From Phuket: Phi Phi and Khai Islands Speedboat Tour

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, limestone cliffs, and some seriously Instagram-worthy vistas, this speedboat tour from Phuket might be just what you need. While we haven’t been on this exact trip ourselves, reviews and details paint a pretty enticing picture. You’ll get to explore iconic spots like Maya Beach, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach—all packed into a nine-hour adventure with plenty of snorkeling and swimming thrown in.

What we love about this experience is the variety it offers: from picnicking on the sands of Phi Phi Don to watching dolphins dance near Maya Bay, there’s always something happening. The inclusion of a delicious buffet lunch with panoramic sea views sounds like a real treat, and the guides seem to add a personal, friendly touch that makes the day even more memorable.

One thing to consider is that some of the main spots, like Maya Bay, can be quite crowded, so managing expectations about how much solitude you’ll find is wise. This tour is best suited for those who want a full day of high-energy sightseeing and underwater exploration, especially if you enjoy boat rides, snorkeling, and discovering multiple islands in one go.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines island sightseeing, snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on pristine beaches.
• Professional Guides: Guides like Ohma and Kung are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and attentiveness.
• Value for Money: Packed with stops, a buffet lunch, and plenty of drinks, many reviewers feel it’s worth the price.
• Crowd Factor: Popular spots like Maya Bay can get crowded, but the tour offers a good chance to see everything within a day.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup and drop-off are included, and the boat is described as clean and well-maintained.
• Authentic Encounters: From monkey sightings to dolphin watching, the trip offers more than just scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Safety Briefing

Your adventure kicks off at Phuket’s Boat Lagoon Marina, where the day begins with a safety briefing that lasts around 30 minutes. This initial step might seem like just a formality, but it’s a good chance to get familiar with the boat, safety procedures, and meet your guide. Reviewers like Debora from Ireland mentioned how the entire process was smooth and well-organized, emphasizing that the staff’s professionalism set a positive tone for the day.

The Speedboat Ride from Phuket

The actual boat ride from Phuket to the islands takes about an hour. Expect a lively, fast-paced trip that gets you excited for what’s ahead. Many reviews highlight the boat’s good condition and the fact that drinks are available throughout, keeping everyone refreshed during the journey. The speedboat itself is described as comfortable, with some travelers noting the chance to get a few snacks or cold drinks on board, which is a nice touch for a day-long trip.

Maya Bay – The Star of the Show

No trip to Phi Phi is complete without a visit to Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach”. The stop here is typically about 50 minutes, giving plenty of time for photos, quick dips, and soaking in the dramatic limestone cliffs. Several reviews, including one from William, mentioned that while the scenery is breathtaking, the area can be quite crowded. However, they also appreciated the boat’s ability to navigate around the busy spots, allowing for better photo opportunities and less congestion.

Expect to see vibrant marine life while snorkeling around the bay if the weather permits. Many travelers, like Jessica from the US, appreciated the kindness of crew members and their effort to help with snorkeling gear, making underwater exploration accessible even for beginners.

Exploring Pileh Lagoon

Next on the route is Pileh Lagoon, another highlight. This enclosed bay with crystal-clear waters is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply floating and taking in the jaw-dropping scenery. Reviewers such as Brian from Ireland noted how relaxing this stop was, especially after the busy Maya Bay. The lagoon’s calm waters create a peaceful environment, excellent for unwinding and snapping some scenic photos.

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Viking Cave & Marine Life Watching

Viking Cave offers a glimpse into local history and is famous for its swallow nests used in bird’s nest soup. This stop also provides an opportunity to snorkel and observe marine life. The cave’s history adds an interesting layer to the visit, and many guests commented on the vibrant underwater world visible from snorkeling gear—highlighted by the reviews mentioning wildlife viewing and snorkeling experiences that felt like a mini underwater safari.

Monkey Beach – Playful Encounters

A shorter, 20-minute stop at Monkey Beach promises a fun sighting of playful monkeys. Be aware that while many reviews, like Amina from France, mention that the monkeys are a highlight, sometimes they are shy or may have left, especially if it’s a busy day. The crew sometimes pulls the boat closer to ensure better viewing or feeding opportunities, which was noted by travelers who appreciated the crew’s effort to make this stop more interactive.

Lunch on Phi Phi Don

A typical highlight is the buffet lunch at a Phi Phi sea-view restaurant, often praised for its tasty variety and stunning setting. Many reviewers, including Martina from Spain, found the meal to be plentiful and well-organized, with drinks and fresh fruits served on board. The lunch offers a break from sightseeing and a chance to enjoy local flavors while soaking up panoramic views.

Khai Islands – Relaxation and Snorkeling

The last major stop is Khai Islands, which many consider a perfect place to unwind. With turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and vibrant marine life, this spot provides ample time for swimming, snorkeling, and shopping for souvenirs. Reviewers like Kavita from the UK appreciated how the stop was well-paced, giving plenty of time for both relaxation and underwater exploration. It’s an ideal way to finish the day with some leisurely beach time.

Return Journey and Reflection

After a full day of adventure, the boat heads back to Phuket. The return trip, approximately 20 minutes, offers a chance to relax, chat with fellow travelers, or enjoy the last views of the islands. Many reviewers expressed how satisfied they were with the whole experience, emphasizing the friendly crew, well-timed stops, and overall value for the price.

The Guide’s Expertise: Several reviews praise guides like Ohma and Kung for their warmth, humor, and deep knowledge. Their personal touch turns an already beautiful tour into a memorable experience. Many reviewers appreciated how guides like Nancy, Tommy, and Bao made everyone feel comfortable, shared fun facts, and kept the energy high.

Stunning Sights and Underwater Action: The combination of iconic landmarks like Maya Bay and Viking Cave with engaging snorkeling opportunities makes this tour a real highlight for nature lovers. The underwater world is often described as vibrant, with marine life visible even to novice snorkelers, adding an extra layer of excitement.

Great Food and Refreshments: The included buffet lunch is a standout feature for many, offering a hearty meal with Thai flavors, fresh fruits, and drinks. The fact that the boat provides cold drinks and snacks throughout the day keeps everyone energized.

Flexibility and Convenience: From hotel pickup to the well-organized schedule, the tour emphasizes ease and comfort. The group sizes are managed well, and the boat is described as clean and comfortable, making the long day more enjoyable.

Authentic Encounters: The chance to see monkeys, dolphins, and marine life in their natural environment adds authenticity that many travelers cherish. The crew’s effort to ensure everyone has opportunities to interact with wildlife enhances the overall value.

This full-day adventure is ideal for travelers seeking a mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and beach relaxation. It’s perfect if you enjoy boat rides, vibrant scenery, and underwater exploration. Families with children over 2 years old might find it suitable, provided they are comfortable on boats and can handle a busy schedule.

However, those prone to seasickness, pregnant women, or people with back or heart issues might want to consider alternatives, as the tour involves a fair amount of boat travel and some physical activity like swimming. Also, as some spots can be crowded, visitors looking for complete solitude may want to explore less popular options.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including pickup, safety briefing, boat rides, stops, and return.

Is pickup service included?
Yes, pickup from your hotel lobby is included. Please be ready 5 minutes before your scheduled time.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, camera, sunscreen, flip-flops, beachwear, cash, passport or copy, hat, towel, and comfortable clothes.

Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be requested at the time of booking.

How much are the park fees?
National park fees are paid directly to the guide at the marina: 400 THB per adult and 200 THB per child.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it suitable for children?
Children over 2 years old are welcome, but they should be comfortable on boats and in outdoor settings.

Are there any restrictions?
Pregnant women, people with back or heart problems, and those prone to seasickness should consider their comfort, as the tour involves boat rides and physical activity.

Will I see dolphins?
Dolphin sightings are possible but not guaranteed. Some reviews mention dolphins being spotted during the boat cruise.

This speedboat tour from Phuket offers a fantastic way to see multiple islands and enjoy Thailand’s natural beauty in one day. The combination of stunning vistas, vibrant marine life, and friendly guides makes it a popular choice among travelers.

If you’re after a mix of adventure, scenic photography, and underwater fun, and don’t mind sharing these spots with fellow travelers, this trip provides excellent value. The included buffet lunch and the well-organized schedule ensure a comfortable and engaging experience from start to finish.

Ideal for active explorers and beach lovers alike, this tour is a great way to tick off some of Thailand’s most iconic sights without rushing. Just pack your sense of adventure—and perhaps some patience for the crowds at Maya Bay!

You can check availability for your dates here: