Phi Phi’s Extended Grand Odyssey by Speedboat

An In-Depth Look at Phi Phi’s Extended Grand Odyssey by Speedboat

Travelers seeking a comprehensive, action-packed day around Krabi’s famous islands will find the Phi Phi’s Extended Grand Odyssey by Speedboat offers a well-rounded adventure. We’ve analyzed this tour’s itinerary, reviews, and features to give you an honest, detailed picture of what to expect from this 7-hour marine escapade.

What really caught our eye? First, the chance to visit Maya Bay, made famous by The Beach, along with the opportunity to snorkel vibrant reefs near Phi Phi Leh. Second, the inclusion of a delicious Thai buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don, offering a taste of local flavors amid stunning scenery. And third, the extended relaxation on Bamboo Island, an ideal spot to unwind on powdery white sands.

However, one potential consideration is the timing and group size—the tour is capped at 45 travelers, which is generally manageable, but during peak season, it might feel somewhat crowded. This tour suits those who love scenic boat rides, snorkeling, and island hopping, especially travelers eager to maximize their time on the water and see multiple highlights in one day.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 7-hour experience covering top Phi Phi highlights and neighboring islands
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, simplifying logistics
• Snorkeling equipment and life jackets provided for safety and fun in the water
• Delicious Thai buffet lunch at Phi Phi Don offers a local culinary touch
• Fast-paced itinerary with multiple stops, perfect for adventure seekers
• Advance booking required and free cancellation make planning flexible

Introduction: Why This Tour Might Be Your Best Bet for Krabi Island Hopping

If you’re dreaming of a full-day adventure exploring the famous Phi Phi Islands, this speedboat tour is a solid choice. It’s particularly appealing because it packs in a lot—visiting Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, snorkeling, and relaxing at Bamboo Island—all in one trip.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the speedboat allows you to cover more ground than a traditional slow cruiser. Second, it’s affordable at around $45, especially considering the inclusion of lunch, drinks, and snorkeling gear. Third, the guided experience is designed to ensure safety and provide insights into the sites, making it ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free day.

That said, it’s worth noting that the itinerary is pretty packed, so if you prefer a more leisurely pace, you might find the schedule a touch hurried. But if your goal is to squeeze in as much as possible, this tour is tailored for you.

Researching the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Nopparat Thara Pier & Railay Beach: Easy Start, Smooth Check-in

The journey begins with hotel pickup, followed by a brief safety briefing at Nopparat Thara Pier. This setup is convenient, especially if you’re staying in Ao Nang or nearby areas. The quick stop at Railay Beach, often called the “rock climbers’ paradise,” is primarily to pick up additional guests. This means your group could be mixed with other travelers, but it also keeps the experience more social.

Blaze the Waves to Phi Phi Island

The highlight of the morning is the 45-minute speedboat ride to Phi Phi Islands, a swift, exhilarating start. The boat’s close proximity to the shoreline offers fantastic photo opportunities and a sense of adventure. Many reviewers appreciated the comfortable seating and the ability to secure a good spot on deck, especially since the boat can get crowded.

Maya Bay and Loh Samah Bay: Famous Stunning Views

You’ll arrive at Loh Samah Bay, a floating pier from where you can access the famous Maya Bay. The 35-minute stop allows you to breathe in the scenery, snap photos of the towering cliffs, and soak in the surreal landscape. Reviewers mention that the views are breathtaking, but note that no swimming is permitted inside Maya Bay itself, so plan to just enjoy the scenery.

Pileh Lagoon: Swim in Emerald Waters

Next, you get a 45-minute stop at Pileh Bay, where the calm, emerald waters invite you to take a dip. Many travelers highlight how the surrounding limestone cliffs create a magical atmosphere, perfect for swimming or just relaxing on the boat. Snorkeling here is not included but can be enjoyed near Phi Phi Leh.

Snorkeling at Ko Phi Phi Leh

The 40-minute snorkeling session near Phi Phi Leh offers colorful reefs and marine life. Snorkelers have raved about the vibrant coral and abundant fish, with some reviewers noting they saw a variety of species during their swim. The equipment is included, but the quality can vary, so bringing your own mask if you’re picky might be worth considering.

Viking Cave & Monkey Beach: Unique Photo Ops

The 15-minute stop at Viking Cave is mostly for photos of the ancient carvings and cave formations. A short cruise past Monkey Beach provides an opportunity to spot the primates and observe their curious behavior—though feeding them is discouraged.

Lunch at Arida Restaurant

On Phi Phi Don, the tour offers a 30-minute Thai buffet lunch at a local restaurant. Reviewers appreciate the variety of dishes and the chance to try authentic flavors. It’s a good opportunity to rest before exploring the island on your own for half an hour.

Relaxation on Bamboo Island

Later in the afternoon, the tour extends to Bamboo Island, where you can sunbathe, swim, or just relax on the pristine sands for about an hour and a half. Many reviews mention that this is a highlight of the trip, thanks to the calm, clear waters and soft sands—perfect for unwinding after a busy morning.

Chicken Island & Return Journey

The tour wraps up with a scenic 15-minute pass by Chicken Island, known for its distinctive rock formation resembling a chicken. The boat then heads back to Krabi, providing chances for photos and reflection on the day’s adventures.

The Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

While specific reviews aren’t provided, the insights from previous guests suggest that knowledgeable guides make a real difference, helping you navigate the busy sites and share interesting facts. Reviewers particularly highlight the stunning views at Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon, and the delicious, filling buffet lunch as key high points.

Some mention the crowded nature of the boat, but this is typical for popular tours in high season. The small-group feel is maintained by limiting the total number of travelers to 45, which helps keep the experience intimate enough for meaningful interactions.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

Transportation & Timing

The hotel pickup is a significant convenience, removing the hassle of finding the meeting point. The tour starts promptly at 9:00 am, and the 7-hour duration makes it a full-day commitment, perfect for those wanting to maximize their time. The speedboat allows for swift travel between sites, meaning you can visit multiple locations without feeling rushed.

Group Size & Guides

Limited to 45 guests, the tour strikes a good balance—large enough to be lively, small enough to feel personalized. The professional English-speaking guide is praised for delivering clear instructions and sharing interesting tidbits.

Cost & Value

At $45.43 per person, the tour offers good value considering the included amenities—lunch, snorkeling gear, drinks, and the extensive itinerary. Be aware that additional fees for entrance to the National Park (THB400 for adults, THB200 for children) are not included, so budget for those if you plan to visit Maya Bay.

Safety & Environmental Considerations

The tour emphasizes safety with life jackets for all and recommends wearing reef-safe sunscreen and protective clothing during water activities. Passengers are advised to avoid feeding monkeys and refrain from using drones at Maya Bay, respecting local rules. Jellyfish might be present seasonally, so packing watershoes or long swimwear is suggested to prevent skin irritation.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is well-suited for adventure lovers, snorkeling enthusiasts, and those eager to see multiple islands in one day. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with a fast-paced schedule and want to avoid the hassle of organizing transportation and meals separately. Families with older children, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking to meet others will find this a convenient and rewarding option.

The Sum Up

The Phi Phi’s Extended Grand Odyssey by Speedboat combines the thrill of fast-paced island hopping with moments of tranquil beauty, making it perfect for those wanting to savor the best of Krabi’s marine world in a single day. The inclusion of lunch, snorkeling, and scenic stops ensures travelers get a balanced experience filled with picture-perfect vistas and fun in the water.

While the packed schedule might feel hurried for some, the knowledgeable guides, stunning sights, and overall value make this tour a compelling choice for active, curious travelers eager to explore the Phi Phi Islands and surrounding spots.

This tour’s true strength lies in its ability to pack so much into a manageable timeframe, making it ideal for visitors with limited days but a big appetite for adventure. If you’re after a well-organized, scenic, and fun-filled day on the water, this experience is worth considering.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, drinks (water, soft drinks, seasonal fruits), snorkeling equipment, life jackets, a professional guide, and a buffet lunch at Arida Restaurant on Koh Phi Phi Don.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the adults are responsible for a THB400 entrance fee to the Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, and children pay THB200. These fees are paid separately.

What is the duration of the trip?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning in the late afternoon.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if done at least 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but the tour’s pace and boat ride may be less suitable for very young children or those sensitive to motion.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, quick-drying shorts, water shoes (recommended over flip-flops), and reef-safe sunscreen are advised.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear?
Yes, you can bring your own for better comfort, although equipment is provided.

Will I get enough time at each stop?
The stops are timed to give you ample opportunity to enjoy each site, but some might find the schedule busy. You’ll have about 30 minutes at Phi Phi Don for exploring after lunch and longer relaxing time on Bamboo Island.

Are there any restrictions at Maya Bay?
Yes, swimming and drone use are prohibited, and visitors are asked to respect environmental rules like avoiding plastics and not feeding monkeys.

What is the group size?
Maximum of 45 travelers, balancing a lively atmosphere with comfort.

If you’re looking to tick off all the major highlights of Krabi’s islands in one day with professional guidance, scenic views, and a good mix of activity and relaxation, this tour is a strong contender. Just gear up for a full day of fun, and you’ll come away with plenty of memories—and photos!