Phi Phi: One Day Speed Boat to Maya Bay with Snorkeling

Experience the Majesty of Phi Phi: Speedboat Tour to Maya Bay with Snorkeling

Planning a trip to Thailand’s incredible Phi Phi Islands? We’ve reviewed a popular day-long speedboat excursion that promises a mix of iconic sights, snorkeling adventures, and plenty of time on pristine beaches. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned island hopper, this tour offers a well-rounded day out — but, as always, it’s worth knowing what to expect before you book.

Three features really caught our eye: the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, the opportunity to relax on Maya Bay’s famous sands, and the visit to Viking Cave with its mysterious ancient art. The tour’s stops at Bamboo Island and Monkey Beach add a playful, scenic touch that makes it feel like a true island-hopping adventure. The only caveat? Since it’s a busy, guided experience, some might find the group size of 25-30 people a bit crowded, especially during the most popular stops.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking an active, visually stunning day with plenty of snorkeling and sightseeing. If you love beaches, underwater life, and iconic Thai scenery, this will suit you well. However, those looking for a tranquil, off-the-beaten-path experience may prefer a smaller, more personalized option.

Key Points

Stunning Views: The tour covers some of Thailand’s most famous sights, from Maya Bay’s powdery sands to Viking Cave’s intriguing artwork.
All-in-One Experience: Combines sightseeing, snorkeling, beach relaxation, and island visits in just one day.
Knowledgeable Guides: Live English-speaking guides provide insights, making each stop more meaningful.
Group Size: 25-30 persons, offering a lively atmosphere but possibly a bit crowded during peak hours.
Weather Flexibility: Tours go ahead rain or shine, with safety paramount, so be prepared for potential weather changes.
Value for Money: For around 8 hours of activity, the price offers a good balance of multiple popular stops and snorkeling.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Meeting Point and Departure

The adventure begins in front of McDonald’s in Tonsai Bay at least 20-30 minutes before the scheduled departure (options start as early as 08:30). The location is straightforward to find, making the start smooth. Be sure to arrive on time, as the guides are punctual and eager to get going.

Monkey Beach

Our journey kicks off with a 30-minute visit to Monkey Beach, where playful wild monkeys scamper around lush coastal scenery. This stop is perfect for snapping photos and enjoying a quick encounter with nature. Reviewers highlight the joy of seeing these creatures in their natural setting, but caution to watch your belongings as the monkeys are famously curious.

Viking Cave

Next, we sail to the Viking Cave, an intriguing site adorned with ancient paintings. This stop, also about 30 minutes, combines sightseeing with a chance to learn about local legends and history. The cave’s artwork is a notable feature, and guides often share stories about the mysterious origins of the cave’s art, adding a touch of adventure to the visit.

More Great Tours Nearby

Pileh Lagoon

One of the tour’s standout moments is the snorkeling in Pileh Lagoon, where clear waters and vibrant marine life beckon. With approximately 40 minutes here, you’ll likely swim among colorful fish and coral formations. Many reviewers mention how stunning the water clarity is, making it ideal for photography and underwater exploration.

Loh Samah Bay and Maya Bay

The anchor at Loh Samah Bay offers a chance to walk from the floating pier to the famous Maya Bay. While swimming isn’t permitted here due to conservation efforts, the short walk allows you to enjoy the view and take photos. The beach itself, with its iconic cliffs and white sands, is a highlight. Expect around an hour of free time to relax, soak in the scenery, or snap those classic shots.

Shark Point

Another snorkeling stop is Shark Point, where blacktip reef sharks are common residents. While not dangerous, seeing these sharks glide through the water adds an element of excitement. The 30-minute session here is a favorite among nature lovers and underwater photographers.

Bamboo Island

A full hour on Bamboo Island offers a perfect break from water activities. The island’s powdery white sands and turquoise waters create a postcard-perfect setting. It’s ideal for sunbathing, beachcombing, or just unwinding. Reviewers love the peaceful vibe here, making it a favorite for relaxation.

Nui Bay

The tour wraps up with a visit to Nui Bay, a more secluded spot perfect for snorkeling and enjoying the last moments of the day. If you’re lucky, you might spot more marine life or relax in the calm waters before heading back.

Optional Experiences

Depending on the schedule, there are options like witnessing the sunset over the Andaman Sea or experiencing bioluminescent plankton lighting up the waters at night. These add a magical touch to the day, but availability depends on weather and timing.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses a speedboat, which ensures quick movement between stops and maximizes your time on the water. The typical group size of 25-30 people strikes a balance between social interaction and manageable logistics, though some might find this slightly crowded during peak season. The tour provides a lively atmosphere, perfect for travelers wanting a social, energetic day out.

Duration and Pacing

With a total of 8 hours, the schedule is packed but well-paced, allowing ample time at each stop without rushing. The early start and full itinerary mean you’ll get a lot of sightseeing and snorkeling, but be prepared for a long day with some potentially early mornings.

The Experience and What Travelers Say

From reviews, many appreciate the professional guides who provide interesting commentary and ensure safety, especially while snorkeling. One reviewer noted, “The guides were friendly and made sure everyone felt comfortable in the water, which was great for first-timers.” Others mention the stunning views at Maya Bay and Bamboo Island as the tour’s main highlights.

Some travelers found the group size manageable, though a few mentioned that during busy seasons, it can get crowded. The boat’s timing and itinerary are praised for allowing a good variety of stops while maintaining a relaxed pace. The snorkeling spots earn particular praise for their clarity and marine diversity, with many saying it’s like swimming in an aquarium.

Practical Tips

Be sure to bring sunscreen, a beach hat, sunglasses, and cash for souvenirs or snacks. The tour’s weather can be unpredictable, especially during the monsoon season, so prepare for quick showers — the tour proceeds rain or shine, but safety is prioritized.

Pricing and Value

While the price isn’t explicitly listed here, the tour’s 8-hour duration, multiple stops, snorkeling gear, and guided experience suggest a solid value, especially given the inclusion of iconic sites like Maya Bay and Bamboo Island. Comparing it with other tours, this package seems to offer a comprehensive day out that hits all the major highlights without rushing.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for active travelers who love a full day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and beach lounging. It caters to those wanting to see the famous Maya Bay, explore marine life, and enjoy the natural beauty of Phi Phi Islands. However, it’s not ideal for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or very young children, as the activity involves boat transfers and snorkeling.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat tour packs everything you could want for a memorable day in Phi Phi — stunning scenery, lively snorkeling, and plenty of time to relax on picture-perfect beaches. The mix of popular spots like Maya Bay and Bamboo Island, combined with encounters with wild monkeys and reef sharks, makes it a well-rounded adventure. Though busy, the experience offers excellent value for those eager to tick off the highlights of Thailand’s most famous islands.

For travelers who enjoy a lively, guided day with plenty of photo opportunities and underwater fun, this tour is a fantastic choice. Just remember to pack light, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare for a day full of natural wonder.

FAQ

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour departs from in front of McDonald’s in Tonsai Bay, Koh Phi Phi. Make sure to arrive about 20-30 minutes early to check in.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, including travel, stops, snorkeling, and free time on beaches.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, there are multiple snorkeling stops at Pileh Lagoon, Shark Point, Nui Bay, and other locations, with equipment provided.

Can I swim at Maya Bay?
Swimming isn’t allowed at Maya Bay itself due to conservation efforts, but you can enjoy the views and take photos.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash for extras. Luggage, pets, and alcohol are not permitted on the tour.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or babies under 1 year due to activity nature and boat transfers.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours proceed rain or shine, as long as conditions are deemed safe. If unsafe weather is forecasted, the tour may be canceled with a full refund or rescheduling.

How many people are in each group?
Groups typically consist of 25-30 persons, providing a lively atmosphere but potentially crowded during peak times.

Is there an option to see the sunset or bioluminescent plankton?
Yes, depending on schedule and weather, optional options like sunset viewing and bioluminescent plankton experiences may be available.

Do I need to arrange my own transport to Phi Phi?
Yes, transportation to Koh Phi Phi is not included; you will need to get there via ferry or speedboat from nearby locations like Phuket or Krabi.

Overall, this Phi Phi speedboat tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery. Perfect for those looking to make the most of a single day in Thailand’s most famous islands.

You can check availability for your dates here: