Phi Phi 7 Islands Full-Day Tour From Phi Phi by Longtail Boat

If you’re dreaming of sunshine, turquoise waters, and some of the most iconic spots in Thailand, the Phi Phi 7 Islands Full-Day Tour might be just what you need. This adventure promises a mix of snorkeling, beach lounging, and picture-perfect scenery, all on a traditional longtail boat with a relaxed pace. While it’s not perfect, it offers enough highlights to make it a worthwhile option for most travelers—especially those craving an authentic, full-day island experience.

What we love about this tour is the chance to explore Maya Bay (famous from The Beach), snorkel at some top spots, and relax on gorgeous white sands—all in one day. We also appreciate the opportunity to see monkeys, exotic fish, and even bioluminescent plankton after sunset. The value for money is notable, with a reasonable price that includes lunch, drinks, and snorkeling gear. The only possible drawback? The trip can be lengthy and sometimes a bit disorganized, which is worth keeping in mind if you prefer a very structured, time-pressed experience.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who love outdoor activities, scenic boat rides, and don’t mind a longer day of island hopping. If you’re okay with some unpredictability and want to see the highlights without breaking the bank, it’s a strong pick. But if you’re after a luxury experience or a highly guided, small-group tour, you might want to consider other options.

Good To Know

• Excellent value for the price, with lunch, snacks, and snorkeling gear included
• Diverse stops including Maya Bay, Bamboo Island, and Shark Point
• Authentic longtail boating experience that offers a traditional Thai vibe
• Variety of activities: snorkeling, beach lounging, sunset and plankton swim
• Some logistical hiccups such as delays or less organized guides
• Ideal for active, outdoor-minded travelers who enjoy exploring at a relaxed pace

A Closer Look at What You Can Expect

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting bright and early (around 9:30 am from the meeting point at the Marlin Statue), this tour whisks you around the most famous and photogenic islands of the Phi Phi archipelago. The first stop is Monkey Beach, where, according to reviews, you’ll find playful macaques on white sands. While some reviews mention the monkeys weren’t always visible, it remains a classic photo op and a chance to see the island’s lively wildlife.

Next, you’ll head to Bamboo Island, known for its stunning greenery and clear waters. Travelers frequently highlight this as a favorite stop, especially for snorkeling. The calm, emerald waters make it perfect for floating above colorful coral and exotic fish. One reviewer said, “Bamboo Island was great,” and many appreciated the ample snorkeling time here.

Following this, the boat anchors at Viking Cave, where you can observe swift nests from the boat but generally don’t get off. The cave’s significance is mostly visual, but it adds a touch of mystery and history to your trip.

Then, you’ll move to Ko Phi Phi Lee, home to Maya Bay. This is the star of the show, made famous by the movie The Beach. During low tide, the sand and water can be a tad underwhelming, but most guests cherish the chance to snap photos and take in the breathtaking scenery. One reviewer mentioned that the low tide limited entry into some spots, but still found the visual impact worth it.

Next on the list are Loh Samah Bay and Pi Leh Lagoon, both characterized by dramatic limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Snorkeling here is often praised, with visitors seeing a variety of fish, coral, and maybe even sharks. One reviewer noted that the water at Shark Point was interesting, with some black-tipped reef sharks spotted.

Sunset and Bioluminescent Plankton

The tour’s highlight for many is the evening swim with luminous plankton after sunset. You’ll stop in the middle of the ocean, where the glowing creatures light up your mesh of water and make for a magical, surreal moment. While some reviews mentioned that the plankton viewing can vary based on conditions, most agree it’s an unforgettable part of the experience.

Snorkeling and Wildlife

Snorkeling is a frequent rave point, with the guide taking you to at least three different spots during the day. Reviewers describe seeing exotic fish, sharks (mostly juveniles), and even sea snakes. One traveler happily shared they saw “many fish, coral, and sharks,” which highlights how vibrant the marine life can be.

The guides, according to several reviews, are generally funny and helpful. One reviewer mentioned the guides being “so funny,” creating a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. However, a few guests experienced less attentive guides or felt they could have explained more about each stop.

Food and Refreshments

Included in the tour is a lunch box of rice, which many found sufficient and tasty enough to keep them energized. Fresh fruit snacks and cold drinks are also provided throughout the day, helping to beat the tropical heat. A reviewer noted that the lunch was simple, but adequate, and appreciated the availability of drinks.

Practicalities: Timing, Group Size, and Comfort

The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, from the meeting point in Krabi to returning. Expect a long day with many stops, which can be tiring, especially on a traditional longtail boat. Seating can be a bit basic, so bringing a cushion or towel for comfort might help.

Group size is capped at 30 travelers, which helps keep things manageable, though some reviews mention delays and a lack of detailed briefings about each stop. The tour starts at 9:30 am and generally proceeds smoothly, but some guests experienced late starts or felt the pace was a little rushed at times.

The Worth of the Price

At around $28.08 per person, this tour offers substantial value. It includes snorkeling gear, safety equipment, lunch, snacks, and accident insurance. While it isn’t a luxury experience, the affordability means you get access to many of Phi Phi’s iconic sights in one day—something that would be difficult to organize independently or via more expensive tours.

Some reviews pointed out that the tour could be longer or better organized, but considering the price, most found it an excellent deal. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to see the highlights of Phi Phi and enjoy some snorkeling and beach time, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day Phi Phi Islands tour is perfect for travelers who love adventure, nature, and authentic boat experiences. If you’re comfortable on a traditional longtail boat and don’t mind the possibility of delays or a busy schedule, you’ll enjoy the chance to see all the famous spots without paying a premium.

It’s especially suited for those who want a comprehensive day of exploring, mixing snorkeling, beach lounging, and picture-perfect scenery. The opportunity to swim with bioluminescent plankton adds a magical touch—definitely a highlight for many.

However, if you prefer a highly organized, small-group experience or are looking for luxury amenities and private guides, you might find this tour a bit rough around the edges. Still, for a budget-friendly, fun-filled day with plenty of marine life and stunning vistas, this tour delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided to the meeting point?
You need to meet at the Marlin Statue in Ao Nang, Krabi, but transport to this point is not included. Most travelers find it easy to reach via local transport or hotel arrangements.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers a longtail boat ride, snorkeling gear, life jackets, a tour guide, lunch box, fresh fruit, drinks, a first aid kit, and accident insurance.

Are there any additional fees I should know about?
Yes, a national park fee of 400 THB per adult (200 THB per child) must be paid at the entrance.

What is the typical group size?
The tour generally caps at 30 travelers, which helps keep the experience manageable, though some reviews mention it can feel crowded.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children between 4-10 years can participate, but consider their comfort with boat rides and snorkeling. Pregnant women or those with certain health issues are not advised to join.

What if the weather turns bad?
The tour is dependent on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the tour?
It runs for approximately 9 hours, starting at 9:30 am and ending back at the meeting point in Krabi.

To sum it up, the Phi Phi 7 Islands Full-Day Tour is a solid choice for those seeking an affordable, action-packed day exploring some of Thailand’s most photographed islands. You’ll love the marine life, the stunning scenery, and the chance to relax on soft sands—all while enjoying the authentic charm of traditional longtail boats. Just be prepared for a full day of activity, some unpredictability, and a busy schedule. If you’re after a fun, value-packed adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and snorkel stops, this tour will likely tick all your boxes.