Phi Phi Islands Snorkeling Trip By Big Boat From Phuket

Planning a day trip from Phuket to the Phi Phi Islands? This popular tour, priced at around $50 per person, promises a full day of island hopping, snorkeling, and scenic views. While it’s a great way to tick off one of Thailand’s most iconic destinations, it’s worth knowing what you’re signing up for before you go.

We love that this trip offers convenient hotel pickup, a chance to see some breathtaking spots like Viking Cave and Maya Bay, and includes a lunch buffet—a real plus after a morning of snorkeling. We also appreciate that the tour provides snorkeling equipment and a friendly guide with an ecotourism mindset. However, some reviews mention long transit times and short island stays that might leave you feeling rushed. This tour suits travelers looking for a budget-friendly way to see the Phi Phi Islands without too many frills.

Key Points

• Affordable Price Point: At just over $50, it offers decent value, especially with included pickup, lunch, and snorkeling gear.
• Convenient Pickup & Drop-Off: Hassle-free transfers from Phuket’s main areas make logistics easier.
• Scenic Highlights: Stops include Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon, and Coral Bay, offering a mix of sightseeing and snorkeling.
• Limited Time on Islands: The itinerary’s short stops can feel rushed, especially for those wanting more time to explore or snorkel.
• Mixed Reviews on Food & Comfort: Some travelers found the lunch quality lacking, and the long journey might be tiring.
• Ideal for Budget Travelers: Those who want a quick, budget-friendly taste of the Phi Phi Islands will find this suitable.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Pickup and Departure

The tour starts early at 7:00 am from various Phuket locations including Phuket Town, Patong, and Kata. The round-trip transfer is included, which is a real convenience. The pickup process appears straightforward, with most travelers reporting near-public transportation ease. Expect a comfortable ferry ride, but be prepared for a journey that can take around 4.5 hours round trip—some reviews mention this as a drawback, especially if you’re prone to sea-sickness or prefer a quicker transfer.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Rassada Pier & Initial Photos

Upon arrival at Rassada Pier, there’s a quick check-in at counter No. 2. This is your first chance for some photos against the bustling harbor backdrop. The pier itself offers a lively start to your day, setting the scene for island adventures ahead.

Viking Cave & Sightseeing

Next, you’ll visit Viking Cave, where you get approximately 30 minutes for sightseeing. It’s famous for its ancient cave paintings and sometimes bird’s nests. Reviewers mention that this stop makes for good photo ops but note that it’s quite brief—if you’re eager to explore deeper, you might find the time limited.

Pileh Lagoon & Loh Samah Bay

The tour includes sightseeing at Loh Samah Bay and Pileh Lagoon, both known for their stunning limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters. These are usually quick stops, perfect for snapping pictures or just soaking in the views. However, some travelers have expressed disappointment about the short duration here, with one reviewer noting they only had time to take a few photos before moving on.

Coral Bay for Snorkeling & Lunch

The highlight for many is Coral Bay, where you’ll indulge in snorkeling and swimming. The tour provides mask, snorkel, and life jackets, making it accessible even for beginners. One reviewer appreciated that the guide was friendly and eco-minded, encouraging sustainable snorkeling practices.

Post-snorkeling, it’s time for lunch at Phi Phi Don—a buffet offering a variety of Thai dishes, snacks, and fruits. While many found the meal satisfactory, some reviews criticize it as “bad” or mention it being rushed, especially if you’re hungry after a morning of activity. Freetime to explore the island can be around 3 hours, which is decent but still quite tight if you want to relax or visit Maya Bay.

Viking Cave & Maya Bay

The tour’s itinerary includes 30 minutes at Viking Cave for sightseeing, but disappointing reviews mention that Maya Bay was not visited or disembarked at, despite it being a popular attraction. For some, this was a letdown, especially given how iconic Maya Bay has become. The reason might be logistical or time constraints, but it’s worth noting if seeing Maya Bay is a priority.

Snorkeling Experience

While the tour promises multiple snorkeling stops, some travelers found that they only got to snorkel once or twice. One review said, “The 3 times snorkeling itinerary ended up with only snorkeling once,” which might frustrate those seeking more underwater time. The snorkeling equipment seems adequate, but the brief stops mean you might not get as much underwater exploration as you’d like.

Practical Considerations

Duration & Pace

The 8 to 9-hour excursion packs in a lot, but the long transit times and short island visits may feel rushed. If you’re someone who prefers more relaxed pacing or extended snorkeling, this might not be the best fit. The 4.5-hour round-trip ferry is a common point of criticism, with some reviewers describing it as “very tiring” and “rushing through” the stops.

Value for Money

At $50.29, this tour offers value with inclusive transfers, lunch, snorkeling gear, and sightseeing. However, some feel that the food quality and short island stops don’t quite match the price. Still, it’s a budget-friendly option for travelers who want a snapshot of the Phi Phi Islands without splurging on more expensive speedboat tours.

What’s Not Included

Don’t forget about the national park fee (400 THB per adult or 200 THB per child), which you’ll need to pay at the islands. This is a common fee across tours and should be factored into your budget.

Who Is This Tour For?

This trip is best suited for budget travelers who want a quick, organized way to see the main sights of the Phi Phi Islands. If you’re looking for more snorkeling or relaxed exploration, you might find this itinerary a bit rushed. It’s also great for those who appreciate convenience and structured sightseeing over personalized, unhurried experiences.

Final Thoughts

This Phi Phi Islands snorkeling trip from Phuket offers a decent balance of sightseeing, snorkeling, and convenience at an accessible price point. You’ll get to see some of the most notable spots, enjoy a buffet lunch, and avoid the hassle of organizing transfers yourself.

However, if your priority is longer snorkeling sessions or more time to explore, or if you’re hoping to visit Maya Bay, you might find this tour a little underwhelming. The long travel times and brief stops mean it’s more of a “see what you can in a day” experience rather than a fully immersive adventure.

To sum it up, this tour is best suited for budget-conscious travelers who want a quick overview of the Phi Phi Islands with all logistics handled. It’s a practical choice for those wanting to tick off the highlights without the extra cost, but set your expectations accordingly.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour provides hassle-free pickup from Phuket Town, Patong, Kata, Karon, Rawai, and Naihan.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, including transit, sightseeing, snorkeling, and lunch.

What’s the best time to join?
The tour starts at 7:00 am, so early risers get the full day of activities.

Are snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, the tour includes mask, snorkel, and life jackets for all participants.

Can I visit Maya Bay?
No, the tour does not include disembarking at Maya Bay, which was a common complaint in reviews.

What is the cost of the national park fee?
It’s 400 THB per adult and 200 THB per child, payable on the islands.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 4-12 under 120 cm in height can join, but consider the long transit and busy schedule.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people usually participate?
The tour can host up to 100 travelers, so expect a lively group setting.

This guide should help you decide whether this Phi Phi Islands trip matches your travel style. For a budget-friendly, well-organized day of sightseeing, it’s worth considering—but keep your expectations in check regarding time on the islands and snorkeling opportunities.