Traveling to Thailand and craving a quick yet comprehensive way to see some of its most iconic islands? This full-day Phi Phi Islands speedboat tour from Ao Nang offers a lively, scenic adventure packed into just seven hours. It’s a popular choice for those wanting to tick off multiple sights, enjoy snorkeling in crystal waters, and indulge in a Halal buffet—all without breaking the bank.

What sets this tour apart? We love its well-organized itinerary that covers five key stops, the inclusive hotel transfers and travel insurance, and the opportunity to snap unforgettable photos of some of Thailand’s most breathtaking landscapes. But, as with all popular tours, a possible downside is the crowd factor and the rushed feeling for those wanting a more relaxed pace. If you’re eager for a fast-paced exploration with plenty of photo ops and water activities, this trip could be perfect.

This experience is best suited for travelers who don’t mind sharing small boat spaces with other travelers, enjoy snorkeling, and want a cost-effective way to see Phi Phi. It’s ideal for adventure seekers, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a snapshot of these famous islands in one day.

Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covering major spots like Bamboo Island, Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach.
Snorkeling opportunities in crystal-clear waters, with some reviews mentioning excellent spots despite weather conditions.
Includes hotel pickup, lunch, and insurance, making it a hassle-free day.
Fast-paced schedule, with many stops in a short time—perfect for those who want to maximize sightseeing.
Affordable price point at $50 per person, offering good value considering the inclusions.
Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, with some travelers praising their attentiveness and humor.

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The Full Experience Breakdown

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Easy and Reliable Pickup

The tour begins early, with hotel pickups in Ao Nang (or Krabi Town), usually between 7:30 and 8:30 AM. The transportation is comfortable and straightforward—look for the bright yellow logo on the vehicle. This hassle-free start sets a relaxed tone, especially after a good night’s sleep.

Speedboat Ride and First Stop: Bamboo Island

After a 50-minute cruise, you’ll arrive at Bamboo Island, known for its powder-white sands and clear shallow waters. It’s perfect for quick photos, swimming, or just lounging with a snack. One reviewer noted they “had scenic views on the way,” which hints at the island’s picturesque setting.

Maya Bay: Famous for Its Beauty

Next, the boat takes about 10 minutes to reach Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach.” Here, you get around 45 minutes of sightseeing with a guided walk to absorb the stunning scenery. Be aware that Maya Bay is closed from August to October for renovations, so during this period, you’ll visit the main island, Phi Phi Don, for free time, shopping, and swimming.

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Pileh Lagoon: Ideal for Swimming and Snorkeling

From Maya Bay, a short 15-minute boat ride deposits you at Pileh Lagoon. Its calm, turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors have enjoyed this spot for its tranquility and scenic cliffs. Expect about 30 minutes here—enough to take photos and dip your toes in the water.

There's plenty more to explore in Ao Nang

Viking Cave & Monkey Beach: Unique Stops

The Viking Cave provides a quick 20-minute visit—sometimes with the chance to see swallows’ nests and learn about local cave carvings. Nearby is Monkey Beach, where you can observe playful monkeys and perhaps snap a few selfies. The review highlights that guides are attentive and helpful, which makes these quick stops more enjoyable.

Lunch Break on Phi Phi Don

The largest island, Ko Phi Phi Don, offers about 1.5 hours for lunch, shopping, and relaxation. The included buffet features Halal options, with vegetarian choices available. Reviewers mention the food as “delicious,” and some appreciated the chance to explore the island’s local shops and take more photos.

Return Journey: Spectacular Views and Final Stops

After lunch, the boat departs for the 50-minute cruise back to Ao Nang, offering more chances to admire the scenery or relax. Many travelers mention the trip’s fast pace—some found it a bit rushed, but others appreciated seeing so much in a day.

What Travelers Say About This Tour

One reviewer from the UK praised it: “Exactly what I needed. You see so much in one day, which is great if you’re trying to fit everything in.” They also appreciated the delicious buffet and helpful staff. Conversely, some found the schedule a little stressful, noting that many visits felt rushed and that the group size could be overwhelming. Another traveler pointed out an engine issue that caused a delay, reminding us that weather and technical problems can affect even the best plans.

Many highlighted the knowledgeable guides who made the day more engaging, with some describing them as “funny” and “attentive.” The snorkeling, despite weather conditions, was often a highlight, with reviewers praising the crystal-clear waters and the chance to see marine life.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

Transportation and Duration

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a big plus for hassle-free planning. The whole day lasts about 7 hours, with the boat ride being around 50 minutes each way. The schedule is tightly packed, so if you prefer a relaxed pace, this might feel a bit rushed, but it’s perfect for those who want to maximize every minute.

Cost and Value

At $50 per person, this tour offers a very competitive price considering it covers multiple islands, snorkeling equipment, lunch, insurance, and transfers. The reviews suggest that many find this a good value for money, especially when compared with other tours that might charge more for fewer stops.

Inclusions and Extras

The tour provides lunch at a Halal restaurant with vegetarian options, which is a thoughtful touch for diverse dietary needs. You should bring essentials like sunscreen, swimwear, and a camera, plus some cash for souvenirs or snacks at Phi Phi Don.

Safety and Restrictions

Not suitable for pregnant women, babies under 1 year, or people with serious health issues. The sea can be choppy, and the schedule is active.
Marine life touching, smoking, nudity, and littering are prohibited for safety and environmental reasons.
The tour can be altered due to weather, and Maya Bay is closed during certain months for conservation.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a fast-paced, fun-filled day with plenty of photo opportunities, snorkeling, and island hopping, this trip suits you well. It’s perfect for first-timers eager to see the highlights of Phi Phi without hassle, or anyone wanting a cost-effective way to tick off multiple iconic spots.

However, if you prefer a leisurely, unhurried experience, or want to spend more time relaxing on the beach, you might find this schedule a little hectic. It’s also not ideal for those with mobility issues or non-swimmers, although snorkeling is optional.

The Sum Up

This Phi Phi Islands speedboat tour from Ao Nang offers a solid, value-packed way to experience some of Thailand’s most famous islands in one day. The combination of stunning scenery, snorkeling, and a delicious Halal buffet makes it an appealing choice for travelers looking to make the most of limited time.

The organized itinerary and included transfers mean less stress and more fun—just be prepared for a busy day with multiple stops. If you’re eager to see many sights but don’t want to spend a fortune, this tour strikes a good balance between affordability and adventure.

For those who enjoy guided excursions, love taking photos, and want to explore islands with a friendly crew, this trip is worth considering. Just remember, a bit of a hurried pace is part of the package, so embrace the whirlwind and enjoy the views.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour provides hotel lobby pickup from Ao Nang, Krabi, and nearby areas, making it convenient and stress-free.

How long is the boat ride? The cruise to and from the islands takes approximately 50 minutes each way, depending on weather conditions.

Are vegetarian and Halal options available for lunch? Yes, the buffet lunch at the Halal restaurant includes vegetarian options, catering to diverse dietary needs.

Can I snorkel during the tour? Absolutely. Snorkeling is offered at multiple stops, including Bamboo Island, Viking Cave, and Pileh Lagoon, with some reviewers praising the clarity of the waters.

What should I bring? Pack essentials like sunglasses, swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, camera, sunscreen, snacks, and water. Cash for souvenirs or extra snacks is also recommended.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers? While snorkeling is optional, non-swimmers should inform guides beforehand. The activity is generally not recommended for pregnant women, babies under 1 year, or those with serious health concerns.

Ao Nang: Phi Phi Islands Speedboat Tour Full Day