Early Bird Trip Phi Phi & 4 IslandsPremium Speedboat from Krabi

Exploring Krabi’s Islands with the Early Bird Trip: A Complete Guide

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant island life, the Early Bird Trip to Phi Phi & 4 Islands from Krabi promises an experience packed with stunning scenery and smooth organization. This tour has quickly gained a reputation for being a reliable, well-structured way to see some of Thailand’s most iconic spots—without the crowded rush.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the early departure time means you beat the crowds and enjoy calmer beaches and popular spots like Maya Bay. Second, the expert guides and attentive service ensure you feel comfortable and well-informed throughout the day. Lastly, it’s an excellent value, combining luxury transportation, multiple island stops, and included meals into one seamless adventure.

However, the early start does require waking up a bit before dawn, which might not suit night owls. If you’re an active traveler eager to maximize your island time, this trip is well suited. It’s perfect for those who want a fun, hassle-free day of sightseeing with a guided touch and plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, and relaxing on pristine beaches.

Key Points

• Early departure helps avoid crowds and enjoy more private moments at popular sites.
• Comprehensive itinerary covers iconic spots including Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, and more.
• Expert guides and staff are consistently praised for their friendliness, humor, and professionalism.
• All-day transportation by fast speedboat offers a quick, exciting way to hop between islands.
• Inclusive meals and snorkeling gear add value, making it easier to relax and enjoy the day.
• Flexible cancellation policy ensures peace of mind with the option to cancel 24 hours in advance.

The Whole Day in the Islands: What to Expect

The tour kicks off early at 6:00 am with a convenient hotel pickup (or meeting point at Nopparat Thara Pier). From there, you’ll hop onto a speedboat equipped with three engines, which promises a swift and stable ride—something praised by several reviewers. Expect the boat to be clean and well-maintained, with a maximum group size of 40 travelers, striking a good balance between social vibe and personal space.

Maya Bay: World-Famous and Crowds-Free

Your first stop is Maya Bay, the filming location of “The Beach.” Because this trip departs early, you’ll arrive before the larger crowds, giving you a chance to snap photos of the iconic limestone cliffs and clear waters. The admission ticket is included, and you’ll have around 45 minutes here to soak in the scenery, swim, or relax on the beach.

Pileh Bay: Nature’s Blue Lagoon

Next, you’ll head to Pileh Bay, called “The Blue Lagoon” by some. The calm waters here are perfect for swimming, jumping off the boat, or capturing stunning photos. Reviewers highlight how serene this spot feels when visited early, with fewer travelers around. Again, there’s a 45-minute window, with tickets included, making it an ideal spot for a quick dip.

Viking Cave and Monkey Beach: Unique Encounters

Your journey continues with a visit to Viking Cave, known for its swiftlet bird nests and intriguing cliffside views. It’s a quick stop—about 20 minutes—but a favorite among travelers, some describing it as a “bird’s nest habitation.” The photo opportunities here are abundant.

Shortly after, Monkey Beach offers an up-close look at macaques in their natural habitat. The water here is noted for being clear and inviting for swimming. It’s a lively stop, with around 20 minutes to interact with the monkeys and enjoy the scenery.

Lunch at Phi Phi Don: Rest and Refuel

By mid-morning, you’ll arrive at Phi Phi Don, where a buffet lunch awaits at a local restaurant. The included meal is a highlight, with reviewers praising the variety and quality, including vegetarian options. The 1.5-hour break allows you to relax, explore the island, or do some quick shopping before heading out again.

Bamboo Island, Chicken Island, Tup Island: Beach and Sandbank Adventures

The afternoon is packed with breathtaking stops. Bamboo Island offers a white sandy beach, perfect for sunbathing, exploring hermit crabs, or snorkeling. Reviewers love the time spent here, noting it’s a peaceful spot to unwind.

Chicken Island features a uniquely shaped limestone rock resembling a chicken’s head—perfect for photos. A brief 20-minute visit gives you time to marvel at the formation.

Tup Island is famous for the sea sandbank that appears at low tide, connecting to Chicken Island. Walking across this natural bridge is a favorite moment for many, with some reviewers calling it “a miracle of nature.” The 30-minute stop offers fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to walk on water.

Poda Island: Scenic The Sum Up

The day winds down at Poda Island, renowned for its curved beach lined with pine trees. It’s a classic postcard shot, and many travelers find it a fitting closing spot. You’ll have approximately 45 minutes here to relax, swim, and enjoy the scenery.

What’s Included and What to Budget For

The cost of $110.60 per person covers a lot of ground. You get round-trip hotel transfers, a buffet breakfast, a Thai lunch, and snorkeling equipment with life jackets, making it easier to focus on fun rather than logistics. The admission fee for the Marine National Park (400 THB per adult) is not included but payable on-site, so budget accordingly.

Guests consistently praise the value for money, noting the inclusion of meals, snorkeling gear, and smooth transportation makes it a comprehensive package.

The Guides and Staff

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, especially mentioning Alek (or similar team members), as warm, funny, and engaging. Guests appreciated how the guides kept the atmosphere lively without sacrificing safety or organization. This friendly service is especially important given the early start, helping everyone feel comfortable from the outset.

Timing and Group Size

Starting at 6:00 am might seem early, but reviewers confirm it’s worth it to beat the crowds and have more space to enjoy each stop. The group size of up to 40 ensures a lively experience but still manageable and intimate enough for personalized attention.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying the Tour

• Waking Up Early: Prepare the night before—this trip’s early start is a small price for crowd-free beaches.
• Comfortable Clothing: Pack swimwear, sunglasses, hat, and waterproof sunscreen to stay comfortable all day.
• Cash for Park Fee: Remember to bring cash for the Marine National Park entrance fee, payable on-site.
• Snorkeling Gear: Use the provided equipment to explore underwater life, but consider bringing your own mask if you prefer.
• Camera Ready: Many spots are picture-perfect, so keep your camera or phone handy.

Cancellation Policy

If your plans change, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Weather-dependent, the tour may be canceled if conditions aren’t safe, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for travelers looking to maximize island time while avoiding crowds. Families, couples, or groups of friends will appreciate the well-organized schedule and friendly guides. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want a full-day adventure without worrying about logistics or transportation hassles.

If you love stunning scenery, authentic experiences, and good value, this tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing. Be prepared for an early start, but know that the effort pays off with calmer beaches, fewer crowds, and a memorable day exploring the best of Krabi’s islands.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, round-trip hotel transfers by air-conditioned van are included, making pickup at your accommodation or at Nopparat Thara Pier.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 6:00 am, so travelers should be ready for pickup early in the morning.

How long is the whole tour?
Expect approximately 8 to 10 hours, giving you a full day of island hopping and sightseeing.

Are meals included?
Yes, a breakfast on the way and a buffet lunch in Phi Phi Don are included, along with drinks and seasonal fruits.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, camera, and cash for the park entrance fee. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the reviews include families with children, and the boat’s size and schedule are generally family-friendly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the speedboat is praised for being clean, fast, and stable, with multiple engines providing a smooth ride.

Do I need to be physically fit?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended, especially for swimming and walking on the sandbanks, but the tour is manageable for most travelers.

In all, the Early Bird Trip to Phi Phi & 4 Islands offers an engaging, well-organized way to see some of Thailand’s most beautiful islands with fewer crowds and loads of fun. For anyone wanting a full day of island adventure with excellent guides and great value, this tour is hard to beat.