Our review of the Phi Phi: Luxury Private Longtail Boat to Maya Bay with Lunch highlights a serene and personalized way to explore the stunning islands of Koh Phi Phi. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of an experience that balances comfort, adventure, and exclusivity.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to cruise on a luxury longtail boat with cozy pillows and a private captain offers unmatched relaxation. Second, the carefully curated stops like Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon promise some of the most iconic views and snorkeling opportunities in Thailand. Lastly, the inclusion of a delicious Thai lunch served directly on the boat elevates the experience from a simple tour to a floating feast.

However, one thing to consider is the basic English skills of the Thai captain, which might limit deeper explanations or interactions. This tour is best suited for travelers wanting a private, flexible itinerary with a focus on stunning scenery and comfort, especially those who enjoy a more relaxed, intimate adventure rather than large group excursions.

Key Points

Private and Personalized: Your own longtail boat with a Thai captain ensures intimacy and flexibility.
Iconic Locations: Highlights include Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Viking Cave—perfect for photos and snorkeling.
Comfort and Convenience: The boat is equipped with pillows, a speaker, paddleboard, and a delicious lunch.
Early Access Advantage: Visiting Maya Bay early helps beat the crowds, a common concern in busy seasons.
Authentic Thai Cuisine: The included lunch features fresh fruits and a set meal, offering great value.
Flexible Scheduling: The 4-hour tour can be adjusted for weather or sea conditions, with options to reschedule or cancel.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

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The Departure Point and Meeting Logistics

The tour starts at The Coffee Club on Koh Phi Phi, which is central and easy to find. The instructions are straightforward—be there about 10 minutes before departure, under the sign next to McDonald’s. The easy meeting spot makes it accessible even for those arriving by local transport or on foot.

The Journey Begins: Cruising in Style

Once onboard, you immediately notice the luxurious setup. The boat is decorated tastefully, with plush pillows that are perfect for lounging during the cruise, turning what could be a basic boat ride into a relaxing floating lounge. The inclusion of a speaker allows for some background music, setting a laid-back tone.

Maya Bay: The Star Attraction

The main draw of this tour is the hour spent at Maya Bay, the beach made famous by “The Beach” movie starring Leonardo DiCaprio. Reviews consistently mention that arriving early is a game-changer—“we beat the crowds and had the beach almost to ourselves,” as one traveler noted.

This quiet time allows for great photos without the usual throng of travelers. While swimming isn’t permitted, the lack of crowds makes it easy to soak in the surreal beauty of the white sands and towering cliffs. Some reviewers have even spotted baby sharks, which adds a bit of thrill to the visit.

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Pileh Lagoon: Snorkeling and Swimming

Next, you’ll cruise to Pileh Lagoon, a highlight for underwater lovers. The turquoise waters are ideal for snorkeling, with colorful fish and coral just waiting to be explored. The calm conditions here are perfect, and the reviews point out that the underwater scenery is “an underwater paradise.”

The option to put on your snorkel gear gives you an up-close look at this vibrant marine life, a favorite for many. Plus, the boat’s paddleboard lets you stay active if you prefer to stay above water.

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Monkey Bay and Viking Cave: Unique Encounters

A stop at Monkey Bay offers a chance to observe crab-eating macaques from a safe distance, adding an element of wildlife viewing. The reviews mention that sightings are highly likely, although not guaranteed.

Next, a quick photo stop at Viking Cave provides an excellent opportunity to capture the dramatic cliffs and mysterious cave formations—perfect for Instagram snaps.

Lo Sama Bay and Additional Islands

Depending on weather conditions and timing, the tour may include visits to Lo Sama Bay or other islands, giving you a well-rounded glimpse of the Phi Phi archipelago’s diverse scenery.

Lunch on the Water: Thai Flavors with a View

One of the standout features of this tour is the lunch served onboard. The meal includes fresh fruit, a set menu, and possibly other Thai specialties, making it a memorable part of the day. Reviewers have raved about the “delicious, fresh, and beautifully presented” food, which adds great value considering the private setting.

Final Moments and Return

As the tour winds down, you’ll enjoy the sunset-like views on the boat ride back. Many reviews mention how relaxing and uncrowded the experience felt, with some travelers comparing it favorably to larger, more rushed tours.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the price might seem premium at first glance, the private group setting, personalized itinerary, and included meals make it a worthwhile splurge. You get to avoid the chaos of larger tour boats, which often cram in dozens of travelers, and instead enjoy a more intimate experience.

The knowledgeable guides, like Adam and others mentioned in reviews, go out of their way to ensure safety and comfort, even assisting with getting in and out of the boat, which is appreciated by families and less mobile travelers.

The Experience’s Flexibility

Weather can be unpredictable in Thailand, and this tour offers the option to reschedule or get a full refund if conditions are unsafe. This flexibility ensures peace of mind, especially during rainy seasons or rough seas.

The Authentic Touch

The addition of a local Thai captain adds authenticity, helping travelers connect with the culture while exploring the islands from a traditional vessel. Although English is limited, the focus on a relaxed experience compensates for any language gaps.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying the Tour

Bring essentials: Sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and cash for extras.
Arrive early: To secure the best spots at Maya Bay and avoid crowds.
Prepare for basic English communication: The captain’s English skills are limited, so plan accordingly.
Consider weather conditions: Rain can happen unexpectedly, but safety is prioritized.
Book the morning tour: As many reviews suggest, this is when conditions are usually calmer and crowds smaller.
Plan your transport: You’ll need to arrange your own trip to Koh Phi Phi, and an overnight stay might be necessary given limited transfer options.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a more private and relaxed way to see Koh Phi Phi’s most famous spots. It suits honeymooners, couples, or small groups who value comfort and personalized service. Those interested in snorkeling, wildlife sightings, and taking stunning photos will find it especially rewarding.

It’s also ideal if you want to avoid the large crowds typical of island tours—many reviewers appreciated beating the rush by arriving early.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 3, and those with mobility issues or prone to seasickness should consider their comfort level.

Does the tour include food?
Yes, it features a delicious lunch and fresh fruit served onboard, which reviewers praise for its quality and presentation.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and cash. Don’t forget to pack your camera!

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Absolutely. The tour includes snorkeling at Pileh Lagoon, known for its colorful fish and coral.

What if the weather turns stormy?
The tour can be rescheduled or refunded if weather or sea conditions are unsafe. Safe conditions are the priority.

Do I need to arrange transportation to Koh Phi Phi?
Yes, travelers are responsible for their own transport. An overnight stay is often necessary due to limited transfer options.

Final Thoughts

The Phi Phi: Luxury Private Longtail Boat to Maya Bay with Lunch offers a sophisticated way to experience Koh Phi Phi’s highlights away from the crowds. The combination of a private boat, expert local guides, and a well-planned itinerary provides both comfort and adventure.

It’s best suited for those who value privacy, enjoy snorkeling and wildlife watching, and want a flexible, authentic experience that emphasizes quality over quantity. If you’re looking for a memorable day on the water with good food and spectacular views, this tour delivers on all counts.

For travelers craving a tailored, relaxed escape with the chance to capture stunning photos and enjoy nature at their own pace, this experience hits the perfect sweet spot.