From Phi Phi : Maya Bay snorkeling trip by Speed Boat

Exploring the Phi Phi Islands: Maya Bay Snorkeling by Speed Boat

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and an adventure-packed day in Thailand’s iconic Phi Phi Islands, this Maya Bay snorkeling trip by speedboat offers an accessible way to tick those boxes. While it’s not perfect and has mixed reviews, it still promises a mix of spectacular scenery, wildlife encounters, and memorable snorkeling spots.

What we love about this tour:
First, the chance to visit Maya Bay, one of Thailand’s most famous beaches, even while it’s temporarily closed for conservation. Second, the opportunity to snorkel at Pileh Lagoon, where the clear waters showcase vibrant marine life. Third, the presence of a knowledgeable guide who is appreciated in reviews for their friendliness and expertise.

A potential consideration:
Some travelers might find the group size somewhat limited but still crowded at times, and the itinerary may feel rushed if you want to spend more time at certain spots. Plus, the shark snorkeling experience may not meet expectations if you’re hoping to see large or numerous sharks, as some reviews mention.

This tour is best suited for those who want a quick snapshot of Phi Phi’s highlights without needing to spend a full day or go deep into complex activities. It’s particularly good for first-timers wanting an overview or those with limited time in the area.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Good To Know

• Fast-paced but scenic: The tour covers the main highlights in about 4 to 5 hours.
• Snorkeling opportunities: Pileh Lagoon and Shark Point offer chances to see colorful marine life and reef sharks.
• Guided experience: A knowledgeable guide, often praised for friendliness and insight.
• Limited beach time at Maya Bay: You can admire the bay’s beauty but can’t walk on the sand during the closure.
• Group size: Limited to 25 people, aiming to keep it personalized, but some reviews mention feeling rushed.
• Weather flexibility: Tours may be affected by weather, rain, or unsafe conditions, with options for rescheduling or refunds.

A closer look at the experience

How the day begins

The tour departs from Koh Phi Phi’s main meeting point, typically in front of McDonald’s, with scheduled departures at 8:30 AM, 10:00 AM, and 2:30 PM. The early start is great for avoiding crowds and catching the best light, especially if you want to photograph the scenery.

You’ll meet the guide about 30 minutes prior, typically around 6:30 AM, depending on your chosen schedule. It’s worth arriving early to secure a good spot and avoid the busy crowds. The group sizes are limited to around 25 people, which helps keep things intimate and manageable.

What’s included and what’s not

The tour offers English-speaking guides, life jackets, snorkeling gear, drinking water, soft drinks, fruits, and the National Park fee. This all adds good value, especially considering the park entrance fee is 400 THB (cash only), which is usually not included in similar tours.

However, lunch, hotel transfers, and accommodations are not included**, so plan accordingly. Many travelers might prefer to bring their own snacks or plan a meal after the tour.

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The itinerary: a detailed breakdown

Monkey Beach:
The tour kicks off with a quick stop at Monkey Beach. Some reviews mention that the stop was brief and not always on the actual beach—occasionally just nearby—since crew members emphasize that there are no monkeys on the beach at the time. Still, you’ll often get a chance to see wild monkeys in their coastal habitat, which adds a fun photo opportunity.

Viking Cave:
Next, the boat heads towards Viking Cave, where you can marvel at the ancient drawings on the limestone walls. The guide will share insights about its significance, which many appreciate as a glimpse into the islands’ mysterious history. It’s a quick stop, but the cave’s artistic carvings are compelling.

Pileh Lagoon:
One of the tour’s highlights, Pileh Lagoon’s calm, crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Here, you’ll see vibrant fish and coral formations, making it a favorite for most travelers. The shallow waters allow for relaxing float and underwater photos. Some reviewers mention spending more time here would make the trip even better, as the scenery is truly breathtaking.

Loh Samah Bay & Maya Bay:
The boat then moves to Loh Samah Bay, a secluded cove that’s the gateway to Maya Bay. A short ride from a floating pier brings you to the most famous beach in Thailand. While swimming is not allowed due to a closure for conservation until September 2025, you can still admire Maya Bay from the boat, soaking in the famous views and getting good photos.

Snorkeling at Shark Point:
For those interested in marine life, Shark Point offers the chance to snorkel alongside blacktip reef sharks. The experience is guided, with safety a priority. However, some reviews note that sharks may not always be seen or are fewer in number than expected—so don’t go expecting a large shark spectacle. Still, the thrill of snorkeling in these waters is worth it.

Optional Plankton Snorkeling & Sunset:
Some departures include an optional activity for snorkeling at night to see glowing plankton, creating an almost surreal experience. Watching the sunset from the boat also makes for a memorable ending, with many appreciating the peaceful views as the day winds down.

What travelers are saying

While some reviews praise the friendly guides and the stunning scenery, others express disappointment. For example, one traveler mentioned spending too little time at snorkeling spots and too much at Maya Bay, which they found crowded and less enjoyable due to the restrictions on swimming. Another review expressed frustration over the shark snorkeling experience, noting that the sharks were not observed as heavily advertised or expected.

Guides seem to be a bright spot, often described as knowledgeable and helpful, which enhances the trip’s overall value. The boat’s size and limited group number help promote a more personal experience, but this does not completely eliminate the feeling of rushing through the stops.

Practical considerations

• The duration of the tour is around 4-5 hours, which is manageable for most travelers but might feel rushed if you want to linger longer at each spot.
• Weather conditions can influence the experience—rain or unsafe seas might lead to cancellations or rescheduling.
• The National Park fee is paid on-site and in cash, so bring some Thai baht.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, small children under 1 year, or those with back problems, mainly due to boat travel and activity constraints.

Final thoughts: is this tour worth it?

This speedboat trip offers a solid introduction to Phi Phi’s most iconic sights with the benefit of fast navigation and expert guides. It’s particularly good if you want a balancing act of scenic views, snorkeling, and cultural spots in a limited time.

While the experience may feel somewhat rushed, and some sites are less accessible (like Maya Bay’s beach during the closure), the tour’s highlights—like snorkeling at Pileh Lagoon and the chance to see Viking Cave—make it a worthwhile option for first-time visitors or those short on time.

Just keep in mind that if you’re hoping for a more relaxed, in-depth experience with plenty of beach time or shark sightings, you might want to explore other options or consider longer tours. Ultimately, the value lies in the combination of beautiful scenery, knowledgeable guides, and the thrill of speedboat travel.

Who will love this tour?

This tour appeals most to travelers who want a quick, efficient overview of Phi Phi’s main attractions. It’s perfect for those who enjoy snorkeling, taking photos of scenic views, and don’t mind a rushed schedule. It’s also suitable for first-timers eager to tick off the major sights without committing an entire day to a more leisurely tour.

It’s less ideal for travelers seeking extended beach time, in-depth wildlife encounters, or a relaxed pace. If you’re interested in wildlife and marine life, be prepared for the possibility that shark sightings may not match the hype in some reviews.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at scheduled times: 8:30 AM, 10:00 AM, and 2:30 PM. It’s best to arrive at least 30 minutes early at the meeting point in front of McDonald’s.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included in this tour. You should plan to eat before or after, or bring snacks along.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs approximately 4 to 5 hours, covering multiple stops from Monkey Beach to Maya Bay.

What is included in the price?
The tour provides an English guide, life jackets, snorkeling gear, drinks, fruits, and the national park fee.

Can I swim at Maya Bay?
Not during this period, as Maya Bay is temporarily closed for conservation until September 2025; visitors can only view it from the boat.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews mention that guides are friendly and well-informed, adding value to the tour with their insights.

Is the group size small?
Limited to 25 persons, the group size aims for a more personalized experience, though some comments note it can still feel a bit rushed.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, the tour offers flexible booking with reservation and payment options that allow you to reserve now and pay later.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone for photos.

Final words

This Maya Bay snorkeling tour by speedboat offers a practical way to see much of Phi Phi in a short time. It delivers on the promise of scenic vistas, fun snorkeling, and a lively guide, making it a good choice for first-time visitors or those on a tight schedule. However, it’s important to stay flexible and adjust expectations—some sites might be crowded or less accessible than imagined.

If you’re after a straightforward, guided experience that hits all the main spots without an overly long commitment, this tour fits the bill. Just be aware of the potential for a fast-paced day and the current restrictions at Maya Bay. With a little planning, you’ll come away with memorable photos, stories, and a taste of Thailand’s famous island charm.

Remember: pack light, bring your sunscreen, and be ready for a fun, scenic ride through one of the world’s most stunning island chains.

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