Phi Phi: Half Day Long Tail Boat to Maya Bay

When it comes to Thailand’s stunning islands, the Phi Phi Islands are often front and center. This popular half-day tour by long tail boat offers a chance to tick off some of the most iconic spots in a relaxed, approachable way. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, we’ve gathered enough insights and reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect, what works well, and what might be worth keeping in mind.

What we love about this experience is how it combines authentic Thai transportation with breathtaking scenery, making every moment on the water feel special. The opportunity to see Monkey Beach, explore Viking Cave, snorkel at Pileh Lagoon, and relax at Maya Bay—all within a few hours—makes this a very manageable, value-packed option. The tour is especially suited for travelers looking for a budget-friendly, yet authentic adventure. However, one thing to consider is that the schedule can be a bit tight, and the experience might vary depending on weather and crowd levels.

If you’re eager to explore the Phi Phi Islands without the full-day commitment or the hefty price tag, this tour offers a taste of some of the most famous sights. It’s ideal for those who want a scenic, fun-packed half-day with opportunities for snorkeling and photo ops, but it’s less suitable if you’re after a more relaxed, unhurried visit.

Key Points

• Affordable Price Point: At around $23 per person, this tour offers good value for those seeking a condensed yet memorable experience.
• Authentic Thai Experience: Traveling by long tail boat adds a rustic, genuine touch to your island adventures.
• Variety of Stops: From animal encounters at Monkey Beach to stunning snorkeling at Pileh Lagoon, there’s plenty to see and do.
• Guides and Service: Knowledgeable guides help enhance the trip, though reviews note some inconsistency in organization.
• Crowds and Timing: Popular spots like Maya Bay can be crowded; timing and weather affect the experience.
• Additional Fees: The national park fee of 400 baht is not included, so budget accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect and How It Feels

Starting Point and Organization

The tour kicks off at the MCDONALD’S at the pier, where you’ll meet the staff, specifically someone named Pantawan, who handles the check-in process. Based on reviews, getting there on time is crucial—missed pickups are a common complaint. Arriving late or confusion about the meeting point could mean missing out or feeling rushed, so plan your arrival early and double-check directions.

Monkey Beach: Playful Encounters and Beach Time

The first stop is Monkey Beach, where you’ll spend about 30 minutes meeting friendly local monkeys and relaxing on the sand. Many travelers find this stop adorable, with some reviews mentioning litter issues, so it’s worth bringing your own trash bag if you want to keep the beach clean. The monkeys are accustomed to humans and can be quite playful, making it a fun, if slightly chaotic, introduction to the islands.

Viking Cave: Quick Sightseeing

Next, there’s a brief 15-minute stop at Viking Cave, a site known for its mural art and historical significance for local fishermen. Don’t expect a detailed tour here—it’s more about quick sightseeing and snapping photos of the cave’s facade. This stop is appreciated for its unique scenery, but some reviews note that the short time can feel rushed if you’re eager to explore more.

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Pileh Lagoon: Snorkeling and Relaxation

One of the tour’s highlights is the 40-minute snorkeling session at Pileh Lagoon. Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, the lagoon offers clear waters perfect for seeing underwater life. Snorkel gear, including masks and life jackets, are provided, making it easy for beginners to enjoy. We loved how the calm waters allowed for relaxed swimming and reef exploration, but be prepared for the possibility of crowded spots during peak times, as some visitors mentioned.

Maya Bay: Iconic Sunset and Beach Relaxation

The most famous stop is Maya Bay, made famous by “The Beach”. Here, you’ll get about an hour to unwind on the sand, soak in the scenery, and take plenty of photos. If visiting between August and September, Maya Bay is temporarily closed for environmental restoration, so the tour adjusts by stopping in front of the bay for sightseeing plus a relaxing 1-hour stop at Loh Moo Dee Beach. Even with the change, many travelers still enjoy the experience, although some mentioned feeling disappointed if the scheduled full hour wasn’t possible.

Sunset and Plankton Swim: A Special Evening Experience

A unique aspect of the tour is the 2 p.m. departure, which allows you to witness the sunset and swim among plankton in the later hours—an added bonus for those wanting a longer, more atmospheric experience. This longer session tends to be more memorable, especially for photography enthusiasts, as the bioluminescent plankton create a magical glow in the water.

What’s Included and What to Budget For

The tour is quite straightforward: snorkeling masks, life jackets, fresh fruits, and water are included. It’s a good deal, considering the cost of boat rentals and equipment on your own. However, the 400-baht national park fee is not included, so make sure to carry cash for this expense when visiting Maya Bay.

Transportation and Group Size

Traveling on a traditional long tail boat adds a charming, authentic vibe. The group size usually stays manageable, making it easier to chat with the guide and get personalized attention. The boat ride itself lasts roughly 4 hours, giving you a compact yet comprehensive snapshot of the area’s highlights.

Guides and Service

Reviews commend the guides for their friendliness and professionalism, though some mention inconsistent communication and organization. A few travelers experienced delays or confusion at the start, so arriving early and clarifying meeting points is advisable. During the tour, guides typically share interesting tidbits about each stop, enhancing the overall experience.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying the Tour

• Arrive early at the meeting point to avoid missing the boat, as some reviews highlighted confusion around pickup times.
• Bring essentials: sunglasses, a towel, sunscreen, and waterproof camera if you want to capture the memories.
• Prepare cash for the national park fee, which is payable on-site.
• Dress comfortably and consider bringing a light hat or cap for sun protection.
• Consider the weather: the schedule can shift depending on water conditions, and some stops might be unavailable if weather isn’t favorable.
• Be aware of crowd levels at Maya Bay, especially during peak hours, as some reviews noted it can get very busy.
• Respect the environment by not feeding animals or littering, especially at Monkey Beach.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a cost-effective, quick snapshot of Phi Phi’s top sights without dedicating a full day. Perfect for those who appreciate authentic local transport and are happy to rough it a bit during the busy season. It suits adventurous spirits, snorkelers, and photo lovers eager to capture the iconic scenery.

However, if you prefer more relaxed, less rushed visits or want to avoid the crowds, you might find this tour less satisfying. It’s also not suitable for travelers needing special accommodations or those with mobility issues, given the physical nature of boat travel and walking on uneven beaches.

The Sum Up

This Phi Phi half-day long tail boat tour offers an accessible way to explore some of the most famous spots in the islands, blending authentic Thai boat transport, scenic beauty, and snorkeling in a manageable timeframe. The inclusion of stops like Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, and Pileh Lagoon means you get a taste of the area’s diversity without the commitment of a full-day tour.

While the experience can be influenced by weather, crowds, and organizational hiccups, many travelers find it provides excellent value for the price, especially with knowledgeable guides enhancing the trip. The option to witness a sunset and swim with plankton adds a magical touch that makes it stand out.

For those seeking a budget-friendly, adventure-filled afternoon with plenty of photo chances and memorable scenery, this tour delivers. Just go prepared, arrive early, and keep your expectations flexible to enjoy the best of what Phi Phi has to offer.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You’ll get snorkeling masks, life jackets, fresh fruits, and water, all included in the price.

How much is the national park fee?
The fee is 400 baht, payable in cash at Maya Bay, and is not included in the tour price.

Where do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is at MCDONALD’S at the pier, where the Pantawan staff will greet you.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It is not suitable for pregnant women or children under 1 year old, and there are weight restrictions for some participants.

How long does each stop last?
Monkey Beach is around 30 minutes, Viking Cave around 15 minutes, snorkeling at Pileh Lagoon lasts about 40 minutes, and Maya Bay is approximately 1 hour.

Will I see the sunset?
If you join the 2 p.m. tour, you might witness the sunset and swim among plankton later in the day, making the experience more special.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, a towel, sunscreen, and a waterproof camera are recommended.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible to adapt your plans.

This tour balances scenic highlights with practical convenience, making it a great choice for travelers wanting a snapshot of Phi Phi’s beauty without the time commitment of longer excursions.

You can check availability for your dates here: