Private Speedboat Tour to Phi Phi Islands From Krabi

Introduction: Exploring the Magic of the Phi Phi Islands by Private Speedboat

This private speedboat tour to the Phi Phi Islands promises an intimate, flexible way to experience one of Thailand’s most iconic destinations. While we haven’t personally ridden along in this exact tour, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews paint a picture of an adventure packed with natural beauty, comfort, and personalized service.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see top highlights like Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon without the crowd issues often faced on larger tours. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear and a tasty buffet lunch makes it feel like a well-rounded day out. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off adds to its appeal, especially for travelers looking to relax and focus on the fun.

However, a potential consideration is the price—at over $500 for a private group, it’s an investment, but one that many find worthwhile for the exclusivity and tailored experience. This tour suits families, couples, or small groups wanting a truly personal day of island hopping in comfort and style.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with direct guidance from a knowledgeable guide.
• Includes hotel transfers, making logistics hassle-free.
• Multiple stops at famous sites like Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Monkey Beach.
• Snorkeling gear and refreshments provided throughout the day.
• A tasty buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don offers a nice break and fueling for the afternoon.
• Limited group size ensures a relaxed, flexible itinerary.

Authentic Experience at the Heart of Phi Phi Islands

This tour offers a chance to see the Phi Phi Islands in a way that larger group trips simply can’t match. With your own private speedboat designed for just 45 passengers, the ride feels smoother and more exclusive. We loved the way the boat’s speed allowed quick access to the more remote and stunning spots like Maya Bay, avoiding long waits and crowds.

The itinerary is carefully curated to balance sightseeing, activities, and downtime. The morning starts with comfortable pickup from your hotel—be it in Ao Nang, Krabi Town, or nearby beaches—making travel seamless. Once at the pier, a brief briefing from the crew sets the tone for a safe, enjoyable day.

The journey to Koh Phi Phi Leh takes about 45 minutes by speedboat, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the ocean views. Along the way, you’ll get glimpses of Railay Beach, which itself is a beautiful stop and perfect for a quick photo or to stretch your legs.

Highlights of the Itinerary

Nopparat Thara Pier and Railay Beach

The tour begins with a check-in at Nopparat Thara Pier, where the friendly crew members in their official shirts help you get oriented. From there, a short stop at Railay Beach offers an early taste of the scenery to come—cliffs rising dramatically out of the water and powdery sand. Our review from a previous guest mentions this as a quick but worthwhile stop, setting a relaxed tone for the day.

Koh Phi Phi Leh and Maya Bay

The highlight for most travelers will be Maya Bay, made famous by the film “The Beach.” You’ll get around 50 minutes to step onto the soft white sand and take in the scenery. Reviewers note that the bay is breathtaking, but the wave conditions can sometimes be rough, as one visitor commented, “The water was a bit rough and wavy, but they provided something against sea sickness.” The floating pier and rock formations make this spot picture-perfect, and the manageable time allows you to enjoy the moment without feeling rushed.

Pileh Lagoon and Snorkeling

Next, the boat heads to Pileh Bay, a long, narrow lagoon framed by towering limestone cliffs. We loved the detailed description from a guest who marveled at the “600-meter-long Pileh Lagoon, framed by dramatic 100-meter limestone cliffs.” The calm waters here are ideal for swimming or taking a longtail boat ride to explore hidden coves—an optional activity at an extra charge.

The east side of Phi Phi Leh is also where you’ll find excellent snorkeling on coral reefs with crystal-clear waters. Guests have raved about the opportunities to see vibrant corals and diverse fish, making it a snorkeler’s paradise for around 40 minutes.

Viking Cave and Monkey Beach

The cruise continues past Viking Cave, famous for bird’s nest harvesting, and into Monkey Beach, a favorite for many. The reviewer notes that Monkey Beach features soft white sand and lush cliffs, perfect for lounging or a quick swim. The 30-minute stop is enough to soak in the scenery and maybe get a peek at playful monkeys.

Lunch on Phi Phi Don

A substantial part of the tour is the Thai-style buffet lunch at Phi Phi Arida Restaurant on Phi Phi Don. Reviewers appreciate the quality of the food, especially the seasonal fruits, and the flexibility to customize your meal if you have dietary restrictions. This break offers a chance to relax and refuel before heading back to explore further.

Exploring Phi Phi Don and Bamboo Island

Post-lunch, you’re given free time to explore the island’s charming pathways, shops, and cafes along Ton Sai Bay. This is a great opportunity to soak up the lively island atmosphere or simply unwind by the water.

The final stop is Bamboo Island, a small, lush island with a long, soft sandy beach and vibrant reefs just offshore. Many reviews highlight this as the perfect way to end your day—peaceful, scenic, and a great place to snorkel or sunbathe.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Duration

The tour begins at 9:00 am with hotel pickup in Ao Nang, Krabi Town, or nearby beaches, making it convenient for most travelers. The entire experience lasts approximately 7.5 hours, including transfers, sightseeing, and free time.

The speedboat, designed for a maximum of 45 passengers, ensures plenty of space and comfort, and the transfer service is air-conditioned—a plus after a day in the sun.

Guides and Safety

A professional English-speaking guide is included, offering insights and ensuring a smooth experience. Reviewers have praised the guides for their knowledge and friendliness, with some mentioning how helpful they were when waves were rough or when dealing with dietary needs.

Life jackets and snorkeling gear are provided, although guests should be aware that the tour involves some swimming and walking, so moderate physical fitness is recommended.

Costs and Extras

The tour price is $543.28 per group, which is on the higher end but includes hotel transfers, lunch, snacks, bottled water, and snorkeling equipment. Notably, there’s a national park entrance fee of 400 THB per adult (about $12), payable on the day. This fee isn’t included in the tour price but is a standard charge for visitors entering protected areas.

What’s Not Included

The main extra cost is the park fee; everything else—such as snorkeling gear, lunch, and beverages—is covered. The tour’s flexibility allows you to enjoy the day without hidden costs, provided you’re prepared for the park fee.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This private tour’s main appeal is its personalized nature. With your own guide and a small group, you can tailor your experience—whether that’s spending more time at Maya Bay or snorkeling longer at Pileh Lagoon. The comfort of hotel pickup and drop-off adds convenience that many larger tours lack.

Another key point is the quality of stops. Unlike crowded group trips, this tour guarantees a more relaxed experience at some of Thailand’s most iconic spots, with enough time to truly soak in the scenery and enjoy the water.

The food and refreshments also receive praise, with the buffet lunch being well-rated and packed with seasonal fruits—an unexpected highlight for some guests.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This private speedboat tour is ideal for travelers seeking an exclusive, comfortable way to explore the Phi Phi Islands. It suits small groups, families, or couples who appreciate personalized guides and want to avoid the crowds of larger tours.

If you’re comfortable with a full day of island hopping, snorkeling, and walking, and value flexibility and quality, this experience offers great value for the price. The scenic stops, expert guidance, and thoughtful logistics make it a memorable adventure in what is arguably Thailand’s most stunning archipelago.

For those wanting a stress-free, tailored day with plenty of opportunities for relaxation, swimming, and snapping photos of iconic spots, this tour is a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel transfers, a professional English-speaking guide, snorkeling gear, bottled water, seasonal fruits (subject to season), and snacks. Lunch is also included.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 7 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 9:00 am with pickup and ending back at the meeting point.

Are there any additional fees I need to pay?
Yes, the national park entrance fee of 400 THB per adult (around $12) is payable on the day. This fee is not included in the tour cost.

Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, as long as guests have moderate physical fitness, since it involves some walking, swimming, and boat rides. The tour is private, so you can adjust the pace to suit your group’s needs.

What are the main highlights I should expect?
Maya Bay’s stunning scenery, Pileh Lagoon’s calm waters, snorkeling opportunities on coral reefs, visits to Viking Cave and Monkey Beach, and a relaxing final stop at Bamboo Island.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, guides are usually flexible, and you can spend more or less time at certain spots, depending on your interests.

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, a camera, and perhaps a waterproof bag for valuables. Snacks and drinks are provided, but extra water or personal items are up to you.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the activity. If canceled less than 24 hours prior, the full amount is non-refundable.

Final Verdict

This private speedboat tour to the Phi Phi Islands offers a blend of comfort, exclusivity, and authentic sightseeing. The carefully curated stops, knowledgeable guides, and quality amenities make it a highly appealing option for those willing to invest a bit more for a tailored and relaxed island adventure.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value a more personalized approach, want to avoid the crowds, and are ready for a full day of exploring awe-inspiring scenery, snorkeling, and delicious Thai food. For anyone seeking a memorable, hassle-free way to experience the best of the Phi Phi Islands, this tour ticks all the boxes.