If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and that iconic tropical paradise vibe, a trip to the Phi Phi Islands often tops the list. While there are many ways to see these famous islands, the Phi Phi Islands Tour First Class by Royal Jet Cruiser stands out for its comfort, comprehensive itinerary, and value. We’ve taken a close look at what makes this tour a popular choice—and whether it’s the right fit for you.
What we love most about this experience are the luxury of the First Class seats, the well-organized sightseeing stops, and the friendly, knowledgeable guides. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious buffet lunch and snorkeling gear creates a hassle-free day. However, it’s worth noting that entrance fees for some sites aren’t included, so keep that in mind when budgeting. This tour appears ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, all-in-one day on the water without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
- Key Points
- A Luxurious Day on the Water
- The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect
- Stop 1: Ko Phi Phi Le
- Snorkeling and Swimming
- Lunch and Free Time
- Sightseeing on Board
- Why This Tour Excels
- What Could Be Better?
- Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?
- Final Thoughts
- FAQs
- More Quad Bikes in Phuket
- More Tours in Phuket
- More Tour Reviews in Phuket
- Still browsing? Here are more Phuket experiences we've covered recently
Key Points

- Comfortable First Class seating ensures a relaxing journey
- Comprehensive itinerary covers all major highlights of Phi Phi Islands
- Free snorkeling gear included enhances your underwater experience
- Well-organized schedule with plenty of free time on Phi Phi Don
- Knowledgeable guide enhances the sightseeing experience
- Price point offers great value considering the inclusions and comfort
A Luxurious Day on the Water

Starting early at 7:00 am, this tour offers convenient hotel pickups (around 7:00-7:15 am), making it easy to kick off your day without hassle. The shared van transfer is straightforward, and the round-trip ferry ride aboard the newly built Royal Jet Cruiser 9 is a highlight in itself. This boat’s First Class seating means you’re comfortably cushioned with plenty of legroom—no cramped speedboats here—and the onboard amenities add to the feeling of traveling in style.
The 1.5-hour cruise from Phuket to Phi Phi Le feels quick thanks to the spacious seats and smooth ride, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the scenic views. As you cruise past Phi Phi Ley Island, you’ll get a chance to see several famous sights from the boat, including Viking Cave, Pi-Le Cove, Loh Samah Bay, Maya Bay, and Monkey Beach. These sites are some of the most photographed spots in the area, and from the deck, you’ll get a good overview before setting foot on the islands.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Phuket
The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Stop 1: Ko Phi Phi Le
The first stop is Ko Phi Phi Le, about 45 km east of Phuket. This island is world-famous for its dramatic cliffs and stunning beaches. Here, you’ll witness the natural beauty that makes Phi Phi so iconic. The guide will point out sights like Viking Cave—home to swallows’ nests—and Maya Bay, which gained fame from the movie “The Beach.”
Onboard sightseeing gives you a good sense of the landscape, and some reviews mention the guides being very knowledgeable, sharing interesting tidbits about each site. This makes the experience more engaging than just snapping photos.
Snorkeling and Swimming
Once on Phi Phi Don, the tour offers free snorkeling gear—masks and snorkels—which many travelers find invaluable. The calm, crystal-clear waters are perfect for spotting tropical fish and coral. We loved the way the guides often help less experienced snorkelers and ensure everyone feels comfortable. The review from a traveler highlights: “Snorkelling guide was very helpful,” which is reassuring for families or less confident swimmers.
Lunch and Free Time
After a few hours of exploring, everyone heads to a local island restaurant for a buffet lunch. The meal is usually hearty and satisfying, with options for different tastes. The tour’s inclusion of snacks and beverages—like tea, coffee, and soft drinks—means you’re well-fed and refreshed for the rest of the day.
Post-lunch, you’ll have around three hours to explore Phi Phi Don at your leisure. The island has a laid-back vibe, with shops, cafes, and beautiful beaches. Reviewers mention that this free time is perfect for relaxing on the beach, shopping for souvenirs, or just soaking in the scenery.
Sightseeing on Board
Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy onboard commentary about each site from the English-speaking guide. The Viking Cave, Pileh Bay, and other stops are viewed from the boat, providing a comprehensive look at the islands’ highlights without constant hopping off and on.
Why This Tour Excels

Comfort and Convenience are the main selling points. The luxury boat with First Class seating offers a more refined experience, especially compared to typical speedboats or overcrowded tours. The professional guide provides insights that enrich the sightseeing, making each stop more meaningful.
The inclusions are thoughtfully chosen—snorkeling gear, a buffet lunch, snacks, and round-trip transfers—adding value to the $69.17 per person price. This makes it accessible for many travelers, especially those seeking a high-quality, fuss-free day on the water.
The sites visited are the main attractions visitors dream of, and the onboard sightseeing allows you to appreciate the stunning natural formations even if you’re not keen on long hikes or vigorous activities. Plus, the tour’s flexible cancellation policy means you can book with confidence, knowing you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What Could Be Better?

One consideration is the entrance fees that aren’t included in the ticket price—specifically for Ko Phi Phi Le. Budgeting an extra few dollars for this fee might be necessary. Also, since the tour is capped at around 100 travelers, it’s generally not crowded, but during peak seasons, booking well in advance (8 days ahead on average) is advisable to secure your spot.
Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?
This experience is perfect for travelers who want a luxurious, well-organized day trip that covers all the major sights without the chaos of speedboats or overcrowding. It’s especially good for families or less adventurous travelers who appreciate a comfortable boat with amenities and some free time to relax. If you’re seeking a high-quality, insightful tour with a friendly guide, this is a solid choice.
Final Thoughts

The Phi Phi Islands Tour First Class by Royal Jet Cruiser is a fantastic way to see the most famous islands in comfort and style. The combination of luxury transportation, comprehensive sightseeing, and delicious food makes it stand out among many day trips from Phuket. While there are small extra costs for entrance fees, the overall value and experience are hard to beat.
If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and well-organized day on the water, this tour provides everything you need—without feeling rushed or crowded. It’s a great way to tick off the iconic Phi Phi sights while enjoying the comforts of a first-class journey.
FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers shared van transfer from and to your hotel, typically starting around 7:00 am.
How long is the cruise?
The ferry ride on the Royal Jet Cruiser lasts about 1.5 hours each way, making for a roughly 8-9 hour total day.
Are snorkeling masks and snorkels provided?
Yes, complimentary masks and snorkels are included, making it easy to enjoy the underwater sights.
What are the main highlights of the sightseeing stops?
You’ll pass by Viking Cave, Pi-Le Cove, Loh Samah Bay, Maya Bay, and Monkey Beach—all viewed from the boat, with some stops for snorkeling and free time on Phi Phi Don.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially since it’s considered a comfortable and safe way to see the islands, but children must be between 4-11 years in age and under 120cm tall to qualify for the child ticket.
Are there any physical limitations I should know about?
Pregnant travelers or those with high blood pressure, heart, or bone issues are advised not to participate, due to boat movement and walking on uneven surfaces.
Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the start time, providing flexibility and peace of mind.
Are additional entrance fees required?
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Ko Phi Phi Le that isn’t included in the ticket price, so budget accordingly.
From comfort to coverage, this tour balances all the elements needed for a memorable day on the Phi Phi Islands. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or looking for a stress-free way to enjoy the sights, this experience offers a dependable and enjoyable option.
More Quad Bikes in Phuket
- Bamboo Rafting, ATV Riding and Zip Line Tour From Phuket
- Phuket Best ATV Bike Tours
- ATV Scenic Routes with Karon and Patong Views from Phuket
- Phuket Adventure Full Day Tour: ATV Ride, Zipline, Phuket City
- Phuket ATV Bike with Ziplines Adventure Tours
- Whitewater Rafting, ATV Adventure and Zipline Experience From Phuket
More Tours in Phuket
More Tour Reviews in Phuket
- Bamboo Rafting, ATV Riding and Zip Line Tour From Phuket
- Khao Lak Full Day Tour: Sarasin Bridge, Khao Lak National Park, Lampi Waterfall
- Full-Day Private Phuket Temple Tour
- Phuketian Cooking Class With Market Tour
- Half-Day Trip to Koh Hey: Snorkeling & Relaxation
- James Bond Canoeing Tour with Monkey Temple Tour
Still browsing? Here are more Phuket experiences we've covered recently
- Khao Lak Full Day Tour: Sarasin Bridge, Khao Lak National Park, Lampi Waterfall
- Full-Day Private Phuket Temple Tour
- Phuketian Cooking Class With Market Tour
- Half-Day Trip to Koh Hey: Snorkeling & Relaxation
- James Bond Canoeing Tour with Monkey Temple Tour
- Phi Phi & Khai Island by Speed Boat
- Discover Racha and Coral Island Transfer and meals from Phuket
- Luxurious Grand Pearl Dinner Cruise in Bangkok
- Phuket Best ATV Bike Tours
- Sky Rock Khaolak Jungle Adventure Zipline Experience
- Day Trip to James Bond Island by Speedboat from Phuket
- Phi Phi Islands Tour First Class By Royal Jet Cruiser From Phuket
