Phi Phi , Khai & Maya : Unforgettable Island Hopping by Speedboat

Planning a trip to Phuket and looking for a way to see some of Thailand’s most beautiful islands? This island-hopping tour offers a chance to explore iconic spots like Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, and Khai Nok Island—all from the comfort of a speedboat. Based on numerous reviews, this tour combines scenery, fun activities, and good value, making it a popular choice among travelers.

It’s not perfect—there are some crowded spots and a few upselling tactics that may catch you off guard—but overall, it’s an experience packed with stunning views and memorable moments. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned beach lover, this tour provides a solid way to tick off some must-see sights around Phuket.

What we really like about this experience: the knowledgeable guides who bring each stop to life, the chance to relax on gorgeous beaches, and the opportunity for snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.

A possible snag: the crowds at certain beaches can be overwhelming, and some reviewers mention additional costs or upselling. So, it’s worth keeping your expectations in check and staying aware of what’s included.

If you’re seeking a full day of adventure, scenic beauty, and tropical fun, this tour is likely a great fit—especially for those willing to embrace the hustle of popular islands and the occasional surprise.

Key Points

• Excellent guides enhance the experience with insightful commentary and local knowledge.
• Stunning scenery and prime photo opportunities are plentiful at Maya Bay, Pileh Bay, and Khai Nok Island.
• Value for money is evident with included meals, snorkeling gear, and insurance.
• Crowded spots may detract from the serenity, especially around Maya Bay and Monkey Beach.
• Optional activities like hiring a longtail boat for photos are available at extra cost.
• Organized logistics and transfers make the day smoother, with pickup from selected locations.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Starting Out From Phuket

Most tours start early, with pickup times between 7:30 and 9:15 am, depending on where you’re staying. Reviewers appreciate the efficient transfer service and the light breakfast offered at the pier, which helps energize you before the adventure begins. Expect to arrive at the pier, register for insurance, and grab snorkel gear—most of which is complimentary.

Speedboat to Maya Bay (or its viewing point)

Departing around 10 am, the trip to Maya Bay usually takes about an hour. You’ll get a panoramic view of this world-famous beach, although due to Maya Bay’s closure from August 1 to September 30, 2025, the tour will only involve sightseeing from the boat during this period.

One reviewer pointed out that, despite being told Maya Bay wouldn’t go inside due to low tides, the boat actually did enter once they arrived, which was a pleasant surprise. This highlights how flexible and unpredictable some tours can be, especially with government restrictions and weather conditions.

Viking Cave and Monkey Beach

Next on the schedule is Viking Cave, a quick 30-minute stop to admire wall paintings dating back centuries—no entrance fee here, just a view from the boat. Then it’s a stop at Monkey Beach, where you might get to see some playful monkeys and have a quick swim. Tide levels greatly impact this visit—if the tide rises, the beach might disappear, and you’ll only see it from the boat. Several reviews note that this makes the visit brief and sometimes underwhelming if the tide doesn’t cooperate.

Pileh Bay and Lagoon

The highlight for many is Pileh Bay—a lagoon with striking turquoise waters perfect for swimming or relaxing on the boat. You’ll spend around 45 minutes here, and optional boat hire is available for a scenic photo tour. Many travelers mention that the water’s clarity at this spot is exceptional, making it ideal for snorkelers.

Phi Phi Don and Lunch

Once you arrive at Phi Phi Don, the biggest island in the chain, you’ll be given about an hour of free time. Some guests choose to snorkel, while others relax on the beach or explore the lively town area. The tour usually offers a Thai and Indian halal lunch at Arida Restaurant, with options for vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free diets—reviewers say the food is plentiful and of good quality.

For those not interested in snorkeling, the crew ensures you are comfortably seated at the restaurant and enjoying your meal. The experience here is relaxed, with plenty of opportunity to soak in the views or stroll along the beach.

Khai Nok Island – Final Stop

The last stop is Khai Nok Island, where the main attraction is swimming among colorful fish or simply unwinding on the sandy beaches. Water activities are available for an extra fee. Reviewers who’ve tried it say the island is a perfect wrap-up for the day—calm waters, clear views, and a laid-back vibe.

Returning to Phuket

The tour usually winds down around 5:30 pm, with transfer back to your hotel if booked. Many reviews praise the smooth logistics, though some mention that the entire day can stretch longer than expected due to traffic or delays.

The Real Deal: What You Need to Know

Transportation

Most tours include roundtrip transfers from popular Phuket areas like Patong, Kata, and Karon, which is a huge plus for convenience. The speedboats are described as safe and well-maintained, with life jackets provided. However, some reviews note that these boats can be crowded, which might impact comfort, especially during peak season.

Group Size and Guides

Group sizes tend to be moderate, with a maximum of around 47 travelers. Guides like Jenny and Dee Dee are frequently praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making the trip more engaging. One reviewer called Dee Dee “super nice and funny,” which can definitely enhance the overall experience.

Cost and Extras

The price is around $51.51 per person, which seems reasonable considering the included meals, snorkeling gear, insurance, and pickup. But be aware that extras—such as hiring longtail boats, water shoes, or additional activities—are charged separately. Several reviews mention feeling pressured to buy these extras or pay additional fees, which can add up quickly.

Crowds and Atmosphere

Expect busy beaches and popular spots. Many travelers appreciate the organization that keeps the crowds manageable, but some found the beaches too crowded for their taste. The tour’s popularity means you’ll need to be comfortable sharing space with lots of other travelers.

Hidden or Additional Costs

Aside from the tour price, there’s a mandatory national park fee of THB 400 (about $12), which is paid at the pier. Some reviews suggest there might be extra charges for activities like longtail boat rides or special equipment—so read the fine print.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

One guide, Jenny, was described as “a wealth of information,” highlighting her storytelling that brought each island’s history and features to life. Many travelers also appreciated the snorkeling equipment, which was complimentary and made their underwater exploration easier.

Food quality was a standout for some—most found the buffet lunch plentiful and tasty, including options for various dietary needs. The inclusion of fruits and light snacks throughout the day added to the value.

The organization of pickups and timing received mixed reviews—some praised the smooth transfers, while others felt the boat was overly crowded or that the itinerary was rushed. One reviewer mentioned that the tour duration extended beyond the stated time due to traffic, so it’s wise to be prepared for a full day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a full day of sightseeing, beach lounging, and snorkeling without the hassle of organizing multiple transport options. It’s perfect if you enjoy lively tours with a lot of social activity and don’t mind crowded beaches.

If you’re after a more private, serene experience or have specific needs (like traveling with children with special needs), you may want to consider alternative options. Still, for those seeking a well-organized, reasonably priced way to see the highlights around Phuket, this tour offers solid value.

The Sum Up

This island-hopping tour around Phi Phi, Khai, and Maya offers a good mix of scenic beauty, fun activities, and tasty meals. The guides are generally well-rated for their knowledge and friendliness, making the long day more enjoyable. The included snorkeling gear, transfers, and meals make it convenient, and the stops at iconic locations like Maya Bay and Pileh Bay are genuinely breathtaking.

However, crowds and additional costs can be a downside, and some surprises—like Maya Bay’s government restrictions—mean the itinerary can vary slightly from expectations. It’s best suited for those who are comfortable sharing space with others and who want a lively, engaging day on the water.

If you’re after a day full of picture-perfect scenery, snorkeling, and island exploration, this tour provides a memorable way to tick all those boxes. Just go in with an open mind, stay aware of extras, and enjoy the natural beauty of Thailand’s most famous islands.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
You get roundtrip transfers (if booked with transfer), a fully equipped speedboat, snorkeling gear, bottled water, fruits, and a Thai and Indian halal lunch.

Are there any additional fees I should expect?
Yes, a mandatory national park fee of THB 400 per person is payable at the pier. Extra activities like longtail boat rides or water shoes are available at additional costs.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, starting early in the morning and returning around 5:30 pm, depending on traffic and conditions.

Is the itinerary flexible?
Yes, especially during Maya Bay’s closure period, where sightseeing is done from the boat. Some stops, like Monkey Beach, depend on tide conditions.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Absolutely. Snorkeling gear is provided free of charge, and the stops at Pileh Bay and Khai Nok Island are perfect for underwater exploration.

What if I don’t want to snorkel?
You can opt for relaxing on the beaches or exploring the island towns. The tour also offers an early lunch at Phi Phi Don for non-snorkelers.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most travelers with children have enjoyed it, especially those comfortable with group activities. However, be mindful of the crowds and the long day involved.

What is the best way to prepare?
Bring a towel, sun protection, and a water-resistant bag for your valuables. Keep an eye on your belongings, as some reviews mention the importance of safeguarding personal items.