Ko Phi Phi and Krabi 4 Islands Early Bird Speedboat Tour

Traveling through Thailand’s famous islands can sometimes feel overwhelming — crowds, heat, and the rush to see as much as possible. That’s why an early morning tour like the Ko Phi Phi and Krabi 4 Islands Early Bird Speedboat Tour offers a refreshing alternative, allowing you to enjoy some of the most iconic sights before the day gets busy. While it’s not perfect and has its hiccups, it remains a solid choice for travelers craving a quick, scenic escape with a focus on natural beauty.

What we really like about this tour is how it gets you to top spots like Maya Bay, Pileh Bay, and Bamboo Islands early enough to beat the crowds and midday heat. The stunning views are a highlight, especially as the morning light makes the turquoise waters and limestone cliffs look even more dramatic. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear, a picnic lunch, and hotel pickup adds convenience, making it a convenient full-day adventure. However, some travelers might find the group size limited to 35, and the pick-up logistics unclear or unreliable, which has been a point of frustration for some.

This tour is perfect for those who value natural scenery, a peaceful vibe, and don’t mind starting early. It’s best suited for travelers who want a taste of the islands without endless crowds and are okay with a packed schedule — and perhaps a bit of unpredictability.

Good To Know

• Early bird advantage: Beat the crowds and enjoy popular sights in the peaceful morning hours.
• Stunning scenery: Iconic spots like Maya Bay and Pileh Bay are breathtaking in the early light.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Multiple stops including snorkeling, beaches, caves, and rock formations.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup, all essentials, and included snacks make it a smooth day.
• Pricing and value: For $94.53, you get a full-day adventure with many highlights, though some attractions don’t include park fees.
• Potential hiccups: Some reviews mention unreliable pick-up times and lack of a guide in Spanish, so clarity might vary.

The Experience: What to Expect on This Tour

Starting Bright and Early

The tour kicks off at 5:30 am, which sounds brutal but is actually a smart move. Traveling early means you’ll arrive at the most popular spots before the crowds swell and the heat intensifies. The hotel pickup is included, but keep in mind that some reviewers, like Javier, have experienced confusion or missed the pickup—so confirm your pickup details in advance if possible.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Koh Tub (Tub Islands)

Your first stop is Koh Tub, a peaceful stretch of white sand and clear waters. Here, you’ll get about 45 minutes to swim, snorkel, or simply relax. The natural sandbar linking Koh Mor and Koh Tub makes this a charming spot to wade across or take photos. The admission is free, so enjoy the tranquility away from crowds.

Stop 2: Maya Bay

Next up is Maya Bay, famously known from the movie The Beach. This spot is truly a sight to behold — towering limestone cliffs surround a perfect white sand beach and crystal-clear waters. Spending around an hour here, you’ll have plenty of time for photos and a quick swim. It’s a great moment to soak in the stunning scenery, especially in the morning light that makes everything look more vibrant. Some reviews mention that it can be crowded later in the day, so timing is everything.

Stop 3: Pileh Bay

A highlight for many is Pileh Bay, with its vivid turquoise waters and towering cliffs. This secluded lagoon is perfect for a 30-minute visit, where you can admire the vibrant coral reefs or snorkel in the calm waters. The pristine environment and marine life are particularly noted, with snorkel gear provided for an easy exploration.

Stop 4: Viking Cave

Accessible only by boat, Viking Cave is a quick 15-minute stop. It’s more of a photo opportunity; you can see the cave’s entrance from the water but don’t spend long here. Some reviews mention that it’s a fascinating cultural site, but since it’s only viewed from outside, it’s more about the visual impression.

Stop 5: Monkey Beach

At Monkey Beach, you’ll get around 45 minutes. The playful macaques are a crowd favorite, but visitors are advised to keep an eye on their belongings. The beach itself is lovely, with white sands and clear waters. Visitors have appreciated the chance to observe the monkeys in their natural habitat.

Stop 6: Loh Samah Bay

Another peaceful stop, Loh Samah Bay offers stunning turquoise waters and limestone cliffs. It’s a prime spot for swimming and snorkeling—a quiet retreat after more popular stops. The 45-minute stay here has been described as perfect for relaxing.

Stop 7: Bamboo Island (Koh Mai Phai)

This is the longest stop of the day, with about 1 hour on Bamboo Island. Here, you can enjoy its pristine white beaches and take a swim in the clear waters. The picnic lunch is served here, providing a break in the day. The beach is unspoiled and offers excellent photo opportunities, though some travelers have noted that admission fees for the island aren’t included.

Stop 8: Chicken Rock (Ko Kai)

Famous for its large rock formation resembling a chicken, this stop lasts about 45 minutes. The rock’s unique shape makes for a memorable photo. The surrounding white sandy beaches and turquoise waters are perfect for a quick swim or relaxing walk.

Stop 9: Koh Poda Island

Finally, the tour wraps up with Koh Poda, another white-sand paradise. Staying for about 45 minutes, you’ll have time to enjoy the scenery, take photos, or dip into the shallow waters. The cliffs framing the island add to its postcard-worthy charm.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes bottled water, snacks, a picnic lunch, and snorkeling gear, which enhances the value. The life jackets and accident insurance add peace of mind, especially since you’ll be in the water. However, the government/park fees (~$4 per adult, $2 per child) are not included and are payable at the entrance, which is worth noting for budget planning.

The Realities of the Experience

While the itinerary sounds ideal, there are some practical considerations. Reviewers mention that pick-up times can be inconsistent — Javier’s experience, for instance, was frustrating due to the pickup not happening on time and a lack of clear communication. Plus, there’s a lack of a Spanish-speaking guide, which could be a downside for non-English speakers.

The group size is capped at 35, making it fairly intimate, but the actual experience depends heavily on the guide and crew. Since admission fees for the parks aren’t included in the price, travelers should budget accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This early bird tour is ideal for adventurers who value natural beauty and want a peaceful, crowd-free experience. It’s perfect if you’re okay with an early start and enjoy scenic boat rides filled with snorkeling and beach breaks. It suits travelers seeking a full-day adventure with highlights of the Phi Phi Islands and nearby spots, especially if stunning views are a priority.

However, if you’re sensitive to unpredictable logistics or prefer a more personalized guide experience, this might not be the best fit. Those looking for a luxury or guided cultural tour may also find the limited guide info a drawback.

The Sum Up

The Ko Phi Phi and Krabi 4 Islands Early Bird Speedboat Tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Thailand’s most iconic islands with fewer crowds and cooler morning temperatures. Its stunning scenery, combined with snorkeling and beach stops, provides a memorable day out for nature lovers and photo enthusiasts alike.

While the tour’s value depends on your expectations and your tolerance for logistical hiccups, it remains an accessible, well-rounded option for those eager to experience the beauty of Krabi’s islands in a single day. The included amenities and the chance to enjoy natural sights in the early hours make it a worthwhile consideration—just be prepared for an early alarm clock and some minor communication issues.

In essence, this tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who prioritize scenery over a guided experience and are looking for a peaceful, unspoiled island visit. If you’re after a quick, scenic escape and don’t mind some minor inconveniences, you’re likely to find it a rewarding experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 5:30 am, to maximize daylight and avoid crowds.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup is offered, but some reviews mention that it can be uncertain or delayed, so confirm your pick-up details beforehand.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 35, making it a relatively small group for a speedboat tour.

Are park entrance fees included?
No, the government or national park fees (~$4 per adult) are not included and need to be paid separately at the entrance.

Will I get time to snorkel?
Yes, snorkel equipment is provided, and you’ll have multiple opportunities to explore underwater at spots like Loh Samah Bay and Nui Bay.

Is food included?
A picnic lunch is included on Bamboo Island, plus snacks and seasonal fruit—great for refueling during the day.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for those comfortable with boat rides and swimming. Check with the provider if traveling with young children.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat. The tour provides life jackets and snorkeling gear, but personal items should be kept secure.

This tour offers a blend of breathtaking landscapes, snorkeling, and beach relaxation for travelers eager to experience the best of Krabi’s islands early in the day. While it has room for improvement in logistics and guidance clarity, it’s a solid choice for those wanting a scenic and less crowded island-hopping experience.