Phi Phi Islands: Private Longtail Boat 6-hour Trip

If you’re dreaming of exploring Phi Phi Islands without the crowds and on your own schedule, a private longtail boat tour might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture of a flexible, intimate, and unforgettable day on the water. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned island hopper, this experience offers a blend of stunning scenery, personalized stops, and the chance to snorkel with sea creatures.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, the customizable itinerary allows you to spend more time at your favorite spots and skip the ones less appealing to you. The knowledgeable captains and crew are praised for their friendliness and expertise, helping you discover hidden corners of the islands you might not find on regular group tours. The quality of the boat and equipment — including snorkeling masks and life jackets — helps ensure both safety and fun, especially for those eager to snorkel in crystal-clear waters. Finally, the flexibility to design your own route and the option for a premium experience with added touches like fruits, lunch, and decoration make this trip attractive for travelers seeking a more luxurious, private outing.

One consideration worth noting is that the price does not include the 400 baht National Park fee, payable in cash, which can add up if you’re planning to visit multiple islands. Also, weather conditions can impact the itinerary, especially in August and September when Maya Bay is closed for restoration. But overall, this tour appeals most to travelers who want control over their day, enjoy snorkeling, and appreciate a more exclusive, intimate experience.

Key Points

Flexibility and customization make this tour ideal for personalized experiences.
Expert guides and captains ensure safety, local insights, and smooth navigation.
Stunning stops like Maya Bay, Bamboo Island, and Viking Cave highlight the beauty of the Phi Phi Islands.
Great value for a private, tailored adventure, especially considering the inclusions like snorkeling gear and fresh fruit.
Weather dependency can affect some destinations, especially during the monsoon season.
Ideal for water lovers, snorkelers, and those seeking privacy away from crowded group tours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect

Starting Point and Ease of Access

The adventure kicks off at McDonald’s on Phi Phi Island, which is conveniently located for most visitors staying nearby. If you’re based further out — like Long Beach or Loh Lana — you’ll want to coordinate with the tour provider for pickup options, which might come with an extra fee. The meeting point is straightforward, and the tour operates in a private group setting, ensuring you’re not crammed with strangers.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The journey is designed to be flexible, lasting between 4 to 6 hours, depending on your preferences. You get to decide how long to spend at each stop, which is a huge plus. The typical itinerary includes:

• Bamboo Island: Expect soft white sand and crisp waters, perfect for relaxing or snorkeling. Reviewers loved the laid-back vibe here, with some mentioning the need for water shoes due to rocks. It’s a great spot for a leisurely swim or some sunbathing.
• Shark Point: For the adventurous, snorkeling here means a chance to see blacktip sharks. The clarity of water makes for an exciting underwater experience, and many reviews highlight spotting reef sharks and even octopuses.
• Monkey Beach: Meet playful monkeys in their natural habitat. As one reviewer noted, the monkeys are adorable, and the visit provides some fun, lighthearted moments. Just remember, feeding or touching animals is not allowed.
• Viking Cave: A quick stop to admire the limestone formation. While not a major sightseeing highlight, the cave is notable for its historical significance and unique shape.
• Pileh Lagoon: Considered one of the most beautiful spots, this turquoise lagoon is perfect for snorkeling and swimming. The reviews rave about its stunning views and clear waters.
• Loh Samah Bay & Maya Bay: Although Maya Bay was closed during August and September for restoration, the captain may take you in front of it for sightseeing if weather permits. Many anecdotes mention waking early to beat crowds, and some guests appreciated the chance to see the famous beach with fewer travelers.

The Flexibility and Personalization

One of the best parts? You can design your own route. Whether you want more snorkeling, more beach time, or specific spots to skip, the captain is ready to tailor the trip. Multiple reviews praise guides like Fad or Baht, describing them as friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. This level of personal attention is rare in group tours and adds significant value.

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The Equipment and Comfort

The boat is equipped with snorkeling masks, life jackets, and fresh fruits — everyone’s favorite for rehydrating after swimming. For the premium option, you’ll enjoy additional comforts like decorative touches, a coconut, and a supplied lunch. Reviewers appreciated the helpfulness of guides in offering pictures and ensuring everyone is comfortable with the water activities.

Considerations for a Smooth Trip

• The National Park fee of 400 baht is payable in cash and not included in the initial price, so budget accordingly.
• Weather can influence the itinerary, especially during the rainy season; the captain will prioritize safety and may adjust stops accordingly.
• Travelers should wear comfortable clothes, bring a waterproof bag, and prepare for water activities with shoes or sandals for rocky areas.
• If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions, as the boat can sometimes be bumpy.

The Authenticity and Value

Many guests comment on how this private tour offers superior value compared to large group excursions. The ability to customize your day means you spend more time doing what you love, whether that’s snorkeling with sharks or relaxing on a secluded beach. The knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, sharing local insights and ensuring safety, which is especially reassuring for first-time visitors.

Snorkeling and Wildlife

Snorkeling in spots like Shark Point or Loh Samah Bay is a highlight. Guests note the abundance of fish and the chance to see sharks and octopuses, which elevates the experience beyond simple sightseeing. The well-maintained gear and knowledgeable guides help even novices feel confident exploring underwater.

The Food and Refreshments

The inclusion of fresh fruits, water, and optional lunch adds comfort and keeps you energized. Reviewers often mention the quality of the snacks and how the coconut and fruits help refuel after snorkeling or beach lounging.

The Cost and Overall Value

While the price excludes park fees and may seem steep compared to shared tours, the personalized experience, flexibility, and quality of the guides and boat justify the cost for many travelers. Several reviews mention that booking through operators like this one provides better value than trying to arrange similar trips independently or through less established companies.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This private longtail boat trip is perfect for couples, families, or friends seeking a customized, intimate day on the islands. It’s especially appealing if you prioritize flexibility, snorkeling, and avoiding crowds. Those with some water comfort will enjoy the various snorkeling stops, and travelers wanting to design their own adventure will find this to be an ideal choice.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a personalized island experience that lets you choose your stops and explore at your own pace, this private longtail boat tour checks all the boxes. The friendly, knowledgeable captains, combined with the stunning scenery and the chance to snorkel with sharks or relax on pristine beaches, make it a compelling option. The added touches of fresh fruit, optional lunch, and the ability to skip the crowds elevate this from a simple boat ride to a memorable adventure.

This trip fits best for travelers who value customization and privacy. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to escape the hustle and enjoy the islands in your own way, it offers genuine value and an authentic experience.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
You can choose a duration between 4 and 6 hours, depending on your preferences and pace.

What stops can I include in my itinerary?
You can visit spots like Bamboo Island, Shark Point, Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon, Loh Samah Bay, Maya Bay, and Loh Moo Dee Beach, depending on weather and your interests.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, the boat comes equipped with snorkeling masks and life jackets, making underwater exploration easy and safe.

Do I need to pay the National Park fee?
Yes, the 400 baht park fee is payable in cash and not included in the tour price.

Can I customize the route?
Absolutely. You can tell the captain your preferred stops and how long to spend at each.

What is included in the premium option?
The premium package offers decorations, a coconut, fruits, water, and a supplied lunch for added comfort.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
While snorkeling and water activities are available, children should be comfortable with water and water activities. Those prone to seasickness or with mobility issues should consider their suitability.

What if the weather is bad?
The captain will prioritize safety and may adjust or cancel certain stops if weather conditions are unfavorable.

How do I get to the meeting point?
Most travelers meet at McDonald’s on Phi Phi Island. Contact the provider if you’re staying further away for possible pickup options.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, hat, towel, camera, sunscreen, cash, and waterproof bag are recommended.

To sum it up, this private longtail boat trip offers an authentic, flexible way to see Phi Phi Islands with the benefit of expert guides and personalized stops. It’s especially ideal if you’re seeking intimacy, snorkeling, and the freedom to craft your perfect day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: