Phi Phi and 4 Islands sunset tour plus BBQ Dinner and Plankton

Traveling through Thailand’s stunning islands is often a highlight for visitors, and tours like this one promise an action-packed day with unforgettable scenery. We’ve reviewed the Phi Phi and 4 Islands Sunset Tour offered by Krabi Blue Sky, and while it has its moments, it’s not without some notable drawbacks. Whether you’re considering this trip for the incredible views or the value it offers, here’s what you need to know.

What we like about this tour are the diverse stops, the included meals, and the potential to see bioluminescent plankton at Railay Beach. The well-organized itinerary covers popular sights like Maya Bay and Bamboo Island, with several photo opportunities that will make your camera happy. The BBQ dinner at sunset on Poda Island is a highlight for many, offering a relaxing way to end your day with delicious food and stunning scenery.

A key consideration is that the experience can feel cramped and rushed, especially given the long day on the water and the boat’s limited space. Plus, some travelers have found the food quality disappointing, and issues with the check-in process can dampen the start of your adventure. This tour is best suited for those who don’t mind a busy schedule and are after cost-effective access to major sights and a memorable sunset.

Good To Know

1 / 5

• Diverse itinerary featuring iconic islands, lagoons, and snorkeling spots
• Included BBQ dinner and food options cater to various dietary needs
• Short stops mean quick visits, ideal for sightseeing but less for relaxing on the beach
• Crowded boat experience can impact comfort, especially during peak season
• Good value for the price, given the number of locations visited and meals included
• Potential for bioluminescent plankton viewing at Railay Beach adds a magical touch

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Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Maya Bay: The Iconic Film Location

Starting early in the day, the trip kicks off with a visit to Maya Bay, the most famous stop thanks to the film “The Beach” starring Leonardo DiCaprio. With admission included, you’ll get about an hour to marvel at the towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Expect pictures that could make you feel like you’re walking into a postcard. However, the crowds here can be intense, especially during the high season, which can detract from the tranquility.

Pileh Bay: Surrounded by Limestone Cliffs

Next, the boat heads to Pileh Bay, a lagoon famed for its calm, turquoise waters enclosed by dramatic limestone formations. Here, you’ll spend around 45 minutes swimming or just soaking in the view. This spot is perfect for a quick swim or snapping some photos, with free admission making it a good value. Beware that the waters, while inviting, can get crowded as well.

Viking Cave: A Unique Photo Stop

The Viking Cave is less about getting inside (since access is restricted) and more about capturing the unusual sight of the cave’s walls inhabited by nesting birds. It’s a brief 20-minute stop, but it offers a chance to snap some shots of the cave’s distinctive silhouette.

Monkey Beach: A Quick Monkey Encounter

A 20-minute stop at Monkey Beach provides a chance to see the monkeys that have made this small patch of sand their home. While entertaining, some travelers have noted that the monkeys can be quite aggressive when food or drinks are involved, so keep your belongings secure.

Bamboo Island: White Sand & Clear Waters

The highlight for many is Bamboo Island, where you’ll have about an hour to relax on the soft white sands and swim in the stunningly clear waters. This spot is perfect for snorkeling, with vibrant marine life often visible just off the shore. Admission here is included, making it a worthwhile stop for beach lovers.

Chicken Island & Tup Island: Perfect Photo Opportunities

Chicken Island offers a quick 15-minute photo stop, where the island’s unique rock formation resembles a chicken’s head. Then, Tup Island presents a chance to walk across the sandbar that appears at low tide, connecting it with Tang Ming Island. The 15-minute stop here is brief but memorable, especially with the low tide views.

Poda Island: Sunset & BBQ Dinner

The final highlight is Poda Island, where you’ll spend around 45 minutes enjoying the sunset. Here, a BBQ buffet dinner is served, giving you a chance to unwind while watching the sun dip below the horizon. The setting is picturesque, with white sands and emerald waters, making it a popular spot for photos.

Railay Beach: Bioluminescence & Nighttime Magic

The tour concludes with a visit to Railay Beach, famous for its bioluminescent organisms. Spending about an hour here offers a unique opportunity to witness this natural glow, making it a fitting end to a busy day.

What You Need to Know About the Experience

Transportation & Group Size

The tour uses speedboats for quick transfers between spots, which helps maximize your sightseeing time. However, the boat’s interior can feel cramped, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a more spacious experience. The group size, capped at 35 travelers, can still feel crowded during peak times, and some reviews mention that the check-in process was chaotic and disorganized, setting a hectic tone for the day.

Meals & Food Quality

Meals are included, with a vegetarian and halal options available for both lunch and dinner. The BBQ dinner on Poda Island is a key selling point, offering various meats and vegetarian choices, along with snacks, fresh fruits, and bottled water throughout the day. That said, one reviewer described the food as “bad,” so your expectations should be realistic—fancy fine dining this is not.

Pricing & Value

At $91.25 per person, the price is in line with other day tours in the area, especially considering the meals, snorkeling gear, and admission fees included. Still, the additional park fee of 400 THB ($11) and Maya Bay’s entrance fee can add to the total cost if you’re paying out of pocket. For those looking for a budget-friendly option that hits most of the major sights, this deal offers reasonable value, though some may prefer a more relaxed experience.

The Reviews Speak

One traveler, Catherine_M, flagged the chaotic check-in process and the long, crowded boat ride, which suggests this trip might not be ideal for those seeking comfort or a leisurely pace. She also mentioned bad food, which could be disappointing if you’re expecting a memorable meal experience. But she did note the beautiful scenery—which is, after all, the main draw.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for budget-conscious travelers eager to tick off major sights like Maya Bay, Bamboo Island, and the famous limestone cliffs. It suits those who don’t mind quick stops and crowds but want an organized day with meals included. If you’re interested in snorkeling, photography, and seeing bioluminescence, it offers a good, if hectic, way to pack in the highlights.

However, if you prefer more relaxed, less crowded experiences or higher-quality meals, you might want to consider alternative options or private tours.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered as part of this tour, but the initial process may be chaotic as some reviewers experienced delays.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 10:30 am and ending with your return from Railay Beach.

Are meals and drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes vegetarian and halal lunch, BBQ dinner, snacks, fresh fruits, and bottled water.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, waterproof bag for valuables, swimwear, and a towel. The tour provides snorkeling gear, but you can bring your own if preferred.

How crowded is the boat?
The boat can feel cramped, especially in peak season, with up to 35 travelers onboard, which can diminish comfort.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, national park fees are 400 THB per adult and 200 THB per child, payable on-site. Maya Bay also charges an entrance fee of THB400.

Can I see bioluminescent plankton?
Yes, at Railay Beach, the tour offers a chance to observe bioluminescence in the water, a rare and magical experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the long boat rides and quick stops; it may be tiring for very young children.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

The Phi Phi and 4 Islands Sunset Tour offers a packed day of sightseeing, delicious food, and the chance to see some of Thailand’s most famous spots. Its strength lies in the variety of locations visited and the value for money, especially with meals included. That said, the experience can be crowded and rushed, and the comfort level on the boat may leave some wishing for more space and a slower pace.

If you’re someone who thrives on a full itinerary, enjoys capturing photos, and doesn’t mind busy boat rides, this tour will satisfy your curiosity and provide plenty of Instagram-worthy moments. But if relaxation and high-quality dining are your priorities, you might want to explore other options, possibly private or smaller group tours, for a more relaxed experience.

This tour is a solid choice for travelers keen to see the major sights without breaking the bank, provided your expectations are aligned with the lively, sometimes hectic, nature of group island-hopping adventures.