Phi Phi Islands Sightseeing Tour by Speedboat with Buffet Lunch

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, towering limestone cliffs, and those picture-perfect beaches, a Phi Phi Islands sightseeing tour by speedboat might just be your ticket. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, countless travelers have shared their experiences, making it easier for us to paint an honest, detailed picture.

What we love about this tour? First, the stunning variety of stops, from iconic Maya Bay to Bamboo Island’s pristine sands. Second, the value for money—a full day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and delicious buffet lunch, all at just around $58.41 per person. Third, the knowledgeable guides who seem to make every stop more engaging and informative. That said, a possible consideration is the crowd size—with a maximum of 35 travelers, it’s not intimate, but manageable.

This tour is perfect for those who want an active day of exploring, love snorkeling, and appreciate a well-organized itinerary. If you’re after a laid-back, private experience, it might not be the best fit, but for adventurous travelers wanting to see the highlights efficiently, it hits the mark.

Great value for a full-day tour including lunch and snorkeling gear.
Multiple stops ensure you experience the best of Phi Phi, from beaches to caves.
Guides are generally knowledgeable and make the experience more enjoyable.
Timing is well-paced, with ample time at key sites, though some stops are shorter than others.
Crowd levels are moderate, but could still feel busy during peak times.
Included amenities like fresh fruit, bottled water, and life jackets add to comfort and safety.

Maya Bay: The Star of the Show

Maya Bay is the highlight here—and for good reason. It’s the famous backdrop for countless travel photos, with its towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Visitors often mention how “beautiful and tranquil” it is, even if crowded. The tour typically allows about an hour here, giving plenty of time to snap photos, paddle around, or just soak up the scenery.

One important note is that admission to Maya Bay is not included in the tour cost**, and the bay itself is closed for preservation at certain times. That means you may pass by it or visit an alternative nearby spot. Still, the view from the boat itself is impressive enough to satisfy many travelers.

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Viking Cave: A Unique Photo Stop

Next up is Viking Cave, a quick 15-minute stop where you’ll see towering cliffs inhabited by birds. The cave is notable for its bird nests, harvested for the famous birds’ nest soup. Anyone interested in local traditions or wildlife will find this brief stop intriguing. Since the admission here is free, it’s more about appreciating the scenery and snapping a few photos.

Pileh Bay: The Lagoon of Dreams

One of the most stunning spots, Pileh Bay boasts turquoise waters surrounded by limestone cliffs, offering an almost surreal setting. The boat will anchor here for 30 minutes to allow swimming, snorkeling, and picture-taking. Expect clear waters filled with colorful fish, making it a prime spot for underwater shots.

Loh Samah Bay: The Gateway to Maya Bay

While pass-by-only, this peaceful bay is the entry point to Maya Bay, with crystal waters teeming with fish. Reviewers note the floating pier adds a bit of charm, and many find it a perfect place for a quick swim or photo before heading to the next stop.

Ko Phi Phi Lee: Snorkeling Paradise

A major highlight for many is the snorkeling around Phi Phi Leh. The guides typically bring the group to excellent spots, where you can expect to see a variety of fish and vibrant coral. Travelers have shared that the snorkeling equipment is provided, and the experience is both fun and safe, with guides emphasizing safety protocols.

Monkey Beach: Close Encounters

At Phi Phi Don, Monkey Beach is a popular spot to observe playful monkeys in their natural habitat. Visitors often enjoy watching the animals hanging around, and some mention the chance to feed or interact with them. It’s a short stop—about 45 minutes—but quite memorable.

Bamboo Island: Tropical Perfection

The day closes at Bamboo Island, renowned for its white sands and clear waters—an ideal spot to unwind. Many guests mention how relaxing it is to lounge on the beach, swim, or snorkel in this unspoiled setting. The 45-minute stop here provides a perfect way to end the tour.

Transportation & Duration

The entire trip lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, with most of it spent on the water. Starting at 9:00 am from Krabi, the tour begins with a pickup (usually included), making logistics hassle-free. The focus on speedboat transportation means quick and scenic transfers between stops, saving time and offering a more exhilarating ride compared to larger boats.

Group Size & Guides

Limited to 35 travelers, the tour maintains a relatively manageable group size, allowing guides to keep things engaging. While specific guides are not named, reviews indicate that guides are knowledgeable and helpful, often sharing local insights and safety tips.

Price & Value

At around $58.41, this tour offers a lot—multiple stops, snorkeling gear, a buffet lunch, bottled water, and fresh fruit. When compared to similar tours, the inclusion of lunch and snorkeling gear makes it stand out as a good value. However, additional fees apply for the National Park entry (THB 400 per adult), which travelers should budget for.

What’s Not Included

The national park fee and entrance fees for certain sites are extra costs, so be prepared for that. The admission to Maya Bay is not included if it is open, but the boat may pass by without stopping. This flexibility means the experience might vary slightly depending on local regulations.

Tips & Considerations

• Arrive early: The tour is popular, and booking 16 days in advance helps secure your spot.
• Bring your own snorkel gear if you prefer, but equipment is available.
• Timing: Some stops are shorter, so plan to make the most of each location.
• Sun protection: Hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are a must, especially during the full day on the water.
• Respect wildlife: Keep a safe distance from monkeys and avoid disturbing bird nests.

From multiple traveler comments, guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the day more enjoyable. Guests mention that the views at Pileh Bay and Bamboo Island are spectacular, and snorkeling around Phi Phi Leh offers an abundance of marine life.

One reviewer shared, “The guide was very informative and made sure everyone felt safe, especially during snorkeling. The stops at Maya Bay and Bamboo Island truly felt like tropical postcards.” Others appreciated the well-paced itinerary, noting, “We never felt rushed, and the lunch was surprisingly good, with fresh fruits and a variety of drinks.”

A potential downside is the crowd—even with a capped group size, popular spots can get busy. Some travelers found the short stops at certain beaches a bit rushed but still felt it was a good overview of the islands’ highlights.

This Phi Phi Islands speedboat tour offers an affordable, all-in-one experience that hits major highlights with style. The combination of spectacular scenery, snorkeling opportunities, and a tasty buffet lunch makes it a solid choice for active travelers seeking authentic moments and impressive views.

While not a private or ultra-exclusive tour, it balances value and adventure well, especially for first-timers or those short on time. The knowledgeable guides, beautiful stops, and lively boat ride make for a memorable day in Thailand’s famous archipelago.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, fun-filled excursion packed with photo-worthy sights and snorkeling fun, this tour will serve you well. Just remember to budget for the park fees and bring your camera—these sights are unforgettable.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll receive a buffet lunch, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, soda, fresh fruit, and life jackets. Pickup is offered from Krabi, and the tour lasts about 7-8 hours.

How long is the tour?
The full experience takes roughly 7 to 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to the meeting point in Krabi.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the National Park fee is THB 400 per person, payable on the day. The fee for Maya Bay is not included, as it depends on current regulations.

What are the main stops?
Key stops include Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Pileh Bay, Loh Samah Bay, snorkeling around Phi Phi Leh, Monkey Beach, and Bamboo Island.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, and guides will take you to the best spots to see marine life.

Can I see Maya Bay?
Maya Bay may be passed by or visited depending on local regulations. Admission to Maya Bay is not included, but the boat ride offers excellent views.

Who is this tour suitable for?
It’s ideal for active travelers who love adventure, beaches, and snorkeling. It’s also great for those who want a full day of exploring without the hassle of organizing logistics.

How crowded does it get?
With a maximum of 35 travelers, it’s relatively manageable, but popular spots can still be busy during peak times.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, swimwear, and a dry bag for valuables. Some guests also recommend bringing extra snacks or a camera with waterproof protection.

This speedboat tour of the Phi Phi Islands offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and comfort at a reasonable price point. The variety of stops, from iconic Maya Bay to quiet Bamboo Island, ensures you’ll experience the diversity of this famous archipelago. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and a buffet lunch adds significant value, making it perfect for those who want a comprehensive, fun-filled day.

While it might not satisfy those seeking complete privacy or a very relaxed pace, it is an excellent way to see the highlights in one go. The knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas will surely leave you with plenty of memorable moments—ideal for travelers eager to tick off top Thai sights with a splash of adventure.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned island hopper, this tour provides a reliable, scenic, and enjoyable way to discover the Phi Phi Islands.