Phi Phi Island Tour by Big Boat by Royal Jet Cruiser (First Class)

If you’re eyeing a day trip from Phuket to the iconic Phi Phi Islands, this First-Class Big Boat tour offers a compelling mix of adventure, comfort, and scenic highlights. While we haven’t personally set sail, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a vibrant picture of what to expect—think snorkeling amid colorful marine life, relaxing on powdery beaches, and soaking up some of Thailand’s most celebrated vistas.

Three things particularly stand out: the convenience of hotel pickup, the quality of the guided snorkeling excursions, and the opportunity to indulge in a generous buffet lunch with Thai, Indian, and international dishes. However, some travelers mention that the 30-minute stop at Maya Bay feels a bit rushed, especially if you’re keen on exploring or taking photos. This tour suits those craving a well-organized, slightly luxurious day out that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

Key Points:

• Comfortable First-Class experience with a focus on scenic boat cruising and snorkeling
• Convenient hotel pickup and round-trip transfers
• A delicious buffet lunch featuring varied cuisines
• Scenic sightseeing passing Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Pi-Le Cove, and Loh Samah Bay
• Group size limited to 7 travelers for a more personalized experience
• Important to note: Additional fees apply for national park entry and Maya Bay

Why This Tour Might Be Perfect for You

This tour is crafted for travelers who want a no-hassle, premium experience without the hefty price tag. The $78.56 per person fee covers most essentials, including hotel pickup, ferry transfers, guided snorkeling, and a tasty lunch. It’s ideal if you prefer a small-group vibe, with a maximum of 7 travelers, to enjoy more personalized attention from guides.

The itinerary balances sightseeing, adventure, and downtime. You’ll get to see some of Thailand’s most stunning coastal scenery and marine life, with the benefit of a knowledgeable guide, all while avoiding the more crowded, larger tour boats. Plus, the First-Class branding implies a focus on comfort, making the day trip a little more special.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Start: Phuket Hotel Pickup & Transfer to Rassada Pier

The journey kicks off with a hotel pickup from your Phuket accommodation, whether in Patong, Karon, Kata, or Phuket Town. The pickup timing varies depending on your location, which means you should be ready early to beat the crowds. From there, it’s a smooth ride to Rassada Pier, taking about an hour and a half. This transfer is included, sparing you the hassle of public transport or taxis, and sets the tone for a stress-free day.

First Stop: Long Beach, Phi Phi Don

Arriving around 10:30 am, you’ll have ample time to relax and soak up the scenery. The highlight here is the chance to snorkel beyond the shore reef, where you’ll encounter a splash of colors—schools of tropical fish darting among the corals. The shore itself is a long, inviting stretch of white sand, perfect for sunbathing or a quick dip.

One reviewer noted that the free snorkel gear (mask and snorkel) made a big difference in the experience, allowing them to explore comfortably without extra costs. Keep in mind that a National Park Fee applies (about 400 THB for adults), so budget accordingly if you plan to snorkel beyond the reef.

Lunch at a Seaside Restaurant

Around 11:45 am, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch at a restaurant right on the island. The spread includes Thai staples, international dishes, and Indian cuisine—something for every palate. Reviewers have appreciated the quality and variety, describing it as a “generous” offering that fuels the afternoon.

After lunch, you’re free to relax, sunbathe, swim, or explore the island’s vibrant terrain. Many found this downtime essential for recharging before more sightseeing.

Exploring Tonsai Village & Leisure Time

By 12:45 pm, meet your guide for the short transfer to Tonsai Pier. Here, you can explore the lively town, browse local shops, or just enjoy the bustling atmosphere. The guide typically charges a small entrance fee (20 THB), but the time here is a delightful window into local island life.

Many reviews mention that the guide’s knowledge enhances this part, sharing insights into the island’s history and standout sights, making the time more engaging than just wandering aimlessly.

Return Journey & Sightseeing Cruise

At around 2:10 pm, you’ll meet the guide again for the ferry back to Phuket, departing at 2:30 pm. The cruise itself is a highlight, offering scenic views of Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Pi-Le Cove, Loh Samah Bay, and other famous spots. Depending on sea conditions, the boat may pass close enough for photos—so bring your camera.

A notable point from reviewers is the limited time at Maya Bay; the 30-minute stop is often insufficient for capturing the beauty or taking a proper walk around. Some guests expressed hope for schedule adjustments to allow more time here.

End: Return to Phuket and Hotel Drop-off

The journey concludes back at Rassada Pier, with transfers arranged back to your hotel. Many find this seamless, enabling a full day of exploration without extra planning.

What We Love About This Tour

Comfort and Convenience: The First-Class branding and small group size mean you’re not just crammed into a large boat with dozens of strangers. The private feel adds a dash of luxury, especially with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

Guided Snorkeling and Sightseeing: The guides are knowledgeable, making snorkeling beyond the reef accessible and enjoyable, not to mention enriching. They also point out interesting sights passing by, turning the cruise into a scenic tour.

Varied Cuisine and Good Food: The buffet lunch features a nice mix of Thai, Indian, and international dishes, offering good value and variety.

Stunning Coastal Views: The boat cruise passes some of the most famous spots, and you get a glimpse of Maya Bay—immensely photogenic even during a quick pass.

Considerations and Possible Drawbacks

Limited Time at Maya Bay: As pointed out in reviews, the 30-minute stop might feel rushed, especially if you’re eager to explore or photograph the famous beach thoroughly. If Maya Bay is your main focus, this may not be enough.

Additional Fees: Remember, the National Park Fee for Maya Bay and the entrance fee for Tonsai are paid separately, so budget about 600 THB in total. This might come as a surprise if you’re not expecting extra costs.

Weather and Sea Conditions: The tour’s schedule is subject to change based on weather, which can impact the scenery and snorkeling conditions. Plus, some of the spots are only passable when sea conditions are good.

Final Thoughts

This Phi Phi Island tour by Royal Jet Cruiser offers a well-rounded experience balancing scenic cruising, snorkeling, and island exploration without feeling rushed or overly crowded. The small group size and First-Class branding suggest a more personal and comfortable adventure—ideal for travelers who want quality over quantity.

While the limited time at Maya Bay may be a downside for those eager to spend hours there, the overall value lies in the thoughtfully curated itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see some of Thailand’s most iconic sights in a single day.

If you’re after a hassle-free, scenic, and comfortable day trip that includes snorkeling, a tasty lunch, and scenic passes by famous islands, this tour delivers a lot for its price. Perfect for first-timers or travelers seeking a more intimate experience than the massive boats, this trip could be a highlight of your Phuket adventure.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip ferry transfers, guided snorkeling with masks and snorkels, refreshments onboard, accident insurance, and a buffet lunch.

Are there additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, the National Park Fee (about 400 THB) for Maya Bay and the entrance fee at Tonsai (20 THB) are paid separately in cash at the locations.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 7 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

How long is each stop?
The main snorkeling and beach stop at Long Beach is about 1.5 hours, and the stop at Maya Bay is approximately 30 minutes. The guide notes this can be tight for those wanting more time to explore.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour offers free mask and snorkel rentals, and guides are usually knowledgeable, making it accessible even for first-timers.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour relies heavily on good weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenic cruising, snorkeling, and island exploration in a more intimate setting. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for comfort, guided experiences, and the chance to see the most famous sights of Phi Phi without the chaos of larger boats. Just be prepared for some extra fees and limited time at Maya Bay—it’s all part of the adventure.