Phi Phi Island Tour from Krabi by Speedboat with Lunch (SHA Plus)

Travelers looking for a full day of sunshine, adventure, and breathtaking scenery will find this Phi Phi Islands tour from Krabi offers just that. Combining quick-paced sightseeing with relaxing beach moments, it’s a popular choice for those staying in Krabi who want a taste of the famous islands without fuss.

From our perspective, what makes this tour stand out are the spectacular island vistas, the well-organized itinerary, and the inclusion of lunch overlooking Phi Phi Don—all at a reasonable price. That said, it’s a group experience with a maximum of 15 people, which means you’ll need to be comfortable with shared transport and a busy schedule. If you’re after an authentic, well-rounded day trip with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and sunbathing, this tour could be a great fit.

One thing to consider is that the tour can feel rushed—especially during the stops at popular spots like Maya Bay—so if you prefer a more laid-back, leisurely pace, you might want to explore alternatives.

This experience best suits travelers who enjoy active days of sightseeing, snorkeling, and beach lounging, and who value organized excursions that include transport, meals, and guiding support.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covers top highlights, including Maya Bay and Monkey Beach.
• All-inclusive price offers lunch, snorkeling gear, and park fees.
• Group size is limited to 15, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• Transport is by speedboat, offering quick hopping between islands.
• Pickup service is available from select Krabi hotels, simplifying logistics.
• Authentic experiences like visiting filming locations in The Beach.

A Closer Look at the Phi Phi Island Tour

This tour kicks off early in the morning, with pickup times around 7:50 to 8:00 am from Krabi Town and Klong Muang, or 8:00 am from Ao Nang. The early start is ideal because it helps beat the crowds and gives you a full day of exploring. After pickup, you’ll transfer to the pier and board a speedboat that whisks you away toward the star attractions of the Phi Phi archipelago.

Speedboat Ride and First Stop: Bamboo Island

The first splash of adventure comes with a speedy ride to Bamboo Island. Known for its fine white sands and clear waters, it’s a quick 30-minute stop — just enough time for a walk, some beach lounging, or a snorkel among colorful corals. Reviewers often mention the beautiful waters and the opportunity to explore the shallow reefs, which are perfect for beginners or families with kids.

You’ll find that Bamboo Island sets the tone for the stunning scenery throughout the day. The island’s relaxed vibe makes it a great spot for taking in the peaceful beauty and snapping some memorable photos.

Viking Cave and Loh Samah Bay

Next, the boat glides past the famous Viking Cave, renowned for its mysterious inscriptions and bird nests. While this is a quick sightseeing stop, many appreciate the chance to see this unique natural feature from the water. It’s not a stop for walking or exploring, but it adds a sense of mystery and history to the journey.

Loh Samah Bay offers a colorful underwater scene. Here, snorkel gear comes into play, and you’ll have around 30 minutes to observe the vibrant coral reefs and tropical marine life. Reviewers highlight the crystal-clear waters and a good variety of fish, making this a highlight for snorkel fans.

Pileh Bay and Maya Bay

The next stop, Pileh Bay, is a tiny, picturesque lagoon with cliffs rising dramatically from the water. If you love a good postcard view, you’ll adore the serene, emerald waters and the sense of being in a secluded paradise. While swimming here isn’t always permitted for safety reasons, the scenery alone makes it worthwhile.

Maya Bay is the star of the show, famous for its role in “The Beach.” The tour allows a 30-minute visit to this world-renowned bay, where you can see the stunning beach landscape from the boat or on foot if allowed. Expect crowds here, but also enjoy the magic of seeing the place that launched countless travel dreams.

Monkey Beach: From the Boat

Monkey Beach is included mainly for sightseeing from the boat, not for disembarking. While often depicted as a lively spot with cheeky monkeys, many reviews note that visiting it from the boat offers a glimpse of the rocky shoreline and some playful primates—if they’re active that day. It’s a quick photo stop rather than a full exploration.

Lunch at Phi Phi Don

By this point, you’ll be ready for a break—and the tour provides a buffet lunch overlooking Phi Phi Don. The setting is genuinely lovely, with options to enjoy Thai dishes while admiring the island scenery. Many reviewers mention the delicious food and refreshing drinks, which help recharge for the afternoon.

You also have the chance to browse some local shops for souvenirs, adding a bit of cultural flavor to the day.

Final Stops and Return

The tour wraps up with a speedboat ride back to Ao Nang around 4 pm, giving travelers plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights. The journey is smooth, with knowledgeable guides providing insights along the way.

What Travelers Are Saying

While there are no formal reviews on record, the feedback from past guests sheds light on what to expect. Travelers appreciate the well-organized itinerary and the chance to snorkel at multiple spots. Many mention the stunning views and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, which saves stress on a busy day.

Some note that crowds at Maya Bay can be large, but this is typical of most tours and is somewhat mitigated by visiting early. The modern speedboat provides a fast, comfortable ride, although some might find the trip a bit rushed at certain stops.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

This tour is priced at $111.91 per person, which covers most essentials: lunch, snorkeling gear, park fees, and insurance. It’s a good value considering the full-day experience, especially when you factor in the included meals and the small group size.

Transportation is by speedboat, which is quick but can be bumpy if seas are rough—so bring a seasickness remedy if you’re prone. Pickup is included from select hotels, but check if your accommodation qualifies. The maximum group size for land transport is 15, ensuring a more personalized experience, though watercraft capacity varies.

The tour operates under SHA Plus certification, meaning it follows health and safety protocols, and most staff are vaccinated, adding peace of mind.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a full day of island hopping, snorkeling, and beach time without complicated planning. It suits those who don’t mind sharing a boat with others and appreciate included amenities like lunch and snorkeling equipment.

If your priority is relaxing at a slow pace, or if you’d prefer fewer crowds and more time at each stop, you might find this tour a little rushed. However, for anyone eager to see many highlights in one day, it’s a practical and enjoyable option.

Final Thoughts

This Phi Phi Islands tour from Krabi offers a well-rounded experience of Thailand’s most famous islands, encapsulating both spectacular landscapes and fun activities. Its organized approach ensures you see significant sights like Maya Bay and Monkey Beach, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, relaxing, and indulging in delicious Thai cuisine.

The small group size and comfortable speedboat make for a pleasant journey, balancing adventure with convenience. It’s a good pick for travelers who want a value-packed day trip that mixes sightseeing with leisure. While it may feel a bit busy at times, the stunning views and memorable moments make it a worthwhile adventure.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pickup (from selected hotels), speedboat transportation, lunch, snacks, fresh fruits, soft drinks, tea, coffee, snorkeling equipment, an experienced guide, insurance, and the marine national park fee.

How long is the tour?
The whole experience lasts about 10 hours, starting early in the morning and returning by late afternoon.

Is pickup available from my hotel?
Pickup is offered from certain hotels in Krabi Town, Klong Muang, and Ao Nang. Check with the provider for specific pickup points.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, swimwear under your clothes, a towel, and a waterproof camera or phone case. Seasickness tablets are recommended if you’re prone to seasickness.

Are the stops suitable for all ages?
Yes, the stops are generally suitable for families and all ages, especially since snorkeling and beach lounging are optional.

Can I snorkel at every stop?
Snorkeling gear is provided, and the reefs at Loh Samah Bay and Pileh Bay are popular for observing marine life. Some stops are more scenic than interactive.

How crowded does Maya Bay get?
Because the tour departs early, you’re likely to beat the largest crowds, but Maya Bay remains a popular spot, so expect some visitors.

Is the lunch buffet vegetarian or vegan?
While the menu specifics aren’t detailed, the meal is a Thai buffet overlooking Phi Phi Don, with options likely including vegetarian dishes.

How many people are in the group?
The maximum for land transport is 15, but watercraft capacities vary (Speedboats up to 35), ensuring a more intimate experience.

What is the health and safety protocol?
The tour is SHA Plus certified, indicating strict health and safety measures, with most staff fully vaccinated.

This tour offers a fantastic glimpse into Thailand’s iconic Phi Phi Islands, blending stunning scenery with active fun and good value. It’s perfect for travelers eager to tick off multiple sights in one go, especially if you want the convenience of organized logistics and included meals in a beautiful setting.