If you’re heading to Phuket and dreaming of those iconic turquoise waters and cinematic beaches, the Premium Phi Phi Islands tour by Explera DMC offers a compelling way to tick off some must-see spots in just one day. This group speedboat adventure packs a lot into roughly 6 to 8 hours, making it a convenient option for travelers with limited time, yet eager to experience the stunning scenery and vibrant marine life of Thailand’s most famous archipelago.

What we love about this tour are the inclusion of hotel pickup, the variety of iconic stops like Maya Bay and Monkey Beach, and the buffet lunch featuring Thai cuisine. The fact that snorkeling gear and park fees are covered adds real value for budget-conscious travelers. However, one possible downside is that some reviewers felt the route and timing could be inconsistent, and the “premium” experience might not feel very different from standard tours.

This trip is best suited for travelers who want to see several key sites without the hassle of organizing multiple activities themselves. It’s perfect if you’re after a well-rounded day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and beach relaxation, especially if you prefer guided tours that handle the logistics. Now, let’s break down what you can expect along the way.

All-Inclusive Convenience: Hotel pickup, transfers, snorkeling gear, lunch, and park fees included.
Multiple Iconic Stops: Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, and Khai Nok Island.
Group Size & Atmosphere: Small groups of 20-35 people that foster a lively, social vibe.
Pricing & Value: Around $88 per person, offering a comprehensive day out with many key sites covered.
Potential Drawbacks: Route and timing can vary; some reviews mention less time at specific locations and limited swimming opportunities.
Authentic Experiences: Snorkeling, beach visits, and local Thai buffet make this an experiential trip.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Itinerary

From Phuket to the Islands: Convenient Pickup and Check-In

The adventure kicks off early, with hotel pickups starting around 7:30 am. The minibus ride from your Phuket accommodation to the pier is smooth, and on arrival, you’ll meet your guide and check in, receiving a colorful bracelet that signals your group. Expect a friendly welcome with tea, coffee, and snacks—small gestures that make the start of your day more welcoming.

Tip: Confirm your pickup times and location beforehand to avoid missing out on your seat or delays.

Looking for more options in Southern Thailand and Andaman Coast? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Maya Bay: The Star of the Show (If Open)

Arriving at Maya Bay is undoubtedly a highlight, especially since it’s the beach made famous by Leonardo DiCaprio in The Beach. You’ll enjoy about an hour here to snap photos and take in the view. That said, as of 2023, Maya Bay is closed for landings from August 1 to October 1, so check the current schedule before booking.

Review Insight: Some travelers felt the tour didn’t always respect the route, with monkey beach being skipped or rushed (“Poor quality and route not respected” from Carmine_P). Still, most get a good view of this iconic bay, even from the boat.

Pileh Lagoon: A Serene Swimming Spot

Next, you’ll head to Pileh Lagoon, a calm emerald basin surrounded by towering cliffs. It’s the perfect spot for a swim or simply relaxing on deck, soaking up the spectacular scenery. You can rent a long-tail boat here if you want a closer look or extra time to explore the waters.

Review Insight: Many visitors loved the opportunity to swim in peaceful waters, noting it as a highlight (“swimming in calm emerald waters”). The lagoon’s natural beauty truly stands out.

Viking Cave & Monkey Beach: Short but Iconic Stops

The Viking Cave offers a quick, scenic stop where you can glimpse ancient cave paintings and learn about the local bird’s nest harvesting. Then, a brief stop at Monkey Beach allows you to observe the playful primates—though only about 10 minutes are allocated here, so don’t expect a full wildlife encounter.

Review Insight: Some travelers, like Carmine_P, felt the timing was tight or that they didn’t get enough time at Monkey Beach. It’s a quick snapshot, not a lengthy wildlife tour.

Lunch on Phi Phi Don

Midday, you’ll arrive on Phi Phi Don, the larger inhabited island. The buffet Thai lunch served here is often praised for its tasty, plentiful dishes—an important aspect of the tour, especially for those who appreciate good food after a morning of sightseeing.

Review Insight: Travelers appreciated the inclusion of a buffet lunch with a variety of Thai dishes, making the experience more satisfying.

There's plenty more to explore in Southern Thailand and Andaman Coast

Snorkeling and Relaxation at Ko Phi Phi Lee & Khai Nok Island

Post-lunch, you’ll snorkel near Phi Phi Don, observing a variety of fish species in clear waters. The snorkeling equipment provided—fins, masks, and new mouthpieces—allow you to explore the vibrant underwater world comfortably.

Later, depending on your chosen tour option, you’ll visit Khai Nok Island, renowned for its white sandy beaches and calm waters ideal for lounging or snorkeling. This optional stop adds a relaxing end to the day.

Review Insight: The snorkeling was a highlight for many, with some noting the quality of the marine life. The chance to unwind on Khai Nok Island is often appreciated, though some feel the time could be better allocated.

Return Journey

As the day winds down, you’ll be transferred back by minibus to your Phuket hotel. The timing is generally smooth, with most guests arriving between 3:30 pm and 5:00 pm, depending on the group size and weather conditions.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

The tour is designed for small groups of 20-35 people, which balances a lively atmosphere with enough space to enjoy the scenery. The use of a minibus for hotel pickups and drops ensures your journey to and from the pier is hassle-free.

Duration and Pacing

Covering multiple stops in roughly 6-8 hours means your day is packed, but not rushed. Expect some sections—like Monkey Beach or Viking Cave—to be brief, mainly to maximize time at the key locations like Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon.

Cost and Included Features

At about $88.48 per person, this tour offers good value, considering it includes hotel transfers, entrance fees, snorkeling gear, a Thai buffet lunch, and snacks. The inclusion of park fees (400 THB per adult, 200 THB per child) also prevents unexpected expenses.

Food and Snorkeling Equipment

The buffet lunch is often highlighted as a positive aspect, with tasty, authentic Thai dishes served in a relaxed setting. The snorkeling gear provided is brand new, which adds comfort and hygiene to your underwater adventure.

Potential Disappointments

Some reviews mention inconsistency—routes not always followed as planned or limited time at certain stops. The tour’s “premium” label doesn’t seem to translate into a noticeably different experience from standard tours, especially considering the shared nature of the boat and buffet setup.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided day exploring the Phi Phi islands without the stress of planning individual activities. It suits those who appreciate a balanced mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxing on a beach. If you’re after a cost-effective way to see multiple iconic sites in one day, this could be a great match.

However, if you’re seeking a more personalized or slower-paced experience, or if you prefer to spend more time at specific spots like Maya Bay (when open), you might consider other options.

Final Thoughts

The Premium Phi Phi Islands tour by Explera DMC offers a solid, well-organized way to see some of Thailand’s most famous island scenery. Its inclusive pricing and variety of stops make it an attractive choice for those wanting to cover a lot in a single day. The highlight for many remains the snorkeling and the stunning views at Pileh Lagoon, complemented by a tasty Thai buffet.

While some reviews raise valid points about route flexibility and the “premium” label, the experience remains largely positive for travelers who value convenience, good value, and the chance to tick off key sights. If you’re looking for a full-day adventure with friendly guides and all the essentials included, this tour makes a strong case.

Who Should Book This?

Budget-conscious travelers seeking an all-in-one island experience
Families or groups wanting a guided, hassle-free day
First-time visitors eager to see the best of Phi Phi in one go
Snorkelers keen to explore coral reefs and marine life

Who Might Skip It?

Travelers wanting more personalized or flexible schedules
Those looking for a luxury or private experience
Visitors planning to spend more time on specific islands

In the end, this tour provides a practical, engaging way to enjoy Thailand’s most photogenic islands—just keep your expectations aligned with the reviews, and remember that some surprises are part of the adventure.

FAQ: Your Questions About the Phi Phi Islands Tour Answered

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for all accommodations in Phuket, making your day hassle-free.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, starting around 7:30 am and returning in the late afternoon.

Are park fees included?
Yes, the 400 THB per adult and 200 THB per child park fees are included in the tour price.

Can I snorkel at the stops?
Absolutely. Snorkeling gear is provided, and you can snorkel at key locations like Pileh Lagoon, near Phi Phi Don, and Khai Nok Island.

Is food provided?
Yes, a buffet lunch featuring Thai dishes is included, along with snacks and bottled water aboard the boat.

What if Maya Bay is closed during my trip?
The tour operator will adjust the route accordingly, focusing on other stops like Pileh Lagoon and Monkey Beach.

How big are the groups?
Groups typically consist of 20 to 35 people, fostering a lively but manageable atmosphere.

To sum it up, if you’re eager to see the highlights of the Phi Phi Islands without fuss and enjoy a mix of snorkeling, sightseeing, and good food, this tour offers a balanced, value-packed option. Just keep in mind that some elements might vary day to day, so flexibility and a sense of adventure will serve you well.

Premium Phi Phi Islands tour by Explera DMC