’ll have your lunch and some free time. The tour includes a buffet Thai lunch at Phi Phi Don, which is a great chance to sample local flavors. You’ll be able to explore a bit on your own, but reviews note that the amount of free time can vary and might feel rushed. Some travelers appreciate the chance to wander the island’s shops and beaches, while others found the schedule tight.

Maya Bay, Loh Samah, and Pileh Lagoon

Continuing the sightseeing, these stops showcase the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding bays. Expect postcard-worthy views of towering limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. These spots are perfect for relaxing, taking photos, and soaking in the scenery. However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention the actual snorkeling experience being underwhelming, with poor visibility and limited marine life.

Viking Cave and Coral Bay

The Viking Cave is a quick photo stop, renowned for its swallow nests. It’s interesting historically, but don’t expect in-depth tours here. At Coral Bay, you get a chance to swim or snorkel, with free mask and snorkel rental included. Be aware that some reviews state the snorkeling isn’t the highlight of the trip, with one traveler describing it as “pretty poor.”

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package covers round-trip ferry transfer, hotel pickups, a buffet lunch, snorkel gear, and national park fees. The inclusion of accidental insurance and free rental of snorkeling equipment adds some peace of mind. You also get a small THB 20 cleaning fee at Tonsai Pier, which is an extra to budget for.

However, reviews reveal some surprises. One traveler mentioned that to upgrade from a lower standard cabin, you need to pay extra—something that wasn’t initially clear. The boat’s condition was also a concern, and some felt that the overall quality and comfort didn’t match their expectations.

The Experience: Pros and Cons Based on Real Feedback

While the tour’s main selling points are the beautiful scenery and snorkeling opportunities, actual experiences vary. Several reviewers expressed disappointment in the boat’s aged condition and the quality of snorkeling. For instance, one reviewer stated, “The snorkelling is pretty poor,” which might be a dealbreaker for avid underwater enthusiasts.

On the bright side, the scenic views at Maya Bay and Loh Samah are consistently praised. Many mention that the early start allows for a relatively uncrowded experience during the initial stops, which can make the sightseeing more enjoyable. Plus, the hotel pickup and organized schedule help travelers avoid logistical stress.

However, some travelers found the timing to be off or the experience different from what was advertised, including delays and miscommunications. One reviewer called it a “1-star tour” due to a perceived lack of value and poor vessel condition.

Is This Tour Worth Your Money?

The $74.95 per person price tag includes quite a bit—transportation, lunch, snorkeling gear, and park fees—and for many, that’s a reasonable deal to see the highlights of Phi Phi. But the value is heavily dependent on your expectations. If you’re after luxury, modern boats, and personalized service, you might find this tour lacking.

Although the scenic views are breathtaking and the itinerary covers all the main sites, the boat’s condition and snorkel quality seem to be common drawbacks. The reviews suggest that, for the price, you might get a more comfortable or modern experience elsewhere, or consider other tours with better vessel conditions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip could be ideal for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize seeing the main sights without breaking the bank. It’s suitable if you’re okay with older boats and a busy schedule that makes the most of limited free time. If you’re happy to accept some rough edges for the sake of visiting Phi Phi’s most famous spots, this tour can deliver decent scenic moments.

However, those seeking comfort, luxury, or in-depth snorkeling may want to look elsewhere. If boat condition or peace of mind is a priority, consider other options with newer vessels or more reviews emphasizing comfort.

Final Thoughts

This Full-Day Phi Phi Islands VIP Ferry Tour offers a practical way to tick off the major sights in a single day, especially if you’re on a budget. The views of Maya Bay and the chance to snorkel at Coral Bay are definite highlights, but beware of the deteriorated boat condition and the limited, sometimes rushed free time on the islands.

While it provides an organized, straightforward experience, the mixed reviews about comfort and snorkeling quality** mean you should temper expectations. For travelers who prioritize seeing the iconic sights without fuss, it can be a decent choice. But if you’re after a more comfortable or luxurious journey, exploring other options might be wise.

In the end, this tour is best suited for those who want a no-nonsense, affordable trip to Phi Phi’s best-known locations—just keep your expectations realistic and be prepared for some imperfections.

FAQs

How early does the tour start?
Pickup begins at 7:00 AM, making it a very early start to maximize daytime on the islands.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off options for locations like Phuket Town, Patong, Kata, and Karon.

What’s the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, lunch, and free time.

Are snorkeling masks and gear included?
Yes, free rental of masks, snorkels, and life jackets is included, though the snorkeling experience varies per review.

What are the main sights visited?
Highlights include Maya Bay, Loh Samah Bay, Viking Cave, Coral Bay, and free time on Phi Phi Don.

Are there any additional costs?
A small THB 20 cleaning fee at Tonsai Pier applies, and upgrading cabins may incur extra charges.

What’s the condition of the boat?
Multiple reviews describe the boat as very old and in poor condition, which might affect comfort.

Can the trip be canceled?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, but weather cancellations may occur.

In summary, this tour provides a decent snapshot of Phi Phi’s main attractions at an affordable price, but it’s not without its flaws. Expect scenic views, some rough edges, and a boat that leaves a lot to be desired—perfect for budget travelers willing to compromise on luxury for convenience.