Full Day Tour of Phi Phi Island from Rassada Pier Phuket

Introduction

Taking a day trip from Phuket to the Phi Phi Islands is a popular way to experience some of Thailand’s most breathtaking scenery in a single day. This tour, offered by Asia Advisor Thailand, promises a mix of scenic cruising, snorkeling among vibrant marine life, and relaxing on pristine beaches—all for an accessible price of just under $50.

What we really like about this experience is its focus on authentic highlights like the limestone cliffs and white sands, all while maintaining a relaxed, manageable schedule. The inclusion of lunch and the chance to snorkel makes it a great value for those wanting a full day of adventure without feeling rushed.

However, a potential consideration is that the tour operates with a maximum of 15 travelers, which can be a plus for intimacy but may feel crowded depending on the season or if you prefer a more private experience. This tour suits travelers seeking a well-rounded, budget-friendly way to explore the Phi Phi Islands with a good balance of activity and leisure.

Key Points

• Cost-effective: Under $50, including transportation, lunch, and snorkeling gear.
• Comprehensive itinerary: From scenic boat rides to beach relaxation and snorkeling.
• Small group size: Limited to 15 travelers, allowing for more personalized service.
• Stunning views: Limestone cliffs, white sands, and crystal-clear waters are highlights.
• Includes lunch: Thai specialties served at a local restaurant.
• Flexible cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Meeting Point and Early Start

The adventure begins bright and early at Rassada Pier in Phuket, with meet-up times around 7:00 to 7:20 AM. This timing is perfect if you’re eager to make the most of the day. Since the meeting point is near public transportation, reaching it isn’t a hassle. Guests are advised that pickups outside the designated area might incur additional charges, paid directly to the driver, so planning accordingly is smart.

The Scenic Journey to Phi Phi

Once aboard the “big boat,” the journey from Phuket to the Phi Phi Islands is part of the experience. The boat ride offers spectacular views of the Andaman Sea’s turquoise waters and dramatic limestone formations. Many reviews highlight how the scenery alone makes the trip worthwhile—some travelers even mentioned the boat’s ample space and comfortable seating, ensuring they could relax and enjoy the views.

Onboard, snacks and soft drinks are served, which is appreciated during the roughly 1.5-hour cruise. The boat is equipped with a mobile ticket, making the process straightforward.

Arrival at Laemtong Beach, Phi Phi Don

At around 11:15 AM, the tour makes a short stop at Laemtong Beach on Phi Phi Don, giving travelers a brief chance to stretch their legs and soak in the stunning surroundings. During the low season (May-October), the tour departs for Phi Phi Island by cruise and stays on the boat during the stop, so don’t expect long on-shore time here.

Exploring Phi Phi Don

Mid-morning, the group docks at Tonsai Pier on Phi Phi Don—famous for its lively atmosphere and scenic beauty. The core of the tour is about three hours of free time, which travelers can use to relax on the beach, snorkel, or grab a quick snack from local vendors.

Many reviews note that the beach at Phi Phi Don is breathtaking—white sands stretching for miles, backed by towering limestone cliffs. The island’s natural beauty makes it a favorite for photos and peaceful lounging.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

One of the highlights is the chance to snorkel among exotic marine life and coral reefs. The tour provides masks, snorkel, and life jackets, so you can explore the underwater world with ease. Reviewers often mention how vibrant the coral and fish are—adding a layer of wonder to the trip.

In high season (November-April), the boat tours include sightseeing around Phi Phi Lay Islands, which is famous for its spectacular limestone cliffs and hidden coves. Many have appreciated the chance to see these iconic formations from the boat, even if they don’t venture onto the islands themselves.

Lunch and Refreshments

A key part of the experience is the included Thai lunch served at a local restaurant. The menu typically features local favorites, giving travelers a taste of authentic cuisine amid stunning scenery. Coupled with seasonal fresh fruit and soft drinks, the meal is a welcome break from the sun and sea.

Return Journey

After a relaxed afternoon, the boat departs back to Phuket, arriving at Rassada Pier around 5 PM. The return trip offers more scenic views, and many travelers say it’s a fitting end to a busy but rewarding day.

What to Expect: Practical Details

Transport and Group Size: The tour is limited to 15 travelers for land transfer, which helps maintain a laid-back atmosphere. The boat capacity varies depending on vessel type, from 12 to 50 people, ensuring you won’t feel overcrowded.

Duration: The 10-hour itinerary balances activity and relaxation, making it suitable for travelers who want a full experience without overdoing it.

Price and Value: At $49.01, this tour packs a lot of value—covering boat transfers, snorkeling gear, lunch, insurance, and guided commentary. For budget-conscious travelers, it’s an efficient way to see Phi Phi without breaking the bank.

Booking in Advance: Most travelers book about a month in advance, which indicates good planning and a popular choice among visitors.

Certifications and Safety: The provider is SHA Plus certified, ensuring COVID-19 protocols are in place. Insurance is included, adding peace of mind.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

While reviews are limited, some travelers mention that the scenic vistas truly stand out, noting that the limestone cliffs and white sands are even more stunning than expected. One guest remarked, “The views from the boat alone are worth the trip.” Others appreciated the small group size, which made the experience more intimate, especially during snorkeling and beach time.

A common tip from travelers is to bring sunscreen, a waterproof camera, and extra cash for optional expenses like park fees at Maya Bay, where snorkeling might require additional payment (400 THB for adults, 200 THB for children).

The Sum Up

This Full Day Tour of Phi Phi Island from Rassada Pier offers a well-balanced mix of scenic boat rides, snorkeling, and beach relaxation—all at an accessible price point. The small group size, combined with the inclusion of lunch and gear, makes it a solid choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive Phi Phi experience without overspending.

It’s best suited for those who value stunning natural scenery, enjoy snorkeling, and prefer a relaxed yet organized day. The emphasis on authentic highlights like limestone cliffs and white sands, paired with the convenience of transportation and guided commentary, makes this tour a practical pick for visitors seeking a memorable day on Thailand’s iconic islands.

FAQs

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins around 7:00 AM at Rassada Pier and returns about 10 hours later, around 5:00 PM.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Yes, the tour limits land transport to 15 travelers, with water vessel capacities varying between 12 and 50, depending on the boat.

Are meals included?
Yes, a Thai lunch is included, along with seasonal fresh fruit and soft drinks.

Do I need to pay additional fees?
The tour price covers most costs, but the national park fee at Maya Bay (400 THB for adults, 200 THB for children) is optional for snorkeling. Also, pickups outside the designated area may incur additional charges.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, masks, snorkels, and life jackets are included in the tour.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Expect scenic boat rides, views of limestone cliffs, time on the beach, snorkeling among vibrant marine life, and a delicious Thai lunch.

Who is this tour suitable for?
It’s perfect for travelers looking for an affordable, balanced day of sightseeing, beach time, and snorkeling, especially if you prefer small groups.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a waterproof camera, towels, and cash for optional expenses or souvenirs.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an affordable, friendly, and picturesque way to see the Phi Phi Islands, this tour ticks all those boxes. While it keeps things straightforward, it offers enough variety to keep everyone engaged, from scenic cruising to underwater exploration. Its focus on natural beauty and local flavor makes it a great choice for travelers who want a genuine taste of Thailand’s iconic archipelago—without the fuss or excess cost.