Phuket: Phi Phi Island Highlight Premium Cruise with Meal

This seven-hour tour offers a fantastic way to explore the legendary Phi Phi Islands, famed for their towering limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life. While we haven’t been on this exact cruise ourselves, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a memorable adventure packed with scenic sights and comfortable comforts.

What we love most about this experience includes the smooth hotel transfers, which take the stress out of logistics; the chance to visit iconic spots like Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon; and the generous buffet lunch that offers a taste of local flavors with a view. One point to consider is that the travel time to and from the islands can be somewhat lengthy, especially if you’re staying farther from Phuket, so it’s worth planning for a full day.

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a combination of relaxation, sightseeing, and underwater exploration — perfect for those new to the islands or looking for a hassle-free way to take in the highlights with minimal effort.

• Comfortable transfers: Hotel pickup and drop-off make for a smooth start and finish.
• Iconic stops: Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave — all with scenic views and photo opportunities.
• Snorkeling opportunities: Explore lively coral reefs and marine creatures in clear waters.
• Delicious buffet lunch: Tastes of Thai and international dishes served on Phi Phi Don.
• Balanced itinerary: Time allocated for sightseeing, relaxing, and water activities.
• Value for money: A comprehensive trip with transportation, guided commentary, and included meals.

The Phi Phi Islands are Thailand’s poster children for tropical bliss, and this cruise does a good job of getting you up close without the usual hassle. The journey begins with a convenient hotel pickup in Phuket, Patong, Karon, or Phuket Town — a real time-saver that means you won’t have to navigate busy local transport or worry about directions.

Once aboard the boat, the scenery on the way out is a treat. Reviewers mention enjoying the “scenic views” during the roughly one-hour transfer, along with comfortable seating options, especially if you opt for the gold class package which offers larger seats and snacks throughout the trip. The boat itself is described as comfortable, with plenty of space to stretch out and enjoy the journey.

Scenic Stops and Iconic Sights

The itinerary is structured to maximize your time on the water and on land. The first stops are at Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach,” and Viking Cave, where you can admire limestone cliffs and learn a bit about the area’s natural formations. Reviewers like Nabila from Germany mention “alles gut,” indicating a smooth, enjoyable experience with excellent viewing opportunities.

Maya Bay offers stunning vistas, and you’ll get a brief 20-minute window here to take photos or just soak in the view. The Viking Cave provides another short scenic stop, where the limestone formations are particularly photogenic. However, some reviewers note that the time allocated for each site feels a bit tight, and more time might allow for a more relaxed experience.

The next major highlight is Ko Phi Phi Don, where you’ll enjoy a delicious buffet lunch. The meal is served on the island, and reviewers consistently mention the quality and variety of the food. Priya from India appreciated the “lovely view from big windows” during the meal and the ongoing availability of snacks, which adds to the sense of comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Water Activities and Marine Life

After lunch, the focus shifts to snorkeling and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. With approximately 1.5 hours allocated for this activity, you’ll have ample opportunity to explore coral reefs teeming with vibrant fish. Reviewers describe the snorkel spots as “vibrant,” and some mention the experience of discovering underwater life as a definite highlight.

Getting into the water can be a breeze, as snorkeling gear is often provided, and guides are on hand to assist. The reviews don’t specify if snorkeling gear is included, but the overall tone suggests it’s a well-organized experience. For those who love marine exploration, this gives a fantastic glimpse into Thailand’s underwater ecosystems.

Returning and Reflection

The voyage back is just as comfortable, with another hour-long transfer to Phuket. Many reviewers, like Miguel from France, note that the journey can feel long, especially if the travel time is extended, but the quality of the experience on the islands more than makes up for it.

On the whole, the seamless organization — including hotel transfers, guided commentary, and meal service — stands out as a major plus, making this a stress-free way to see the highlights of Phi Phi.

Travelers’ comments shed valuable light on what to expect. For example, Harry from the UK recommends the gold package, which offers extra food, drinks, and relaxing chairs — details that add to the overall comfort. Conversely, some mention the limited buffet options, suggesting that if food variety is a priority, it might be worth opting for an upgraded package.

Many reviewers appreciate the stunning scenery and delicious food, with Priya mentioning the “full-time snacks” and “lovely view” as highlights. Others note that, while the trip is well-organized, more time at each site would enhance the experience, especially for photography or relaxing.

The tour lasts roughly 7 hours, with the pickup starting early in the morning (exact times vary). It’s designed to suit a wide range of travelers, but note that pregnant women and wheelchair users are not recommended, given the physical nature of water activities and limited accessibility.

The group sizes tend to be moderate, ensuring a friendly atmosphere without feeling crowded. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes this trip especially convenient, saving you the hassle of finding meeting points.

Pricing is considered reasonable given the inclusion of transportation, guided commentary, water activities, and a buffet meal. The option to reserve and pay later adds flexibility, especially if you’re unsure about your schedule.

This Phi Phi Island Premium Cruise offers a well-rounded experience that combines scenic views, marine exploration, and comfortable amenities. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a hassle-free day with plenty of photo-worthy moments and delicious food. The inclusion of convenient transfers, guided commentary, and a good balance of activities makes it attractive for first-time visitors or travelers short on time.

While the trip’s duration and the tight schedule at each stop might not suit those wanting an unhurried, in-depth exploration, it ensures you get the highlights efficiently. It’s particularly beneficial for travelers who value comfort and convenience alongside their adventure, and those who want to enjoy the natural beauty of Phi Phi without the stress of planning logistics.

If stunning vistas, lively snorkeling, and a tasty buffet top your list, and you don’t mind a full day of travel, this tour delivers solid value and memorable moments.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for select locations like Patong, Kata, Karon, and Phuket Town, making the day more convenient.

How long is the transfer time?
The transfer to the islands takes about one hour each way, with additional time for the return journey, making the total trip approximately 7 hours.

What stops are included on this tour?
You’ll visit Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Ko Phi Phi Don for lunch, along with snorkeling in prime spots around the islands.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
While not explicitly confirmed, reviews suggest snorkeling activities are well-organized. It’s likely gear is available, or you might want to bring your own.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour follows a set itinerary, but options like the gold class package can enhance comfort, especially with additional food and lounge amenities.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is included on Phi Phi Don, offering Thai and international dishes, with snacks available during the trip.

Is this trip suitable for families?
While generally family-friendly, the tour is not recommended for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to activity restrictions and physical demands.

How do I cancel if my plans change?
Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

This detailed review aims to give you an honest, practical look at what to expect from the Phi Phi Island Highlight Premium Cruise. Whether you’re after picture-perfect scenery, underwater encounters, or simply a relaxing day on the water, this trip offers a solid, well-organized way to enjoy the best of the Phi Phi Islands.

You can check availability for your dates here: