Phi Phi Early Bird Premium Tour by Speed Boat with Lunch

Travelers dreaming of the Phi Phi Islands often picture crystal-clear waters, iconic beaches, and vibrant marine life. This particular tour promises a unique way to experience those highlights—without the overwhelming crowds that can turn a paradise trip into a stressful rush. While it’s not perfect for everyone, it offers a well-balanced mix of early morning serenity, scenic beauty, and adventure.

What excites us most about this tour is its focus on avoiding the midday crowds, giving you the chance to enjoy the main sights at a more relaxed pace. We also appreciate the convenience of hotel pickup and the inclusive features like unlimited drinks and a delicious lunch. That said, the early start might be a challenge for some, and the tour’s group size is capped at 25, which is still quite intimate for a full-day excursion.

This tour is perfect for travelers who value a more tranquil, authentic experience of the Phi Phi Islands, especially those eager to beat the rush and see the sights in the quiet of dawn. If you’re a nature lover, snorkeler, or simply someone who enjoys spectacular scenery without the throngs, this could be just what you’re after.

Key Points

• Early morning departure means fewer crowds and a peaceful start to your island day.
• Visit iconic spots like Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, Bamboo Island, and Pileh Bay for prime snorkeling and sightseeing.
• All-inclusive: lunch, unlimited drinks, bottled water, and convenient hotel pickup.
• Group size is limited to 25 travelers, providing a more personalized experience.
• Timing is tightly coordinated, so punctuality is essential.
• Balance of structured itinerary with free time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on beaches.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Pick-up and Early Start

The day kicks off early, with hotel pickups from Phuket starting at 5:00 am—an hour before sunrise. This early start is key to beating the crowds and catching the islands in their most tranquil state. While some may find 5 am a bit brutal, early risers will appreciate the calmness and the quiet beauty of the sea at dawn. Plus, with the included transfer, you avoid the hassle of arranging your own transportation, making the start of your trip seamless.

The First Stop: Royal Phuket Marina

Arriving at the Royal Phuket Marina Pier around 5:30 am, you’ll check in and find yourself among a small, friendly group of fellow travelers. The logistics are well-organized, according to reviews, with a smooth process and staff who are described as “smiley” and attentive. This early check-in sets the tone for a well-coordinated day, allowing plenty of time to get comfortable before boarding the speedboat.

The Speedboat Journey: Comfort and Speed

The core of this tour is the speed boat—a fast, agile vessel designed to cover major spots efficiently while offering a sense of adventure. The boat’s size caps at 25 travelers, bringing a more intimate feel compared to larger tour groups. Expect a lively ride that will have you zipping across turquoise waters, with ample space on deck to soak up the sun and snap photos of the stunning scenery passing by.

Exploring Ko Phi Phi Don and Bamboo Island

Your first major stop is Ko Phi Phi Don, where you’ll spend around 5 hours exploring the main island. This is the heart of the Phi Phi archipelago, home to lively villages, scenic viewpoints, and beaches. While the tour emphasizes avoiding the tourist crush, this still provides enough time to take a quick walk around or relax on the beach.

Next, your guide will lead you to Bamboo Island for about an hour. This spot earns high praise for its snorkeling potential—many reviews mention the “great snorkeling” and the chance to see vibrant marine life. The island itself is smaller but offers soft sands and shallow waters perfect for wading or relaxing.

Tip: bring your snorkel gear or rent it on-site, and don’t forget waterproof sunscreen to protect yourself during these water activities.

Pileh Bay and the Highlight: Maya Bay

The tour continues with Pileh Bay, where you’ll spend around 45 minutes. This lagoon is renowned for its dramatic cliffs and clear waters, ideal for snorkeling or simply floating and taking in the scenery. Travelers often comment on its “great snorkeling,” making it one of the trip’s highlights.

The star attraction is Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach.” You’ll spend approximately one hour here, enjoying snorkeling and sightseeing on the beach itself. The reviews note that this early visit is preferable because later in the day, the bay can become crowded, diminishing the experience.

Lunch and Refreshments

Midday, you’ll be treated to a delicious buffet lunch—a highlight for many who appreciate good, filling food after a morning of activities. The meal is complemented by an open bar with unlimited drinks, including bottled water, which keeps you hydrated during the day’s warmth.

Some reviewers mention the quality of the lunch as “good,” making it a satisfying break from the water-based adventures. Vegetarian options are available, but it’s best to specify your preferences when booking.

Return and Drop-off

After a full day of exploring, swimming, and snorkeling, the boat heads back to Phuket, with a scheduled return around 5 pm. The included hotel drop-off makes the end of your trip just as easy as its start, helping you relax and reflect on a day well spent.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Fewer Crowds and Better Timing

The core advantage of this tour is its early departure. We found that beating the midday rush results in more peaceful photos, less crowded beaches, and a more relaxed atmosphere. This is echoed by many reviews, like Mohamed A’s comment about how “accurate in timing and all logistics” makes the trip smooth and enjoyable.

Intimate Group Size

With a maximum of 25 travelers, the experience feels more personal. The crew is described as friendly and attentive, which enhances the overall vibe. This small-group format allows for better interaction and a more relaxed pace.

Quality Snorkeling and Scenic Spots

The itinerary’s focus on top snorkeling locations like Bamboo Island and Pileh Bay means you’ll get a good chance to see marine life and enjoy the underwater scenery. The inclusion of Pileh Lagoon and Maya Bay ensures you’re hitting the most photogenic and iconic locations without the crowds typical of midday tours.

Well-Organized Logistics

From pickup to drop-off, reviews confirm that logistics are smooth. The guide’s attention to timing and the smooth boarding process contribute to a stress-free day. The inclusion of bottled water and unlimited drinks also adds value, especially on a long, warm day.

The Potential Drawbacks

While this tour has many strong points, it’s worth noting that the early start might not suit everyone. Waking up before dawn can be tough, especially if you’re not an early riser. Plus, the fixed schedule means you’ll need to stick to the timetable, which might limit flexibility if you prefer more spontaneous exploration.

Another consideration is the cost—at $170 per person, it’s more expensive than some day trips. However, many feel this price is justified by the smaller group, quality food, and less crowded experiences.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who prioritize a more peaceful and authentic experience of the Phi Phi Islands. It’s ideal if you love snorkeling, want to avoid crowds, and don’t mind an early start. Those with a keen interest in scenic spots and marine life will find this trip particularly rewarding.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, well-organized day with good value for quality time at the main highlights, this tour ticks all those boxes.

The Sum Up

The Phi Phi Early Bird Premium Tour by Speed Boat with Lunch offers a refreshing alternative to the usual crowded day trips. Its focus on early departure, small group size, and prime locations make it attractive for those wanting a more relaxed, scenic, and personal experience of the Phi Phi Islands.

While the early start isn’t for everyone, the peace, stunning views, and high-quality snorkeling make this tour stand out. The included amenities like lunch, drinks, and hotel transfers add convenience, creating a hassle-free day from start to finish.

For travelers who value quality over quantity and want to see the best of Phi Phi without the throngs, this trip provides solid value and memorable moments. It’s especially suitable for those looking to enjoy the islands in a calmer, more intimate setting.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with hotel pickups from Phuket starting at 5:00 am, with check-in at the marina at 5:30 am.

Is breakfast included?
No, but you’ll enjoy a breakfast as part of the early start, including a sunrise breakfast on the boat.

How long is the boat ride?
The tour includes a speed boat ride covering key spots, with stops totaling around 8 hours, depending on conditions.

What locations will I visit?
You’ll see Ko Phi Phi Don, Bamboo Island, Pileh Bay, and Maya Bay, along with some free time for snorkeling and beach relaxation.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Snorkel gear is recommended—you might find the best experience bringing your own, but gear can be rented at some stops.

Can vegetarians be accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if advised at the time of booking.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but check with the provider if you have young children or special needs.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 25 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Are drinks included?
Yes, unlimited drinks and bottled water are included in the price.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a convenient, scenic escape to Phi Phi’s most iconic spots, all while avoiding the crowds. If a peaceful, well-organized day of island hopping sounds appealing, this may be your perfect trip.