From Phi Phi : Maya Bay snorkeling trip by Speed Boat

From Phi Phi: Maya Bay Snorkeling Trip by Speed Boat — A Balanced Look

Exploring the Phi Phi Islands by speedboat to visit Maya Bay and other iconic spots is a popular way to spend a day in Thailand. We haven’t personally taken this exact tour, but from detailed reviews and the itinerary, it’s clear that this trip offers a lot of memorable moments—and some caveats.

What makes this experience worth considering? First, the stunning scenery and diverse stops give you a well-rounded taste of Phi Phi’s natural beauty. Second, the knowledgeable guides are praised for their friendliness and insight, making the journey more engaging. Lastly, the chance to snorkel at multiple locations, including Shark Point, promises some exciting wildlife encounters.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour can feel rushed, especially at Maya Bay, where swimming is no longer allowed, and crowds can be overwhelming. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a quick, sightseeing-focused adventure with diverse photo opportunities and marine life spotting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and iconic sights like Maya Bay and Viking Cave
• Snorkeling opportunities at Pileh Lagoon and Shark Point
• Small group size (limited to 25 people) for a more personal experience
• Efficient itinerary with a mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxing
• Cost-effective price around $47 per person, including park fees and gear
• Mixed reviews highlight both the scenic highlights and some tour inconsistencies

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Early Morning Departure and Meeting Point

Most tours meet in front of McDonald’s Koh Phi Phi, starting as early as 6:30 AM or 8:30 AM depending on the operator. The tour typically lasts around 4 to 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day outing. Because transfers aren’t included, you’ll need to arrange your own transport and overnight stay, which is common for tours to Phi Phi.

Monkey Beach

Your adventure kicks off at Monkey Beach, where you might spot wild monkeys roaming freely. Based on reviews, some guides emphasize that there are “no monkeys at the moment,” and will advise you accordingly. It’s a quick stop—not much time to hang around—so don’t expect to get close to the monkeys if they’re not present. Still, it’s a fun photo op and a chance to observe local wildlife in their habitat.

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Viking Cave

Next is Viking Cave, renowned for its limestone walls adorned with ancient paintings. Guides often share the cave’s history and significance, adding a layer of educational value. Visitors generally find this stop interesting, especially those keen on local stories and rock art. It’s a brief visit but rich in visual appeal.

Pileh Lagoon and Loh Samah Bay

These are the highlights for snorkeling and photos. Pileh Lagoon’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for floating around and discovering vibrant marine life. You’ll get snorkel gear included to explore the underwater world, which reviewers say is “crystal clear,” ideal for seeing a variety of fish and coral.

Loh Samah Bay is just a short sail away, from where you’ll transfer to Maya Bay via floating pier. Here, you can relax on the famous white sands and capture those postcard-perfect views. Keep in mind that swimming at Maya Bay itself is no longer permitted, as the bay is closed to visitors on land from August 1 to September 30, 2025, for conservation. But you can admire the scenery from the boat.

Maya Bay

This is the most famous stop, but the experience can be a bit underwhelming if you’re expecting to swim or snorkel in the bay itself. According to recent updates, visitors are restricted from walking on the beach during the conservation period, but you’ll get a good view from the boat. Many reviewers mention that the crowds here are intense, and some feel less time should be spent here in favor of other snorkeling spots.

Shark Point and Optional Snorkeling with Plankton

One of the main draws is the chance to snorkel at Shark Point with blacktip reef sharks. The guides focus on safety and maximize your chances of seeing these sharks in their natural environment. It’s a highlight for many, although some reviews note that sharks are not always visible, and the experience can vary.

Later in the day, there’s an optional activity to snorkel at sunset or with glowing plankton, which many find magical. The plankton are a special, mesmerizing sight, creating a surreal glow in the water that’s worth the extra time if offered.

Practical Details: What to Expect and What It Means for You

Group Size and Tour Flexibility

Limited to 25 guests, this tour aims for a more personalized experience, avoiding the huge crowds that can swamp other trips. That said, some reviews indicate that the schedule can feel rushed, especially at Maya Bay, where the emphasis is on sightseeing rather than extended swimming or lounging.

Duration and Timing

Starting early helps beat the worst crowds at popular spots like Maya Bay, which is a plus. The tour’s timing aligns well with natural light for photography and snorkeling, although weather conditions may cause schedule adjustments or cancellations.

Cost and What’s Included

At around $47 per person, including the national park fee, snorkeling gear, drinks, fruits, and a guide, this tour offers decent value. It’s a half-day, so it’s a good way to see multiple sights without a huge investment. However, note that lunch and hotel transfers are not included, so plan accordingly.

What to Bring and Not to Bring

You’ll want to pack essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a towel, and swimwear. Note that pets, smoking, vaping, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed onboard, which is standard for protected marine areas.

Weather and Safety

Tours are subject to weather conditions. Rain showers are common during the season but usually brief. If conditions are unsafe, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, with options for full refunds or rescheduling.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One traveler, Amber, shared that she loved the knowledgeable guide and the stunning snorkeling spots, wishing more time could be spent underwater. Her experience underscores that the marine areas are a true highlight and worth prioritizing.

Conversely, another reviewer from GetYourGuide expressed disappointment, feeling that some stops, like Monkey Beach, were rushed or unfulfilling, and the shark sightings didn’t live up to expectations. They also pointed out that timing and communication from the crew could be inconsistent, which affects overall satisfaction.

These mixed reviews highlight that while the scenery and marine life can be spectacular, the perceived value depends heavily on expectations and luck with wildlife sightings.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a quick, scenic overview of Phi Phi, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and enjoying iconic views like Maya Bay from a distance. It’s particularly suited for those who value small group experiences and are okay with a busy schedule that prioritizes sightseeing over lengthy stops.

If you’re seeking a more relaxed, beach-lounging day, this may not be your best choice. Likewise, if your priority is swimming in Maya Bay or encountering sharks, be aware that sightings are not guaranteed, and some areas are off-limits for safety or conservation reasons.

The Sum Up

This Maya Bay snorkeling trip by speedboat offers a compact, visually stunning taste of the Phi Phi Islands. You’ll get to see some of the most photographed spots, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and possibly encounter reef sharks—all within a manageable half-day tour. The small group size enhances the experience, and the inclusion of gear, drinks, and park fees makes it a straightforward choice for budget-conscious travelers.

However, it’s not without its drawbacks: limited time at key sites, the potential for crowds at Maya Bay, and variable wildlife sightings. If you enjoy a lively, activity-packed day with plenty of photo ops and marine adventures, this tour can be a good fit. But if you’re after a more laid-back experience or guarantees of wildlife encounters, you might want to explore alternatives or prepare for some variability.

This tour delivers a solid introduction to Phi Phi’s highlights, especially for those who appreciate scenic views, snorkeling, and a guided experience that balances fun with practicality.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to the meeting point isn’t included; you’ll need to arrange your own transfer to Koh Phi Phi.

How long does the tour last?
The trip lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, making it a convenient half-day activity.

Can I snorkel with sharks?
Yes, the tour includes snorkeling at Shark Point where blacktip reef sharks may be seen, with guides ensuring safety.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and any personal items you might need; alcohol and pets are not allowed.

Is Maya Bay open for swimming?
No, Maya Bay is closed for swimming and walking on land from August 1 to September 30, 2025, but you can admire it from the boat.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 25 participants, providing a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your trip plans.

You can check availability for your dates here: