Snorkeling Phi Phi Islands Tour From Phi Phi by Longtail Boat

Traveling to Thailand? If you’re eyeing a day packed with vibrant marine life, breathtaking viewpoints, and iconic beaches, the Snorkeling Phi Phi Islands Tour from Phi Phi by Longtail Boat is an experience worth considering. While it’s not perfect for every traveler, this tour offers a good balance of sightseeing, snorkeling, and beach time—all at a very reasonable price.

What we love about this tour is how it combines stunning scenery with practical value. The chance to snorkel at places like Shark Point with leopard sharks, relax on Bamboo Island’s white sands, and glimpse the famous Maya Bay, all in one day, is a real highlight. The inclusion of lunch and fresh fruit snacks makes it even more appealing. That said, some reviews point out the early start and the sometimes crowded conditions, which are worth keeping in mind.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a full day of water-based adventures and don’t mind sharing the boat with up to 20 others. If you’re looking for a relaxed, well-organized day with plenty of snorkeling and sightseeing, this could be a great fit. However, if you prefer a more intimate or less structured experience, you might want to explore other options or consider splitting the day into shorter trips.

Key Points

• Affordable value for a full-day tour covering major Phi Phi highlights
• Snorkeling at Shark Point offers a chance to see leopard sharks and diverse marine life
• Beach time at Bamboo Island provides white sands and relaxed atmosphere
• Includes lunch and fresh fruit snacks for a convenient, all-in-one experience
• Good for travelers seeking a balance of sightseeing and underwater exploration
• Potential crowds and early starts may affect the overall comfort and experience

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

How the Tour Runs

Starting at the Marlin Statue in Ao Nang, you’ll meet your guide and hop into a traditional longtail boat—a staple of local Thai water travel. This small, nimble vessel is perfect for weaving through the islands’ narrow channels and getting close to the coastlines that larger boats can’t reach. Most travelers report the boat ride being scenic, with some noting the excitement of riding in such a classic Thai vessel.

The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, making it a full day of activity. The small group size, capped at 20, helps keep the experience intimate enough to enjoy but large enough to keep costs affordable.

The Itinerary: A Day of Highlights

1. Ko Phi Phi Le – Your first stop sets the tone with stunning views and photo opportunities. This uninhabited island is famous for its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters, offering an excellent introduction to the surrounding scenery.

2. Maya Bay – Yes, the iconic beach made famous by the film The Beach. While most reviews mention a quick visit, the 1.5-hour stop is enough for photos and a brief stroll. Be aware, some travelers express disappointment about the limited access or the crowded atmosphere.

3. Ko Phi Phi Don – The largest island offers multiple scenic spots. Viking Cave and Monkey Bay are notable stops, with the cave hosting swallow nests and the bay being home to playful monkeys. One reviewer noted the cave has swallow nest concessions and that the snorkeling around the area is lively, featuring a variety of fish and coral.

4. Monkey Beach – Here, you might encounter a large group of monkeys. One reviewer expressed concern about feeding the monkeys, citing their aggressive behavior. It’s best to observe from a distance and avoid feeding or petting them.

5. Viking Cave – Not just a picturesque spot, the cave contains swallow nest concessions, an interesting aspect for those interested in local wildlife and trade. Snorkeling in these waters can reveal schools of colorful fish, as some reviews describe.

6. Loh Samah Bay & Loh Da Lum Bay – Crystal-clear waters and rocky formations make these stops perfect for snorkeling. Reviewers appreciated the abundance of fish and coral, with some seeing reef sharks, including a large reef shark at Shark Point, and even baby reef sharks at Bamboo Island.

Snorkeling Highlights

Shark Point is the star attraction for marine life lovers. One reviewer noted spotting leopard sharks resting, while others saw reef sharks and a vibrant array of tropical fish. The clarity of the water, according to many, makes snorkeling a highlight, with the chance to see coral reefs and schools of colorful fish.

Bamboo Island is praised for its white sands and calm waters. Visitors typically spend time lounging on the beach and snorkeling in the shallow, clear water filled with small tropical fish. Multiple reviews mention the abundance of coral and marine life, making it a top snorkeling spot.

Nui Beach and Camel Rock are geological marvels, with tall karsts and limestone formations. Snorkelers can enjoy observing fish swimming around the rocks and explore a landscape that looks like it’s straight out of a postcard.

Beach Time and Relaxation

The tour design allows for built-in beach time—a chance to unwind on Bamboo Island’s pristine sands or in the cove near Nui Beach. Many reviewers appreciated how this break let them relax and enjoy the spectacular scenery away from the busy boat stops.

Food and Refreshments

Lunch is included in the tour—most reviews describe it as vegetable fried rice, fruit, and water. Although some mention it being simple, the convenience of having a meal included adds value, especially after a morning of snorkeling and sightseeing. Reviewers emphasize bringing extra snacks if you’re a picky eater, as the provided meal might not satisfy everyone’s preferences.

Practical Details and Considerations

The price of around $23 per person is considered very competitive, especially when you factor in the lunch, snorkeling gear, and insurance included. The national park fee of 400 THB per adult (around $12) is payable at the entrance, which is a common additional cost in Thailand.

The tour departs from Ao Nang, with the meeting point near the Marlin Statue. It’s straightforward to access via public transportation, and most travelers find the pick-up and drop-off process smooth.

What Could Be Better?

Some reviewers mention the early start—around 8 am—which can be tiring but is necessary to fit all the stops in. Others warn about crowds at Maya Bay, which can diminish the experience, especially during peak times. The lag in start times or waiting periods, sometimes up to 45 minutes, have also been noted, which can cut into your relaxation.

A few guests expressed frustration over additional costs for Maya Bay, as the tour drops you off for about 1.5 hours, but swimming is not allowed in the bay itself, only photos. It’s worth noting that some reviewers recommend splitting the day into shorter trips to avoid fatigue.

Overall Value

Taking into account the price, the variety of stops, and the included amenities, this tour offers excellent value. You get to visit multiple iconic spots, snorkel in vibrant waters, and relax on tropical beaches—all without breaking the bank.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This experience suits travelers seeking a full day of water-based fun with plenty of opportunities to snorkel and relax. It’s ideal if you don’t mind small group tours and early mornings, and if you’re happy to share the boat with others.

If you’re looking for a more exclusive or less crowded experience, or want to avoid extra costs like the park fee, you may want to explore other options or plan a DIY trip. However, for those wanting a balanced, all-inclusive adventure that covers the best of Phi Phi in one go, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This longtail boat snorkeling tour around the Phi Phi Islands provides an affordable yet comprehensive way to experience some of Thailand’s most famous spots. You’ll love the diverse marine life, the scenic beaches, and the knowledgeable guides who help bring each location to life. The inclusion of lunch and snacks makes it convenient, and the small group size aids in creating a friendly, engaging atmosphere.

While it can get crowded at popular stops like Maya Bay, the overall experience remains authentic and fun. It’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time on the water and see as much as possible in one day—without a hefty price tag.

If you’re prepared for a long day, don’t mind sharing the experience, and are eager to snorkel in some of Thailand’s best waters, this tour could be your highlight of the trip.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 4-11 can participate, but it’s best for kids who are comfortable in the water and enjoy boat rides.

What should I bring?
Bring extra snacks if you’re picky, sunscreen, a towel, and waterproof camera. Snorkeling masks and life jackets are provided.

Are there any health restrictions?
Pregnant women and individuals with high blood pressure, heart disease, or bone diseases are advised not to join for safety reasons.

How long is the snorkeling time at each stop?
The tour doesn’t specify exact snorkeling durations, but stops like Shark Point and Bamboo Island offer ample time for swimming and exploring the marine environment.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers transport via traditional Thai longtail boat, snorkeling masks, life jackets, a tour guide, insurance, lunch, and fresh fruit.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, the national park fee of 400 THB per adult must be paid at entrance, and some stops, like Maya Bay, may have additional fees or restrictions.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours prior, and if weather conditions are poor, the tour can be rescheduled or refunded.

Traveling to the Phi Phi Islands on this snorkeling tour promises a day filled with beautiful scenery, lively marine life, and relaxed beach moments—a great choice for those eager to see the highlights without fuss.