Phi Phi Islands Tour By Royal Jet Cruiser From Phuket

Planning a trip to Phuket and dreaming of those famous island views? We’ve taken a close look at the Phi Phi Islands Tour by Royal Jet Cruiser, and here’s what you need to know. While this tour offers a scenic cruise and some iconic stops, it’s not without its quirks—so we’ll break down the details to help you decide if it’s worth your time and money.

We love the convenience of hotel transfers, the opportunity to see iconic sights like Maya Bay and Viking Cave, and the value for under $60. That said, one common concern from past travelers is that the experience might feel more like a ferry ride with limited explanation or close-up access to the sights. If you’re after a laid-back trip with a focus on sightseeing rather than adventure, this could fit well. But if you want a more immersive or intimate experience, you might want to explore other options.

This tour is best suited for travelers who prefer a straightforward, no-fuss day with decent scenery and a buffet lunch included. If you’re okay with larger groups and are keen to tick the Phi Phi Islands off your list without breaking the bank, this could be a simple, easy choice.

Key Points

• Comfortable Standard Class Seating offers a relaxed way to enjoy the cruise.
• Sightseeing opportunities at Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and other spots are included, but with limited close-up access.
• All-in-one convenience with hotel transfers, lunch, and snacks simplifies the day.
• Admission fees are paid separately for certain attractions, which adds to the overall cost.
• Reviews suggest the experience is more about transportation and sightseeing rather than in-depth exploration.
• Good for travelers on a budget or those wanting a quick, scenic trip without many frills.

Before jumping in, it’s useful to understand what this tour covers. For $54.31 per person, you’re getting a round trip ferry transfer, hotel pickup and drop-off, a buffet lunch, snacks and drinks, and basic snorkeling equipment. The standard class seats mean you’re not on the most luxurious boat, but the comfort is adequate for the day’s length.

However, admission fees for certain attractions like Ko Phi Phi Le aren’t included in the base price—these cost around THB 400 for adults and THB 200 for children. This is an extra expense to keep in mind if you’re eager to explore more closely or get into the famous Maya Bay.

Let’s walk through the day to give you a clear picture of what’s on offer. The tour starts bright and early at 7:00 am, with a pickup from your hotel arranged by the operator. You’ll then be whisked to the pier for departure.

Stop 1: Ko Phi Phi Le

The first stop is Ko Phi Phi Le, just 45km east of Phuket. Known worldwide for its stunning scenery and clear waters, this island is the star of many postcards. But from what reviews tell us, travelers often find the experience on board somewhat limited—they mention that the boat sketches a quick pass by Viking Cave, Pi Leh Cove, Loh Samah Bay, and Maya Bay, but the close-up views are minimal. One reviewer noted, “Choose a tour on a smaller boat if you want to be able to get close enough to the sights.”

Sightseeing on Board

Most of the time is spent cruising past the key sights with brief explanations from the guide. Some reviews describe the onboard atmosphere as “quiet,” with little detailed commentary beyond the basics. The boat is equipped with snorkel masks and snorkels available for free rental, which is a nice touch for those wanting to dip into the water, though the snorkeling might be limited if you’re hoping for an all-day underwater adventure.

Stop 2: Maya Bay

Perhaps the most iconic feature of the tour, Maya Bay offers that postcard view of towering cliffs and white sands. But from reviews, expect only a brief glimpse rather than a lengthy stop. One traveler said, “It was basically ferry transport and lunch, with another tour group on board the old ferry.” So, if you’re hoping for plenty of time to swim or relax on the beach, this tour might not satisfy that craving.

Stop 3: Pileh Bay and Viking Cave

These are additional scenic highlights, with Viking Cave famous for its cave paintings and floating bamboo platforms. Again, most experiences here are limited to viewing from the boat. The Viking Cave has a reputation for being interesting, but the experience may feel rushed if you’re expecting a guided exploration.

Lunch and Free Time at Phi Phi Don

The highlight for many might be the buffet lunch at Phi Phi Don. With around 3 hours allocated, you get a decent window to stretch your legs, explore the island’s surroundings, or grab some souvenirs. Reviews mention that the free time isn’t extensive—so if you’re looking for a full day of wandering, you might find this a bit brief.

Post-Lunch

After lunch, the boat departs back to Phuket, completing the approximately 8-9 hour experience. The transfer back is straightforward, and most travelers appreciate the hotel pickup, which saves the hassle of navigating local transport.

Pros
– Affordable price point makes this a good option for travelers on a budget.
– The hotel transfer adds convenience and saves time.
– The scenic views from the boat are impressive and photo-worthy.
– Snorkeling gear is provided, allowing some water fun without extra cost.
– The lunch buffet is decent, with drinks and snacks included.

Cons
– The limited close-up sightseeing may disappoint travelers hoping for an immersive experience.
– The large group size (up to 100 travelers) can feel crowded, especially on popular spots.
– The brief stops restrict time for swimming or exploring the beaches.
– Past reviews suggest that the boat is more of a transportation vessel than a luxury cruise, with minimal commentary or guidance.

Additional insights from a reviewer highlight that if you want to get closer to the sights, a smaller boat or more specialized tour might be a better fit. One traveler observed, “It was basically ferry transport and lunch, with another tour group on board the old ferry (which looked little like the photos).” This suggests the experience might not match the glossy images some marketing shows.

This tour is a practical choice for budget travelers or those seeking a quick, scenic boat trip with minimal fuss. It’s well-suited for families, first-time visitors, or anyone who prioritizes convenience over in-depth exploration. If you’re happy to spend most of the day on a larger boat with brief stops and a buffet lunch, this tour can satisfy that curiosity about the Phi Phi Islands.

However, if your goal is to spend significant time snorkeling, swimming, or exploring each spot thoroughly, you might want to consider alternatives with smaller boats or more interactive guides. The limited time at each stop and the overall feeling of being on a bus-sized vessel can detract from the island magic for some.

The Phi Phi Islands Tour by Royal Jet Cruiser offers an affordable, straightforward way to see the most famous sights from Phuket. It’s a good fit for travelers who:

• Value convenience and comfort over exclusivity
• Don’t mind large group tours and limited time ashore
• Are content with brief glimpses of Maya Bay and Viking Cave
• Want a cost-effective day with lunch and hotel transfers included

On the flip side, if you’re after more personal guidance, closer encounters, or longer beach stays, you’ll find this tour somewhat lacking. It’s a practical, no-frills day trip that delivers the essentials, but it’s not designed for those seeking an immersive or luxurious experience.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes shared van transfers from and back to your hotel, making logistics easy and fuss-free.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting at 7:00 am with hotel pickup and ending back at your accommodation.

Are snorkeling and water activities included?
Snorkel masks and snorkels are available for free rental, but additional water activities are not specifically included beyond viewing and brief snorkeling.

Do I need to pay extra for attractions?
Yes, admission fees for Ko Phi Phi Le are not included in the base price. Adult tickets cost about THB 400, and children’s tickets are around THB 200.

Will I have enough time to explore the islands?
You’ll have about 3 hours at Phi Phi Don for lunch and some free time, but the stops at other sites are quick with limited time for exploration.

Is this suitable for children or pregnant women?
Most travelers can participate, but pregnant women or those with high blood pressure, heart, or bone issues are advised against joining the tour.

To sum it up, this tour offers a practical way to check off the Phi Phi Islands from your Phuket itinerary, especially if you’re after a budget-friendly, hassle-free day. Just keep your expectations in check regarding the level of sightseeing and personal interaction—you’re mostly along for the ride with brief stops and scenic views.