Planning a day trip to Phuket’s famous islands? The Phi Phi Khai Islands Snorkeling Tour by Premium Speedboat offers a chance to see some of Thailand’s most iconic spots without breaking the bank. With a reputation for outstanding reviews, this tour combines convenience, stunning scenery, and plenty of underwater fun—perfect for travelers looking for a memorable day on the water.
What we love most? The knowledgeable guides who make the experience engaging and safe, the beautiful, crystal-clear waters that beckon for snorkeling, and the well-organized itinerary that hits all the highlights without feeling rushed. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the group size—with up to 38 travelers, it’s lively, but some might prefer smaller groups for a more intimate feel.
Whether you’re a first-timer to Thailand or a seasoned island hopper, this tour suits those who want a full, active day with plenty of opportunities to explore, snorkel, and relax. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate good value, excellent guides, and the chance to enjoy both sightseeing and aquatic adventures.
Key Points
- Comprehensive itinerary covering major Phi Phi highlights and Khai Nai Island.
- Includes hotel pickup and a tasty Thai buffet lunch for convenience and flavor.
- Snorkeling gear supplied, making underwater exploration accessible.
- Well-reviewed guides praised for attentiveness and knowledge.
- Moderate group size with a maximum of 38 travelers, balancing social and personal experiences.
- Cancellations are flexible with a 24-hour notice for full refunds.
The Phi Phi Khai Islands Snorkeling Tour is a full-day adventure designed to introduce travelers to some of Thailand’s most breathtaking island landscapes and vibrant marine life. Priced at around $74 per person, it provides a good balance of value, activity, and relaxation, making it a popular choice for many visitors to Phuket.
Starting early with hotel pickup, typically between 7:00 and 8:45 AM, the tour ensures you beat the crowds and maximize your time on the water. The convenient pickup from major seaside hotels in Patong, Kata, Karon, and Phuket Town means less hassle and more time enjoying your day.
Stop 1: Old Phuket Town
Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel, setting the tone for a smooth experience. The early morning pick-up ensures you’re ready to hit the water at a relaxed pace. This initial stop is simply to get everyone together and oriented, with about 15 minutes allocated for this phase—no major sightseeing here, but it’s good to be prepared with swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat.
Into underwater exploring? These other snorkeling spots in Phuket might work for you
Stop 2: Ko Phi Phi Le & Maya Bay
As the boat departs for the archipelago, your first main stop is Ko Phi Phi Le, home to the legendary Maya Bay. Famously featured in The Beach, Maya Bay’s towering cliffs and golden sands are a picture-perfect moment. Your visit here is usually around 40 minutes, giving you enough time to snap photos, soak in the scenery, and admire the film-famous backdrop.
The tour notes that Maya Bay is often closed during August and September for environmental protection, so if you’re visiting at that time, you might find a different viewing point or simply enjoy the other stops.
Stop 3: Loh Samah Bay & Pileh Lagoon
Next, the boat glides into Loh Samah Bay and Pileh Lagoon, where the water turns a striking turquoise. Here, you have around an hour to relax, swim, or snorkel, marveling at the clarity of the water and the impressive limestone formations. Many reviews highlight how these spots offer some of the best underwater scenery, with vibrant fish and coral just waiting to be explored.
Stop 4: Viking Cave
A brief stop at the Viking Cave offers a glimpse of the cliffs famous for bird’s nests harvesting—an age-old Thai tradition. The 15-minute stop is more about the view and learning a little about local practices rather than lingering.
Stop 5: Phi Phi Don & Lunch
The tour spends approximately two hours at Phi Phi Don, the larger inhabited island. This is your chance to stretch your legs, browse local markets, or relax at a beachside restaurant. Most travelers rave about the included Thai buffet lunch, which offers a satisfying break and a taste of local flavors. One reviewer mentions the lunch as “delicious,” appreciating the convenience after a busy morning.
Stop 6: Snorkeling at Pi Leh Bay & Khai Nai
After lunch, it’s time to gear up for snorkeling at Pi Leh Bay, where the underwater visibility is often praised. You’ll get about 30 minutes in the water, discovering marine life thriving around the rocks and coral formations.
Finally, the last stop is Khai Nai Island, a small, tranquil spot perfect for more swimming, relaxing on the beach, or a quick snorkel. With around two hours here, you can unwind before heading back to Phuket, enjoying the scenic views en route.
The Guides and Group
Based on reviews, the guides—such as Lily—are attentive and caring. Their knowledge about the islands and marine environment adds a layer of value that elevates the experience beyond just a boat ride. Guests appreciate their friendly attitude and professionalism, especially when dealing with sea sickness or other concerns.
The Snorkeling Opportunities
Many travelers mention how good the snorkeling is, with vibrant fish, clear waters, and coral reefs. The use of provided snorkeling equipment means you’re ready to jump in without hassle, making it accessible for all skill levels. The underwater scenery around Phi Phi Leh and Khai Nai is described as “fantastic,” with multiple reviewers mentioning snorkel sessions as highlights.
The Food and Convenience
The included Thai buffet lunch is a hit, with reviewers describing it as tasty and satisfying. Having lunch on Phi Phi Don provides a break and a chance to explore local markets or just relax. The tour’s pickup and drop-off service simplifies logistics, especially for those unfamiliar with Phuket.
The Value for Money
At $74, this tour offers a well-rounded experience—visiting key sites, snorkeling, and enjoying a meal—all with the safety of a guided trip. The inclusion of national park fees and equipment rental means no hidden costs, making it straightforward and transparent.
- Duration: Around 8 to 9 hours, perfect for travelers wanting a full day of activity.
- Group size: Up to 38 travelers, striking a balance between social and personal space.
- Booking: Most travelers book about 16 days in advance, indicating its popularity.
- Weather: The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to bad weather, a full refund or alternative date is available.
- Children: Kids aged 1-3 can join free, making it suitable for family outings.
- What to bring: Swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone protector for underwater photos.
This Phi Phi Khai Islands Snorkeling Tour is ideal for travelers who want to see the best of Phuket’s surrounding islands without fuss. It offers a great mix of sightseeing, underwater adventures, and cultural sights—all wrapped up in a well-organized day. The guides’ care and the impressive scenery stand out as key positives, especially for those new to snorkeling or island tours.
If you value good value, a comprehensive itinerary, and reliable service, this tour is a dependable choice. However, if you prefer smaller groups or more secluded experiences, you might consider a private option. Still, for most visitors, the combination of convenience, scenery, and underwater fun makes this tour a memorable highlight of any Phuket trip.
Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off? Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from hotels in Patong, Kata, Karon, and Phuket Town areas, making it easy to join without extra hassle.
What’s the cost of the tour? The tour costs about $74 per person, which includes most activities, lunch, and park entrance fees—offering good value for a full-day adventure.
Is snorkeling equipment provided? Yes, snorkeling gear is supplied, so you can enjoy exploring underwater without needing to bring your own.
Are children allowed to join? Yes, children aged 1-3 can join for free, making this suitable for families.
How long is the tour? Expect a day of approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.
Can I cancel the tour? Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the scheduled start. Refunds are full if canceled in time.
What happens if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
What are the main highlights? Expect to see Maya Bay, Loh Samah Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, and enjoy snorkeling at Phi Phi Leh and Khai Nai Island.
Is the group size large? The maximum group size is 38 travelers, which helps create a lively but manageable atmosphere.
In short, this tour offers an excellent way to explore Phuket’s famous islands with ease, comfort, and plenty of underwater fun. With knowledgeable guides, a well-planned itinerary, and a good value, it’s a strong choice for anyone wanting a full-day island escape.
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