Phuket: Phi Phi Islands Day-Trip by Speed Catamaran

Quick overview

This day-trip to the Phi Phi Islands by luxury speed catamaran promises a mix of stunning scenery, fun water activities, and comfortable travel. With a 4.7-star rating from over 900 reviews, it’s clear most travelers find this tour to be a top-tier way to explore these famous islands.

What we particularly love are the smooth boat ride, the delicious buffet lunch, and the variety of stops, from snorkeling at Viking Cave to relaxing on Bamboo Island’s soft sands.

One potential consideration is the tight schedule—each stop only lasts around 45 minutes to an hour, so if you prefer a slower, more leisurely pace, this might feel a bit rushed.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, all-in-one experience that covers the main highlights of the Phi Phi Islands with minimal hassle. Perfect for first-timers, water lovers, and those looking for a comfortable, fun-packed day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Luxury transportation: The tour uses a comfortable, well-maintained catamaran with great onboard amenities.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Stops include Bamboo Island, Phi Phi Don, Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, Maya Bay, and Maiton Island.
• Snorkeling and water activities: Snorkel near Viking Cave, kayak in Viking Cave, and relax in calm lagoon waters.
• Tasty meals included: Enjoy a buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don and snacks during the day, plus BBQ chicken at sunset.
• Experienced guides: The crew, like Kakoe and Seanery staff, are praised for their friendliness, safety focus, and helpfulness.
• High value for money: Many reviewers feel the experience is worth the cost due to the inclusions and quality.

What makes this tour stand out?

This tour is more than just a boat ride; it’s a carefully curated day of exploring some of Thailand’s most famous islands with a focus on comfort and experience. From the moment you’re picked up from your hotel in Phuket, the journey is designed to maximize your time on the islands while making you feel pampered.

The speed catamaran itself is a highlight. Unlike cramped speedboats, it offers a smoother ride, which many reviewers mention as a big plus, especially for those prone to seasickness. The boat’s upper deck provides excellent views, and onboard facilities such as toilets and shaded areas make the experience more comfortable.

The Itinerary in Detail

Bamboo Island is usually the first stop, where you’ll be greeted with pristine white sands and turquoise waters perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or snorkelling. Travelers report the island’s beauty as well worth the early start, with many describing it as idyllic and peaceful—an ideal way to kick off the day. Reviewers also appreciate the towels and beach blankets provided, which enhance comfort during relaxing hours.

Next, the crew takes you to Phi Phi Don, where a buffet lunch awaits. This is your chance to sample authentic Thai flavors, with many reviewers praising the quality and variety of the food. Some mention enjoying a visit to the local food and arts markets afterward, giving a little taste of island life beyond the beaches.

Maya Bay, filmed famously in “The Beach,” is often the highlight. The bay is busy but still breathtaking, with reviews mentioning the quiet moments during the late afternoon when the crowds thin out a bit, offering a more intimate experience. Many travelers say Maya Bay exceeds expectations, with its towering cliffs and crystal waters creating a postcard-worthy backdrop.

Pileh Lagoon is a real standout. Encircled by limestone cliffs, the emerald-green waters are perfect for snorkelling and taking photos. Reviews mention long-tail boat rides into the lagoon as a peaceful, scenic part of the day, providing that classic Thai island experience.

Viking Cave offers snorkeling and kayaking opportunities, giving you an up-close look at colorful coral reefs and underwater life. Several reviews highlight how helpful and encouraging the staff are, especially for those who are nervous about swimming or snorkelling. One reviewer remarked, “They helped me snorkel despite not swimming,” which speaks volumes about the crew’s attentiveness.

A brief stop at Maiton Island for dolphin watching and sightseeing adds a fun element to the day, with some reviewers lucky enough to spot dolphins during the sunset ride back to Phuket. The sunset journey is often described as magical, with many appreciating the peaceful scenery and the chance to unwind after a busy day.

Transport & Timing

Travel between the islands is via speed catamaran, which is praised for being fast yet comfortable. The total duration is approximately 8.5 hours, with most of the reviews emphasizing that the timing feels just right—enough to see everything without feeling rushed. Pickup times start early in Phuket, with most guests being collected around 8:00-9:30 AM, depending on location.

The group size is kept manageable, and many travelers comment on the friendly, professional crew, led by guides like Kakoe, who are attentive and seem genuinely invested in making the trip enjoyable. Seats are assigned, which helps avoid chaos, and the onboard staff maintains a good balance between fun and safety.

More Great Tours Nearby

Food & Beverage

The included buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don is a major highlight for many. Reviewers frequently mention the quality of the Thai dishes, with some describing it as delicious enough to feel like a meal at a good restaurant. Snacks and drinks are available throughout the day, with free water, soft drinks, and even alcohol on some parts of the boat—perfect for staying hydrated and refreshed.

Many note that the BBQ chicken during sunset is a lovely touch, making the journey back just as memorable as the day’s adventures.

Reviews & Authentic Insights

Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness. Many mention guides like Steve and Kakoe by name, noting their humor, helpfulness, and safety-minded approach. Several reviews reveal that even non-swimmers felt comfortable snorkeling thanks to the crew’s assistance, which is reassuring for cautious travelers.

The value for money is another recurring theme. Considering the inclusions—hotel pickup, snacks, meals, snorkelling gear, long-tail boat rides, and scenic stops—most guests feel they received a fantastic experience for the price paid.

A few reviewers mentioned the crowded nature of Maya Bay during peak times, but most appreciated the late afternoon visit when the crowds subside, allowing for better photos and less congestion.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, and swimwear.
• Cash is useful for small purchases at markets or tips.
• Note that drones are not allowed, so leave yours behind.
• Be prepared for some early mornings—pickup times vary depending on your location.
• If prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions; many reviewers found the catamaran ride smooth and comfortable.
• Towels, snorkeling gear, and beach blankets are provided, so pack light.

Who is this tour perfect for?

This trip appeals most to first-time visitors who want a comprehensive, hassle-free way to see the highlights of the Phi Phi Islands. It’s suitable for water lovers eager to snorkel and relax, as well as those wanting a comfortable, organized experience with good food and scenic stops.

It’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues or pregnant women due to the physical activity involved and the busy schedule. Also, if you prefer spending more time at each stop or exploring at your own pace, this tour’s fast-paced nature might not be ideal.

The Sum Up

This Phi Phi Islands day-trip by speed catamaran offers a balanced mix of comfort, adventure, and stunning scenery. The well-organized itinerary, friendly crew, and quality inclusions make it a smart choice for those wanting a memorable day out in Thailand’s most famous islands.

The emphasis on snorkeling, scenic cruising, and delicious Thai cuisine ensures you’ll leave with plenty of photos, stories, and possibly a new appreciation for island life. The high praise from travelers across the globe speaks to its consistency and value.

Best suited for first-timers, water enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a stress-free, all-in-one adventure. If you want to see the Phi Phi Islands without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from your Phuket hotel is included, with specific times depending on your location. Be sure to wait in the lobby 10 minutes early.

How long is the entire trip?
The tour lasts about 8.5 hours, from pickup to return, with most of the day spent island hopping and enjoying water activities.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, cash for extras, and possibly a waterproof phone case. Towels and snorkeling gear are provided.

Can non-swimmers participate?
Yes, many reviews mention crew members helping non-swimmers snorkel and feel safe, especially during lagoon visits.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch at Phi Phi Don and snacks are included, as well as BBQ dinner during the sunset ride.

What is the boat like?
The boat is a modern, well-maintained speed catamaran with upper decks for sightseeing, toilets onboard, and shaded areas for comfort.

Are there any restrictions?
Drones are not allowed. The trip isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or mobility impairments.

How crowded does it get?
Maya Bay can be busy, but visits in the late afternoon tend to be quieter according to reviews. The tour manages group sizes well, avoiding overcrowding.

This trip strikes a great balance between relaxation and adventure, making it a strong choice for anyone eager to see the Phi Phi Islands comfortably and confidently.

You can check availability for your dates here: