Phi Phi Island Adventure Day Tour from Phuket Speedboat/Catamaran

Taking a day trip to the Phi Phi Islands is one of those bucket-list moments for many travelers visiting Phuket. This tour, offered by Mam Holidays, promises to showcase the most famous sights, from Maya Bay, where The Beach was filmed, to Monkey Beach and Viking Cave, with plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing thrown in.

We love that this trip includes a mix of natural beauty, cultural sites, and fun activities—all wrapped up with convenient hotel transfers. The value for money appears solid, especially with lunch and entrance fees included. However, the long duration—around 8 to 9 hours—might be a bit draining for some. This tour is geared toward those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day exploring the Phi Phi Islands, especially if you’re keen on snorkeling and picturesque scenery.

One key consideration is that Maya Bay is sometimes closed (notably in August and September), which can be disappointing if you’re expecting to see this iconic spot. Still, the other stops and the overall experience tend to satisfy most. If you’re looking for a well-organized adventure packed with photo-worthy sights and opportunities for underwater exploration, this tour should suit you well.

• Comprehensive itinerary covering major Phi Phi sights including Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach
• Includes lunch, snorkeling gear, and entrance fees, offering good value
• Choice of speedboat or catamaran, catering to different preferences for comfort and style
• Hotel transfers available from key Phuket areas, making the whole day seamless
• Long day but rewarding, with plenty of time at each stop for swimming, relaxing, and sightseeing
• Mixed reviews about Maya Bay closure; some trips may find it closed during certain months

The tour kicks off with a pick-up from your Phuket hotel, which is a real time-saver. Once you arrive at the pier, you’re treated to some coffee, tea, or juice before boarding your vessel—either a high-speed speedboat or a sleek catamaran. The choice here affects comfort and style; the speedboat is swift and thrilling, while the catamaran offers a more spacious, relaxed ride.

Stop 1: Ko Phi Phi Le

The first stop is Ko Phi Phi Le, an island that belongs to the Hat Noppharat Thara Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park. With about an hour here, you get a quick taste of the pristine environment. This is a wonderful chance to breathe in the scenery and snap a few photos before heading to the next highlight.

Stop 2: Loh Samah Bay

Next, you’ll visit Loh Samah Bay, renowned for its excellent snorkeling and diving. It boasts a tiny beach on the backside of a small canyon, which is perfect for taking a break and dipping your toes in the water. A wooden staircase offers a vantage point over Maya Bay and Loh Samah, adding to the visual appeal. Reviewers rave about this spot, citing snorkeling as a favorite part—one noted it was “fun going to an island for lunch,” even if the weather was rainy.

Stop 3: Maya Bay

The star of the tour is Maya Bay, with its towering cliffs and soft white sand. For many, it’s the highlight of the trip. Inside, the water’s crystal clarity makes for fantastic snorkeling, revealing colorful coral and exotic fish. However, Maya Bay is often closed during August and September to protect the environment and baby sharks, so don’t be surprised if it’s off-limits during your trip. Some reviews express disappointment about this, calling it a “big scam” that the bay was closed without prior notice, but others understand the environmental reasons.

Stop 4: Pileh Bay

A serene inlet known as Pileh Lagoon follows, offering a quieter spot with some of the clearest waters you’ll see. It’s a fantastic place for swimming and taking photos, especially because it’s separated from Maya Bay by limestone cliffs. Expect about 30 minutes here, plenty of time to enjoy the tranquility.

Stop 5: Phi Phi Don & Viewpoint

On Koh Phi Phi Don, you’ll have an hour for a buffet lunch at a beachside restaurant, with halal options available. The food is generally well-reviewed, described as a tasty Thai buffet. Afterwards, there’s time for some leisurely exploring or relaxing on the beach, giving you a break from the boat. One reviewer noted that “the transfers were in good condition, and the guide was very informative.”

Stop 6: Viking Cave

The Viking Cave is famous for its paintings of boats that resemble Scandinavian drakkars—an interesting cultural point. Located at the northeastern side of Phi Phi Leh, it takes about 30 minutes to reach by long-tail boat. The cave is a quick visit but memorable, especially for those interested in local lore and cave art. Visitors comment on the friendly crew and the well-organized nature of this stop.

Stop 7: Monkey Beach

If adorable animals make your day, Monkey Beach is a must-see. Known for its troop of wild macaques, it’s a lively, fun spot. One reviewer pointed out that while monkeys are freely roaming, you can only approach them from the boat (not on foot), which might be a bit of a letdown for animal enthusiasts wanting close encounters.

Stop 8: Khai Nok Island

The trip wraps up on Khai Nok Island, a tiny, sandy paradise perfect for snorkeling and relaxing. With vibrant marine life and coral reefs, it’s a lovely spot for your final swim before heading back to Phuket. Reviewers consistently praise Khai Island as a relaxing finale, with one mentioning it as a “high note” on the day.

Diverse Stops: The itinerary balances iconic sights like Maya Bay with lesser-known gems like Loh Samah Bay and Pileh Lagoon. This variety ensures you get both picture-perfect views and meaningful underwater experiences.

Snorkeling & Underwater Fun: The inclusion of snorkeling gear and multiple stops with reefs and colorful fish means you’ll likely get plenty of underwater moments—some travelers mentioned how fun snorkeling was, especially in clear waters.

Meal & Entrance Fees Covered: The Thai buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don is generally rated as tasty and filling. Plus, all entrance fees, including national park tickets, are included, which means fewer surprises on the day.

Flexible Transportation Options: Whether you prefer the thrill of a speedboat or the laid-back vibe of a catamaran, you can choose your preferred vessel, adding a layer of customization to your experience.

Convenient Transfers: Pickups from Patong, Kata, Karon, and Phuket Town make the trip hassle-free. The small group size—max 35 travelers—also keeps the experience intimate and manageable.

Maya Bay Closure: The most discussed potential disappointment is Maya Bay’s occasional closure, especially during August and September. Some travelers expressed frustration about not being informed in advance or about the bay being closed during their trip, which can impact expectations.

Long Day for Some: At around 8 to 9 hours, this trip can be quite exhaustive, especially if you’re not used to full-day tours. Reviewers mentioned that a shorter half-day option might have been more suitable for some, but the lengthy schedule does allow ample time at each location.

Limited Time at Certain Stops: While most visitors are pleased with the schedule, some noted that the stops, like Monkey Beach, could feel rushed or limited in access—particularly the inability to go close to the monkeys on foot.

• Bring your passport information page for the insurance included.
• Apply sunscreen and wear lightweight, quick-drying clothes—you’ll be exposed to the sun for much of the day.
• Snorkeling gear is provided, but if you prefer your own, bringing it along is a good idea.
• Be prepared for a long day—pack sunglasses, a hat, and water to stay comfortable.
• If Maya Bay is closed, enjoy the other stops, especially Pileh Bay and Viking Cave, which are equally beautiful.
• Book in advance, as the tour is popular and usually booked about 17 days ahead on average.

This Phi Phi Islands tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of one of Thailand’s most iconic regions. For travelers who want a full day of snorkeling, sightseeing, and cultural highlights, it hits most marks. The inclusion of lunch, entrance fees, and transfers makes it a compelling deal, especially if you prefer a guided experience that takes care of the logistics.

While Maya Bay’s occasional closures can be a disappointment, the overall package delivers spectacular views, fun underwater exploration, and the chance to relax on beautiful beaches. The choice between speedboat or catamaran lets you tailor the journey to your comfort preferences, and the small group size helps keep things personal.

This tour suits those eager to see a variety of sites without the hassle of organizing individual transport or activities. It’s a good fit for first-timers to Phi Phi, nature lovers, or anyone who simply wants a stress-free day soaking up stunning scenery.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are available from Patong, Kata, Karon, and Phuket Town.

How long is the tour?
Expect approximately 8 to 9 hours from pickup to return.

Can I choose between speedboat and catamaran?
Absolutely. You can opt for either a speedboat or a catamaran experience based on your preference for speed or comfort.

Are meals included?
Yes, a Thai buffet lunch at a beachside restaurant on Phi Phi Don is included.

Are all entrance fees covered?
Yes, all entrance fees including national park tickets are included in the price.

What if Maya Bay is closed?
If Maya Bay is closed—common during August and September—the tour will focus on other stops like Pileh Bay, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included for use during the stops.

How many people are on each tour?
The maximum group size is 35 travelers, which helps maintain a friendly, manageable atmosphere.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, water, a towel, and your passport information page for insurance purposes. Lightweight clothing and waterproof bags are also recommended.

This full-day Phi Phi Islands tour combines natural beauty, cultural sites, and fun activities, all wrapped up in a well-organized package. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned island hopper, it’s a chance to experience the best of what this stunning region has to offer—so long as you’re prepared for a long but rewarding day.