Krabi: Phi Phi, Maya Bay, Bamboo Island Speedboat Tour with Lunch

This detailed review explores a popular full-day tour in Krabi that takes you around some of Thailand’s most stunning islands. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the comprehensive itinerary, glowing reviews, and excellent value make it clear that it’s a fantastic way to see the highlights of the region in one go.

What we love about this tour is how it combines iconic sights such as Maya Bay—famous from “The Beach”—with immersive snorkeling, a delicious Thai-style buffet, and the chance to relax on pristine beaches. The scenic speedboat rides are another highlight, offering breathtaking views of limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. Plus, the fact that hotel pickup and drop-off are included makes for a stress-free day.

One thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary can be affected by weather or sea conditions, which might lead to schedule changes. Also, for those who prefer longer lounging times on each stop, the allocated time at spots like Bamboo Island or Maya Bay might feel a bit tight.

This tour suits travelers who love outdoor adventures, stunning scenery, and a mix of sightseeing and snorkeling. It’s particularly great for those wanting a well-rounded day without the hassle of planning each detail.

Good To Know

• Excellent value: At just over $44, including lunch, snorkeling gear, and hotel transfers, it’s a good deal for a full-day adventure.
• Iconic sights: Maya Bay, Phi Phi Leh, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach promise memorable views and photo opportunities.
• Snorkeling opportunities: Free equipment and underwater photos add fun and practicality.
• Comfort and convenience: Pickup and drop-off from most Ao Nang area hotels mean less hassle.
• Flexible options: Vegetarian meals are available; the tour is suitable for most travelers.
• Weather-dependent: The trip’s schedule and some activities might change based on sea conditions, especially during the monsoon season.

Getting to Know the Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting from Ao Nang

The day begins early with hotel pickups, which are included if you stay in Ao Nang, Krabi Town, or nearby beaches like Ao Nam Mao, Klong Muang, or Tubkaek. The pickup is typically arranged for around 9:00 am, with specific times communicated upon booking. This part of the process is smooth, and the convenience of door-to-door transport is a big plus.

Nopparat Thara Pier and Briefings

Once at the pier, you’ll check in at a small kiosk, where the crew will give a quick rundown of the day’s plan. It’s a good chance to ask questions, especially about safety and the snorkeling gear, which is provided at no extra charge. This focused briefing helps set expectations for the day—like the importance of reef-safe sunscreen and respecting marine life regulations.

Speedboat Ride to Phi Phi Islands

The boat ride itself takes around 45 minutes, offering a scenic journey past limestone formations and emerald waters. This part of the trip is notably smooth, with some guests commenting on the cozy size of the boat, which often accommodates around 45 travelers, making it intimate enough for conversations but still lively. The views are stunning, and if you’re lucky, you might spot dolphins or playful sea birds along the way—a bonus some guests have mentioned.

Maya Bay: The Star Attraction

Arriving at Loh Samah Bay, you’ll ascend from a floating pier to a wooden path leading directly to Maya Bay, made legendary by the movie “The Beach.” Here, you’ll get roughly 50 minutes to enjoy the soft white sands and crystal-clear waters. Many reviewers, like Davis_M, appreciated the photo opportunities and the chance to feel the sand between their toes.

It’s worth noting that swimming is generally not permitted in Maya Bay itself to protect the environment, but beach lounging and photos are plentiful. The tour enforces strict regulations—no plastic, no drones without permission, reef-safe sunscreen—helping preserve this fragile beauty.

Pileh Bay and Snorkeling at Phi Phi Leh

Next, the boat navigates to Pileh Bay, where towering limestone cliffs surround a calm lagoon. Guests often mention how spectacular the scenery is, especially when capturing photos of the 600-meter-long lagoon.

At Phi Phi Leh, snorkeling is a major highlight. The eastern coast offers clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Many find the snorkeling to be surprisingly good, with underwater photos included in the package. It’s a fantastic chance to see colorful fish and coral in their natural habitat, with some reviewers praising the free snorkel gear and underwater photos as valuable extras.

Viking Cave and Monkey Beach

The voyage then takes you past Viking Cave, where you can observe nesting swallows and learn about the bird’s nest harvesting tradition. It’s a quick stop, but enough to get a glimpse of the cave’s significance.

Monkey Beach, although not an official stop, promises a chance to see playful monkeys scavenging along the shoreline during low tide. The reviews mention the monkeys being cheerful and energetic, creating memorable moments even if you only catch a glimpse from the boat.

Lunch and Free Exploration at Phi Phi Don

After a busy morning, you’ll enjoy a Thai-style buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don. Vegetarian options are available, and the meal typically receives praise for its flavors and variety. Post-lunch, you’ll get about 30 minutes to explore the town, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax on the beach.

Bamboo Island: The Perfect Finale

The last stop is Bamboo Island, or Koh Pai, a small, lush island with pristine white sands and a reef that extends far from shore. Many travelers mention how this is the perfect spot to unwind or snorkel in calm, clear waters. The bonus of about an hour here gives ample time to relax, swim, or take photos of the idyllic scenery.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The value of this tour lies in its combination of iconic sights, snorkeling opportunities, and included meals—all wrapped into an easy, organized package. At just over $44, the price covers most essentials: transportation, lunch, snorkeling gear, and a professional guide, making it an accessible option for many travelers.

Guests consistently mention the stunning views and the delicious Thai food as major highlights. The tour’s emphasis on environmental regulations ensures you’re seeing these natural wonders with minimal impact, which is increasingly important for eco-conscious travelers.

The experience is well-paced, with enough time at each stop to take photos, relax, or snorkel without feeling rushed. The small group size and friendly guides further enhance the experience, making it easy to ask questions and get personalized attention.

A Few Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, some travelers note that the final stops, especially Bamboo Island, could benefit from slightly longer durations. If you’re a relaxed traveler wanting more time to soak in the scenery, this might be a minor drawback. Also, weather can influence the schedule, particularly in the rainy season, with some activities potentially being altered or shortened.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers looking to see the most famous spots around Phi Phi without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions. It’s perfect if you enjoy scenic boat rides, snorkeling, and a variety of beach environments. Families, couples, and solo travelers all find it accessible, especially given the vegetarian options and inclusive nature of the tour.

It also appeals to those who want to do a bit of everything—sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing—on a well-organized, budget-friendly day. If environmental responsibility and respecting local regulations are important to you, this tour’s rules and guidance reinforce a responsible approach.

Final Thoughts

The Krabi: Phi Phi, Maya Bay, Bamboo Island Speedboat Tour offers a fantastic way to experience Thailand’s famous island scenery in a single day. From the star power of Maya Bay to snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, it packs a lot into roughly 8 hours of fun. The included lunch, hotel transfers, and friendly guides make it a hassle-free option for travelers eager to see the highlights without overextending their schedule.

This tour is especially suited to those who prioritize iconic scenery, immersive experiences, and good value. The scenic boat rides, stunning beaches, and lively snorkeling spots are sure to create lasting memories. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning for a quick glimpse of paradise, this trip hits most of the must-see sights in the Krabi area.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you are staying in Ao Nang, Krabi Town, or nearby beaches, making your day more convenient.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, snorkeling, and meal breaks.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Highlights include Maya Bay, Pileh Bay, Phi Phi Leh snorkeling, Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, Phi Phi Don for lunch and sightseeing, and Bamboo Island.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?
Yes, vegetarian meals are offered, and the buffet features Thai dishes suitable for various dietary restrictions.

How much does the national park fee cost?
The entrance fee to the Marine Park is 400 THB per adult and 200 THB per child and is payable at the point of entry—it’s not included in the tour price.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, free snorkeling gear is included, along with underwater photos, enhancing your underwater experience.

In essence, this tour offers a well-rounded view of Krabi’s most celebrated islands, provided you’re comfortable with a busy, activity-packed day. Its strong points are the stunning scenery, smooth organization, and excellent value, making it a top pick for anyone eager to tick off the Phi Phi Islands from their Thailand bucket list.