If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, towering limestone cliffs, and vibrant marine life, a day trip to the Phi Phi Islands might just be your perfect escape. This particular tour from Krabi, operated by Krabi Vip Tour, offers a small-group adventure—capped at just 12 people—that promises a more personal, relaxed experience compared to larger, busier excursions.
What makes this tour stand out? Three things we really like are its all-inclusive nature—snorkel gear, lunch, and fees are covered—its focus on personalized attention with small group sizes, and the chance to visit iconic spots like Maya Bay and Bamboo Island. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that popular spots like Maya Bay can get crowded, so if you’re after solitude, timing and expectations matter.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day out with plenty of opportunities to relax and snorkel. It’s suited for those who appreciate well-organized trips that balance sightseeing with leisure, and who are happy to share the experience with a small, friendly group.
Key Points
- Small group size ensures more personal interaction and a relaxed atmosphere.
- All-inclusive package simplifies planning—snorkeling gear, lunch, fees, and transport are covered.
- Flexible itinerary with iconic stops like Maya Bay, Bamboo Island, and Pileh Bay offers a well-rounded experience.
- Professional guides enhance the trip with knowledge and friendly service.
- Timing and crowds can vary, particularly at popular spots like Maya Bay.
- Excellent reviews emphasize great value, friendly crew, and beautiful scenery.
The Experience: What You Can Expect
Looking for more options in Krabi? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Starting Early with Hotel Pickup
The day begins early, with pickup around 7:30 am in Ao Nang and a quick transfer to Railay or the meeting point. This early start is ideal for avoiding some crowds and making the most of your day. The small-group nature means you’ll have a more intimate experience from the get-go, and reviews highlight how punctual and well-organized the pickup process is, with many travelers noting they felt well cared for from start to finish.
The Speedboat Ride: A Comfortable and Exciting Journey
Traveling by speedboat is part of the fun, and the boat itself is described as comfortable and capable of handling the waters smoothly. The small size of the group (just 12 people max) makes for less crowded, more flexible trips, and reviewers have noted the crew’s professionalism and friendliness. The ride to the islands is quick enough to keep the excitement high, with a sense of adventure from the start.
Maya Bay: Picture-Perfect but Crowded
No visit to Phi Phi is complete without a stop at Maya Bay, famous from the Leonardo DiCaprio movie. You’ll get about 15 minutes here—just enough time to snap photos of the towering cliffs and clear waters. Reviewers mention that Maya Bay can be crowded, which is understandable given its fame, but the tour crew tries to position the boat to give you the best view. Some travelers, like one reviewer, found Maya Bay a bit disappointing due to its popularity, but the breathtaking scenery still makes it worth the visit.
Bamboo Island: Relaxation and Snorkeling
The next stop is Bamboo Island, where you’ll have approximately an hour to unwind. This is a highlight for many, thanks to its pristine beaches and calm, shallow waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Reviewers have raved about the quality of the snorkeling gear provided, noting how the colorful fish and coral reef beneath the surface make for a memorable underwater experience. The island’s tranquil environment offers a peaceful break from the busier spots.
Pileh Bay: Serenity and Marine Life
After Bamboo Island, the tour heads to Pileh Bay, for about 30 minutes of relaxing and swimming. The secluded cove is praised for its stunning scenery and calmer waters, perfect for unwinding. Reviewers appreciated the crew’s flexibility here, as they allowed extra time for swimming and photos, which made the experience more enjoyable.
Ko Phi Phi Le: An Iconic Stop
The final main stop is Ko Phi Phi Le, where you’ll have around an hour to explore or relax. This island features dramatic cliffs and beaches, with plenty of photo opportunities. The guide provides useful insights about the island, making your visit more meaningful. Reviewers specifically mention how the crew’s knowledge and friendly attitude added value, making the experience feel more tailored.
What’s Included and What to Expect
This tour’s all-inclusive approach makes it a practical choice. For $100.73 per person, you get a comprehensive package: round-trip hotel transfers, snorkeling equipment, a delicious Thai lunch, snacks, water, soft drinks, and national park fees. Many reviewers emphasize the good quality and variety of the food, with one describing the lunch buffet as “lovely” and full of traditional Thai flavors.
The small-group setting provides a more relaxed environment, allowing for personalized attention from guides. The guide’s name isn’t mentioned in the reviews, but multiple reviewers praise the crew’s friendliness and professionalism, which makes a big difference in feeling comfortable and safe, especially on the water.
The Guide and Crew
Multiple reviews mention the guide (named Hat by some) as knowledgeable, friendly, and humorous. They go out of their way to share interesting facts and accommodate guests’ wishes, such as adjusting the schedule if weather conditions change. The crew’s ability to navigate bumpy waters and ensure safety is also highlighted, giving travelers confidence during the boat ride.
Timing and Pacing
The tour begins at 8:00 am, with about 7-8 hours of adventure. The schedule is well-planned, giving ample time at each stop without feeling rushed. Reviewers describe the experience as “well-organized,” with some noting they appreciated how the itinerary balanced sightseeing and downtime.
The Small Group Advantage
One of the most praised aspects is the limited group size—just 12 travelers—making the experience more intimate and less crowded than larger tours. This atmosphere allows for better interaction with guides and fellow travelers, as well as more flexibility to enjoy the scenery at your own pace.
The Value: Is It Worth It?
Given the price point of around $100.73, this tour is considered excellent value. It includes most costs upfront, so you won’t be caught off guard by extra charges unless you want additional transfers or souvenirs. The all-inclusive package, combined with knowledgeable guides and a small-group dynamic, provides a high-quality experience that many reviews describe as “worth every penny.”
You get to visit multiple islands, enjoy snorkeling, beautiful beaches, and a delicious Thai lunch—all in one day. The included national park fees and insurance add to the peace of mind, making this a worry-free option for those wanting a comprehensive island-hopping day.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a personalized, well-organized day out with a small group. It’s perfect if you value snorkeling, stunning scenery, and a comfortable pace. The all-inclusive nature makes it suitable for those who prefer not to worry about logistics or extra costs.
It’s not the best choice if you’re after secluded, less-visited beaches—Maya Bay can be crowded, and popular spots tend to attract many visitors. But if you want a balanced mix of iconic sights, snorkeling, and relaxation, this tour hits the mark.
FAQs
What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 8:00 am, with pickup around 7:30 am in Ao Nang or Railay.
Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s operated with a multi-lingual guide. It’s a good fit for anyone comfortable on a boat and looking for a full day of island exploring.
How long is the tour?
The whole experience lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, providing enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
What’s included in the price?
Snorkel gear, life jackets, lunch, snacks, water, soft drinks, park fees, and round-trip transportation are all covered.
Are the islands crowded?
Maya Bay is popular and can be crowded, as noted by reviewers, but the tour tries to give the best views and time at each spot. Bamboo Island tends to be quieter and more peaceful.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment and life jackets are included, allowing you to explore the underwater world easily.
Are meals included?
Yes, a traditional Thai lunch plus snacks, water, and soft drinks are part of the package.
Final Thoughts
This Phi Phi Islands tour from Krabi provides a comprehensive, well-organized experience that balances sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxation. The small group setting ensures personal attention, and the all-inclusive price makes planning straightforward. With stunning scenery, friendly guides, and good value, it’s a smart choice for anyone wanting a hassle-free day in paradise.
While the crowds at Maya Bay are unavoidable, the tour’s flexible schedule and focus on quality experiences help make it worthwhile. If you’re eager to see the iconic Phi Phi Islands without feeling rushed or lost in a crowd, this tour offers a fun, memorable day out that aligns well with travelers seeking value and authentic adventure.
In summary, whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning enthusiast, this tour provides a delightful taste of Phi Phi’s natural beauty, guided by friendly experts who prioritize your comfort and enjoyment. It’s perfect for those who want a balanced, memorable day with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, relax, and soak in the scenery—all without breaking the bank.
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