Phi Phi Island & Khai Island by Sawanu Speed Catamaran

Our review explores a full-day, luxury speed boat tour that takes travelers from Phuket to some of Thailand’s most iconic marine spots—Phi Phi Islands and Khai Island. While we haven’t personally experienced it, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and high rating make this tour stand out as a memorable adventure for anyone craving stunning scenery, fun activities, and smooth logistics.

What we love most about this tour is its well-organized itinerary that covers the main highlights, the quality of the boat and onboard amenities, and the delicious, plentiful food served during the day. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off makes it accessible and stress-free, especially for travelers unfamiliar with local transport.

A potential drawback could be the size of the group—up to 66 travelers—which might feel a bit crowded to those seeking a more intimate experience. But overall, this tour appeals to travelers who want a comprehensive, comfortable day out with plenty of time to relax, explore, and take photos.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers, families, or couples who appreciate comfort, scenic beauty, and a hassle-free experience in an exciting setting. Anyone who values knowledgeable guides and good food will find this experience particularly rewarding.

Good To Know

1 / 6

• All-inclusive comfort with hotel transfers, Wi-Fi, and snorkeling equipment.
• Diverse stops including famous Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Monkey Beach, offering a mix of relaxation and sightseeing.
• High-quality boat with either 2 or 4 engines, ensuring a smooth ride.
• Great value considering the full-day itinerary, meals, and amenities included.
• Professional guides who are friendly, energetic, and well-informed.
• Flexible cancellation policy allows for peace of mind with full refunds if needed.

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The Itinerary: What to Expect from Dawn to Dusk

Pickup and Arrival at Royal Phuket Marina

Your day begins bright and early, with a hotel pickup between 8:00 and 8:20 AM. The shared transfer service ensures ease of access, bringing you directly to the Royal Phuket Marina, where the crew awaits with a warm welcome. The marina setting adds a touch of luxury; it’s a lovely spot to start your day with a light breakfast and a briefing from guides who are known for their friendly, professional attitude—something that many reviewers praise, especially for guide Tommy’s engaging style.

Khai Nok Island: White Sands and Relaxation

At around 10:00 AM, you’ll set off towards Khai Nok Island, famous for its soft white sand beaches and clear waters. The 50-minute stop is perfect for unwinding, sunbathing, or dipping into the gentle waves. The shallow waters here make it a safe environment for swimming and snorkeling, with snorkeling equipment provided. From reviews, we know travelers loved the opportunity to relax on the shore and enjoy the peaceful vibe.

Monkey Beach: Watching Wild Monkeys

Next, the boat heads to Monkey Beach for a quick, 10-minute glimpse of the island’s playful primates. Although the admission fee isn’t included, this stop is often noted as a fun, if brief, encounter with nature. Some travelers might find the monkeys amusing but should keep their belongings secure—reviewers mention the little critters as part of the adventure.

Phi Phi Don: Food, Exploration, and Vibrancy

The main highlight of the tour is Phi Phi Don, where a buffet lunch awaits at a local restaurant. With approximately two hours here, you’ll have time to explore the island’s bustling vibe, take photos, or relax on the beach. The lunch is consistently praised for its quality and variety, with reviewers like Robyn commenting that the buffet was very good, with plenty of options. This stop offers a nice balance between sightseeing and leisure.

Pileh Bay and Viking Cave: Scenic Marvels

Post-lunch, the boat ventures to Pileh Bay, a highlight for its stunning lagoon and dramatic cliffs. The Viking Cave nearby adds a dash of intrigue, famous for its ancient paintings and bird nests. The hour spent here allows for some quick photo ops and a chance to marvel at nature’s artistry.

Maya Bay: The Iconic Movie Set

No trip to Phi Phi is complete without a visit to Maya Bay. Known globally from the film “The Beach,” it offers picture-perfect scenery. The stop lasts about 45 minutes, giving enough time for a brief walk along the sand and some iconic photos. However, travelers should note that Maya Bay is closed from August 1st to September 30th, 2025 for conservation, so check the schedule before booking. Reviewers like Robyn appreciated seeing this famous location, citing the delicious buffet and excellent guide as adding to the experience.

Return Journey and Reflection

After a full day of exploration, the boat heads back to Royal Phuket Marina around 5:00 PM, with arrival and transfer to your hotel by about 6:00 PM. The service, as noted in reviews, is smooth, with friendly staff ensuring everyone feels comfortable and safe throughout.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour offers excellent value, with roundtrip transfers, snorkeling gear, and Wi-Fi onboard included. The buffet lunch and light breakfast are thoughtful touches that keep you energized for the day’s adventures. The accident insurance and life jackets underline a focus on safety.

However, some expenses like entrance fees (around THB 400 for adults and THB 200 for children) are not included, so budget accordingly. Travelers have also noted the importance of bringing a towel and sun protection, as the tour doesn’t provide towels.

The group size can be up to 66 travelers, which means a lively atmosphere but possibly less privacy. If you prefer a more intimate experience, traveling during off-peak times might be preferable.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Robyn’s review highlights the exceptional service and delicious lunch, emphasizing the quality of the crew and food. She mentions that “Guide Tommy and crew were excellent,” which hints at the importance of having knowledgeable, friendly guides to enhance the experience.

Another reviewer praised the smooth boat ride provided by the boat’s dual or quadruple engines, making the journey comfortable even for those prone to seasickness. The Wi-Fi onboard was a bonus, allowing travelers to share their stunning photos in real time.

The stops at Khai Island and Maya Bay received particular praise for their scenic beauty, with some noting that the views from the boat itself are just as breathtaking as those on land.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day Phi Phi and Khai Island tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of organizing each stop themselves. It’s perfect for those who value comfort, good food, and expert guidance, especially if visiting for the first time.

If you’re an adventurous spirit who loves beautiful beaches, snorkeling, or iconic movie locations, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of what the Phi Phi Islands have to offer. Families and couples alike will appreciate the organized logistics, plentiful amenities, and scenic stops.

While it might feel a little busy during peak times, the large group size also means lively shared experiences, making it a fun way to meet fellow travelers. If you prefer private, quiet excursions, this might not be your first pick, but for most, it provides great value with memorable moments.

FAQ

Does this tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, the tour offers shared hotel pickup in Phuket, making it easy to start your day without arranging transport yourself.

How long is the entire tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, from pickup early in the morning until your return to Phuket in the early evening.

Are meals included?
Yes, there’s a complimentary light breakfast at the pier and a buffet lunch at a local restaurant, both of which are highly praised for quality and variety.

What kind of boat is used?
You’ll be on a state-of-the-art Sawanu Speed Catamaran, equipped with either 2 or 4 engines depending on group size, ensuring a stable and smooth ride.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, allowing you to explore the vibrant underwater life at various stops.

Are all the key sites accessible?
Most sites like Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon are included, but keep in mind Maya Bay is closed from August to September 2025, so check your date.

Can I cancel this tour for a refund?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans change.

In summary, this tour offers a fantastic way to see the most famous parts of the Phi Phi Islands with the comfort of a luxury boat, tasty meals, and knowledgeable guides. It’s a great choice for those seeking a hassle-free, scenic, and fun-filled day in Thailand’s marine paradise.