Phi Phi One Day Tour by Speed Boat (from Ao Nang, Krabi)

Planning a day trip to the Phi Phi Islands from Ao Nang? You’re in good company; this popular tour attracts many travelers eager to see these iconic islands in a single day. With an average booking window of just over two weeks in advance, it’s clear that this adventure is a favorite among those craving a quick yet immersive escape to Thailand’s famous archipelago.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the comfort and speed of the boat—getting you to the islands quickly and smoothly. Second, the thoughtfully planned itinerary that balances sightseeing, snorkeling, and downtime. Third, the friendly, knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with local insights and fun facts.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour’s success depends heavily on weather conditions, especially for snorkeling and island visits. Those with limited mobility or who dislike long boat rides might also want to consider how the schedule suits their pace.

This tour suits travelers who love a blend of adventure, stunning scenery, and social vibes. If you’re looking for a well-organized day with plenty of photo ops, marine life, and a touch of Thai hospitality, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Fast and efficient transportation on a speedboat ensures more time on the islands.
• Authentic guides like Nadia are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Diverse stops include beaches, caves, and snorkeling spots, appealing to varied interests.
• All-inclusive lunch options cater to different dietary needs, including vegetarian meals.
• Flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind.
• Cost-effective at around $52 per person, considering the many stops and activities.

The Overall Experience: What You Can Expect

This Phi Phi Islands tour offers a 7-8 hour window to explore some of Thailand’s most beautiful spots. From the moment you’re picked up from your hotel in Ao Nang until you’re dropped back, the experience focuses on maximizing sightseeings, snorkeling, and relaxing by the sea. It’s a jam-packed day, but the well-structured itinerary and friendly guides help keep it enjoyable.

Transportation and Group Size

Transport is typically via a speedy speedboat, which means you’ll cover a lot of ground quickly. The tours are capped at about 35 travelers, maintaining a comfortable group size that’s intimate enough for personal interaction but lively enough for social bonding. The boat ride itself is a highlight—many reviews mention how comfortable and safe it feels, with some guests praising the steady handling and smooth trip even in slightly windy conditions.

Duration & Pacing

At roughly 7 to 8 hours, this tour strikes a good balance—long enough to see multiple locations without feeling rushed. The schedule is tightly packed but flexible enough to allow swimming and snorkeling at each stop. Guests often appreciate the timing, with reviews highlighting how the stops are well-spaced and organized for optimal light and crowd control.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Maya Bay

Our journey begins with a visit to Maya Bay, the star of the tour—famous due to its feature in “The Beach” movie. Expect a stunning scene of white sand flanked by towering limestone cliffs. The bay’s water is so clear that it’s tempting just to float and soak in the views. Although swimming is free, admission isn’t included, which is typical for national park sites.

The reviews mention that visitors love the visual impact of Maya Bay, with one guest describing it as “the most beautiful beach in the world.” However, since the Thai government has temporarily closed Maya Bay (from August 2022 until September 2022, for environmental reasons), it’s important to check if it’s open during your visit.

Viking Cave

Next, you’ll stop at Viking Cave, a quick photo opportunity rather than an extended visit. This limestone cave is inhabited by nesting birds, which produce saliva used to harvest bird’s nests for the famous bird’s nest soup. According to reviews, the crew will bring the boat right in front of Viking Cave for a few minutes, giving plenty of chances for photos.

Guests find this a fun, brief stop that adds a touch of local culture and wildlife to the day. Remember, access inside the cave isn’t part of the tour—just a picture-worthy moment.

Pileh Bay

One of the trip’s highlights—Pileh Bay—is a stunning lagoon surrounded by limestone cliffs. With water turning a mesmerizing greenish-blue, it’s the perfect spot for swimming and snapping photos. The boat anchors here for about 45-60 minutes, giving you ample time to relax in this tranquil environment or snorkel among the marine life.

Guests frequently comment on how peaceful and picturesque this spot is, a true highlight of the day. Some reviews mention that the timing at Pileh Bay is well thought out, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Loh Samah Bay & Maya Bay Entrance

Loh Samah Bay is technically the entry point to Maya Bay, and the tour often includes a brief stop here for swimming and admiring the clear waters filled with schools of fish. This area is known for its calm and inviting waters—perfect for a quick dip or photo session.

Due to environmental restrictions, Maya Bay itself has been closed during parts of 2022, but the tour still includes this area when open. Guests appreciate the opportunity to see the famous bay from a distance, even if they can’t access the beach.

Snorkeling at Phi Phi Leh and Phi Phi Don

The snorkeling stops are among the most praised features. The crew will take you to spots around both Phi Phi Leh and Phi Phi Don for roughly 45-60 minutes each. Reviewers love the vibrant marine life—some mention swimming among colorful fish and even spotting baby sharks.

Weather can affect the exact location, but the guides are flexible, choosing the best spots available on the day. Many guests describe snorkeling as “like swimming in an aquarium,” truly highlighting the richness of the underwater world.

Monkey Beach

A fun, if slightly wild, stop at Monkey Beach allows you to see monkeys hanging around naturally. The tour offers around 45-60 minutes here. Guests caution to keep a respectful distance from the animals—some reviews mention how friendly-looking but still wild the monkeys are.

This stop is especially popular among families and animal lovers. Many say it’s a memorable part of the trip, thanks to the playful monkeys and beautiful surroundings.

Bamboo Island

We finish with a visit to Bamboo Island, famed for its soft white sand and coral reefs. It’s an ideal spot to relax, swim, or snorkel in calm waters. The island’s untouched natural beauty makes it a perfect place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.

Guests often comment on how peaceful and scenic Bamboo Island is, with some calling it the ultimate tropical paradise. The tour provides around 45 minutes here, which is enough to enjoy the scenery and snap some photos.

What’s Included & What’s Not

This tour offers excellent value considering what’s included. The buffet lunch features halal options and vegetarian choices, ensuring dietary needs are met. Use of snorkeling equipment, bottled water, snacks, and fruits are included, making it a hassle-free day.

Additional costs mainly involve the national park entrance fee—400 THB per adult and 200 THB per child—which is paid at check-in. Some reviews highlight the quality of the lunch, with many guests mentioning how surprisingly good the food was, especially the vegetarian options.

The Value for Money

At approximately $52 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxation. Considering the multiple stops, lunch, drinks, and the expertise of guides like Nadia and others praised for their friendliness and knowledge, most guests agree it’s a good deal.

The Guides & Customer Service

Reviewers consistently mention the helpful and engaging guides, particularly Nadia, who received numerous compliments for her energy and professionalism. Guests appreciate guides who are not only knowledgeable about the islands but also attentive to safety and fun.

The boat crew also earns praise for their skill and friendliness. Many reviews note how smoothly the day was organized, with punctual pickups and well-spaced stops, making the experience stress-free.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Sunscreen and hats are essential; the sun can be intense during the day.
• Snorkeling gear is provided, but you may prefer your own mask and fins for comfort.
• Life jackets are available, but reviews suggest they come in large sizes—bring your own if you prefer a better fit.
• Weather can impact snorkeling and island visits; a flexible attitude helps if plans change.
• Bring a waterproof camera—many guests loved capturing their moments, especially with the talented guides taking photos.
• Arrive early for check-in, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
• Respect wildlife—monkeys are friendly but wild, so keep your distance.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Phi Phi Islands tour offers a lively, well-organized way to tick off multiple must-see spots in just one day. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who want to maximize their time and see the best of the archipelago without worrying about logistics. The combination of snorkeling, sightseeing, and relaxing on stunning beaches makes it a versatile option.

If you love lively guides, good-value food, and vibrant marine life, you’ll find plenty to love here. While weather conditions could affect certain activities, the flexibility and professionalism of the crew help ensure a memorable experience.

This tour suits those who enjoy a social atmosphere, appreciate a well-planned schedule, and want to experience the natural beauty of Thailand’s Phi Phi Islands in a single, exciting day.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, and the tour starts at the meeting point in Ao Nang. Check your booking details for specific pickup arrangements.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, snorkeling, and stops.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?
Yes, a vegetarian buffet lunch is included, and it’s praised for being tasty and satisfying.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is about 35 travelers, providing a good balance of social atmosphere and personal space.

Do I need to pay for national park entry?
Yes, the national park fee (400 THB for adults, 200 THB for children) is paid at check-in before departure.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start time for a full refund.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, but you might want your own for comfort. The reviews mention decent gear, though some recommend bringing your own mask and fins if possible.

All in all, this Phi Phi One Day Tour by Speed Boat from Ao Nang offers a fantastic way to explore Thailand’s most iconic islands in one memorable day. It’s a lively, well-organized adventure that appeals to both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers eager to tick off the must-see sights.