Exclusive Phi Phi, Maya Bay and Bamboo Island by Speed Boat

If you’re considering a day trip from Phuket to explore the famous Phi Phi Islands, Maya Bay, and Bamboo Island, it’s worth knowing what you’re signing up for. This Exclusive Phi Phi, Maya Bay, and Bamboo Island by Speed Boat tour promises a scenic cruise across turquoise waters, snorkeling adventures, and a chance to relax on some of Thailand’s most iconic beaches. While it scores well overall, no experience is perfect, and understanding the details helps you decide if it lines up with your travel style.

What we love about this tour is the beautiful itinerary that covers all the must-see spots, the hassle-free hotel pickup, and the delicious Thai buffet lunch onboard. These features make the day feel smooth and enjoyable, especially when you’re focusing on the scenery and fun. However, some reviews mention that timing on the islands can feel rushed and the lunch might not satisfy every palate—worth keeping in mind if you’re after a more relaxed pace or gourmet meal.

This tour is ideal for those who want a full-day adventure with plenty of photo opportunities, snorkeling, and a good mix of sightseeing and relaxing on the beach. If you’re after a budget-friendly option with all the essentials included, this could be a solid choice — just remember to pace yourself and be prepared for some busy moments.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits to Maya Bay, Pileh Bay, Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, Tonsai Beach, and Bamboo Island.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Hotel pickup, Thai buffet lunch, snacks, bottled water, and snorkeling gear included.
• Scenic Cruising: Expect stunning views over turquoise waters and limestone formations.
• Group Size: Tours are limited to a maximum of 47 travelers, making it manageable yet lively.
• Timing: Nearly 10 hours, so be ready for a long day of exploring and relaxing.
• Mixed Reviews: Some travelers found the lunch temperature and island time less than ideal, but guides are generally praised for their knowledge.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Pickup and Check-in

The day kicks off early, with hotel pickups between 6:00 and 7:00 am. If you’ve booked the transfer option, expect a shared ride to the Panwa Pier, where the adventure begins. We loved the convenience of this, saving us the hassle of navigating public transport. Once at Panwa Pier, you’ll enjoy a light breakfast with sandwiches, fresh fruit, and drinks before the boat departs. The check-in process is straightforward, and the staff is friendly, giving a warm start to what’s to come.

The Scenic Journey: Over Turquoise Waters

From the pier, you’ll hop onto a speedboat ready to whisk you away into the Andaman Sea. The cruise itself is photograph-ready, with views of limestone cliffs and clear blue waters. The guide typically provides a program briefing, highlighting coral-friendly snorkeling practices—a nice touch for eco-conscious travelers. The boat ride to Maya Bay takes about 45 minutes if you choose the speedboat option, which some reviews recommend for saving time and avoiding the longer cruise.

Maya Bay: The Iconic Beach

The first major stop is Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach.” It’s a crescent-shaped, white-sand paradise framed by towering limestone cliffs. Expect to see baby sharks in the shallow waters, a detail appreciated by reviewers who love snorkeling here. The allotted time is about an hour, enough to take photos and dip your toes in the water. Some reviews mention that the crowd can be intense, so early arrival or patience might be needed if you want that perfect shot.

Pileh Bay: Swimming in a Natural Pool

Next is Pileh Lagoon, dubbed the “swimming pool in the sea.” Surrounded by limestone cliffs, the emerald-green water makes for a stunning swim spot. We loved the peaceful vibe here, a great place for relaxing after the busy Maya Bay. Reviewers highlighted how this stop offers “enjoyable swimming in emerald water,” provided you’re comfortable in open water. It’s a good chance to snap some scenic photos or simply float and soak it all in.

Viking Cave: Snorkeling Among Fish and Swallows Nests

Cruising onward, the Viking Cave offers a glimpse of ancient caves and the opportunity to snorkel amid colorful fish. The cave is also known for swallow nests, which are still harvested legally under concession. The snorkeling gear provided generally includes life jackets, breathing tubes, and mouthpieces, making it accessible for beginners. One traveler commented on how “beyond the cave, snorkel gear made it easy to explore the coral and schools of fish,” adding to the overall experience.

Monkey Beach: Cuteness Overload

A quick stop at Monkey Beach lets you see these playful primates along the forested cliffs. The 10-minute visit is mostly for photos and observing the curious monkeys in their natural habitat. Be cautious with your belongings—reviewers mention feeding or trying to interact with the monkeys can lead to unwanted bites, so keep your valuables close.

Lunch at Tonsai Beach

Around noon, it’s time for a buffet lunch at Tonsai Seafood, a popular beachside restaurant on Phi Phi Don. The food is described as “typical tour fare,” with some reviewers mentioning the lunch served was a bit cold or limited in variety. Despite this, many appreciate the relaxing atmosphere and the chance to wander around the island afterward. You’ll have about an hour here, enough to eat, snap photos, and soak in the lively beach scene.

Bamboo Island: Relaxing White Sands

The highlight for many travelers is Bamboo Island, known for its pristine, powdery white sand and clear waters. It’s a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, or just enjoying the views. Reviewers note the long curved beaches are ideal for relaxing, and the shallow waters make it easy to wade out far without feeling uncomfortable. You get roughly an hour here, so make sure to bring your sunscreen and enjoy the serenity.

Wrapping Up and Return

After Bamboo Island, the boat departs around 3:30 pm for the journey back to Panwa Pier and your hotel. The transfer is typically smooth, and the day’s cumulative experiences leave many feeling satisfied, despite some noting the short island stops and overcrowding at popular spots.

Practical Insights and What You Should Know

Transportation and Timing

The roundtrip transfer is offered if booked with the transfer option, making logistics one less thing to worry about. The tour is quite lengthy, spanning about 9.5 hours, so it’s best suited for travelers ready for a full day in the sun and sea. The timing is tight at each stop, with about an hour or less on each island or beach, so don’t expect to relax leisurely for long periods.

Group Size & Guides

With a maximum of 47 travelers, it’s a manageable size that balances social atmosphere and comfort. Guides are generally praised for their knowledge and friendliness, helping you navigate the busy spots and providing snorkeling tips. One reviewer appreciated the program briefing and the coral-friendly advice, which shows the guides are well-informed.

Food & Drinks

The included Thai buffet lunch gets mixed reviews: some found it satisfying, while others felt it was lukewarm or lacked variety. Snacks, bottled water, and snorkeling gear are included, making this a budget-friendly all-in-one package. If you’re a foodie, bring some extra snacks just in case.

Cost & Value

At $78.75 per person, the cost is reasonable considering the full day’s activities and inclusions. The value lies in the ease of booking, the scenic stops, and the snorkeling opportunities. However, the short durations on each site mean you won’t have hours to explore, so it’s best suited for those wanting a snapshot of these highlights rather than a deep dive.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a well-organized, all-in-one day exploring the most famous spots around Phi Phi and Bamboo Island. It’s especially suited for those who value convenience, enjoy snorkeling, and are happy with a somewhat busy schedule. If you’re after a budget-friendly option that hits all the main sights with minimal planning, this tour checks those boxes.

However, if you prefer more relaxed pacing, exclusive access, or gourmet meals, you might find the limited time and buffet lunch less satisfying. The tour is also ideal for first-timers eager to tick off the top attractions in one go, especially since guides are knowledgeable and eager to share insights.

The Sum Up

This speedboat tour from Phuket to the Phi Phi Islands, Maya Bay, and Bamboo Island offers a fantastic way to see some of Thailand’s most photogenic spots in one day. The scenic cruising, snorkeling adventures, and delicious Thai buffet make for a memorable experience, especially when you’re eager to pack your day with activity.

While the short stops and crowd levels at Maya Bay might be a bit overwhelming for those seeking tranquility, the overall value and ease of booking make it attractive for many travelers. The knowledgeable guides, picturesque scenery, and included gear simplify planning and allow you to focus on enjoying the moment.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers, first-time visitors, and those who don’t mind a full, busy day. If you’re looking for a convenient, guided experience with plenty of photo ops and snorkeling, it’s definitely worth considering — just keep your expectations aligned with the packed schedule.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you book the transfer option, you’ll be picked up from your Phuket hotel and dropped back at the end of the day.

How long is the boat ride to the islands?
The boat ride to Maya Bay and other stops takes roughly 45 minutes if you choose the speedboat option, which is faster and more convenient based on reviews.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes roundtrip transfer (if booked), accident insurance, an English-speaking guide, a light breakfast, snacks, a Thai buffet lunch, bottled water, and snorkeling equipment.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, entrance fees for some sites are not included, such as the THB400 adult and THB200 child fees for island entrances. Items like towels and private expenses are also not included.

How much time do we spend on each island?
Expect about an hour on Maya Bay, Pileh Bay, Viking Cave, and Bamboo Island, with shorter visits to Monkey Beach and Tonsai Beach for lunch.

Is snorkeling good on this tour?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and reviews mention snorkeling among colorful fish and coral near Viking Cave and other stops, making it a worthwhile activity.

This trip offers a practical, well-rounded way to experience the highlights of Thailand’s Phi Phi Islands without the hassle of planning every detail. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat adventure, you’ll leave with plenty of photos, stories, and perhaps a tan or two.