Phi Phi Island Speed Boat Adventure from Krabi

If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters, breathtaking limestone cliffs, and vibrant marine life, the Phi Phi Island Speed Boat Adventure from Krabi might just be your ticket. Although I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a compelling picture of what a day on the water can offer in these iconic Thai islands.

What makes this tour stand out are its small group size, ensuring a more intimate experience, the opportunity to snorkel in thriving reefs, and the chance to visit famous sights like Maya Bay without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, the included buffet lunch and the fact that it’s operated by an award-winning local company add to the appeal. One thing to consider is that certain spots, like Maya Bay, are subject to regulations and seasonal closures, which could affect your plans.

This adventure suits travelers who love active days filled with sightseeing and snorkeling, enjoy beautiful beaches and scenic boat rides, and value guides who know the area well. If you’re seeking a balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and authentic island experiences, this tour is worth considering.

Key Points

• Limited seats on the speedboat mean fewer crowds and a more personal experience.
• Snorkeling at Phi Leh Bay offers a chance to explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
• Multiple iconic stops, including Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach, give you a well-rounded island-hopping experience.
• A generous buffet lunch provides the perfect break in Phi Phi Don, with options to accommodate preferences.
• The tour includes hotel transfers—making logistics easy and stress-free.
• Weather and sea conditions can lead to changes in the itinerary, so flexibility is key.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Pickup and Departure

Your day begins with a hotel pickup from Ao Nang, Krabi Town, Ao Nam Mao, Klong Muang, or Tubkaek Beach. The exact pickup time varies, but most travelers report early mornings, which means you’ll start your adventure before the crowds arrive at the islands. The convenience of hotel transfers cannot be overstated, especially if you’re staying outside the main port areas.

Once collected, you’ll check in at Nopparat Thara Pier, where the Sea Eagle Tour crew will brief you on the day’s activities. This moment sets the tone for a well-organized and smooth experience, as guides like Wawa and Nadia are praised for their attentiveness and knowledge.

The Ride to the Islands

The boat ride itself is about 45 minutes to Koh Phi Phi Leh. The speedboat, limited to 45 seats, ensures you’re not crammed, and you can enjoy the sea breeze and stunning views along the way. Several reviewers noted that the boat ride is comfortable, and some even mentioned bringing waterproof backpacks and beach slippers to make the most of each stop.

Exploring Maya Bay and Loh Samah Bay

The first major stop is Loh Samah Bay, where you’ll crawl over rocks onto a wooden trail leading to Maya Bay’s iconic beach. Here, you have about 50 minutes to walk on the soft white sands and dangle your feet in the turquoise water—an opportunity to snap those perfect travel photos. However, the tour’s timing might be tight for some, as one review suggested more time at Monkey Beach would be appreciated, especially for swimming and relaxing.

Maya Bay is famously beautiful, but note that swimming is prohibited here to preserve the environment, and the Marine Park enforces strict rules like no single-use plastics, reef-safe sunscreen, and no drone use. During low season, the bay is closed for a couple of months (August and September), so check the schedule if you’re visiting then.

Pileh Bay and Snorkeling

Next, you’ll visit Pileh Bay, a 600-meter-long lagoon surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. The clear waters here make for fantastic photo opportunities, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can opt for a longtail boat ride to explore nearby coves (extra fee). After that, you’ll snorkel on the east side of Phi Phi Leh, where reviewers highlight the vibrant coral reefs and plentiful fish. One traveler mentioned that snorkeling was “absolutely the highlight,” thanks to the pristine conditions.

Viking Cave and Monkey Beach

Cruising past Viking Cave offers a chance to see where local bird’s nest soup is harvested—a small but fascinating detail. Monkey Beach, visible from the boat, is a brief stop where you might catch sight of the playful monkeys foraging on the shoreline. Several reviews happily noted spotting the monkeys at low tide, adding an unexpected wildlife encounter to the day.

Thai Lunch at Phi Phi Don

The tour includes a Thai-style buffet lunch at Phi Phi Arida restaurant on Phi Phi Don. Reviewers rave about the quality of the food, describing it as “amazing” and noting the careful attention to dietary preferences. This break is essential to recharge before exploring the island’s lively bays and scenic streets, filled with shops and cafes.

Free Time and Bamboo Island

Post-lunch, you’ll get a chance to explore the island’s walking paths or relax by the bays of Ton Sai and Loh Dalum. Then, the final stop is Bamboo Island, a small, flat island famous for its white sand beach and lush vegetation. It’s an ideal spot for swimming and soaking up the sun, with many reviewers calling it the “highlight” of the trip.

The approximately one-hour stay here offers ample time to swim, snorkel, or just lounge on the beach, surrounded by coral reefs and clear waters that make you feel like you’re swimming in an aquarium.

Practical Insights: What You Need to Know

Price and Value

At around $52.60 per person, this tour offers quite a lot for the cost. The inclusion of hotel transfers, snorkeling gear, a buffet lunch, and an experienced guide makes it good value, especially considering the number of stops and activities packed into one day. Reviewers consistently mention the good organization and knowledgeable guides that enhance the experience.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 45 travelers, the tour strikes a decent balance—small enough to feel personal but large enough to create a lively atmosphere. Several reviews praised the guides—like Nadia and Wawa—for their friendly and informative approach, making the trip more engaging and less generic.

Timing and Flexibility

The entire trip lasts about 7 hours, starting early and ending in the afternoon. The itinerary is quite full, but some reviewers wished for more time at certain stops, like Monkey Beach or the final beach on Bamboo Island. Weather and sea conditions can cause adjustments, especially since the tour’s schedule is weather-dependent.

Tips from Past Travelers

• Bring waterproof backpacks for your valuables.
• Pack beach slippers for comfort during walks over rocks.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine environment.
• Be prepared for crowds, especially at Maya Bay and Bamboo Island.
• Keep an eye on the tide if you want to spot the monkeys on Monkey Beach.

What’s Not Included

The national park entrance fee of 400 THB per adult is paid separately, so budget for that. Gratuities are also not included, but many travelers find tipping guides well-deserved if they’ve gone above and beyond.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits adventurous travelers eager to see the highlights of Phi Phi and enjoy snorkeling. It’s a good fit if you want a well-organized day with multiple stops and don’t mind busy spots. The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a more personalized experience, especially for those who enjoy learning about the area as they go.

It’s also a great choice for budget-conscious travelers, considering the included meals and transfers. However, if you prefer a very relaxed pace or want to avoid crowds, you might find the schedule a bit tight or the popular sites crowded.

Final Thoughts

The Phi Phi Island Speed Boat Adventure from Krabi offers a comprehensive and visually stunning way to experience some of Thailand’s most famous islands. From the iconic Maya Bay to the vibrant reefs at Phi Leh Bay, the tour covers all the must-see spots while adding the thrill of speedboat rides and snorkeling. The inclusion of a Thai lunch and hotel transfers makes it convenient and stress-free, especially for those new to the area.

While the crowds and seasonal restrictions can be a drawback, most reviews reveal that the guides’ enthusiasm, the scenic beauty, and the variety of stops make it a worthwhile adventure. It’s particularly suited for travelers seeking a full day of exploration, marine life encounters, and picture-perfect beaches.

Ultimately, this tour promises a lively, well-organized day filled with unforgettable views and fun activities—perfect for those wanting to tick off the Phi Phi Islands from their Thailand bucket list without breaking the bank.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel transfers from Ao Nang, Krabi Town, and nearby beaches, making it easy to start your day without logistical worries.

How long is the boat ride to the islands?
The boat ride from Nopparat Thara Pier to Koh Phi Phi Leh lasts about 45 minutes, offering scenic views en route.

What can I expect at Maya Bay?
You’ll have approximately 50 minutes to walk on the beach, touch the sands, and enjoy the scenery, but swimming is not permitted to help preserve the environment.

Are snorkeling equipment and life jackets provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear and life jackets are included in the package, and many reviewers highlighted how good the snorkeling conditions were.

Is there enough time at Bamboo Island?
Most guests find about an hour there suitable for swimming and relaxing, though some wished for more time to explore or soak up the sun.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, the national park entrance fee (400 THB per adult) is paid separately on-site, and optional activities like longtail boat rides at Pileh Bay cost extra.

This Phi Phi Island speedboat tour from Krabi offers a lively, scenic, and well-organized way to experience Thailand’s famous islands. Whether you’re into snorkeling, beach lounging, or simply soaking in stunning views, this adventure balances fun with value—a perfect addition to your Thai holiday.