From Phi Phi : Full Day tour by Speed Boat with Lunch

If you’re eyeing a day of island-hopping, stunning scenery, and marine life in Thailand’s Gulf of Thailand, this full-day speedboat tour around the Phi Phi Islands could be your ticket. While we haven’t personally tested this exact trip, reviews and details paint a clear picture of what to expect—beautiful views, exciting stops, and a few practical considerations.

What really shines for most travelers are the chance to see Maya Bay’s iconic beaches, snorkel in vibrant Pileh Lagoon, and spot playful monkeys at Monkey Beach. The expert guides and smaller group sizes (limited to 25) help keep things personal and manageable. However, some reviews mention that the tour might feel rushed at times, and that the Viking Cave is currently closed for visits—worth noting if you’re keen on that spot.

This tour suits those who are eager to experience a mix of relaxing beach time, snorkeling, and island scenery without breaking the bank. If you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply want to tick off key highlights of Phi Phi in one day, this could be a practical choice. Just prepare for a busy, full-on day with some long hours on the water.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more personalized experience.
• Multiple stops at popular sites like Maya Bay, Shark Point, and Bamboo Island.
• Snorkeling opportunities with vibrant marine life and the chance to see blacktip reef sharks.
• Expert guides are praised for their attentiveness and knowledge.
• Includes lunch, typically a simple but satisfying meal.
• Weather-dependent schedule means some stops might change if conditions are unsafe.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Speedboat Tour Experience

Departure and Meeting Arrangements

The tour departs from McDonald’s Koh Phi Phi at various times throughout the day—6:30 AM, 8:30 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, or 12:30 PM—offering some flexibility for your schedule. Travelers are advised to arrive at least 30 minutes early to meet the crew, which helps streamline the start and reduces confusion. The meeting point is conveniently located with precise coordinates (7.7387, 98.7709), making it simple to find.

What the Itinerary Looks Like

The day kicks off with a visit to Monkey Beach, where you can observe wild monkeys playing along the shoreline. This stop lasts about 30 minutes and is usually a hit for animal lovers and families, though some reviews mention the presence of quite a few monkeys, so keep your belongings secure.

Next, you’ll explore the Viking Cave—not just a scenic spot but also historically significant. However, a key point from reviews is that access to the cave’s interior is limited due to conservation efforts, which means no sightseeing of the cave’s interior or ancient paintings. Still, the exterior and the story behind it make for interesting photo opportunities.

The Pileh Lagoon is a standout. Its clear, calm waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with about 40 minutes allocated for this. Expect stunning photo opportunities, as the lagoon’s beauty is widely praised. Many travelers mention that the marine life here is vibrant and varied, making it a good spot to see reef fish and coral.

From there, the boat stops at Loh Samah Bay, which functions as a hop-on, hop-off point—an ideal place to relax or take a quick photo. Then comes the famous Maya Bay, where you’ll have about an hour to enjoy the beach. Expect crowds here, especially during peak season, which some reviewers find a bit overwhelming. Still, the chance to walk on the sands of this iconic spot is often considered worth it.

Snorkeling at Shark Point and Nui Bay

One of the tour’s highlights is the opportunity to snorkel at Shark Point, where blacktip reef sharks are commonly seen—though they’re harmless. Guides like the one described in reviews keep a close eye on safety, making sure everyone enjoys this thrill without worry. After Shark Point, the boat visits Nui Bay, another excellent snorkeling spot for about 20 minutes, renowned for its vibrant marine life.

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Stops at Bamboo Island and Other Highlights

Bamboo Island is usually a peaceful, postcard-perfect spot with white sandy beaches—though some reviews mention that the time there is limited, about an hour, so don’t expect to spend an entire day lounging. It’s a nice break from the sometimes hectic pace of the tour.

Other locations include Wang Long Bay and Nui Bay, each offering brief stays and photo opportunities. The overall schedule can be quite packed, with some reviewers feeling the itinerary is rushed, especially if you want more time at each site.

The Optional Sunset and Plankton Snorkeling

Depending on the schedule, some trips include a magical activity: snorkeling with glowing plankton at night. This activity is best experienced under calm, clear conditions and adds a surreal, almost otherworldly dimension to your trip. Sunset viewing from the boat provides a beautiful end to the day, with many appreciating the peaceful moment after a busy day.

What You Need to Know About Logistics

The group size is limited to 25, giving a more intimate feel but also requiring early reservations. The tour includes lunch, typically a simple rice dish with chicken or a vegetarian alternative, which reviewers found satisfactory considering the full day of activity.

The cost includes the boat, guide, and lunch, but you’ll need to pay a cash-only 400 THB park fee at the start for access to parks and islands. This fee is standard across all visits and is worth budgeting for in advance.

Weather and Safety Considerations

Tours are weather-dependent. Rain showers are common in the season, but tours tend to run in light rain if conditions are safe. However, unsafe weather could lead to schedule changes or cancellations, so packing a raincoat and checking the forecast is wise.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Travelers highlight both positives and negatives, offering a balanced view. One reviewer from Brazil rated it 2/5, mentioning the boat was small and the food lacked flavor, but praised the guides for their attentiveness. Meanwhile, a Thai traveler raved about the professional crew and the variety of sites visited, describing it as a “beautiful experience.”

A Portuguese traveler expressed frustration about misleading advertisement and the Viking Cave being closed, which underscores the importance of managing expectations—especially regarding what is visible or accessible.

Overall, guides are often praised for their knowledge and care, but some mention the schedule can feel rushed, especially if you’re hoping for more relaxed time at each stop.

Pricing and Value

At roughly $55 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the number of stops, snorkeling spots, and included lunch. Smaller groups mean less waiting and more personal attention, which many travelers find worthwhile. However, some reviews suggest that if you’re after a leisurely pace or specific sites like Viking Cave, you might find the itinerary a bit tight.

The optional activities, like snorkeling with plankton, add a magical touch for an extra fee, but many report that the overall experience is worth the price—especially given the variety of scenery within one day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day Phi Phi Islands tour is best suited for those who want a packed, adventure-filled day with plenty of photo opportunities and snorkeling. It’s ideal for travelers who don’t mind a busy schedule and appreciate a guide-led experience that covers multiple highlights.

If you prefer more time at each site, or are looking for a more relaxed day, you might want to consider other options or smaller, private tours. The presence of wild monkeys and vibrant marine life makes this tour perfect for animal lovers and underwater enthusiasts alike.

The Sum Up

This speedboat trip packs a lot into a single day, making it a practical way to see several key spots around Phi Phi with a knowledgeable guide. While the schedule can feel a bit tight, the variety of stops—from Maya Bay’s stunning beaches to Shark Point’s shark sightings—delivers a well-rounded adventure that most travelers find worthwhile.

The inclusion of lunch, snorkeling gear, and the intimate group size means you’re getting decent value for your money. It’s a good pick for those who want to check off multiple highlights without the hassle of organizing transport and activities independently.

However, if you’re after deep relaxation or more exclusive access, you may prefer private tours or those with longer stays at fewer sites. Keep weather in mind, arrive early, and come prepared for a full day on the water.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at several times throughout the day—6:30 AM, 8:30 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, or 12:30 PM—allowing you some flexibility.

Where do I meet the tour crew?
You meet in front of the McDonald’s on Koh Phi Phi, about 30 minutes before your scheduled departure. The exact coordinates are 7.7387, 98.7709.

Is there an additional fee?
Yes, there’s a 400 THB cash-only national park fee that covers access to all parks and islands, payable once per day.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash. All other snorkeling gear is usually provided.

Will I visit Viking Cave?
You will see Viking Cave from the outside, but active visits inside are currently restricted for conservation, so no interior sightseeing.

Can I snorkel at Shark Point?
Yes, snorkeling is included at Shark Point, where you might see blacktip reef sharks—guides ensure safety during this activity.

How long is the boat ride?
The full day lasts about 6-8 hours, including stops and travel time between sites.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women, babies under 1 year, or those with mobility issues due to the full day at sea.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent; if conditions are unsafe, the schedule might change or the trip could be canceled, with options for rescheduling or a full refund.

How much time do I get at each stop?
Most stops are between 20-40 minutes, with some like Maya Bay offering around an hour—expect a fast-paced day with limited downtime.

In summary, this speedboat tour captures the essence of Phi Phi’s most famous spots, blending adventure, wildlife, and scenery into one memorable day. It’s a well-rounded choice for those wanting to maximize their island experience, especially if guided by attentive staff and small groups. Just remember to set expectations accordingly, prepare for a busy schedule, and enjoy the stunning views that make Phi Phi such a prized destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: