Phi Phi Islands Cruise with Lunch & Sea View Seats from Phuket

Traveling from Phuket to the Phi Phi Islands is a popular way to experience Thailand’s famed turquoise waters and stunning limestone karsts. This specific tour, offered by Sea Angel Boat Trip, markets itself as an all-in-one package—think VIP seats, scenic stops, snorkeling, and a Thai lunch—all wrapped up in roughly six hours. We’ve examined the details, reviews, and what you can realistically expect, so you can decide if it’s worth your time and money.

What we love about this experience are three key aspects: the scenic boat ride and spectacular views, the included VIP seating, and the chance to snorkel in vibrant coral waters. The boat’s capacity and the scenery make for a comfortable, visually rewarding outing. However, a potential downside is the slightly confusing pricing and some efforts by the crew to upsell or charge extra, which might not sit well with all travelers. This tour suits those who want a quick, picturesque escape to Phi Phi with some snorkeling and a decent meal, all while enjoying a more premium seat on the boat.

Key Points:

• Scenic views of Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Loh Samah Bay provide excellent photo opportunities.
• VIP sea-view seats enhance the overall comfort and experience, especially for photo enthusiasts.
• Snorkeling at Coral Bay offers a chance to see colorful marine life up close.
• The lunch at Phi Phi Don is included, giving you a taste of authentic Thai cuisine amid the island’s natural beauty.
• Travel time and group size are manageable, with a maximum of 102 travelers ensuring some intimacy.
• The mixed reviews highlight both the enjoyable scenery and some concerns about additional costs or boat access.

How the Itinerary Breaks Down

Early Morning Pickup and Departure

The tour begins bright and early with a hotel pick-up from 7:00 AM, covering Phuket Town, Patong, Karon, and Kata, if you select that option. This is a significant plus, saving you from the hassle of finding your way to Rassada Harbor. Once at the harbor, you’ll board your vessel—a ferry with Silver Class VIP seats—and start the day’s adventure.

Scenic Cruising to Phi Phi

The first highlight is the boat ride itself, which, according to reviews, offers stunning views and a chance to relax while cruising toward the islands. The boat’s VIP seats are positioned for optimal ocean vistas, making the journey as enjoyable as the stops. The captain, highlighted in reviews, is praised for handling the boat well even in rough conditions, which is reassuring for anyone concerned about sea sickness or boat safety.

Maya Bay and Photo Opportunities

One of the tour’s main draws is Maya Bay, famed for its appearance in The Beach. The boat stops here, allowing passengers to take in the dramatic limestone cliffs framing the bay. Many reviews mention that the scenery is truly breathtaking and perfect for photos—an unmissable highlight. However, keep in mind that this is a popular stop, so it can get crowded, and the timing might be tight.

Loh Samah and Pileh Lagoon

Next, the cruise takes you past Loh Samah Bay and Pileh Lagoon, where the turquoise waters and towering cliffs create a postcard scene. These spots are less crowded than Maya Bay and offer opportunities for photos or simply soaking in the natural beauty.

Viking Cave and Nature Encounters

The Viking Cave is another stop, famous for the swallows nesting inside and the ancient cave paintings. According to reviews, this is more of a scenic photo stop rather than a lengthy visit, but it’s worth noting that the cave is an iconic feature of the Phi Phi landscape.

Snorkeling at Coral Bay

Perhaps one of the most appreciated parts of the day is the snorkeling session at Coral Bay. Here, you’ll find a vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life. The tour supplies free rental of masks, snorkels, and life jackets, which is a plus. Travelers who love to get close to nature report that the coral and fish species are quite colorful and lively. The boat departs for snorkeling from Ton Sai Pier, giving you a couple of hours to swim and explore.

Lunch and Free Time at Phi Phi Don

After snorkeling, it’s time for a premium Thai lunch at Phi Phi Don, the main island. The included meal offers a convenient way to refuel, and the free time allows you to stroll, shop, or explore independently. Travelers mention that this is a good opportunity to browse local shops or relax on the beaches, but be aware that some reviews suggest the level of free time can be limited depending on the group size and schedule.

Return Journey and Relaxation

The trip concludes with the departure from Ton Sai Pier at 3 PM, offering a scenic ride back to Phuket. The sea-view seats and indoor lounge provide a comfortable setting for the return, and reviews suggest that the views on the way back are just as picturesque as the forward journey.

What’s Included and What Costs Extra?

The tour package covers the essentials: round-trip ferry transfer, VIP seats, snorkeling gear, insurance, and the national park fee. These inclusions make it easier to enjoy the day without worrying about hidden costs. However, there is a THB 20 (about $0.60 USD) cleaning fee at Tonsai Pier, which most travelers consider minor.

A notable point from reviews is that some guests felt pressured or misled regarding costs. One reviewer complained about being told they were on a large 350-person boat but then being upsold to a smaller, faster boat, which they felt was a rip-off. This highlights the importance of clarifying what’s included and watching out for potential extra charges.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

The Highlights

• Breathtaking scenery: Maya Beach, Loh Samah, and Pileh Lagoon are genuinely stunning and perfect for photos.
• Comfortable VIP seats: These offer unobstructed views and a more relaxing experience.
• Snorkeling opportunity: Coral Bay’s vibrant marine life is a hit for ocean lovers.
• Efficient itinerary: The schedule balances sightseeing, snorkeling, and free time well, given the short duration.

The Challenges

• Crowd management: Like most popular tours, some stops can get busy, especially Maya Bay.
• Pricing concerns: Extra costs or upselling tactics have been highlighted by reviewers.
• Limited free time: The schedule is tight, so if you want more time to explore Phi Phi Don, this might not be enough.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits travelers seeking a comfortable, scenic day trip with the convenience of hotel pickup and VIP seating. It’s ideal if you want to see the iconic Phi Phi landscapes without long boat rides or complicated logistics. Nature lovers will appreciate the snorkeling and the spectacular views, while those on a budget will find the value in an all-in-one package that includes lunch and essentials.

However, if you’re after a more private or less commercial experience, or if you’re hoping for extensive exploration on the islands themselves, this tour might feel a bit rushed. It’s best for travelers who prioritize scenic views, comfortable seating, and a straightforward day out.

Final Thoughts

The Phi Phi Islands Cruise with Lunch & Sea View Seats from Phuket offers a solid way to tick off some of Thailand’s most famous sights in a manageable timeframe. The boat ride itself is a highlight, especially if you enjoy spectacular ocean vistas and comfortable seating. The snorkeling at Coral Bay adds a fun, interactive element, and the included lunch makes it convenient for a full day.

While there are some reservations about additional costs and the potential for crowds, many travelers find the views and ease of logistics worthwhile. It’s particularly suitable for those who want a balanced, scenic experience with a touch of luxury in terms of seating.

If you’re looking for a well-organized day trip that combines iconic sights, some aquatic adventure, and scenic comfort, this cruise could be a good fit. Just be clear about what’s included and stay alert for any upselling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from Phuket Town, Patong, Kata, and Karon, making the start hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 6 hours, including transfers, sightseeing, snorkeling, and free time.

Are the seats really VIP?
Yes, the tour provides Silver Class VIP seats, which are positioned to give the best ocean views and a more comfortable experience.

What marine activities are included?
Snorkeling is included, with free rental of masks, snorkels, and life jackets—great for exploring Coral Bay’s marine life.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a premium Thai lunch is included at Phi Phi Don, along with some free time for exploration.

What about the boat’s capacity?
The boat is designed to accommodate up to 102 travelers, balancing social atmosphere with comfort.

Are there any extra charges I should know about?
There’s a small THB 20 (about $0.60 USD) cleaning fee at Tonsai Pier, but other extras are generally not necessary.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility for changing plans.

Is this suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate; however, consider the early start and boat ride if traveling with very young children or seniors, particularly in rough weather.

To sum it up, this tour is a solid option for travelers wanting breathtaking views, a comfortable boat experience, and some snorkeling—all wrapped into one accessible package. Just keep your expectations aligned with the schedule and be aware of potential extra charges. Whether it’s your first visit to Phi Phi or just a quick getaway, it offers enough of the island’s highlights in a single day.