Full-Day Phi Phi Islands Tour by Cruise VIP Ferry Experience

Traveling to Thailand and dreaming of crystal-clear waters, iconic beaches, and vibrant marine life? The Full-Day Phi Phi Islands VIP Cruise promises a scenic journey from Phuket, but is it worth your time and money? Based on multiple reviews and available details, we’ve put together a thorough look at what this trip involves and what you can really expect.

What we like:

• The chance to see famous spots like Maya Bay and Viking Cave, which are must-visits for any Phi Phi trip
• The inclusion of a VIP seat reservation, providing a more comfortable ride
• A generous snorkeling gear rental and a buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don, adding value to the experience

A possible downside:

• The condition of the boat and vessels seem to be a concern, with reviews mentioning that they are quite worn or outdated. This could impact comfort and overall enjoyment.

This tour is best suited for travelers who prioritize seeing the iconic sights of Phi Phi in a day, without fussing over luxury, and who are willing to accept some less-than-perfect conditions for a reasonable price.

Good To Know

• Mixed quality of vessels: Many reviewers mention the boats are in poor condition, which might affect comfort.
• Value for money: At $74.95, it includes transportation, lunch, snorkeling gear, and park fees, but the experience may feel rushed or underwhelming.
• Sightseeing highlights: The tour covers Maya Bay, Loh Samah, Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, and Coral Bay—great for classic Phi Phi scenery.
• Snorkeling experience: Gear is included free, but reviews suggest the snorkeling quality isn’t outstanding.
• Tour timing: Expect to start early at 7:00 am and return around 3:00 pm, with a packed schedule.
• Customer service and transparency: Some reviewers note unexpected additional fees and delays, which can impact your day.

Breaking Down the Tour Experience

Starting with a Punctual Pickup and Early Departure

The tour kicks off at 7:00 am with hotel pickups—if you’re staying in Phuket, this means an early start, but it’s necessary to secure the best spots on the boat. From there, it’s about an hour’s ride to Rassada Harbour, where the vessels are docked. Keep in mind that reviews point out the vans used for pickup are often old and cramped, so don’t expect luxury transport to start with.

The Boat and Seating Comfort

Once aboard, you’ll enjoy a reserved VIP seat, which is a nice touch compared to standard ferry experiences. However, several reviewers have expressed disappointment with the condition of the vessels—described as run-down, very dated, or in poor repair. One reviewer sarcastically noted that even in gold, the boat felt cold and noisy.

This aspect is important because if you’re expecting a plush, relaxing environment, this tour might fall short. The boats are reportedly built in the 70s and haven’t seen significant refurbishment, which can lead to a less-than-comfortable ride.

The Iconic Sightseeing Stops

The main draw of this trip is the chance to see some of the most famous parts of Phi Phi:

• Maya Bay: Known for its striking cliffs and the filming location for The Beach, this stop is a highlight. Expect to take photos and soak in the scenery, but be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season. Reviewers highlight it’s a must-see, although some felt the experience was hurried.

• Loh Samah and Pileh Lagoon: These turquoise-water marvels are perfect for a quick swim or relaxing on the boat. The reviews don’t explicitly mention these spots, but they’re key features of the itinerary, offering a taste of the stunning marine scenery.

• Viking Cave: A quick stop to see thousands of swallows nesting inside the cave. While you can’t enter, the sight of the nests and birds in flight is quite impressive. Reviewers note it’s a brief snapshot but adds to the tour’s authentic feel.

Snorkeling Near Ton Sai Pier

After sightseeing, the tour moves to Coral Bay for snorkeling and swimming. Gear is included free of charge, which is convenient, but some reviews suggest the snorkeling isn’t particularly remarkable—possibly due to the condition of the coral or the crowded nature of the site. One reviewer pointed out that the snorkeling was “pretty poor,” which might disappoint avid underwater enthusiasts.

Lunch and Free Time on Phi Phi Don

A significant part of this tour is the set Thai buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don. Reviewers tend to praise the meal, which provides a much-needed break and fuel for exploring the island. After lunch, you’ll get some free time to wander, shop, or relax—though keep in mind, the schedule is tight, and the time on land is limited.

Return Journey and Overall Timing

The boat departs from Phi Phi at 3 pm, heading back to Phuket. The entire day is about 6 hours, which is enough for a quick but rundown of the islands. Some reviewers mentioned feeling the trip was rushed, especially when trying to fit in multiple stops in such a short period.

The Realities from Reviewer Insights

Based on the reviews, there’s a common theme: expect a somewhat underwhelming experience in terms of vessel condition and snorkeling quality. One reviewer sarcastically mentioned the boat “looks like it was built in the 70s,” and another pointed out that there are “additional fees” like a cleaning fee at Tonsai Pier, which could catch you off guard if unaware.

The tour’s advertised luxury and VIP promises seem somewhat inflated, especially considering the age and state of the vessels. Yet, the sightseeing stops remain attractive, and the inclusion of lunch and snorkeling gear adds some value.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

Transportation is included from various Phuket locations, and the maximum group size is around 50 travelers. While this allows for a lively atmosphere, it also means larger crowds at popular sites. The early start ensures you beat some of the crowds, but it also demands a very punctual, tightly scheduled day.

Is this tour worth it?

If your primary goal is seeing the classic Phi Phi sights and you’re not overly concerned about the boat’s condition, this trip can be a decent, budget-friendly option. The price includes park fees, lunch, and snorkeling gear, which helps justify the cost for many travelers. However, if you’re after a more luxurious or intimate experience, or if vessel quality is a dealbreaker, you might want to look elsewhere.

Who should consider this tour?

This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers who prioritize sightseeing over comfort and aren’t bothered by older vessels or rushed schedules. It’s also a good pick for those on a budget, looking to tick off Phi Phi island highlights in one day. For travelers craving a more relaxed, high-end experience, or expecting pristine boats, it might be best to explore alternative options.

The Sum Up

The Full-Day Phi Phi Islands VIP Cruise offers a straightforward way to see some of the most famous destinations in the region. While the included sights and lunch deliver good value, the condition of the vessels and the overall experience might leave some travelers feeling less impressed.

If you’re after stunning views, iconic beaches, and snorkel-friendly waters, this tour can deliver those, but it’s essential to temper expectations regarding comfort and vessel quality. It’s a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers or those more interested in the sightseeing than the journey itself.

For anyone who wants to avoid disappointment, consider balancing the price and what’s included. If you accept the boats’ age and plan to enjoy the scenery, you’ll likely find it a decent day trip. Otherwise, exploring other options with newer vessels or smaller groups could be worthwhile.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from Phuket Town, Patong, Kata, and Karon, making it convenient to start your day.

What is the duration of the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 7:00 am and returning around 3:00 pm, including travel, sightseeing, and free time on Phi Phi Don.

Are snorkeling masks and gear included?
Yes, free rental of masks, snorkels, and life jackets is included, but the snorkeling experience may not be exceptional based on reviews.

What is the condition of the boat?
Many reviews describe the vessels as old, rundown, or in poor condition, which can impact comfort and safety perceptions.

Are there any additional fees?
There is a small cleaning fee at Tonsai Pier (THB 20 or about $0.60 USD) that travelers should be aware of.

What’s included in the lunch?
A set/buffet Thai lunch is provided on Phi Phi Don, generally well-rated by travelers, offering a good rest during the day.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving some flexibility if plans change.

In summary, this tour provides a budget-friendly, quick overview of Phi Phi’s highlights but comes with some compromises regarding vessel condition and snorkeling quality. It’s best for travelers who prioritize seeing the sights and are comfortable with a more basic vessel experience.