One Way Phi Phi Island Cruise with Sea View Seats to/from Phuket

Introduction

Taking a ferry from Phuket to Phi Phi Island can be an exciting part of your Thai adventure, but choosing the right transfer makes all the difference. This review looks into the One Way Phi Phi Island Cruise with Sea View Seats, a budget-friendly option promising comfort and convenience — at least on paper.

What we love about this experience are the sea view VIP seats, the option for hotel pickup, and the simplicity of booking with a mobile ticket. However, a significant drawback is the one honest review that points out a complete failure in service, leaving some travelers stranded and disappointed. If you’re someone who values straightforward transportation with a dash of comfort, this might appeal — but proceed with caution and thorough planning.

This tour seems best suited for travelers seeking affordable, no-fuss transfer options without the need for a guided sightseeing experience or additional activities. If you’re ready to hop on a ferry from Phuket to Phi Phi, read on for the detailed breakdown.

Good To Know

• Comfortable transportation: Large ferries with indoor air-conditioned areas and outdoor decks.
• Convenient booking: Options for hotel pickup and mobile tickets.
• Limited included services: Focused on transfer only, with no guided tours or activities.
• Mixed reviews: One reviewer reports missing the trip entirely due to poor communication.
• Pricing: Very budget-friendly at $29 per person, but check reviews for reliability.
• Ideal for: Travelers wanting a straightforward, affordable transfer rather than a full-day tour.

What to Expect from the Ferry Transfer

The core of this experience is the ferry ride itself, which takes approximately 2 hours from Phuket to Phi Phi Island. The ferries are described as large, comfortable vessels equipped with air-conditioned indoor lounges and outdoor decks furnished with plastic chairs and benches. They also feature a stall selling hot drinks and snacks, making the journey more enjoyable.

The sea view VIP seats are marketed as a star feature here. These seats ostensibly provide a better vantage point and a more relaxed experience, which is handy given the sometimes crowded ferry decks. You’ll get to enjoy the scenic seascape during your ride, which is a highlight for many travelers.

Booking and Convenience

One of the main selling points is the pre-arranged transfer, which eliminates the hassle of buying ferry tickets at the pier. You can choose between two schedules — 8:30 am or 3:00 pm — making it flexible to fit your travel plans. The tour offers hotel pickup if you select that option, which simplifies the process, especially if you’re staying in a central Phuket location.

A mobile ticket makes it easy to show your reservation without printing, saving time and reducing fuss. The process seems straightforward, but the review from Mandy_F warns that the actual experience might not match expectations due to logistical failures.

Price and Value

At $29 per person, this transfer is very affordable, especially considering the included sea-view VIP seat and hotel pickup options. Compared to full-day tours or guided trips, this is a no-frills way to reach Phi Phi Island.

However, be aware that the value of the service hinges heavily on the reliability of the operator. The review from Mandy_F highlights the importance of confirming your pickup time and understanding that the price mainly covers transportation, not activities or sightseeing. For travelers on a tight budget who prioritize convenience, this can be a good deal—if everything goes smoothly.

Authentic Insights from Guest Experiences

While the majority of reviews are absent or neutral, the one detailed review casts a long shadow over this tour’s reputation. Mandy_F recounts that she did not get picked up and missed the ferry altogether because her driver was unreachable, and the operator’s phone was off. She mentions that she paid for nothing, and her plans were ruined, emphasizing the risk of booking this particular transfer without further verification.

This highlights a vital consideration: reliability. It’s crucial to confirm pickup arrangements beforehand and perhaps consider alternative operators if peace of mind is a priority.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Pickup and Arrival

If you opt for the hotel pickup, you’ll be collected in a basic vehicle, potentially with other travelers. The timing of pickup can be crucial — arriving late or missing the window could mean missing the ferry entirely, as the review underscores.

Ferry Ride

Once on board, you’ll find the ferries spacious enough for long comfort, with indoor air-conditioned areas providing relief from the tropical heat. The outdoor decks are perfect for travelers who enjoy fresh air and a panoramic view, especially during the calm sea conditions.

Sea View Seats

The VIP sea view seats are positioned to maximize visual enjoyment, giving you a better vantage point of the ocean and islands along the route. These seats are marketed as more relaxing, but keep in mind that actual seat quality and comfort may vary, and they don’t necessarily come with extra amenities beyond the view.

Duration and Timing

The journey takes about 2 hours, which is fairly typical for ferry transfers in this region. The convenience of selecting either a morning or afternoon schedule allows flexibility, but travelers should be prepared for potential delays or logistical hiccups.

What’s Not Included

Apart from the transfer, there’s no mention of guided commentary, food, or additional amenities. Basic travel insurance is included, which adds a small layer of security, but you’ll need to budget for meals or extra snacks if desired.

Reliability and Potential Risks

The sole review available is a stark warning. Mandy_F’s experience of missed pickup and inability to contact the operator underscores that this service might lack consistent communication or reliable logistics. For travelers who depend on punctuality and clear communication, this could be a concern.

Before booking, it’s advisable to confirm pickup arrangements directly with the operator and consider whether this service suits your comfort level with potential surprises.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This transfer is best suited for budget-conscious travelers who want a simple, no-frills way to get from Phuket to Phi Phi. It’s ideal if you already have other arrangements on Phi Phi or plan to book a separate tour once there.

If you’re looking for a full guided experience with sightseeing and activities, or if you prefer guaranteed punctuality, you might want to explore other options. Given the one negative review, it’s also wise to double-check recent feedback or consider booking with a provider known for reliable service.

The Sum Up

For travelers eager to cut down on costs and do not mind the risk of logistical hiccups, this One Way Phi Phi Island Cruise with Sea View Seats offers an affordable and straightforward way to reach one of Thailand’s most famous islands. The comfortable ferry, sea view seating, and hotel pickup option are definite plus points, making the journey more enjoyable than a basic ferry ticket.

However, the lack of a strong reputation for reliability means you should stay alert when confirming your booking and pickup times. The singular review of a complete no-show is a reminder that sometimes, paying a little extra for more trusted services can save your trip from unnecessary stress.

This experience could suit independent travelers looking for an inexpensive transfer, especially if they are prepared to troubleshoot or have contingency plans. For anyone valuing peace of mind and punctuality, researching alternative providers might be a better route.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the pickup option at booking, your hotel in Phuket will be serviced, simplifying the transfer process.

What is the duration of the ferry ride?
The ferry ride from Phuket to Phi Phi Island takes approximately 2 hours.

Are there different schedule options?
Yes, you can choose between 8:30 am and 3:00 pm departures, providing some flexibility.

What seats are included?
The tour offers Sea View VIP seats, which are supposed to provide better views and added comfort.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers 1-way transfer (hotel pickup if selected), basic travel insurance, and the ferry with sea view seats.

Are snacks or drinks included?
No, there are stalls selling hot drinks and snacks on board, but they are not included in the price.

What if my plans change or I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure for a full refund.

Is this a reliable service?
There’s limited feedback, but one review warns that the service might not be reliable, so confirm your arrangements ahead of time.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Budget travelers seeking a simple, affordable transfer without extra guided services or activities.

Can I book this for a return trip?
This is a one-way transfer, so you’ll need to arrange your return separately, either with another service or your own plans.