Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands Escape by Luxury Catamaran

Exploring Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands by Luxury Catamaran: A Practical Review

This tour promises a full day of island-hopping adventure around Krabi’s most iconic spots, including Phi Phi Leh, Maya Bay, and Bamboo Island, all aboard a luxurious catamaran. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, we’ve gathered plenty of insights to help you decide if it fits your travel style.

What stands out immediately are the incredible scenic stops—Bamboo Island’s pristine sands, the famous Maya Bay where The Beach was filmed, and the chance to snorkel in vibrant waters. The inclusion of return transfers, snorkeling gear, and a traditional Thai lunch adds convenience and value. However, one potential concern is the group size, which some reviewers say can feel crowded and less ‘luxury’ than the name suggests. This tour appears most suited for travelers seeking a well-organized day out with plenty of sightseeing and minimal hassle.

Good To Know

• Stunning scenery at Bamboo Island and Maya Bay offers perfect photo opportunities.
• Snorkeling gear and guided commentary enhance the underwater and on-land experience.
• All logistics are handled, including hotel pickup, making it easy to relax.
• Group size could be large, which may detract from the sense of exclusivity.
• Lunch is served at a beachside restaurant, though opinions on its quality vary.
• Weather dependency means the trip can be canceled in bad conditions.

The Tour: What to Expect on a Day of Island-Hopping

This 9-hour excursion from Krabi is designed for ease and enjoyment, covering some of Thailand’s most famous islands. The day begins with hotel pickup (depending on your location), usually between 7:30 and 8:30 am, and a comfortable transfer to the departure point. The journey kicks off around 9:00 am with a friendly greeting from your English-speaking guide, setting a relaxed tone for the day.

Bamboo Island: A Tropical Paradise

The first stop on this adventure is Bamboo Island, a highlight for many travelers. Known locally as Koh Pai, this tiny island near Phi Phi Don packs in some of the most postcard-worthy scenery in the Andaman Sea. Expect white sands and turquoise waters that seem almost unreal. The island is roughly 600m by 700m, shaped like a heart, and usually less crowded than other spots, giving you a perfect chance to swim, sunbathe, or walk along the shoreline.

According to reviews, the island’s natural beauty lives up to expectations. Visitors love the chance to relax in a peaceful setting. One reviewer notes, “The views on the islands are marvelous – and that’s the essence.” The two-hour stop offers enough time to explore without feeling rushed, with admission included in the tour.

Lunch and Free Time at Phi Phi Don

Following Bamboo Island, you’ll arrive at Ton Sai Bay on Phi Phi Don around midday. Here, the tour includes a beachside Thai lunch at a restaurant, giving you a taste of local flavors while overlooking the sea. The meal is often described as a simple but satisfying break—although some reviews mention the buffet being more cattle-market than traditional Thai cuisine. Still, the convenience of included lunch means no extra expense and minimal planning.

Post-lunch, you get about 1 hour and 30 minutes of free time to explore the lively island, relax on the beach, or window shop. This pause offers a good balance between structured activity and free exploration.

Exploring Phi Phi Leh: Pileh Lagoon and Monkey Beach

Afterward, the boat takes you to Phi Phi Leh, the smaller island made famous by The Beach. The highlight here is the Pileh Lagoon, a calm, sheltered bay perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Guided commentary helps you understand the significance of sites like Viking Cave and Monkey Beach, where you might see wild monkeys and learn about the cave’s history.

This stop lasts about an hour, with snorkeling equipment included, allowing you to glimpse the vibrant marine life. Some travelers may also opt for a long-tail boat ride (additional cost), which offers a different perspective of the surrounding islands.

Maya Bay: The Iconic Film Location

Finally, the tour arrives at Maya Bay, the film set of The Beach. By 3:00 pm, you’ll have an hour to soak up the atmosphere, swim in the clear waters, or simply relax on the beach. This spot is undoubtedly the most famous of the day, often drawing crowds, but it remains a must-see for many visitors.

The reviews mention that “the views are marvelous,” but some also note that the crowds here can diminish the tranquility, so early in the day or in the off-season might be better. Admission is included, but note that the bay can be busy, especially during peak times.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour are return transfers, the services of a licensed English-speaking guide, snorkeling gear, and a Thai lunch. The boat itself is described as a luxury catamaran, but some reviews suggest the experience may not always match the “deluxe” label.

Not included are any additional food or beverages beyond the provided lunch and snacks, plus personal purchases. Weather and sea conditions are outside the tour’s control, so cancellations are possible if the waters turn rough.

Practicalities and Considerations

Travelers should be aware that group sizes can reach up to 45 people, which some find less intimate than expected. One reviewer mentioned feeling cramped with 60 to 70 people on an uncomfortable boat, so the actual experience might vary depending on the day. Comfortable clothing, sun protection, and waterproof gear are highly recommended, as you’ll be in and out of the water and exposed to the sun for most of the day.

For those with health issues or mobility concerns, it’s worth noting that the tour advises against participation for children under 3, pregnant women, or individuals over 75. Plus, those with heart conditions or musculoskeletal problems should consider whether this tour suits their health.

The Authentic Experience: What You Should Know

The guided commentary adds value by providing context about the islands’ history and natural features, making the trip more than just sightseeing. Guide knowledge and care are often praised, with reviewers citing attentive hosts and helpful staff.

The snorkeling equipment enables you to explore underwater life, which many find the highlight of the day. The waters surrounding the islands are clear, and while the marine environment may not be pristine, there’s still plenty to see beneath the surface.

The lunch at the beach restaurant, although sometimes described as average, still offers a chance to enjoy local flavors without leaving the island. For those seeking a more authentic or diverse culinary experience, additional meals or snacks might be necessary.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip works well for travelers who want a full-day adventure with minimal hassle—thanks to included transfers and guided commentary. It’s ideal if you’re after stunning photo ops, snorkeling, and iconic sights like Maya Bay.

However, those expecting a luxury experience might be disappointed, especially if group size or comfort levels matter. It’s better suited for those willing to accept some crowds and variability in food quality for the chance to visit several must-see locations in one day.

Final Thoughts

The Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands Escape by Luxury Catamaran offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation. The highlights are undeniably the panoramic views, the chance to snorkel in lively waters, and the chance to walk on the sands of Bamboo Island and Maya Bay.

While it might not be the most exclusive or private trip, the convenience and coverage of key sights make it a sound choice for many travelers. The included lunch and transfers add value, making it a hassle-free way to explore popular islands without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

Whether you’re a first-timer eager for the classic Thai island experience or someone looking for a reliable day out, this tour provides a solid introduction to the beauty of the Phi Phi archipelago.

FAQ: Practical Questions About the Tour

What time does the tour start?
It departs around 9:00 am, with hotel pickups starting earlier depending on your location.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes return transfers by air-conditioned minivan from most Phuket hotels.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, giving ample time at each stop for sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, shorts, a light T-shirt, beach towel, sunblock, sun cap, sunglasses, camera, and light deck shoes are recommended.

Can children participate?
Children 11 and younger must be accompanied by an adult, but those 3 and under, pregnant women, and persons over 75 are not permitted.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if conditions are unsafe, the trip may be canceled, with no refunds.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, all snorkeling gear—masks, snorkels, goggles, and life jackets—are included.

Are there food options besides the provided lunch?
Additional food and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or extra beverages.

Can I extend my time at any stop?
The schedule is fixed, but free time at Phi Phi Don allows for some flexibility if you manage your time carefully.

In summary, this tour offers a well-rounded day exploring some of Thailand’s most beautiful islands with convenience and guided insights. It’s ideal for travelers who value scenery, snorkeling, and easy logistics, even if crowds and comfort levels vary from person to person.