Full Day Tour of Phi Phi Island by Big Boat from Rassada Pier, Phuket (SHA Plus)

If you’re dreaming of soaking up the stunning sights of Thailand’s Phi Phi Islands without the cramped feeling of smaller boats, this full-day tour might be just what you’re looking for. It offers a leisurely cruise on a spacious vessel, combined with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, beach lounging, and sightseeing. While it’s not a perfect experience for everyone—particularly those looking for a fast-paced, action-packed excursion—it certainly suits travelers craving comfort, scenic views, and a relaxed vibe.

We particularly like the comfortable ride on a larger boat, the insightful guides, and the inclusive meals and snorkeling gear. But keep in mind, the overall experience can be somewhat limited by the short stops and the crowds during high season. If you prefer a more intimate or adventure-heavy tour, this might not be your best fit. However, for families, first-timers, or travelers who simply want a chilled day on the water, it offers good value and authentic scenery.

Key Points

• Comfortable big boat provides more space for lounging and relaxing during the cruise.
• Includes snorkel gear, meals, and soft drinks, making it a convenient all-in-one experience.
• Sightseeing highlights include Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach—perfect for photo stops and nature lovers.
• Shorter stops and somewhat crowded during peak season may limit time at each destination.
• Guides are knowledgeable, offering helpful commentary and safety tips.
• Price point offers decent value, but optional fees (like national park entry) can add up.

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour spans approximately 10 hours, starting early from Rassada Pier in Phuket. The first thing you’ll notice is the larger vessel—a plus for those who dislike the cramped feeling of speedboats or smaller boats. The boat offers plenty of space to stretch out, with shaded areas and comfortable seats, making the long cruise more enjoyable.

Morning Departure and Onboard Comfort

You’ll meet at Rassada Pier around 7:00-7:20 am. The provided round-trip transfer from Phuket to the pier simplifies logistics, especially for those who don’t want to arrange their own transport. Once aboard, you’re treated to complimentary coffee, tea, and dessert, which is a nice touch for early risers.

Scenery and Sightseeing on the Water

The journey to the islands is filled with informative commentary from guides, who share tidbits about the surrounding islands and marine life. During high season (November to April), you’ll cruise past Phi Phi Ley for sightseeing—passing Viking Cave, Pi-Le Cove, Loh Samah Bay, and Maya Bay. Reviewers mention that the views are truly beautiful, with some commenting that the scenery alone makes the trip worth it, even if the weather isn’t perfect.

Stops at Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Ley

The tour divides into different routines based on the season. During the high season, you’ll arrive directly at Tonsai Pier on Phi Phi Don around 10 am, with a stop at Long Beach for swimming and snorkelling. Reviewers like Mohammed_J praised the snorkelling at Long Beach, calling it “beautiful” and “worth the travel.” The beach is ideal for relaxing after a brief swim, with clear waters and soft sand.

In the low season (May to October), the itinerary shifts slightly, with a stop at Laemtong Beach instead. Reviewers noted that while the stops are shorter, you still get the chance to swim and enjoy the scenery.

Lunch and Leisure

A major highlight is the included buffet lunch, served at Long Beach or Laemtong Beach depending on the season. Travelers report the meals are plentiful, with some mentioning the delicious, halal-friendly options. After lunch, there’s a period of leisure—perfect for sunbathing, relaxing on the sandy shores, or taking more photos.

Return Journey

The boat departs from the beaches around 2:30 pm, heading back to Phuket with a scenic cruise along the way. Arriving back at Rassada Pier around 4:30 pm, the tour wraps up, leaving you with a full day of memorable sights but limited time at each stop.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

While most travelers found the tour enjoyable, a few reviews highlight some drawbacks worth considering. For example, Jacqueline_B experienced issues with the hotel pickup, which was unorganized, though this was ultimately a minor inconvenience compared to the overall experience. On the other hand, Madison_S rated the tour poorly, criticizing rude staff and the short snorkeling window—highlighting that some groups might feel rushed or disappointed if expecting more time in the water.

Several reviewers appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. Gerard_F found scuba diving and snorkeling to be “great,” emphasizing the value of the marine activity. Conversely, some mentioned that the cost might feel high compared to just buying a ferry ticket and organizing your own meals, especially if you’re budget-conscious.

The Practical Details

Transportation and Group Size

The tour includes round-trip boat transfer from Phuket, which simplifies planning and minimizes hassle. The boat itself can carry between 35 to 50 passengers depending on the vessel, with a maximum group size of 15 travelers for land transport and similar on water. This relatively small group size offers a more personalized experience but can still feel busy during peak season.

Price and Value

At around $74.05 per person, this tour is reasonably priced given the inclusion of meals, snorkeling gear, and guided commentary. However, be prepared for additional costs like the THB 400 national park fee at Maya Bay if you opt to snorkel there. Some reviews suggest that separate costs for food and entrance fees can make the total spend higher than initially expected, so budget accordingly.

What’s Not Included

The tour does not include hotel pickup and drop-off—you’re expected to meet at Rassada Pier. Also, the national park fee at Maya Bay isn’t included in the price, and if you want to snorkel there, you’ll need to pay extra. The tour does include insurance, which is reassuring for safety.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re seeking a relaxed day of sightseeing, with comfortable transportation and a scenic cruise, this tour is a great pick. It’s particularly suited for families, first-time visitors, or those who prefer to avoid the chaos and rush of smaller speedboats. The inclusive meals and snorkeling gear add convenience, making it a straightforward way to explore the famous islands without much planning.

Who Might Not Enjoy It?

This tour may not be ideal if you want longer or more exclusive stops, or if you’re after intense adventure with more snorkeling or diving time. The short stops and potential crowds during high season could leave some travelers feeling hurried or unable to fully enjoy each location.

Summary

This full-day Phi Phi Island tour from Phuket offers a comfortable, family-friendly way to experience some of Thailand’s most iconic sights. The larger boat ensures a more relaxed cruise, while the knowledgeable guides and included amenities make for a convenient day out. The itinerary covers the top highlights like Maya Bay and Monkey Beach, with enough time to swim, snorkel, and relax.

While some may find the short stops and extra fees a bit frustrating, most travelers appreciated the value for money and the memorable views. It’s especially suitable for those who prioritize comfort and ease over adventure or exclusivity.

For anyone wanting a laid-back, scenic, and well-organized day exploring Phi Phi Islands, this tour offers a solid balance of comfort and highlights.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at Rassada Pier, so you’ll need to make your way there yourself.

What’s the maximum group size?
The land transport is limited to 15 travelers, with water vessels accommodating between 12 and 50 depending on the boat.

Are meals and snacks included?
Yes, a buffet lunch, seasonal fruits, and soft drinks are part of the package.

Do I need to bring snorkeling gear?
No, the tour provides masks, snorkel equipment, and life jackets.

How long are the stops at each location?
Stops are relatively short—about an hour for swimming or snorkeling, with most of the day spent cruising and sightseeing.

What is the national park fee?
It costs THB 400 per person at Maya Bay if you choose to snorkel there; this fee is not included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 120cm are charged as adults, and the tour is generally family-friendly.

What if the weather cancels the tour?
You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if poor weather affects sailing.

Whether you’re after stunning scenery, a stress-free day on the water, or a family adventure, this Phi Phi Islands tour offers a balanced mix of comfort and highlights—just remember to manage your expectations about the short stops and potential crowds.