Phuket: Wow Andaman Snorkeling Trip to Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands

Planning a trip to Thailand and looking for a way to see the iconic Phi Phi Islands without the hassle of planning every detail? This Wow Andaman snorkeling tour from Phuket offers a thoughtfully curated day filled with breathtaking scenery, lively marine life, and plenty of opportunities to relax. From snorkeling in clear waters to lounging on pristine beaches, this tour promises a guaranteed WOW effect—and based on the glowing reviews, it mostly delivers.

What we love about this tour is the seamless organization that allows you to focus on enjoying your day, the variety of stops that showcase the islands’ best features, and the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the experience more enriching. The delicious buffet lunch on Koh Phi Phi Don and the chance to snorkel at multiple spots are definite highlights.

However, a consideration worth noting is that the tour covers quite a bit in one day, which might feel rushed for some. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or a deeper dive into fewer locations, this could be a drawback. That said, it’s a fantastic option for travelers wanting a comprehensive day of adventure and scenery.

This trip suits those who enjoy snorkeling, scenic island views, and a well-organized itinerary. It’s ideal for travelers who want the highlights of Phi Phi Islands with the convenience of hotel pickups and professional guides—perfect if you’re short on time but want a full experience.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with hotel transfers, meals, snacks, and equipment
• Variety of stops including Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, and Bamboo Island
• Snorkeling equipment and safety gear provided, with opportunities for relaxing on beaches
• Expert guides offer helpful insights and ensure safety throughout
• Fast boat transportation means quick, exciting transfers between islands
• Value for money considering the full day of activities, meals, and entrance fees

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Hotel Pickup and Transfer to Phuket Boat Lagoon

The day begins with a hotel pickup, which we find incredibly convenient—no need to navigate or book separate transfers. You’ll be driven to Phuket Boat Lagoon, a central meeting point that sets the tone for the seamless experience ahead. Expect to arrive roughly an hour before the boat departs, allowing for a smooth start. The early morning transition balances well with the full day planned ahead.

Welcome at Phuket Boat Lagoon and Snorkeling Gear Preparation

Once at the marina, you’ll be greeted by the friendly Wow Andaman team. Here, you’ll enjoy light snacks, coffee, or tea while selecting your snorkeling gear. The guides are attentive and clear, offering safety instructions that make even first-time snorkelers comfortable. Travelers consistently praise the guides’ helpfulness—one reviewer specifically mentions how they assisted her in overcoming water confidence during snorkeling.

Cruising to Koh Phi Phi Lee

The boat ride from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi Lee takes around 40 minutes, with the speedboats allowing you to cover distance quickly while enjoying the breeze and sea views. This part of the trip is often described as exciting, with many noting the powerful engines and the fun of traveling on a fast boat. The ride itself is a highlight for many, giving a quick taste of adventure.

Exploring Loh Da Lum Bay

Your first stop, Loh Da Lum Bay, is where the real beauty begins. With white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, it’s prime for swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging. Reviewers often mention how this bay’s inviting waters make it easy to dip in and start exploring marine life immediately. The calm waters and vibrant coral reefs are ideal for novice snorkelers as well as seasoned swimmers.

Monkey Beach and Camel Rock

Next up is Monkey Beach, where you might see the famous monkeys roaming freely—though not always directly on the way, you can observe them when the tide is low. Guides advise against feeding the animals to keep the environment safe and natural. The nearby Camel Rock is a fun photo spot, with its distinctive shape adding a dash of whimsy to your island exploration.

Lunch on Koh Phi Phi Don

A highlight for many is the Thai-style buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don. It’s a well-organized affair, with plenty of options to satisfy different tastes. Reviewers love the quality and variety, noting it as a tasty break amid the day’s activities. Plus, the laid-back setting allows for socializing and soaking up the island vibe.

Visiting Maya Bay

Post-lunch, the tour visits Maya Bay, widely recognized as Thailand’s most famous beach due to “The Beach” movie. Although the bay is often crowded, visitors appreciate the opportunity to take photos in this iconic location. The tour’s ethic also emphasizes respecting the environment—not swimming in Maya Bay during certain months when it’s closed, and following guidelines like reef-safe sunscreen use.

Exploring Pileh Lagoon and Viking Cave

The next stops highlight the striking limestone cliffs and turquoise waters of Pileh Lagoon, a favorite for snorkelers and photographers alike. The lagoon’s serenity and vivid colors make it feel like a hidden gem. Nearby, Viking Cave offers a chance to see ancient wall paintings and learn about local bird’s nest harvesting. Snorkeling here is often described as rich with marine life, including schools of colorful fish and occasionally baby reef sharks, as one reviewer happily notes.

Bamboo Island: Relaxation and Snorkeling Finale

The last major stop is Bamboo Island, a small flat island perfect for unwinding. With white sands and shallow waters, it’s an ideal spot for snorkeling or simply soaking up the sun. Reviewers often mention the quality of snorkeling here, with many seeing abundant marine life and enjoying the calm, shallow waters. The 1 hour 15 minutes allocated gives enough time to relax before heading back.

Return Journey and Reflection

The boat ride back to Phuket offers a chance to reflect on a day packed with stunning scenery, new experiences, and plenty of fun. Many reviews mention the professionalism of the guides, the delicious lunch, and the overall value of the day trip. The trip ends back at the original meeting point, with plenty of time to plan your evening or rest after an active day.

What Travelers Are Saying

Feedback consistently praises the knowledgeable guides—names like Chris, Chang, Tommy, Ellie, Jack, and John stand out for their helpfulness and friendly attitude. Reviewers also highlight the quality of the snorkeling gear and the well-organized schedule, which keeps the day flowing smoothly.

The food receives high marks too; the buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don is described as both tasty and plentiful, with many appreciating the mix of local flavors. The boat rides are described as exciting yet safe, with some travelers noting how the proximity to shorelines makes transitions to beaches effortless.

A few reviewers pointed out that during certain seasons, jellyfish may be present, so protective clothing like watershoes or long swimsuits are recommended—an easy precaution to take for peace of mind.

The Value Proposition

At around $112.91 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package that includes transfers, meals, snorkeling gear, entrance fees, and expert guides. For a full 7.5-hour day, it’s a solid price considering the amount of ground covered and the quality of experiences provided. Many travelers feel it’s a worthwhile investment, especially given the convenience of hotel pickup and the variety of stops, from lively bays to iconic beaches.

Of course, the fast boat transfers mean less time traveling and more time enjoying the sights. The inclusion of a Thai buffet lunch and snacks throughout the day adds to the experience’s completeness. It’s clear that the tour aims for a balance between adventure, relaxation, and safety, making it accessible even for first-time snorkelers or those traveling with family.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a full day of island exploration without the hassle of planning. It’s perfect if you’re eager to see multiple locations, snorkel in different spots, and enjoy a variety of scenic and cultural highlights. Families, first-time visitors, or anyone craving a well-organized yet fun-filled day will find this trip a reliable choice.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace or fewer stops, it might feel a bit rushed, but most reviews suggest the guides do a great job of balancing sightseeing with free time. It’s also great for those who value guidance and safety, especially given the importance of reef-safe sunscreen and waterproof gear.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, snorkeling equipment, life jackets, beach towels, water, soft drinks, coffee, tea, fresh fruits, light snacks, and a buffet lunch at Koh Phi Phi Don. It also covers entrance fees for the national park and basic accident insurance.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi Lee takes about 40 minutes, with subsequent stops varying in duration. The return trip from Bamboo Island back to Phuket is part of the 7.5-hour itinerary.

Can I snorkel at all stops?
Yes, snorkeling is available at most stops, including Loh Da Lum Bay, Viking Cave, and Bamboo Island. Snorkeling gear is provided, and guides are available to assist, especially for beginners.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers found it suitable even for kids, with some mentioning that their children described it as the best day of their lives. However, children should be comfortable with boat rides and snorkeling, and the guides advise against feeding monkeys.

What should I bring?
Bring waterproof sunscreen, water shoes or flip-flops, a hat, sunglasses, and waterproof camera if desired. Shorts and quick-drying swimwear are recommended for ease of movement in and out of the water.

What happens if Maya Bay is closed?
The tour includes Maya Bay, but note that it is sometimes closed during August and September for environmental reasons. In such cases, the itinerary is adjusted, and other scenic spots are prioritized.

Final Thoughts

This Wow Andaman snorkeling trip from Phuket offers a thoughtfully paced, well-equipped way to see the highlights of the Phi Phi Islands and Bamboo Island. Great guides, delicious food, and stunning scenery combine to create a memorable day, particularly for those eager to snorkel, relax, and take iconic island photos without the stress of organizing every detail.

While it’s a busy day, the balance of adventure and downtime makes it suitable for most travelers seeking authentic, scenic experiences. If you’re after a full, fun-filled day with professional support and beautiful surroundings, this tour could very well be the highlight of your trip to Thailand.

Summary

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned island hopper, this tour offers excellent value, blending scenic beauty, marine encounters, and local flavors into one package. The knowledgeable guides, safe snorkeling, and breathtaking views ensure you’ll leave with plenty of memories—and probably a few Instagram-worthy shots, too. Just remember to bring your sun protection and water shoes, and prepare for a day packed with the best that Phuket’s nearby islands have to offer.