Phi Phi 7 Islands Full-Day Tour From Phi Phi by Longtail Boat

Introduction

If you’re heading to Krabi or Phi Phi and love the idea of exploring multiple islands in a single day, the Phi Phi 7 Islands Full-Day Tour by Longtail Boat might catch your eye. This tour promises to pack in all the top sights—beautiful beaches, snorkelling spots, and incredible viewpoints—organized into a convenient 9-hour adventure.

What we love about this experience is its value for money, with a price tag around $28 per person, making it accessible for most travelers. The variety of stops—from Monkey Beach to Maya Bay—gives you a well-rounded taste of Phi Phi’s famous landscapes. Plus, the opportunity to snorkel multiple times and spot exotic fish, sharks, and even luminous plankton after sunset is definitely a highlight.

One thing to keep in mind is the long day on a traditional longtail boat, which might be tiring, especially if you’re not used to boat travel or prone to seasickness. Still, this tour suits travelers who want an all-in-one experience without breaking the bank and don’t mind a full day of adventure.

This tour is best for those eager to see the most acclaimed spots around Phi Phi in a single day, especially if they love marine activities and stunning scenery, and are comfortable with a packed schedule.

Good To Know

• Excellent value for a full day of island hopping and snorkeling.
• Multiple stops including Maya Bay, Bamboo Island, and Shark Point, offering diverse experiences.
• Snorkeling in several locations, with chances to see exotic fish, sharks, and glowing plankton.
• Longtail boat journey provides scenic views but can be physically tiring.
• Delicious snacks and lunch included, but bring extra snacks if you’re hungry.
• Group size is limited to a maximum of 30 travelers, balancing intimacy and social vibe.

What to Expect from the Tour

Once you arrive at the meeting point near the Marlin Statue in Ao Nang, Krabi, you’ll hop aboard a traditional longtail boat. The tour begins at 9:30 am, with the schedule generally adhering to the planned itinerary, although some reviews mention minor delays. The guide, although sometimes limited in English, tends to be helpful and informative during the day.

Monkey Beach

The first stop is Monkey Beach, where playful macaques frolic on white sands. Many travelers find this a fun, if slightly chaotic, introduction to the day. As one reviewer put it, “the tour was amazing—we saw wonderful beaches and snorkeled three times.” It’s a good chance for some quick wildlife spotting and to stretch your legs after the boat ride. Just be cautious with food and belongings, as monkeys here are quite curious.

Bamboo Island

Next is Bamboo Island, a highlight for many. Expect emerald green waters perfect for snorkeling, with plenty of vibrant fish and coral. Multiple reviews mention how much they loved the crystal-clear waters here—some say it’s their favorite stop. The tour offers about an hour here, giving plenty of time to swim, relax, and take photos of the stunning scenery. One traveler noted, “beautiful scenery throughout” and “the perfect spot for snorkeling.”

Viking Cave and Pi Leh Lagoon

From Bamboo Island, you’ll cruise over to Viking Cave, famous for its swift nests and ancient paintings. While the cave itself isn’t usually open for exploration, it’s impressive to see from the boat. Then, you’ll visit Pi Leh Lagoon, where towering limestone cliffs surround your boat in a spectacular setting. Reviewers mention that the lagoon is a “beautiful and serene” spot, ideal for photos. Be prepared for some snorkeling here if patience allows, though some travelers noted that the visibility can vary depending on weather and tide conditions.

Maya Bay

Of course, no trip to Phi Phi is complete without a stop at Maya Bay, made famous by the film The Beach. The scenery is breathtaking, with white sand and dramatic cliffs. Our sources mention that timing is critical here—during low tide, entering the bay can be tricky or restricted, which has disappointed some visitors. One guest shared that during their visit, the bay “wasn’t at its best” because of low tide, and they couldn’t enter Pi-Leh Lagoon as hoped. Still, even viewing from the boat is stunning, and many agree it’s a must-see.

Shark Point

Next, the boat reaches Shark Point, where black-tipped reef sharks are sometimes spotted, especially during snorkeling. Several reviews highlight the excitement of seeing sharks in their natural habitat, though some note that sightings depend on luck. It’s a safe spot for snorkelers to observe marine life without venturing into deep water.

Sunset and Bioluminescent Plankton

As the day winds down, the tour offers a rare chance to see bioluminescent plankton after sunset. Travelers say it’s a mesmerizing experience, watching glowing specks shimmer in the water. One reviewer described it as “a magical end to a long day.” Be aware that the visibility of plankton can vary based on weather and tide, and some found the experience underwhelming, just seeing faint specks in the water.

Food and Refreshments

Throughout the day, you’ll be served a lunch box, with options like fried rice, and plenty of fruit and cold drinks to keep your energy up. Several reviews mention that the provided snacks and lunch are simple but satisfying, with some suggesting bringing extra snacks if you’re particularly hungry. The tour guide keeps everyone refreshed, but if you’re a gourmet foodie, you might find the meal a bit basic.

Transportation & Group Size

The traditional longtail boat offers scenic views and an authentic Thai experience but can be a bit uncomfortable after a few hours, especially on the less cushioned seats. The maximum group size is around 30 travelers, striking a balance between socializing and feeling like part of an intimate adventure. Some reviews mention delays and communication hiccups, but generally, the organized nature of the trip keeps things running smoothly.

Pricing & Value Analysis

At around $28 per person, this tour offers significant bang for your buck. It covers all major highlights of the Phi Phi Islands, including multiple snorkeling stops, gorgeous beaches, and scenic viewpoints. Plus, the inclusion of snacks, drinks, and a lunch box adds to its value. While some reviews note delays and a lengthy schedule, most agree that the experience is worth the price—especially considering the variety of sites visited and activities included.

Authentic Experiences & Hidden Gems

Several travelers appreciated the chance to take more time than most tours allow, which made their snorkeling and photography much more enjoyable. The guides, despite some language limitations, are generally friendly and helpful. The opportunity to witness the glowing plankton after sunset is a unique, memorable feature that sets this tour apart.

Drawbacks & Considerations

While the experience is largely positive, a few guests mention issues like late departures, partial snorkeling visibility, or less engaging guides. Some felt the tour was a bit rushed at times, especially during popular stops like Maya Bay or Pi Leh Lagoon. The boat ride, while scenic, can be tiring, especially if you’re not accustomed to long hours on water. Also, the national park fee (400 THB per adult, 200 THB per child) isn’t included, so budget for that extra expense.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This adventure is ideal for travelers on a budget who want to see the main attractions of Phi Phi without spending a fortune. It suits those who enjoy snorkeling, stunning scenery, and don’t mind a long, somewhat busy day. Families with older children will appreciate the mix of wildlife, beaches, and photo opportunities, though pregnant women or people with certain health conditions are advised to consider safety and comfort.

If you’re after a quick, no-fuss overview of Phi Phi’s best, or love marine adventures like snorkelling and seeing sharks or plankton, this tour ticks most boxes. For those chasing a more relaxed pace or seeking deeper wildlife encounters, you might prefer a smaller or more specialized trip.

The Sum Up

This full-day Phi Phi 7 Islands tour offers excellent value for money, especially for first-time visitors eager to tick off all the must-see spots. It’s a packed, scenic journey filled with opportunities to snorkel in clear waters, capture stunning photos, and enjoy unspoiled beaches like Bamboo Island. The guide’s friendliness and the chance to see bioluminescent plankton after sunset add memorable touches to the experience.

The experience is best suited for energetic travelers who don’t mind a long day on a boat, are looking for a rundown of Phi Phi’s highlights, and appreciate authentic, budget-friendly adventures. While delays and some weather-dependent moments can be minor setbacks, overall, this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and fun at a very reasonable price.

If you love marine life, stunning vistas, and a lively group atmosphere, this trip will likely leave you with plenty of stories and photos to cherish. Just pack some extra snacks, bring your waterproof camera, and prepare for a day filled with natural beauty.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 9:30 am, with some reviews mentioning slight delays but generally sticking close to the scheduled start.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You should meet near the Marlin Statue in Ao Nang, Krabi, at the designated meeting point.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a lunch box with rice and fruit is provided along with snacks and cold drinks throughout the day.

How many stops are there?
You’ll visit around six main sites, including Monkey Beach, Bamboo Island, Viking Cave, Pi Leh Lagoon, Maya Bay, and Shark Point.

Are there snorkeling opportunities?
Absolutely, most stops are great for snorkeling, and you’ll have multiple chances to see marine life, including fish and sharks.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children aged 4-10 are eligible for child tickets. However, the long boat rides and full-day schedule might be tiring for younger kids.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, waterproof camera, extra snacks if needed, and towels for swimming.

Is there a national park fee?
Yes, the entry fee is 400 THB per adult and 200 THB per child, payable at the entrance.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

Can I see plankton if I go later?
The glowing plankton are visible after sunset, but visibility depends on tide and weather conditions, which some reviewers found inconsistent.

This comprehensive tour offers a reliable way to explore the iconic Phi Phi Islands in a single day, blending adventure, scenery, and marine encounters for a memorable experience.