Small Groups of 20 people – Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands with Lunch

If you’re visiting Phuket and craving a day of island hopping, snorkeling, and scenic views, this small-group tour to the Phi Phi and Bamboo Islands might just be your best bet. With a maximum of 20 travelers, it promises a more intimate experience compared to larger, crowded cruises.

What really stands out are the knowledgeable guides who make the trip engaging, the breathtaking vistas around Maya Bay and Pileh Bay, and the delicious buffet lunch with water views. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear and beach towels makes packing a breeze.

Of course, no trip is perfect—if you’re sensitive to sea motion or prefer extensive land-based activities, this may not be the ideal choice. But overall, this tour fits travelers seeking a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic island scenery. It’s especially suited for those who value small groups, expert guides, and a well-paced itinerary.

Key Points

• Small group size offers a more personal and less crowded experience.
• All-inclusive amenities like snorkeling gear, lunch, and water ensure comfort and convenience.
• Breathtaking spots such as Maya Bay, Pileh Bay, and Monkey Bay make for unforgettable photo opportunities.
• Knowledgeable guides like Goodie and Sunny add a friendly, informative touch to the journey.
• Good value for money considering the variety of stops, activities, and included meals.
• Possible seasickness or weather issues are factors to keep in mind, especially in monsoon season or if you’re sensitive to boat movement.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Off at Royal Phuket Marina

Your day begins with a convenient hotel pickup (if selected), whisking you to the Royal Phuket Marina where you’ll get a quick safety briefing and light refreshments. This initial 15-minute stop sets a relaxed tone and prepares you for the adventure ahead. The marina’s modern facilities and organized check-in process ensure a smooth start, something many reviewers appreciated, especially those who dislike the chaos of larger tours.

Bamboo Island: Your First Taste of Paradise

The first stop is Bamboo Island, a sprawling, largely barren island that’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun. The tour allocates around an hour here—just enough time to explore the crystal-clear waters, explore the vibrant marine life with the provided snorkeling gear, and lounge on the fine white sand. Reviewers like Willy_T mention that the lunch at Bamboo Island was “decent” and that the location offers “plenty of time to explore.”

Pro tip: Pack your sun protection and stay hydrated. The island’s simplicity means no shops or shade, so prepare accordingly. The shallow, warm waters make snorkeling especially easy, which many guests found to be the highlight. As Naji_Z notes, the snorkelling was “the best” part of the trip, with abundant colorful fish and coral.

Monkey Bay: A Sight, Not a Stop

Next is Monkey Bay, a quick 10-minute stop to view the mischievous macaques from the safety of your speedboat. Although no land access is permitted—due to safety concerns—viewing these playful primates in their natural habitat is a charming experience. Reviewers like Andrew_S appreciate this stop, describing it as “fun to see” the monkeys swim and jump around. It offers a whimsical break without the risk of interacting directly.

Lunch with a View at Phi Phi Holiday Resort

After some sightseeing, the tour heads to the Phi Phi Holiday Resort for a buffet lunch with water views. The menu includes Thai as well as international dishes, with vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, and gluten-free options available upon request. Guests consistently report that the food is tasty, and the setting is relaxing—many say it’s a “fabulous” way to unwind and refuel.

Seated with a backdrop of the ocean, you can enjoy fresh fruits, coffee, or tea while taking in stunning vistas. This meal is a major highlight for many, with Heather_C describing it as “great” and Willy_T noting the “decent” lunch in a beautiful setting.

Pileh Bay: A Photo-Stop in Nature’s Art Gallery

Post-lunch, the boat glides into Pileh Bay, renowned for its emerald waters and towering limestone cliffs. This 30-minute stop is a favorite among travelers, offering perfect photo opportunities. Reviewers like Karen_S mention how they loved the “swimming and snorkeling” here, describing the water as “so clear you can see the fish from the boat.”

Viking Cave and Maya Bay: Iconic Sights

Viking Cave is a brief 10-minute stop, mainly for sightseeing and learning about the island’s importance for swallow birds and bird’s nest soup. Maya Bay, made famous by the Leonardo DiCaprio movie “The Beach,” is around an hour of awe-inspiring scenery with its bright blue waters and pristine white sand. Visitors often find themselves captivated by the view, with many noting that it’s even more stunning in person.

Some reviews, like Megan_M’s, highlight that the timing at Maya Bay allows for just enough exploration without feeling rushed. Be prepared for crowds, but the small-group setting helps you enjoy the view comfortably.

Snorkeling, Swimming, and Optional Photos

Throughout the day, snorkeling gear is available for free, and many reviews highlight the abundance of colorful fish, especially around the coral reefs. Goodie and Sunny, the guides, are praised for their helpfulness and friendliness, often taking photos with guests’ phones to capture memories. Those who upgraded to photo packages say those images turn out fantastic, often highlighting underwater shots and candid moments.

Ending the Day

The tour wraps up with a smooth return to Phuket’s marina, where you’re dropped off at your hotel or designated location. Many reviewers like David_K appreciate the well-organized schedule, even if the boat ride can be bumpy, especially in unpredictable weather.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Intimate Small-Group Experience

With a cap of only 20 travelers, this tour offers a much more personal vibe than large group cruises. This smaller size allows guides like P. and Sunny to give more attention to each guest, answer questions, and create a friendly atmosphere. This aspect is repeatedly praised, as it makes the entire day more relaxed and enjoyable.

Expert Guides and Friendly Crew

Guests consistently mention guides like Goodie, Sunny, and Alan for their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness. One reviewer called Goodie “amazing,” noting how he kept their solo traveler company and took lots of photos, which added a special touch.

Delicious, Well-Prepared Food

The included buffet lunch at the Phi Phi Holiday Resort is a big plus. Many mention the quality and variety of the food, which caters to different dietary needs. The water views during lunch only add to the appeal, making it feel like a true escape.

Snorkeling and Water Activities

Snorkeling gear, new mouthpieces, and the chance to see vibrant marine life make this tour especially appealing for water lovers. The clear waters around Bamboo Island and Maya Bay, often described as “the best” by reviewers, are the real stars of the day.

Flexibility and Good Value

Considering the price of around $99 per person, the tour packs a lot into nearly 10 hours. Stops at iconic locations, a buffet lunch, snorkeling, and the small-group format all contribute to the perceived value. On top of that, the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off adds convenience.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

• Weather Sensitivity: The tour is subject to weather conditions, and poor weather can lead to cancellations or a less enjoyable experience. Monsoon season in August was mentioned by one guest, but even then, they still had a fantastic time.
• Sea Motion: The speedboat ride can be bumpy, which might cause discomfort for those prone to seasickness.
• Crowd at Popular Spots: Maya Bay and other iconic stops can get busy, especially during peak season. However, the small-group approach helps mitigate this somewhat.
• Limited Land Access: Monkey Bay has no on-land interaction, which might disappoint travelers wanting to get closer to the monkeys.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who value small-group intimacy and personalized service. If you prefer guided experiences with friendly, knowledgeable guides, this tour shines. It’s also perfect for water enthusiasts eager to snorkel coral reefs and see marine life in a beautiful setting.

If you’re looking for a balanced day of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing with delicious food, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for those who want to avoid the crowds of larger tours, as the small group size genuinely enhances the experience.

However, if you’re a solo traveler worried about seasickness or require extensive land-based activities, you might want to consider other options. It’s also worth noting that weather can impact the day, so flexibility is key.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are offered, making the start and end of your day hassle-free.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9.5 hours, from start to finish, including travel time and all stops.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 20 travelers ensures a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.

Are snorkeling masks and fins provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear, including masks, fins, and brand new mouthpieces, are included free of charge.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, the buffet lunch offers vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, gluten-free, and other options upon request.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Stops at Bamboo Island, Monkey Bay, Pileh Bay, Viking Cave, Maya Bay, and a buffet lunch with ocean views.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
Most travelers can participate, but children should be comfortable on boat rides and swimming in open water.

What is the weather cancellation policy?
The tour is subject to favorable weather; cancellations due to poor weather will be offered a different date or full refund.

Are there any additional costs?
National park fees of 400 THB per adult and 200 THB per child are payable on-site. Alcoholic drinks are purchased separately.

What makes this tour a good value?
Considering the included activities, meals, snorkeling gear, and small-group experience, it offers a lot for the price.

This small-group tour to the Phi Phi and Bamboo Islands offers an engaging, well-rounded day exploring some of Thailand’s most picturesque spots. With friendly guides, snorkeling adventures, stunning views, and a delicious buffet lunch, it balances adventure with comfort.

Perfect for travelers who want an authentic, less crowded experience and are willing to be flexible with weather conditions, this tour provides excellent value for its price. The intimate setting, combined with the chance to see iconic sites like Maya Bay and Pileh Bay, makes it a memorable way to enjoy Phuket’s marine splendors.

Whether you’re new to the area or a seasoned island hopper, this trip delivers the beauty and fun you’re looking for—just remember to pack your sunblock and a sense of adventure.