Traveling through Thailand’s Andaman Sea offers countless opportunities for unforgettable island adventures, and this speedboat tour from Koh Lanta to the Phi Phi Islands promises a day packed with breathtaking scenery, snorkeling, and fun. We haven’t personally taken this exact tour, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, we can offer a balanced look at what you might expect.
What we love about this experience are the spectacular vistas at Maya Bay, the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters at Pileh Lagoon, and the convenience of hotel transfers included in the price. The professional guides and the well-organized itinerary make it attractive, especially for first-timers eager to tick off some of Thailand’s most iconic islands.
A potential consideration is the crowded nature of some spots and the quality of the snorkeling. One reviewer noted that the snorkeling spots were “wrecked by tourism”, with only a few tiny fish and little coral to see. This highlights that some of the natural beauty might be affected by high visitor numbers, and snorkelers should temper expectations accordingly.
This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers looking to spend a full day exploring multiple islands with a diverse range of activities, from lounging on beaches to snorkeling. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate value for money—everything from transportation to lunch is included, making it a straightforward way to see the Phi Phi Islands without the hassle of planning each detail.
- Good To Know
- A Closer Look at the Itinerary
- Meeting at Saladan Pier and Boarding the Speedboat
- Navigating Towards Ko Phi Phi Le
- Visiting Maya Bay
- Snorkeling at Pileh Lagoon
- Encountering Monkey Bay
- Bamboo Island: Beach and Lunch
- Exploring Phi Phi Don & Snorkeling
- Return Journey to Koh Lanta
- What’s Included and What’s Not
- The Pros and Cons Based on Reviews
- Who Is This Tour Best For?
- Final Thoughts
- FAQ
- The Best Of Ko Lanta!
- More Tour Reviews in Ko Lanta
- Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Ko Lanta we have reviewed
Good To Know
- All-inclusive value: Transfers, lunch, snorkeling gear, and insurance are included for just over $50.
- Variety of stops: From beach lounging to snorkeling, plus opportunities to observe monkeys.
- Expert guides: Professional English-speaking guides add insight and safety.
- Fast-paced itinerary: Covering many spots in just one day, ideal for those wanting a jam-packed experience.
- Crowd considerations: Some sites can get busy, impacting the tranquility and snorkeling quality.
- Seasonal closures: Maya Bay closes annually in August and September, which might affect your plans.
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A Closer Look at the Itinerary
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ko Lanta.
Meeting at Saladan Pier and Boarding the Speedboat
The tour kicks off bright and early at Saladan Pier around 9:00 am. The pickup on Koh Lanta is included, easing the logistical headache of getting to your boat. The crew, likely including guides from Trip Store Krabi, come across as professional and safety-conscious—key for a smooth, enjoyable day.
Once on board, you’re introduced to safety protocols and the speedboat, which is high-powered and designed for quick navigation. You’ll want to wear your life jacket throughout the trip. The boat itself comfortably accommodates up to 45 travelers, which balances social vibes with enough space.
Navigating Towards Ko Phi Phi Le
The first major stop is Ko Phi Phi Le, the star of the show, where you’ll cruise through turquoise waters and get a glimpse of the Viking Cave—famous for its swiftlet nests. The 40-minute ride is scenic, with water so clear you can see fish swimming beneath. The guides usually point out interesting sights, adding context to your journey.
Visiting Maya Bay
One of the most talked-about stops, Maya Bay is designated as a secluded paradise with towering limestone cliffs framing your view. Here, you’re encouraged to relax, sunbathe, or take photos of the stunning scenery. However, keep in mind that Maya Bay is closed for restoration from August to September each year, so availability depends on timing.
One reviewer mentioned that lunch at Maya Bay was not part of the plan, and instead, it is served on Bamboo Island. Still, most seem satisfied with the Thai-style picnic lunch on Bamboo Island, which provides a welcome break from the boat. The buffet includes seasonal fruits and water, perfect for refueling after a morning of sightseeing.
Snorkeling at Pileh Lagoon
Next, you’ll snorkel in Pileh Lagoon’s calm, clear waters. Surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs, it’s a beautiful spot to see some marine life, although one review indicates the snorkeling here has been affected by mass tourism, with limited coral and few fish. Still, the experience of floating in such a pristine environment is worthwhile.
Encountering Monkey Bay
A fun highlight for many travelers is Monkey Bay, where playful macaques roam and fish for crumbs. While not a designated stop, you might catch a glimpse of these cheeky primates when the tide is low. Guides advise not to feed or provoke the monkeys to keep the experience safe and natural.
Bamboo Island: Beach and Lunch
The highlight for many is Bamboo Island, where a delicious buffet lunch awaits on the beach. After a morning of sightseeing, this is a prime spot to relax on powdery sand, swim, or just soak up the sun. The 1 hour and 20 minutes here allow enough time to unwind and enjoy the scenery.
Exploring Phi Phi Don & Snorkeling
The tour continues to Phi Phi Don, where you can explore Tonsai Bay’s lively atmosphere or go snorkeling in the surrounding waters. One review notes that the underwater world here is vibrant, with some coral and fish to see, although the overall snorkeling experience may be somewhat compromised by high tourism levels.
Return Journey to Koh Lanta
After exploring the main island’s highlights, the boat heads back to Koh Lanta, arriving roughly 40 minutes later. The journey offers a chance to reflect on the day’s adventures and enjoy the scenic coastline as the sun begins to set.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour provides hotel transfers, making the hassle of transportation a non-issue. You’ll also receive snorkeling equipment, life jackets, and drinking water with seasonal fruits, which add comfort and convenience. The Thai-style picnic lunch on Bamboo Island is appreciated for its simplicity and authenticity.
The only extra cost is the national park fee—400 THB per adult and 200 THB per child—which is paid separately and is standard for most Phi Phi tours. This fee helps maintain the park’s natural beauty but adds a small extra expense.
The Pros and Cons Based on Reviews
Pros include the knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery. Reviewers have praised guides for their professionalism, and the speedboat’s close-to-shore navigation makes beach access effortless. The included lunch and drinks are considered good value, especially given the full day of activities.
Cons are mainly related to crowds and limited snorkeling quality. One reviewer, Tiffany, remarked that “snorkeling spots were wrecked by tourism,” with only tiny, scared fish and minimal coral. She also noted that lunch was cold and tasteless, which was disappointing after a long morning. This highlights that high visitor numbers can affect the natural beauty and experience.
Another point to consider is the timing of Maya Bay’s closure during August and September, which may impact plans if you visit during those months.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This tour appeals most to first-time visitors wanting a rundown of the Phi Phi Islands in one day. It’s ideal for adventurers eager to see multiple locations, snorkel, and relax on beaches without the hassle of planning each detail. Travelers on a budget will appreciate the all-inclusive price, which covers transportation, lunch, and gear.
It’s also suitable for those who enjoy group tours with a lively atmosphere and professional guidance. However, if you’re seeking secluded, untouched nature or high-end snorkeling, you might find this experience somewhat crowded or commercialized.
Final Thoughts
This speedboat tour from Koh Lanta to the Phi Phi Islands offers a solid mix of scenic beauty, fun activities, and convenience. The value for money is strong, especially with included transfers, lunch, and snorkeling gear, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious travelers.
While the experience is lively and packed with highlights, keep your expectations realistic regarding crowds and snorkeling conditions. For some, the professional guides and well-organized itinerary make this a hassle-free way to tick off the must-see islands of Thailand’s Andaman Coast.
Overall, if your goal is a full day of island hopping with stunning views and easy logistics, this tour can deliver a memorable adventure—just don’t forget your sun protection and a good dose of patience for busy spots.
Tin’s Island Odyssey to Phi Phi & Bamboo Island from Koh Lanta
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel, simplifying your day and saving travel time.
What should I bring? Water shoes or flip-flops, sun protection, snorkeling gear if you prefer your own, and a waterproof camera or phone for photos.
How long is the total tour? The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning around 4:00 pm.
Are the lunch and drinks included? Yes, a Thai-style picnic lunch is served on Bamboo Island, alongside seasonal fruits and water.
Can I snorkel at every stop? Snorkeling is available at designated spots like Pileh Lagoon and Phi Phi Don, but the experience may vary depending on crowd levels.
Are there any seasonal closures? Maya Bay closes for two months each year (August and September), so check your dates accordingly.
Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, as long as they are comfortable on boats and can wear life jackets; the tour is capped at 45 travelers, making it manageable for families.
What is the main drawback? You might encounter crowded spots and snorkeling conditions affected by tourism, which could impact the tranquility and underwater experience.
In summary, this Phi Phi and Bamboo Island tour from Koh Lanta offers a lively, adventure-filled day with excellent value, making it a good pick for travelers eager to see the highlights with ease. Just prepare for some crowds and adjust your expectations for snorkeling — but overall, it’s a reliable way to experience the beauty of Thailand’s most famous islands.
