Phi Phi Island and Bamboo Island Snorkeling Tour From Krabi

Trying to decide whether a day trip to Phi Phi and Bamboo Islands is worth your time? Based on the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, this tour offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty, engaging snorkeling, and smooth logistics. We’ve reviewed it thoroughly to help you understand what to expect and whether it fits your travel style.

What we love about this experience are the varied stops that showcase Thailand’s stunning marine and land scenery, the knowledgeable guide who shares interesting facts, and the inclusive amenities that make it easy to relax and enjoy. A minor consideration might be the busy Maya Bay, which can feel crowded — a common downside with popular spots.

This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate a well-organized day packed with snorkeling, sightseeing, and a taste of local cuisine. Especially if you want to maximize the time on the water without worrying about logistics, this trip could be a great choice.

Key Points

• All-in-one package: Includes land transfers, boat rides, snorkeling gear, lunch, and insurance.
• Diverse stops: From the pristine Bamboo Island to the famous Maya Bay, each site offers unique scenery.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable and friendly guides enhance the experience with facts and local insights.
• Comfort and convenience: Pickup from Ao Nang and Krabi Town makes it easy to meet the tour without extra fuss.
• Value for money: At around $64, you get a full day of activities, snacks, and equipment, making it a good deal.
• Limited group size: Max 45 travelers, ensuring plenty of space and personal attention.

The Booking and Arrival Process

Booking this tour is straightforward, and most travelers tend to reserve about 19 days in advance, which indicates its popularity. The tour starts early at 8:00 am from Nopparat Thara Pier, with options for free pickup from Ao Nang. The round-trip transfer from your hotel (if located in Ao Nang) is included, simplifying logistics and saving you time and energy.

Once at the meeting point, the friendly staff and guides make the check-in smooth. You’re handed snorkeling gear, a life jacket, and given a quick briefing — essential for those new to snorkeling or unfamiliar with the area. The tour caps at 45 participants, striking a balance between a lively group and personal space.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll See and Do

Stop 1: Bamboo Island

Your journey begins with a visit to Bamboo Island, famed for its white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. This is the perfect spot for a quick swim, sunbathing, or just soaking in the stunning scenery. Reviewers frequently mention how beautiful and peaceful the island is, with one noting it as a “perfect place to swim and lay on the beach.”

The one-hour stop allows enough time to enjoy the water, snap photos, or relax on the sand. The island’s natural beauty makes it a highlight early in the day, and the included admission ticket ensures you don’t need to worry about extra costs.

Stop 2: Viking Cave

Next is Viking Cave, a limestone formation famous for its bird nests and wall paintings. This limestone cave offers excellent opportunities for photos, especially given its distinctive look and cultural intrigue. Reviewers like Isabella mention how the guide, Coke, was full of facts, enhancing the visit with interesting tidbits about the cave’s significance and the harvesting of bird nests.

Stop 3: Pileh Bay

Pileh Bay offers a serene, hidden lagoon framed by towering cliffs. Its calm, clear waters are perfect for a leisurely swim or relaxing on the boat. The 45-minute stop is praised for its stunning scenery, with some reviewers calling it a “beautiful cliff-lined lagoon,” ideal for unwinding and snapping photos.

Stop 4: Loh Samah Bay

This spot is primarily for snorkeling. The reef here boasts vibrant coral and a variety of colorful fish. Expect to spend 45 minutes in the water, and you’ll love the chance to see marine life up close. Reviewers who enjoy snorkeling describe Loh Samah Bay as “a great spot with beautiful reefs,” making it a favorite for underwater enthusiasts.

Stop 5: Maya Bay

Maya Bay, famous for the film “The Beach,” is often the most anticipated stop. You’ll get around 30 minutes to take photos and enjoy the iconic scenery. However, some reviewers, like Gromits_F, mention that the crowd levels can be intense at Maya Bay, which might detract from the peaceful experience. Still, the view of the towering cliffs and turquoise waters is breathtaking.

Stop 6: Ko Phi Phi Don for Lunch

A two-hour stop at a beachside restaurant provides a welcome break. The buffet-style lunch is included, offering a variety of local dishes. Reviewers appreciate the opportunity to rest, refuel, and enjoy the seaside atmosphere. Some comment that the lunch is “great”, although a few felt it was rushed or not as impressive as the scenery.

Stops 7 & 8: Wang Long Bay & Monkey Beach

The final stops are Wang Long Bay, perfect for more photos and sightseeing, and Monkey Beach, where you can swim, relax, or snorkel again. The 30-minute durations are enough to soak in the views and spot some playful monkeys (though caution with the animals is advised). Several reviews highlight the friendly, happy guides who keep the atmosphere lively and educational.

What’s Included and What’s Extra?

The tour’s price of $64.08 per person covers almost everything you need for a full day of adventure:

• Pickup service from Ao Nang (or other specified locations)
• Snorkeling gear, life jackets, and first aid kits
• A guided tour with an experienced guide
• Lunch, fruits, and drinking water
• Accident insurance

Extras include the national park fee (400 THB per adult, payable at entry) and a small round-trip transfer fee from Krabi Town or other areas (100 THB per person). The inclusion of essentials like snorkeling equipment and lunch adds value, especially for travelers who prefer not to bring their own gear or food.

The Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

Most reviews are glowing, with a 5-star average. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides, particularly mentioning Coke’s engaging commentary. Many appreciate the stunning scenery at each stop, from Bamboo Island’s pristine beaches to the limestone cliffs of Pileh Bay.

Reviewer Isabella mentions that the snorkeling was great, and the guide shared many interesting facts, making the experience both fun and educational. Gromits_F enjoyed the beautiful day on the water, despite noting the crowds at Maya Bay. Kym highlights the breathtaking scenery but mentions that lunchtime was less impressive, with some finding better food elsewhere after the tour.

The tour offers excellent value for its price, combining sightseeing, marine activity, and cultural sights in one package. The combination of small group size, experienced guides, and well-planned stops creates a memorable experience.

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy snorkeling, scenic views, and a full day on the water. It’s particularly suitable if you’re looking for a hassle-free, all-inclusive tour that handles your transfers, equipment, and meals. Family groups, couples, or solo travelers will find the pace manageable and the scenery captivating.

However, those who prefer quiet, uncrowded environments might find Maya Bay a bit overrun, especially during peak seasons. Also, guests with certain health conditions (pregnancy, high blood pressure, heart or bone issues) are advised to consider whether the physical aspects suit their needs.

Final Thoughts

This Krabi tour delivers a rich, balanced experience of Thailand’s iconic islands, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, photography, and relaxing. The inclusion of transport, gear, and lunch makes it a practical choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive day on the water.

Travelers who enjoy guided insights, varied scenery, and a lively atmosphere will find this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s a well-rated, value-packed option that captures many of the island-hopping highlights without the hassle of organizing each element individually.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, free pickup is offered for Ao Nang and surrounding areas, making it easy to start your day hassle-free.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning to the meeting point afterward.

Are snorkeling masks and gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear and life jackets are included in the price, so you don’t need to bring your own.

How many stops are there during the day?
There are eight main stops, including Bamboo Island, Viking Cave, Pileh Bay, Loh Samah Bay, Maya Bay, Ko Phi Phi Don (lunch), Wang Long Bay, and Monkey Beach.

What about lunch?
A buffet-style lunch is provided at a beachside restaurant on Phi Phi Don, offering a relaxing break and a variety of local dishes.

Are there extra costs I should be aware of?
Yes, the national park fee (400 THB per adult) is payable at entry, and if transferring from Krabi Town or other locations, an additional 100 THB per person may apply.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children aged 4-11 can participate with a child ticket, but the tour is not recommended for pregnant women or guests with certain health conditions.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 45 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience with guided attention.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?
Tours are subject to weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time, providing flexibility and peace of mind.

In summary, this Krabi island-hopping tour offers a well-rounded day of stunning scenery, marine activities, cultural sights, and convenient logistics, making it a fantastic option for travelers eager to experience the best of Thailand’s famous islands.