Phuket: Phi Phi, Maya and Maiton by Luxury Catamaran Trip

Planning a day at sea around Phuket often promises gorgeous scenery and fun activities, but a luxury catamaran trip elevates that experience entirely. This tour, rated 4.2 out of 5 based on 248 reviews, offers a well-balanced mix of comfort, adventure, and authentic island beauty. We’re here to tell you what makes it a standout choice—and what to consider before booking.

What we love about this trip: First, the luxury setting with open decks and plush seating makes relaxing a priority. Second, the curated stops—like Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon—are truly spectacular. Third, the variety of water activities such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, and even a sea slide keeps things lively. That said, one thing to keep in mind is the timing—the tour runs about 8 hours and depends on weather conditions, so be prepared for a full day out.

This experience suits travelers who crave comfort combined with adventure, prioritize scenic views, and love capturing memories professionally. If you want a day that mixes leisure, action, and picture-perfect moments, this trip could be just right.

Key Points

• Luxury and Comfort: Spacious decks, open-air seating, and a well-organized crew enhance the experience.
• Iconic Destinations: Visit Maya Bay, Phi Phi Leh, and Maiton Island with ample time for exploration.
• Activities Galore: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, water slides, and water scooters are included to keep the fun flowing.
• Professional Photos: A dedicated onboard photographer captures your best moments, with five free edited images.
• Authentic Experiences: Ride traditional Thai longtail boats into lagoons and explore hidden gems.
• All-Inclusive Feeling: Full gear for snorkeling, a Thai buffet lunch, and water toys make the day feel effortless.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at the Chalking Pier in Phuket, with no included hotel transfer. Guests are asked to arrive by 9:30 AM, so planning your morning accordingly is key. The pickup option is available but involves an early start—between 8:00 and 9:00 AM—so do consider how that fits into your schedule. The drop-off is only at the Phuket Deep Sea Port’s security gate, about a five-minute walk from the boat, which is a minor but worth noting detail.

The Journey to the Islands

The full-day adventure kicks off with roughly 1.5 hours of van transfer—a good chance to get a quick overview of Phuket’s outskirts and plan for any last-minute essentials. Once aboard the luxury catamaran, which generally seats fewer guests for a more intimate experience, you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic sea views. The vessel’s open decks, sofa-style seating, and prime photo spots are designed for comfort and picture-taking.

Exploring Iconic Destinations

The itinerary is thoughtfully crafted to balance sightseeing with relaxation. The first stop is Pileh Lagoon, famous for its emerald waters and dramatic cliffs. Unlike many tours, this trip includes a traditional Thai longtail boat ride into the lagoon, which reviewers say is a highlight—“slow, graceful, and unforgettable,” as one guest put it. This offers a unique perspective and a chance to enjoy the tranquil waters away from crowds.

Next, you’ll visit Maya Bay, made legendary by The Beach. While the bay is often crowded, the tour’s timing allows for a manageable visit, and the crew’s support ensures everyone gets a good look, snaps a few photos, and enjoys a walk along the sand. One reviewer mentioned that starting earlier might help avoid the crowds, but overall, the experience is still worth it.

Following Maya Bay, the group heads to Phi Phi Don for swimming and snorkeling. The full snorkeling gear provided makes exploring the underwater world easy for both beginners and experienced swimmers. Expect crystal-clear waters and lively marine life, with some reviewers describing the water as “beautiful” and “crystal clear.”

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Maiton Island – Hidden Paradise

The last main stop is Maiton Island, a peaceful retreat perfect for relaxing, snorkeling, or simply basking in the sun. Here, you’ll find kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and even a water slide—fun extras that elevate the day beyond a standard boat ride. Reviewers rave about the variety of water toys, with one noting, “The inflatable slide and sea scooter were such fun—I felt like a kid again.”

Water Toys and Unique Features

The tour offers transparent kayaks, paddleboards, and water scooters, arranged based on sea conditions. Guests have reported how the water slide and floating pool added a layer of playful excitement, making the trip memorable for families and adventure-seekers alike. The sea scooter, in particular, is appreciated for being effortless and accessible, even for those who aren’t confident swimmers.

Dining and Refreshments

A Thai buffet lunch is included, featuring a variety of flavors that satisfy most tastes. Reviewers mention that the food is delicious and plentiful, providing enough energy to enjoy the activities. The crew is attentive and keeps snacks and drinks coming, which adds to the relaxed vibe.

Professional Photos and Documentation

One of the most appreciated features is the professional onboard photography. The crew’s photographer captures candid moments and scenic shots, with five free edited photos sent to each guest. Many reviews highlight how these images turn out beautifully, making for lasting memories without the hassle of taking photos yourself.

Crew and Service Quality

Guests consistently praise the friendly, attentive crew—not only for smooth organization but also for their helpfulness, especially for non-swimmers or those unfamiliar with water sports. A reviewer from India mentioned the staff as “excellent support,” emphasizing how well they looked after everyone.

Practicalities and Tips

• Clothing: Wear swimwear with a change of clothes and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera.
• Luggage: Larger luggage (>20 inches) incurs a fee and should be organized accordingly.
• Timing: The tour is full-on and lasts roughly 8 hours, suitable for those who enjoy a busy but relaxed day.
• Weather Considerations: As with any sea trip, weather can impact the experience—be flexible and prepared for possible schedule adjustments.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers who value luxury and comfort but still crave adventure. It’s perfect if you’re seeking stunning scenery, a variety of water activities, and professional photos to remember your trip by. Families, couples, and small groups will find the experience well-organized and enjoyable, especially those who appreciate quality service and thoughtful touches.

However, if you’re pregnant, over 70, or have health concerns like high blood pressure, this tour might not be suitable due to the physical and water activity components. Also, those wanting a very early start to beat crowds might find the schedule a touch late for Maya Bay.

Final Thoughts

This Phuket luxury catamaran trip provides a well-rounded blend of scenic beauty, engaging activities, and comfort. You’ll experience the iconic islands and lagoons, all while enjoying the perks of a smaller, more curated vessel—making your day feel special without the hefty price tag of private charters.

The inclusion of professional photos, varied water toys, and a delicious Thai buffet make it a value-packed option for those wanting to maximize their island time. The knowledgeable crew, praised for their support and friendliness, ensures everyone feels looked after.

If you’re after a smooth, fun, picture-perfect day with enough flexibility to enjoy the scenery and activities, this trip checks all the boxes.

FAQ

Does the tour include hotel transfers? No, this tour does not include hotel transfers. Guests should meet at the Chalkling Pier before 9:30 AM.

What should I bring? You’ll need sunglasses, swimwear, a change of clothes, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the moments.

Are water activities included? Yes, snorkeling, paddleboarding, water slides, and water scooters are part of the experience, subject to sea conditions.

Is lunch provided? Yes, a Thai buffet lunch is included, with vegetarian options available if notified in advance.

What is the duration of the tour? The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, beginning with a van transfer and continuing on the catamaran.

Will I get good photos? Absolutely, a professional onboard photographer captures your best moments, with five free edited photos included.

Are there any age or health restrictions? This tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those over 70, or individuals with high blood pressure or certain health concerns.

Can I request specific yacht services? No, yacht assignments are random, but all vessels maintain a high standard of service.

What happens if Maya Bay is closed? During the Maya Bay closure from August 1 to September 30, 2025, extra time will be allocated to other locations, so your trip will still be fulfilling.

This well-designed day trip offers an excellent balance of luxury, adventure, and authentic island exploration. Whether you want stunning scenery, fun water toys, or memorable photos, this tour aims to deliver. For travelers seeking a reliable, enjoyable way to see Phuket’s most famous sights in comfort, it’s a solid choice that will leave you with plenty of great memories—and some fantastic photos to prove it.

You can check availability for your dates here: