Phi Phi: 7 Islands Speed Boat Tour with Sunset and Plankton

Exploring the Phi Phi Islands on a Speedboat Tour: An Honest Look

If you’re considering a day trip to the Phi Phi Islands, this 8-hour speedboat tour promises a mix of iconic sights, snorkeling adventures, and a touch of magic at sunset. We’ve looked into the experiences and reviews to give you an honest picture of what to expect.

What drew us in are the chance to see Maya Bay, snorkeling with blacktip reef sharks, and witnessing the bioluminescent plankton light up the water after dark. These are undeniably special moments that make this trip stand out. However, some reviews warn about inconsistent guides and changes to the itinerary, which are worth keeping in mind.

This tour suits travelers who love a packed day of sightseeing, want to explore multiple spots in one go, and are comfortable with an active, boat-based adventure. It’s especially appealing if you’re keen to see the classic Phi Phi sights and experience a bit of nature’s nighttime magic.

Key Points

• Scenic Highlights: Visit Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon, and Bamboo Island.
• Snorkeling: Opportunities to swim with reef sharks and vibrant marine life.
• Authentic Experiences: Relax on beautiful beaches and see bioluminescent plankton at night.
• Flexible Itinerary: Stops are timed to optimize your experience, but schedule may vary.
• Guides and Crew: Well-reviewed guides enhance the experience, though some reviews mention inconsistency.
• Practical Tips: Bring sun protection, towels, and be prepared for a full day of activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This Phi Phi speedboat tour offers a comprehensive look at some of the most iconic and beautiful spots around the islands. It’s designed for those who want a taste of everything—beaches, snorkeling, and natural wonders—all packed into an 8-hour window.

The journey begins at the meeting point outside McDonald’s on Ko Phi Phi, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers. From here, the day is filled with carefully timed stops that balance sightseeing and relaxation, making the most of your time in this stunning part of Thailand.

The Stops and What They Mean for You

Monkey Beach: Usually the first stop, this spot is famous for the playful wild monkeys. You might enjoy some lighthearted moments watching them scamper around, but it’s also a chance to stretch your legs and take photos of the rugged coast. Some reviewers mention it’s a quick visit—about 30 minutes—so don’t expect a full monkey encounter.

Viking Cave: Rich with legend and history, Viking Cave is a highlight for many. It’s a quick visit, about 30 minutes, but you’ll get a glimpse of ancient cave paintings and learn about the cave’s significance. It’s more about the view and intrigue than an in-depth tour.

Pileh Lagoon: One of the most photogenic spots, this crystal-clear lagoon invites you to swim or snorkel in its calm waters. Expect about 45 minutes here, giving you enough time to soak in the scenery and spot some marine life. Many find it a peaceful oasis amid a busy day.

Loh Samah Bay & Maya Bay: The tour usually stops at Loh Samah Bay first, then offers about an hour at Maya Bay. The famous beach, made famous by the movie “The Beach,” is often crowded, but the natural beauty still shines through. Swimming is restricted here for conservation, but many take the opportunity for quick photos and to enjoy the views.

Shark Point: Snorkeling here is a highlight for adventurers—expect to see blacktip reef sharks in shallow waters. One reviewer noted, “Snorkeling with sharks was a surreal experience,” making this stop a must for marine enthusiasts. The duration is around 30 minutes.

Bamboo Island: Longer stop (around an hour), giving you time to relax on pristine white sands or snorkel in turquoise waters. It’s a favorite for many seeking downtime and beach lounging.

Nui Bay & Camel Rock: Quieter spots like Nui Bay offer snorkeling opportunities, with the chance to see underwater life in front of the famous Camel Rock. It’s a hidden gem that adds an extra layer of adventure.

Sunset and Bioluminescence Magic

As the day winds down, the tour offers a spectacular sunset over the Andaman Sea, perfect for photos and a peaceful moment. Then, the magic continues with a visit to see bioluminescent plankton, which light up the water with otherworldly glow. Several reviews describe this as “a surreal, almost fairy-tale experience,” making it a memorable way to end the day.

The Good, the Bad, and the Mixed

While many travelers praise the stunning scenery and knowledgeable guides, there are some mixed reviews. For example, Bjondine from Switzerland called it “amazing,” highlighting friendly guides and well-timed visits that avoided crowds. Fresh fruit, rice, and snacks received positive mentions, adding value to the experience.

On the other hand, some reviews point out issues like poor organization and guides. One reviewer from Spain described a “chaotic” experience—long delays at the meeting point, changes to the itinerary, and a guide who was “rude” and unhelpful. They felt rushed and disappointed, especially with missing stops like Shark Point and Nui Bay.

From these reviews, it’s clear that guide consistency and the management of the schedule can vary. The tour is well-loved when things run smoothly but can be frustrating if organizational hiccups occur.

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Transport, Timing, and Practicalities

The tour departs from McDonald’s on Ko Phi Phi around 10:00 am, with various meeting times depending on your booking. You’ll spend around 8 hours on the water, visiting multiple stops, with the entire experience tailored to maximize sightseeing and relaxation.

The transportation is by speedboat, which offers a fast way to hop between islands but can be less comfortable than larger, more stable boats. Be prepared for some bouncing, especially if sea conditions are rough.

The tour is suitable for travelers who are not pregnant or traveling with babies under 1 year, and you’ll need to bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, towel, sunscreen, and beachwear. Luggage should be kept minimal—oversized bags are not allowed—and alcohol or drugs are prohibited on board.

Duration and Schedule Flexibility

The schedule can vary based on weather and sea conditions. Tours proceed even if it rains, as long as conditions are safe, so pack accordingly. If Maya Bay is closed in August or September, the itinerary will shift to other locations, so be flexible with your expectations.

Costs and Value

Pricing typically includes boat transport, guide services, and some snacks, but with the mixed reviews about guides, it’s worth considering whether the price reflects the quality and consistency of the experience. The tour offers a full day of sightseeing, making it a good value for those wanting to see multiple highlights without booking separate excursions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best for adventurous travelers who enjoy boat rides, snorkeling, and natural beauty. It’s particularly suitable if you’re looking to tick off iconic sights like Maya Bay and experience the underwater world with reef sharks.

However, if organizational consistency or a more relaxed, guided experience is a priority, you might want to research alternative options or verify recent reviews before booking.

Final Thoughts

This 7-island speedboat tour packs in a lot of memorable moments—stunning beaches, lively snorkeling, and a touch of night-time magic. The experience truly shines when everything runs smoothly, especially thanks to knowledgeable guides and perfectly timed visits.

For travelers craving a full-on adventure with plenty of swimming, photo opportunities, and the chance to see bioluminescent plankton, this could be just the ticket. It’s a busy day, but for many, the variety and natural beauty outweigh the logistical hiccups.

On the flip side, expect some unpredictability—organized tours can vary in quality, and the sea conditions might influence your experience. If you’re flexible, open to minor surprises, and eager for an authentic trip around Phi Phi’s top spots, this tour offers good value and unforgettable sights.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or babies under 1 year due to the boat’s nature and activity level.

What should I bring for the day?
Sunglasses, a sun hat, towel, sunscreen, and beachwear are essential. Pack light, as oversize luggage isn’t allowed.

Can I snorkel at all stops?
Yes, snorkeling is available at Shark Point, Pileh Lagoon, Nui Bay, and other spots, giving you chances to see marine life up close.

What if Maya Bay is closed during my visit?
During August and September, Maya Bay is closed for conservation. The tour will then extend time at other locations to compensate.

How long do stops at each location last?
Expect about 30 minutes at Monkey Beach and Viking Cave, 45 minutes at Pileh Lagoon, an hour at Bamboo Island, and shorter visits at other spots.

Is the guide service consistent?
Reviews suggest guide quality can vary; some travelers found guides friendly and knowledgeable, others experienced rudeness or disorganization.

What is the typical group size?
Group size isn’t specified, but tours like this usually accommodate a moderate number of travelers, fostering a friendly atmosphere.

How challenging is the tour physically?
It involves a fair amount of swimming, walking short distances, and sitting on a boat—suitable for most active travelers but not ideal for those with mobility issues.

To sum it up, this Phi Phi speedboat tour offers a thorough and exciting way to explore the islands, especially if you’re after iconic sights and marine encounters. While it’s not without its hiccups—like occasional organizational issues—the stunning scenery and memorable experiences make it worth considering for your Thai adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: