Exploring the stunning Phi Phi Islands is a must-do for anyone visiting Phuket, and doing so on a private speedboat adds a luxurious twist to the adventure. We haven’t personally been on this tour, but from detailed reviews and the itinerary, it’s clear that this experience offers a combination of exclusivity, natural beauty, and personalized service. It’s perfect for travelers who want a flexible, intimate day with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the scenery.
What we love about this tour:
- The private nature, which means fewer crowds and more tailored experiences.
- The diverse stops like Maya Bay, Bamboo Island, and Piley Lagoon, offering varied scenery and activities.
- The combination of sightseeing and relaxation, with options for snorkeling, sunbathing, and swimming.
One potential drawback: The price point ($1,322 for up to 2 people) might seem steep for some, especially considering that meals are extra. But when you factor in the exclusive service and flexible itinerary, many will find it well worth the investment.
This tour suits adventurous couples, small groups, or anyone looking for a private, all-in-one day trip that balances activity with leisure. If you’re after a personalized, hassle-free way to see the iconic Phi Phi sights, this experience looks like a standout choice.
Key Points
- Exclusive Experience: Private tour means fewer crowds and tailored stops.
- Flexible Itinerary: Choose your pickup time and enjoy a customized day.
- Snorkeling & Beaches: Plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on beautiful sands.
- Iconic Sights: Visit Maya Bay, Bamboo Island, Monkey Beach, and more.
- Included Comforts: Hotel pickup, safety gear, and a delicious buffet lunch (extra).
- Valuable for Price: The private nature and all-day duration make it a worthwhile splurge for those wanting exclusivity.
Introduction: Why This Tour Stands Out
The idea of exploring the Phi Phi Islands by speedboat is tempting enough, but doing it privately elevates the experience significantly. This particular tour stands out because it combines the thrill of a speedboat ride with the comfort of personalized service. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, you start your day hassle-free, and the flexible timing ensures you’re not stuck behind a rigid schedule.
What really catches the eye are the stunning stops. From the movie-famous Maya Bay to Bamboo Island’s soft sands, every location promises picture-perfect scenes and opportunities for water activities. Reviewers consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides and the delicious lunch as standout features, making this a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.
However, the price point is something to keep in mind. While it covers most essentials, the buffet lunch is an additional cost, and alcohol isn’t included. Still, many feel that the exclusivity and tailored experience justify the expense, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or traveling with someone special.
This tour is best suited for travelers who prioritize private experiences, love being on the water, and want to see the iconic sights without the large tour groups.
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What Makes This Tour Special: Features & Highlights
Private 8-Hour Speedboat:
Traveling on your own speedboat means fewer interruptions and more freedom to spend longer at your favorite stops. The 8-hour duration offers ample time to explore, swim, and relax. Reviewers like Wendy mention the “very personalized attention” and “beautiful beaches to sunbathe on”, which underscores how this tour focuses on your comfort and preferences.
Iconic Sights:
- Maya Bay: Known worldwide thanks to Leonardo DiCaprio’s “The Beach,” this bay’s stunning cliffs and clear waters are the star of the show. The tour’s reviewers often mention Maya Bay as a highlight, but some note that it can get crowded, which makes your private trip all the more valuable for avoiding the larger crowds.
- Bamboo Island: Expect soft white sands and turquoise waters, perfect for lounging or snorkeling. As CatherineAponte puts it, the “beautiful views and lots of swimming time” make this stop worthwhile.
- Pileh Lagoon: Surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs, this scenic lagoon is a favorite among guests, with many saying it’s the best part of the trip to “swim in the emerald green waters.”
- Monkey Beach: A chance to see monkeys in their natural habitat, climbing and swimming freely. Reviewers find this stop both fun and a little wild.
- Viking Cave: A brief stop to learn about the bird’s nests harvested here for soup — no long tours, but a quick interesting sight.
Snorkeling & Water Activities:
The tour provides snorkel masks and fins, with optional snorkeling at Nui Bay or Bamboo Island. Reviewers like MollyDimit mention “great snorkeling”, noting the water clarity and coral reefs. The waterproof phone pouch and new snorkel mouthpieces add to the convenience and hygiene of the experience.
Buffet Lunch at a 4.5-Star Resort:
While lunch is an extra cost, reviewers frequently praise the delicious Thai set menu or buffet, coupled with gorgeous views. Wendy_G describes the lunch as “delicious with amazing views”, which makes the meal a memorable part of the day.
The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect
Morning Pickup & Transfer
Your day begins with a hotel pickup between 6:00 am and 9:00 am. This flexible timing is a boon, especially if you’re not an early riser. From your hotel, you’ll be taken to the Royal Phuket Marina, where the crew introduces you to the speedboat and the captain. This personalized touch, as noted in reviews, helps you feel confident and well-prepared.
Cruising to the Islands
Once aboard, you’ll cruise over the Andaman Sea, enjoying the breeze and panoramic views. The journey takes about 1 hour to reach the first stop. Many reviews highlight the smooth, comfortable ride as a highlight, and some mention the “nice and helpful” crew making the experience even better.
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Bamboo Island
Your first stop – a paradise for sunbathers and snorkelers alike. The beach here is perfect for stretching out and dipping into the clear waters. Reviewers like CatherineAponte particularly enjoy the “pristine waters” for snorkeling, and Wendy appreciates the “beautiful scenery” for relaxing.
Pileh Lagoon
Next, you’ll head to Pileh Lagoon, surrounded by towering cliffs. This spot is described as a “scenic lagoon” and “a favorite location” among travelers. Here, you can take a refreshing swim and marvel at the natural beauty of the towering limestone formations.
Monkey Beach & Viking Cave
A short stop at Monkey Beach offers encounters with lively monkeys. The cave visit is quick but educational, giving insight into local bird nest harvesting. Reviewers find both stops a fun and interesting break from swimming.
Maya Bay
After a brief cruise, you arrive at Maya Bay, famous for its stunning cliffs and shallow waters. Although it can be crowded with day-trippers, your private tour allows for more relaxed exploration. Many reviewers mention that seeing the bay “feels like stepping into a postcard” and that the ability to spend time here without the crowds is a real plus.
Final Stop: Piley Lagoon
The last activity is at Piley Lagoon, where you can swim or simply enjoy the views. It’s the perfect peaceful spot to wind down before heading back.
Return & Drop-off
After a full day of exploration, your guide will signal when it’s time to head back to the marina. From there, you’ll enjoy a short ride back to your hotel, arriving between 5 pm and 6 pm, according to reviews.
Practical Details: What You Should Know
Transportation & Timing
- The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, offering convenience and saving time.
- Pickup times are flexible, scheduled anytime between 6 am and 9 am, allowing travelers to choose based on their plans.
- The total duration is about 8 hours, giving plenty of time for each stop and some buffer for travel.
Group Size & Price
- The experience is private, with a maximum of 6 people per booking.
- The cost is $1,322.06 per group, which covers up to 2 travelers.
- Although pricey, reviews consistently mention the value of privacy, personalized attention, and exclusive access to popular sites.
What’s Included & Not
- The package covers safety gear, snorkeling masks, fins, and insurance.
- The lunch at a 4.5-star resort is available but incurs an extra charge.
- Alcoholic drinks are not included, so you might want to bring your own if you enjoy a drink with your meal or during the day.
Additional Considerations
- Most travelers can participate, regardless of swimming ability, since lifejackets and masks are provided.
- The tour is weather-dependent; poor weather might cause cancellations or rescheduling, with full refunds offered.
- Be sure to notify the tour provider of any dietary restrictions when booking.
Authentic Experiences & Review Insights
From actual guests, several points stand out. CatherineAponte loved the “beautiful views and lots of swimming time”, emphasizing how well-organized and enjoyable the schedule was. Wendy_G appreciated the “personalized attention” from the crew, especially noting the “delicious” lunch with “amazing views”.
MollyDimit’s glowing review highlights just how much value travelers find in the private aspect, with her saying, “1000% worth it” and noting that the private boat was only slightly more expensive per person than a larger group option. Kevin_L’s compliment about the “professional guides” and the “great memories” they created reinforces that this tour is about quality and service.
The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Experience?
This private Phi Phi Islands speedboat tour offers an intimate, flexible way to see some of Thailand’s most iconic sights. It’s an ideal pick for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a more exclusive, personalized adventure. The combination of stunning scenery, crowd-free stops, and attentive guides makes it a worthwhile splurge for those who value comfort and privacy.
If you’re after a laid-back yet adventure-packed day with plenty of water activities, this tour delivers. It balances sightseeing, relaxation, and excellent service, making it a solid choice for travelers who want to avoid the chaos of larger group tours and truly enjoy the beauty of the Phi Phi Islands.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with flexible pickup times between 6 am and 9 am.
What stops are included in the tour?
Stops include Bamboo Island, Pileh Lagoon, Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, Maya Bay, and Piley Lagoon.
Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks, fins, and lifejackets are provided for your convenience and safety.
How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, from pickup to return to your hotel.
What is the price for the tour?
It is $1,322.06 per group, suitable for up to 2 people, which offers privacy and exclusivity.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. The tour is weather-dependent, and cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable.
This private speedboat tour to the Phi Phi Islands offers a chance to explore iconic locations comfortably and personally. With great reviews and a thoughtfully curated itinerary, it’s worth considering if you want a memorable, crowd-free day in Thailand’s most beautiful waters.
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