Phi Phi island Tour by Big Boat

Thinking about a day trip to the iconic Phi Phi Islands? This Phi Phi Island Tour by Big Boat offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic sights. With a reputation for friendly guides, smooth transit, and a well-organized itinerary, it’s a popular choice for those wanting to make the most of their time in Thailand’s famed archipelago.

What we particularly love about this tour is its value for money, the chance to visit multiple hotspots like Maya Bay and Monkey Beach, and the inclusive nature of the experience—snorkeling gear, lunch, soft drinks, and transfers are all covered. On the flip side, travelers should be aware that the group size can be quite large, with up to 300 travelers, which may affect the feeling of intimacy.

This tour suits those looking for a full-day adventure with a structured schedule but still enough free time to explore and relax at Phi Phi Don. It’s perfect for first-timers in Phuket eager to see the highlights without the fuss of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary includes key spots like Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, and Viking Cave.
• Round-trip transfers from Phuket simplify logistics, saving you time and hassle.
• Snorkeling gear, lunch, and drinks are included, adding value and convenience.
• Large-group tours mean a lively atmosphere, but less intimacy.
• Flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind with free cancellations up to 24 hours.
• Guides are praised for their helpfulness and smooth coordination, making the day flow effortlessly.

An In-Depth Look at the Phi Phi Island Tour by Big Boat

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and Rassada Pier

The adventure kicks off early, with hotel pickups from Phuket around 07:30-07:45. While the exact time is communicated 24 hours beforehand, this early start means you’re on the water by 09:00. Being picked up directly from your hotel is a real plus, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Phuket’s transport options.

Arriving at Rassada Pier, the designated meeting point, is straightforward. The pier is a bustling hub, often busy with boats and travelers, but the process is smooth, as recent reviews highlight. The staff is reported to be friendly and helpful, making the transition from land to boat stress-free.

The Big Boat Experience

The tour uses a larger-sized boat, which means more space for passengers and a lively atmosphere. While the number of travelers can go up to 300, the tour is capped at 15 per booking, keeping your group manageable. The boat is equipped with necessary safety gear, including masks, snorkels, and life jackets, which are included in your package.

The crew, especially guides like Moss, receives praise for their helpfulness and friendliness. Guests note that all transits are smooth, and the team works hard to coordinate multiple stops efficiently. The reviews mention that the trip feels well-organized, with no long waits or confusion, which is crucial for a day that involves juggling several destinations.

The Highlights: Exploring Phi Phi’s Best Sights

Maya Bay is undeniably the star of this trip. The bay’s stunning cliffs and crystal waters are as breathtaking as you’d expect. The tour offers an option to visit Maya Bay during the high season (November to April), with the boat passing by Phi Phi Ley Island for some fantastic photo opportunities.

Monkey Beach provides a chance to see playful primates in their natural habitat, while Viking Cave offers a glimpse into local fishing and cultural traditions. These stops are brief but packed with visual interest.

Free Time at Phi Phi Don

One of the tour’s biggest perks is the free time at Phi Phi Don. This is your chance to explore on your own—whether it’s relaxing on the beach, snorkeling, or grabbing a quick bite. Guests note that lunch is provided on board, which is a significant convenience, especially since there’s time allocated for eating and unwinding.

Reviewers mention that the lunch is “excellent” and offers options that cater to different tastes, including fresh fruit and soft drinks. It’s a thoughtful touch that adds to the overall value of the experience.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

Snorkeling equipment—mask, snorkel, and life jacket—are all included, making it easy to jump straight into the water. The reviews highlight that the crew, particularly guides like Moss, are attentive and helpful, making sure everyone is comfortable in the water.

While the tour doesn’t specify specific snorkeling spots, guests are encouraged to explore the waters around the islands, which are known for their coral reefs and vibrant marine life. The inclusion of snorkeling gear maximizes your chances to see colorful fish and other sea creatures.

Return Journey and Final Thoughts

The cruise departs Rassada Pier at 14:30 and arrives back in Phuket by around 16:30. The return journey is a good chance to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures. Guests report that the entire experience runs smoothly, with the crew ensuring everyone is safe and satisfied.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Snorkeling masks, snorkels, and life jackets
• Lunch, fresh seasonal fruit, and soft drinks
• Tour guide, insurance, and round-trip transfers

Not Included:

• The national park fee at Maya Bay, which is 400 THB for adults and 200 THB for children, payable on-site if you wish to snorkel there. This fee is typical for visiting protected areas and is a small additional expense.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Timing matters: Arriving early for pickup will maximize your day.
• Group size: Prepare for a lively atmosphere with up to 300 travelers, but the capped booking size of 15 helps keep your specific group manageable.
• Weather dependency: The tour runs in good weather; poor conditions may lead to cancellations or rescheduling.
• Cost vs. value: At $69.98 per person, the package offers excellent value considering the included snorkeling gear, lunch, and transfers.
• Booking in advance: Most travelers book about two weeks in advance, indicating high demand and a well-organized process.
• Photographers: Bring a waterproof camera or smartphone in a dry bag for capturing moments at Maya Bay and Monkey Beach.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

Guests consistently mention guides like Moss, who “was fantastic, really helpful,” and praise the “good coordination” that made transitions between stops seamless. One reviewer noted that despite last-minute booking, the team went “above and beyond” to ensure they saw Maya Bay, highlighting the tour’s flexibility and reliability.

Another guest appreciated having fresh fruit brought to them on the beach, a simple but meaningful gesture that enhances the trip’s relaxed vibe. The overall sentiment is that this tour delivers great value and a fun, well-organized day.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This full-day Phi Phi Islands tour is ideal if you’re after a convenient, all-in-one experience that covers the main sights without the hassle of planning logistics. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors wanting a taste of the iconic islands with the comfort of round-trip transfers.

If you enjoy snorkeling, exploring beautiful beaches, and having a guided overview of Phi Phi’s highlights, this trip ticks a lot of boxes. The larger boat size and lively group atmosphere suit travelers who enjoy social experiences, though it might be less ideal if you’re seeking a quiet, intimate outing.

Final Thoughts

The Phi Phi Island Tour by Big Boat manages to strike a commendable balance between affordability, inclusivity, and sightseeing. With a detailed itinerary that hits all the must-see spots, coupled with friendly guides and well-organized logistics, this tour offers a reliable way to explore the Phi Phi Islands.

The inclusion of snorkeling gear, a hearty lunch, and transfers adds to its value, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers eager to maximize their time. The large group size does mean you’ll be sharing the experience with many others, but if lively camaraderie and vibrant atmospheres are your thing, this tour will suit you perfectly.

Overall, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned island hopper, this tour provides a memorable day out with authentic highlights, good organization, and a friendly team behind the scenes.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Hotel pickups start between 07:30 and 07:45, so it’s best to be prepared slightly earlier to avoid rushing.

What is included in the tour price?
Snorkeling masks, snorkels, life jackets, lunch, fresh fruit, soft drinks, a tour guide, insurance, and round-trip transfers are all included.

Are there any additional fees I should know about?
Yes, if you want to snorkel at Maya Bay, you will need to pay the national park fee of 400 THB for adults and 200 THB for children on-site.

How long are the stops at each destination?
You’ll spend around 3 hours exploring Phi Phi Don, with additional time allocated for stops at Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, and Viking Cave.

What is the group size like?
Bookable for up to 15 people per booking, but the entire tour can host up to 300 travelers, creating a lively, social environment.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most travelers, including families, especially since snorkeling gear and lunch are included, and the atmosphere is friendly.

What if the weather is bad on the day of my trip?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Embark on this well-reviewed, thoughtfully organized day trip to one of Thailand’s most stunning island clusters, and enjoy the best of Phi Phi with ease and confidence.