Phi Phi: 7 Island Longtail Boat Snorkeling Tour with Sunset

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of floating over clear waters, spotting colorful marine life, and relaxing on picture-perfect beaches, this Phi Phi 7 Island Longtail Boat Tour might just tick all those boxes. While we haven’t personally set sail on this exact trip, countless travelers rave about its mix of stunning scenery, fun snorkeling stops, and a memorable sunset to cap the day.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the small-group size of up to 20 people promises a more intimate vibe. Second, the value for money is notable, with lunch, snorkeling gear, fresh fruits, and even GoPro photos included. Lastly, the diverse itinerary takes you to iconic sites like Maya Bay and Monkey Beach, offering authentic island adventures.

A potential drawback? The tour’s reliance on weather and sea conditions means that if storms roll in, your plans might shift or get shortened. That said, the itinerary is flexible enough that most travelers still find this a worthwhile trip.

This tour suits adventurous travelers, beach lovers, and snorkelers looking for a comprehensive, budget-friendly way to explore the Phi Phi Islands without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Good To Know

• Small-group experience maximizes comfort and intimacy.
• Diverse stops include Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, and Pileh Lagoon.
• All-inclusive with lunch, snorkeling gear, water, fruits, and GoPro photos.
• Flexible schedule subject to weather, with the possibility of cancellation for safety.
• Great value for the price, especially considering the number of locations visited.
• Ideal for those seeking authentic island experiences and vibrant marine life.

An in-depth look at the tour

Booking and Pricing: Is it worth it?

At just $35 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. The price includes lunch, snorkeling equipment, water, fruits, and a GoPro photo service—which many reviews highlight as a nice touch. The small group size keeps things cozy, avoiding the chaos of large, crowded tours.

Given the numerous stops and activities packed into around 8 hours, travelers often feel they get good value. Many reviews mention that the food — a simple yet tasty chicken and rice lunch — is a highlight, alongside the endless opportunities to snorkel and explore.

Departure and Meeting Point

The tour departs at 10:30 AM, with a meeting point in front of McDonald’s inside Phi Phi Market (Tonsai area). It’s important to note that the tour doesn’t pick up from hotels or the pier directly, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting spot with some planning, especially if you’re staying elsewhere on the island.

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Small Group and Equipment

With a cap of 20 guests, you’ll likely find less waiting and more personalized attention from guides. All snorkeling gear, life jackets, and water are provided, so you’re well-equipped to enjoy the underwater sights. The inclusion of GoPro photos is an added bonus, capturing your memorable moments without extra hassle.

Itinerary Breakdown

Monkey Beach

The tour kicks off with a visit to Monkey Beach, where you’ll encounter playful monkeys and enjoy the natural surroundings. Many reviewers, like Liam, mention the guided snorkeling around this area as a highlight, with the chance to spot a variety of fish and even baby sharks.

However, some note that the guides don’t always provide extensive commentary here, so don’t expect a detailed history—just lots of fun and photo opportunities.

Viking Cave

Next up is Viking Cave, a mysterious spot filled with ancient drawings. While you might not get a deep explanation, it’s a chance to marvel at the cave’s uniqueness and learn about its legends. Some guests, like Chloe, appreciated the quick stop here as part of the overall adventure.

Pileh Lagoon & Loh Samah Bay

These lagoon stops are often described as breathtaking. The crystal-clear waters of Pileh Lagoon are perfect for swimming and snorkeling among vibrant coral and fish. Many reviewers highlight the beauty of the underwater world here, with one even mentioning seeing reef sharks.

Loh Samah Bay offers similar underwater delights, with coral reefs teeming with marine life, making it a favorite for snorkelers.

Maya Bay

No trip to Phi Phi is complete without visiting Maya Bay, famed for its role in “The Beach.” The tour allows a brief visit—though some reviews mention the 1-hour limit can feel rushed, especially when the boat schedule is tight. The fee for entry (around 400 THB) is paid in cash and isn’t included in the ticket price, so bring some money.

Despite the crowds that often swarm Maya Bay, visiting early in the day or on a smaller tour like this means fewer people. Still, some guests like Danielly and William note that the visit is quick but worth it for the iconic scenery.

Koh Phai & Sunset

After Maya Bay, the tour heads to Koh Phai, a quieter island ideal for relaxing on soft sands and taking in peaceful vibes. Many appreciate the chance to unwind away from crowded hotspots.

The day ends with a spectacular sunset from the boat, painting the sky with warm hues. Guests can capture this magical moment and reflect on a full day of island exploration.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

One of the tour’s biggest draws is snorkeling. Multiple reviews mention the vibrant fish, reef sharks, and plankton (sometimes elusive due to weather). The guides, despite their limited English, are praised for their friendliness and trying to maximize your underwater experience.

Food and Refreshments

The included lunch is described as simple but tasty—chicken with rice—while plenty of water and fresh fruits keep you hydrated. Reviewers like Megan and Kieran appreciate the well-organized meals and the flexibility to enjoy snacks throughout the day.

Some travelers mention that the lunch could be more varied, but overall, it provides enough energy for the long day.

Weather and Safety

Weather can be unpredictable, especially during the monsoon season from May to December. Many reviews recount trips in rain or choppy seas, yet most still enjoyed the experience. The tour staff prioritize safety during rough conditions and will cancel or reschedule if necessary.

Guests are advised to bring sun protection, waterproof bags, and extra water, especially if seas are rough.

Group Size and Atmosphere

The small-group nature fosters a more relaxed environment, perfect for photos, casual conversations, and flexibility. Many reviewers mention the guides’ friendliness and humor, which add to the enjoyment, even if some comment on language barriers.

Who Would Enjoy This?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to explore multiple islands in one day, snorkelers looking for diverse marine life, and photo enthusiasts wanting iconic scenery without the crowds. Its affordability and inclusions make it suitable for backpackers or budget-conscious visitors who value authentic experiences.

Final thoughts

This Phi Phi 7 Island Longtail Boat Tour is a solid choice if you want to see some of the most famous and beautiful spots in the area without spending a fortune. The small-group format, combined with a packed itinerary of beaches, caves, and reef stops, offers excellent value.

While weather can influence the day’s flow and the experience at Maya Bay tends to be rushed, most guests find the trip rewarding. The inclusion of delicious food, snorkeling gear, and GoPro photos ensures you won’t leave empty-handed—except possibly with a sun-kissed glow and a camera full of underwater memories.

If your goal is to enjoy the authentic charm of Phi Phi Islands, snorkel vibrant reefs, and end the day watching a stunning sunset, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate a relaxed, intimate vibe and are okay with some unpredictability due to weather.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, a simple but tasty chicken and rice lunch is included, along with fresh fruits and water.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and a waterproof bag to protect your valuables.

Are there any extra fees?
Yes, a 400 THB national park fee applies when visiting Maya Bay or Koh Phai, paid in cash. This fee covers all park entries during the trip.

How long is the tour?
The full-day trip lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 10:30 AM and returning in the evening.

Is it suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for babies under 1 year, pregnant women, or people over 70, mainly due to boat and water activities.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours run rain or shine, but if sea conditions are unsafe, the activity might be canceled or rescheduled. Refunds are available if canceled.

Do I need to arrange my own transport to the meeting point?
Yes, you need to get yourself to the meeting spot in front of McDonald’s in Tonsai Bay. The tour does not provide hotel pickups.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

Final words

This tour offers a well-rounded, budget-friendly way to experience the best of Phi Phi Islands in one day. Its combination of iconic beaches, snorkeling opportunities, and peaceful islands makes it a strong pick for adventurous travelers and beach lovers alike.

While weather may be a wildcard, the overall value and authentic vibe make it a worthwhile addition to your Thailand itinerary. If you’re seeking a fun, scenic, and social day out on the water, this tour is likely to leave you with plenty of unforgettable memories—plus some great photos to show off later.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby