Phuket: Phi Phi, Bamboo & Maithon by Premium Speed Catamaran

Traveling to Thailand and dreaming of exploring the famous Phi Phi Islands? This full-day tour from Phuket promises a mix of breathtaking scenery, fun water activities, and iconic sights—all aboard a sleek, comfortable speed catamaran. Whether you’re into lounging on pristine beaches, spotting monkeys in their natural habitat, or snapping photos of limestone cliffs, this trip offers a well-rounded adventure that’s hard to beat.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the luxury speed catamaran provides a smooth, stylish ride that adds a touch of comfort and style to your island-hopping experience. Second, the itinerary covers a variety of must-see spots like Maya Bay and Viking Cave, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and relaxing on beautiful beaches. Third, the professional guides and inclusive meals make the whole day feel well-organized and hassle-free.

A possible consideration? The tour’s popularity means it can get busy, and the schedule is quite packed—so if you’re after a more secluded vibe, this might not be the ideal choice. Also, note that Maya Bay will be closed from August 1 to September 30, 2025, with no landings allowed during that period. This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive, comfortable, and scenic day out—perfect for first-timers or anyone eager to see a wide swath of Phi Phi’s highlights.

Good To Know

• Luxury transportation: A premium speed catamaran ensures a smooth and stylish ride.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Includes Maya Bay, Monkey Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, and Bamboo Island.
• Snorkeling opportunities: Clear waters at Bamboo Island make for great underwater viewing.
• Well-organized: Hotel pickup, guided commentary, and buffet lunch streamline the day.
• Authentic experiences: Close-up views of wildlife, limestone cliffs, and iconic beaches.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for those comfortable with a full day of water activities, but not ideal for pregnant women or mobility-impaired travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: A Deep Dive into the Tour

Easy Starts with Hotel Pickup and Comfort on Board

The day begins with hotel pickup from Phuket, which is included in the tour. Depending on your location, there might be a small surcharge, but most travelers find this convenient compared to arranging transport independently. Once at the pier, you’ll be greeted by a friendly crew and a welcoming atmosphere, with beverages and seasonal fruit served to set the tone for what’s to come.

The speed catamaran itself is a highlight. It’s described as “perfect for the trip,” offering a stable, comfortable ride across the water. The boat’s design allows for excellent stability and space to relax, making it easier for those prone to seasickness to enjoy the journey. We loved the way the vessel’s open deck provided stunning views of the surrounding seascape, with plenty of room to soak up the sun or snap photos of the limestone islands.

First Stop: Loh Sama Bay and Maya Bay

Arriving at Loh Sama Bay, you’ll get the chance to admire the striking limestone formations and the small islet in the center. This spot serves as a scenic introduction before heading to Maya Bay, famous worldwide as the filming location for “The Beach.” Here, the tour allows around 40 minutes for walking on the soft white sand and exploring the bay on your own.

During the busy season, Maya Bay can get crowded, but the experience of seeing this iconic spot firsthand is still memorable. Reviewers mention that the crew makes efforts to keep the experience enjoyable, and some appreciated the opportunity to stroll freely and take photos away from larger groups.

Pileh Lagoon and Viking Cave: Nature’s Masterpieces

Next, the boat cruises to Pileh Lagoon, a tranquil, emerald-encrusted bay surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. It’s a national park, offering a sense of untouched beauty. The calm waters are perfect for relaxing or taking a quick swim, and many find this to be one of the most picturesque parts of the trip.

A brief stop at Viking Cave offers not just a glimpse into its historical significance—collecting swiftlet nests for bird’s nest soup—but also an opportunity to learn from the guides about local industries and conservation efforts. Some reviews highlight that the guides are very knowledgeable, sharing interesting insights about the caves and the local wildlife.

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Monkey Bay and the Local Wildlife

Another highlight is Monkey Bay, where the boat stops for about 30 minutes. From the comfort of the boat, you’ll get a good view of the wild monkeys climbing the cliffs and lounging on the beaches. It’s a fun, natural spectacle, and many travelers enjoy the chance to see the monkeys up close without disturbing them.

Reviews mention how spontaneous and lively the monkeys are, with some guests noting cute interactions and others simply respecting their wild independence. It’s a reminder of how unspoiled these islands still are.

Lunch Break: Savoring International Flavors

After a series of scenic stops, the tour includes a buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don. The meals are described as tasty and filling, offering a variety of international dishes that cater to different tastes. The convenience of included food means you won’t need to worry about finding a restaurant or packing a picnic.

Bamboo Island: The Perfect Relaxation Spot

The final leg of the day takes you to Bamboo Island, where you’ll have about 1.5 hours to unwind. The island’s white sands and clear waters make it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or kayaking, which many guests find to be the perfect way to cap off the day. The reviews highlight that the time allotted here is just right—plenty of opportunity to relax without feeling rushed.

Guests also appreciated that the boat ride back is comfortable, allowing for a relaxed end to a full day of sightseeing.

Practicalities and Value

Transportation and Timing

The tour’s overall duration is approximately 8 hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off. The schedule is tight but well-paced, allowing ample time at each major stop. The morning departure means you’ll avoid some of the afternoon crowds, and the cruise offers a scenic way to traverse the islands.

Group Size and Guide

With live guides speaking English, Chinese, and Thai, the tour caters to a diverse clientele. The guide’s efficiency and friendliness are often praised—one reviewer called Bella “super efficient.” The group size isn’t explicitly mentioned, but the experience feels intimate enough to enjoy the scenery and ask questions comfortably.

Cost and Value

The price covers transportation, guide, lunch, beverages, and entry to various sites, presenting good value considering the inclusions. It suits travelers looking for a stress-free day with all logistics handled for them. Plus, the chance to snorkel at Bamboo Island offers a fun underwater component without needing separate equipment rental.

Things to Remember

• Bring a hat, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, and camera for the day’s activities.
• Wear comfortable clothes suited for water and walking.
• Be aware that Maya Bay may be closed during September 2025, with no landings allowed. The tour will adjust accordingly.
• The tour is not recommended for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or anyone prone to seasickness.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after an organized, all-in-one trip that covers the highlights of Phi Phi Islands with comfort and style, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for first-timers wanting a broad overview or travelers who prefer a guided experience over independent island-hopping. Families and couples who enjoy scenic boat rides, wildlife sightings, and snorkeling will find this particularly rewarding.

However, those seeking solitude or a more relaxed, less structured experience might prefer fewer stops or a smaller group. The tour’s packed schedule is designed for maximum sightseeing, not solitude.

Final Thoughts

This full-day adventure offers a great balance between scenic beauty, cultural insights, and fun water activities. The premium speed catamaran makes the journey comfortable and visually appealing, turning the trip into more than just a boat ride. The carefully curated stops—including Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Bamboo Island—highlight the diversity of the Phi Phi archipelago, from famous film locations to untouched beaches.

The inclusion of a buffet lunch, hotel pickup, and guided commentary ensures the experience is smooth and informative. For travelers who want to see the best of Phi Phi without the hassle of organizing transport and meals, this tour presents very good value.

In essence, it’s suited for those eager to explore iconic sights in style, enjoy snorkeling in clear waters, and relax on tropical beaches—all wrapped up in a well-organized, enjoyable package.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup from Phuket. Surcharge fees may apply based on your location, but most major areas are covered.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts around 8 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and time on the islands.

What should I bring?
It’s best to bring a hat, swimwear, towel, change of clothes, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the moments.

Are meals included?
Yes, an international buffet lunch is part of the package, allowing you to recharge during the day.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Absolutely! Snorkeling is available at Bamboo Island, known for its crystal-clear waters and marine life.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s best for those who are comfortable with water activities. Pregnant women or travelers with mobility issues should consider other options, as the tour involves a full day of movement and water exposure.

This tour strikes a fine balance between comfort, scenic highlights, and fun experiences. Perfect for travelers wanting a complete taste of Phi Phi’s most famous spots without sacrificing quality or convenience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby