Phi Phi – Khai/Bamboo Islands Tour with Lunch by Speed Catamaran

When it comes to island-hopping in Phuket, few experiences compare to a day spent cruising through the sparkling waters of the Phi Phi Islands, Maya Bay, and Khai Islands. This tour by speed catamaran promises a mix of adventure, relaxation, and picture-perfect scenery that can make any traveler’s jaw drop. We’ve gathered details, reviews, and insights to give you a clear picture of what to expect, so you can decide if this is the right trip for you.

What we love about this tour are three key aspects: the comfortable transportation, the diverse activities like snorkeling and sunbathing, and the delicious buffet lunch with ample options—including vegetarian dishes. The only possible downside is the timing and group size—it’s a paced day, which can feel a bit rushed for some travelers eager to linger longer in certain spots. This tour suits those craving a well-organized day of island exploration without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

Key Points

• Comfortable transport via speed catamaran ensures a smooth, scenic journey.
• Multiple stops allow for a variety of activities, from snorkeling to beach lounging.
• Expert guides help make the experience informative and enjoyable.
• All-inclusive price covers entrance fees, lunch, and snorkeling gear, making it good value.
• Timing is well-planned but may feel rushed for those wanting more leisure time.
• Suitable for most travelers with moderate fitness levels and a love for scenic beauty.

An Authentic Look at the Itinerary

Pickup & Departure: Starting the Adventure

Most travelers will be picked up from their hotels in Patong, Kata, Karon, or Phuket Town around 7:30 to 9:30 am. This early start is perfect for maximizing your day, and the convenience of hotel pickup saves the hassle of finding the boat pier. Once at the pier, you’ll find snacks, pastries, coffee, and tea—ideal for fueling up before the day’s adventures. The check-in process is straightforward, and with a maximum group size of 35, it feels intimate enough to get personalized attention from your guides.

First Stop: Patong Beach and Departure

The actual departure is around 10:00 am, with a scenic one-hour cruise to Phi Phi Leh Island. The boat is a speedy catamaran, offering a comfortable ride and a chance to settle in with your fellow travelers. During this time, guides often share interesting tidbits about the islands, adding context to what you’ll see.

Phi Phi Leh & Maya Bay: The Star of the Show

The highlight for many visitors is Maya Bay, famously featured in the movie “The Beach.” This spot is everything you’ve seen in photos—white sand, turquoise water, and lush jungle cliffs. The tour allocates around two hours here, giving you plenty of time to relax on the sand, swim in the warm water, or explore the marine life below the surface with provided snorkeling gear.

A notable point from reviews is that Maya Bay is typically closed in August and September to protect baby sharks, so check the schedule if you’re planning a trip during these months. The hour-long stop at Maya Bay is enough for most to soak in its beauty and take memorable photos, though some might wish for longer to really unwind.

Lunch at Don Island Beachside Restaurant

After Maya Bay, the boat takes you to a beachfront restaurant on Don Island. Here, a buffet lunch awaits, with vegetarian options available upon request. Guests have described the meal as “delicious,” and many appreciate the chance to enjoy fresh seafood or simple local dishes with sea views. The lunch break lasts about an hour, giving you time to relax, chat, and take in the stunning scenery.

Viking Cave & Snorkeling Fun

Post-lunch, the tour visits the Viking Cave, famous for its ancient murals and the abundance of marine life. The guides hand out snorkeling gear, making it easy for even beginners to enjoy the reef. From reviews, we learn that the waters are warm, clear, and calm, which helps first-timers feel comfortable exploring the vibrant coral and schools of colorful fish. The 15-minute stop at Viking Cave is just enough to get a taste of the underwater world without feeling rushed.

Khai Nok Island: The Final Stop

The last island stop is Khai Nok Island, known for its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs. This small, uninhabited island offers perfect conditions for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkelers eager to see marine life up close. Many guests find this to be a peaceful, picturesque ending to their day.

Returning to Phuket

The boat departs Khai Island in the late afternoon, aiming to arrive back at the pier by 5:00 pm. From there, travelers are transferred back to their hotels, often feeling content but ready to relax after a full day of sightseeing.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

The $74 price includes almost everything you need—transport, entrance fees, snorkeling gear, and a hearty buffet lunch. This all-in-one package is convenient and economical, especially considering the beautiful locations visited. The tour’s inclusion of a guide who is knowledgeable and attentive, as reflected in reviews praising their helpfulness, greatly enhances the experience.

The Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers consistently mention the friendly guides and well-organized schedule, which help make the day smooth and enjoyable. One guest said, “The experience was great—the tour guides were so nice and helpful. I would definitely do it again and highly recommend this tour.” Others appreciated the stunning views and the delicious lunch, which was described as “buffet-style and fresh,” making the long day feel worth it.

Practical Considerations

While the day is packed with activities, it is structured to give you a taste of each site without feeling overly rushed. Keep in mind that the timing means you won’t have hours at each beach, but enough to enjoy and take photos. The group size is limited, so you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the pickup service adds a layer of convenience that’s often appreciated in busy Phuket.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized day of island-hopping. It’s ideal for those who appreciate scenic cruising, snorkeling, and relaxing on beautiful beaches without the hassle of planning each part independently. Since most activities are outdoors and involve some walking or swimming, a moderate level of fitness is recommended. Families, couples, and solo travelers will all find value here.

The Sum Up

This Phi Phi – Khai/Bamboo Islands tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Phuket’s most iconic spots in a single day. The combination of stunning scenery, engaging activities, and good-value inclusions makes it a popular choice for many visitors. The knowledgeable guides, efficient schedule, and quality lunch are standout features that enhance the experience.

If you’re looking for a convenient, scenic, and fun day out on the water that balances adventure with relaxation, this tour is worth considering. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want an authentic yet comfortable way to explore Thailand’s breathtaking island scenery without sacrificing ease or comfort.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Most pickups happen between 7:30 and 9:30 am, so plan to be ready early to ensure a smooth start and make the most of the day.

Is the tour suitable for kids or older travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but a moderate level of fitness is recommended, especially for snorkeling or walking on uneven beaches.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring your passport photo for insurance purposes, sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a towel. Snacks and drinks are usually available at the pier, but you might want to carry some extra water.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian food can be requested for lunch, and the buffet on Don Island offers vegetarian dishes.

How long is each stop?
Most stops range from about 15 minutes (Viking Cave) to two hours (Maya Bay), with lunch and transportation fitting into the schedule.

What’s the group size limit?
The maximum number of travelers is 35, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, the tour provides snorkeling gear, making it easy for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How long does the entire tour last?
The total experience is about 8 to 9 hours, from pickup to return to your hotel.

In summary, this tour delivers a balanced dose of scenic beauty, activity, and comfort. It’s perfect for those wanting a streamlined way to explore the breathtaking islands near Phuket, with highlights that will leave you with lasting memories of Thailand’s natural splendor.