Imagine cruising across the shimmering waters of the Andaman Sea on a sleek private speedboat, with the wind in your hair and the horizon unfolding with picture-perfect islands. That’s exactly what you get with this full-day tour from Phuket to the Phi Phi Islands. It’s a personalized way to experience some of Thailand’s most iconic scenery without the crowds and with the flexibility to customize your stops.

What we love about this trip? First, the private speedboat means you’re not stuck in a large group—giving you a more intimate, relaxed experience. Second, the well-planned itinerary covers prime spots like Bamboo Island, Monkey Beach, and Pileh Lagoon, with enough time for snorkeling, swimming, and lounging. Third, the knowledgeable guides help you navigate the best underwater spots and share local insights that you won’t find on standard tours.

The one potential drawback? Since it’s a full-day tour, it’s a long time on the water, which might be tiring for some travelers, especially if you’re not used to boat rides or have mobility issues. Also, the itinerary is subject to weather conditions, which could change the planned stops (like Maya Bay’s current closure, though Rang Island is an alternative).

This tour suits travelers who want a private, flexible, and immersive experience of the Phi Phi Islands—perfect for couples, small groups, or families seeking a more personalized day out rather than a crowded group tour.

Key Points

Private Speedboat: Enjoy a customized, intimate experience on your own vessel.
Diverse Stops: From beaches and coral reefs to famous caves—each offers unique sights.
Snorkeling & Swimming: Gear included so you can explore underwater life in crystal-clear waters.
Flexible Itinerary: The schedule can be adjusted to fit your preferences and weather.
Guided Insights: Knowledgeable guides make the trip informative and engaging.
Value for Money: All-inclusive snorkeling gear, lunch, and transfers add up to a hassle-free adventure.

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The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

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Morning Pickup and Departure

Your day begins early, with pickup from your Phuket hotel between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. This is a smart move because it gets you out on the water before the bigger crowds arrive and maximizes your time on the islands. The transfer to the Royal Phuket Marina is smooth, and before long, you’re aboard your sleek private speedboat, ready to set sail.

Bamboo Island: Snorkeling and Beach Time

Your first stop is Bamboo Island, renowned for its powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters. Here, you’ll have a chance to swim and snorkel, exploring vibrant coral reefs bustling with colorful marine life. Reviewers highlight the “motoscafo nuovissimo e molto bello” (brand-new, beautiful speedboat), which adds a touch of luxury to the experience. Expect to spend around an hour here—long enough to relax, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.

Monkey Beach (Yong Kasem)

Next, you’ll visit Monkey Beach. This site is famed for its playful monkeys and additional snorkeling opportunities. Reviews mention that guides are attentive, offering snorkel gear that’s “nuovissima” (brand new), making underwater exploration both safe and enjoyable. Keep an eye on your belongings, as wild monkeys can be curious!

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Nui Bay, Camel Rock, and Snorkeling

Continuing your journey, the tour explores Nui Bay, with its dramatic rock formations and quiet beaches. Camel Rock, a striking natural arch, offers fantastic photo ops. This stop’s main appeal is its peaceful atmosphere and colorful reefs, which your guides will help you discover.

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Lunch on Phi Phi Don

Late morning or early afternoon, you’ll arrive at Phi Phi Don for a beachside lunch. The experience here is a highlight—fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local flavors served with a view. One reviewer appreciated the “service, fruit, snacks, and cold drinks,” which help keep energy levels high for the rest of the day. Keep in mind, some mention that the restaurant’s quality of food varies, but the stunning surroundings more than make up for it.

Phi Phi Lae Island and Viking Cave

After lunch, the tour continues to Phi Phi Lae (the smaller island), where you’ll see the famous Viking Cave. This site is renowned for its ancient cave paintings, and while access is limited, it’s a fascinating glimpse into the islands’ past.

Pileh Lagoon & Maya Bay

One of the tour’s most celebrated stops is Pileh Lagoon, a stunning natural pool surrounded by towering cliffs. Here, you’ll have time to swim in the calm waters, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Some reviews mention that swimming in the lagoon is a highlight, with clear waters perfect for photos.

Maya Bay, known globally thanks to the film “The Beach,” is a must-see. While current closures mean you might visit Rang Island instead, the scenery remains spectacular. Reviewers rave about the soft white sand and the chance to walk where Leonardo DiCaprio once strolled.

Return and Disembarkation

Your day wraps up by late afternoon, arriving at the Royal Phuket Marina around 4:00 PM. From there, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel, tired but full of memories and incredible photos.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Pricing for this tour might seem on the higher side compared to standard group excursions, but it reflects the personalized service, private vessel, and inclusive snorkeling gear and lunch. The flexibility to tailor stops and the intimate experience with knowledgeable guides mean you’re getting a premium experience that’s worth the investment. Travelers have noted how they appreciated avoiding the crowds, especially with the early departure that allowed them to visit Maya Bay before the rush.

Comfort and Convenience

Transport is included from your hotel, saving you the hassle of organizing taxis or shared transfers. The boat itself is described as “very clean,” which adds a layer of comfort on a full day at sea. The guides’ attentiveness, based on reviews, ensures safety and a smooth experience.

Snorkeling and Underwater Exploration

All snorkeling gear is provided, and reviews mention the “attentive” guides and “new equipment,” which really enhances the underwater experience. For those new to snorkeling, guides are helpful in making sure you’re comfortable, and the reefs are teeming with marine life.

Flexibility and Personalization

Unlike large group tours, this private trip allows for some customization—whether that’s spending more time at a favorite spot or skipping a less-interesting one. The guides are praised for their knowledge and willingness to adapt, which is a big plus if you want a more tailored experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for couples, small groups, or families who value privacy and flexibility. It’s great for travelers who want to avoid the chaos of large crowds and prefer a more relaxed, personalized day. If you’re keen on snorkeling, exploring scenic lagoons, and having a dedicated guide to show you the hidden gems of Phi Phi, this tour will deliver.

However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with serious medical conditions, or mobility issues, due to the boat ride and activity level. The long hours on the water also require a certain level of comfort with boat travel.

Final Thoughts

This private speedboat tour from Phuket to the Phi Phi Islands offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and exclusivity. From the moment you’re picked up until you’re dropped off, everything is designed to maximize your experience without the stress of large groups. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, with snorkeling gear and a delicious lunch included, making it a convenient, value-packed option for those eager to see the best of the islands.

The guides, known for their attentiveness and local knowledge, add a personal touch that can turn an already stunning day into something truly memorable. Whether you’re snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, wandering on secluded beaches, or marveling at iconic sights like Viking Cave or Pileh Lagoon, you’ll come away with a rich collection of experiences.

For travelers looking for a flexible, intimate, and scenic day trip that balances adventure with comfort, this tour proves to be an excellent choice—especially if you want to see the highlights while avoiding the crowds.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Phuket between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, making the start of your day smooth and hassle-free.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you peace of mind if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
While snorkeling is included, it’s best suited for confident swimmers or those willing to try with life jackets. Children and non-swimmers should consider their comfort level with boat rides and water activities.

What should I bring on the day?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a towel, waterproof camera, and a light jacket in case it gets windy. Snacks and drinks are included, but it’s always good to have some extra water.

Will we visit Maya Bay?
Maya Bay is currently closed for restoration. The tour will visit Rang Island as an alternative, depending on weather and tide conditions.

How long is the boat ride?
The full-day tour is approximately 8 hours, including travel time, snorkeling, stops, and lunch.

Is this experience worth the price?
Given the private vessel, included snorkeling gear, lunch, hotel transfers, and flexible itinerary, many find it offers excellent value for a personalized, comfortable experience that covers the highlights of the Phi Phi Islands.

To sum it up, this private speedboat trip from Phuket offers a seamless, intimate way to explore the stunning Phi Phi Islands. It’s perfect for those who prioritize comfort, flexibility, and a more authentic experience. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or just looking to relax on beautiful beaches, this tour is likely to leave you with unforgettable memories—and plenty of Instagram-worthy photos.

From Phuket: Phi Phi Island Private Full-Day Speedboat Trip