Phi Phi Island and Khai Island Full Day Tour with Lunch

Exploring the Phi Phi Island and Khai Island Full Day Tour with Lunch

If you’re dreaming of a day spent swimming in crystal-clear waters, snapping photos of iconic limestone cliffs, and lounging on sun-kissed beaches, the Phi Phi and Khai Island tour might catch your eye. We’ve looked into this popular excursion to see if it lives up to the hype—and whether it offers good value for your money.

What immediately draws attention is the promise of visiting famous spots like Maya Bay, known from The Beach, snorkeling among vibrant marine life, and enjoying a buffet lunch with panoramic views. Plus, the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off makes it an easier outing for travelers who prefer not to fuss with logistics. However, one notable concern is the negative review, which calls out some deceptive practices and unacceptable behavior that travelers should consider before booking.

This tour suits beach lovers eager to experience multiple islands in a single day, especially those who value the chance to snorkel and relax at serene beaches. But, it’s essential to weigh the experience against the mixed feedback, particularly if you’re hoping for a flawless day of adventure.

Good To Know

• Convenient logistics with hotel transfers make this tour accessible and stress-free
• Visits to iconic locations like Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach offer Instagram-worthy moments
• Buffet lunch at Khai Island provides a good value meal with scenic views
• Group size is limited to 15 travelers, offering a more intimate experience
• Snorkeling gear, life jackets, and park fees are included, reducing extra costs
• Mixed reviews highlight issues with transparency and customer service

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Nonthasak Marine Sirey Port

Your day begins around 8:45 AM at Nonthasak Marine in Phuket, where a complimentary coffee or tea sets the tone. The early start is typical for full-day tours, and the small group size (max 15) means you’ll likely get a more personalized experience. The cruise departs promptly at 9:00 AM, heading toward the Phi Phi Islands. Given that the journey takes around six hours of island exploration, expect a fair amount of time on the boat, with brief stops and opportunities for photography.

Maya Bay: The Star of the Show

First stop, Maya Bay, is the highlight for many. Made famous by the movie The Beach, this spot boasts crystal-clear waters and towering limestone cliffs. The tour offers a chance to swim, relax, and snap those picture-perfect shots. One traveler review mentions, “Absolutely fleeing deceptive practice and unacceptable behaviour,” which hints at some issues with tour conduct or transparency. Still, the scenery itself is undeniably stunning, and you’ll get around 15 minutes here—just enough to soak in the views without feeling rushed.

Loh Samah Bay and Viking Cave

Next, the cruise takes you past Loh Samah Bay, a quick sightseeing stop, giving you a different perspective of the dramatic coastline. The Viking Cave is also on the route—famous for its swallow nests, which are harvested for traditional Chinese medicine. Here, the tour allows around 20 minutes for a snorkeling session, giving you a chance to see vibrant fish and corals in the clear waters. This part of the trip is generally appreciated, especially since snorkeling gear and life jackets are included, making it accessible even for beginners.

Monkey Beach: A Cautionary Stop

The next stop is Monkey Beach. It’s well-known for its tame monkeys and relaxed vibe, but some travelers find it a mixed bag. One review notes the experience was “extremely disappointing,” suggesting that expectations around this stop might not be met or that some aspect of the experience was deceptive. Be prepared for the possibility of crowded conditions and a very brief visit.

Ko Phi Phi Don: The Main Island Experience

After exploring the smaller islands, the tour visits Ko Phi Phi Don, the most populated of the islands. Here, you’re free to stroll, shop, or simply breathe in the tropical vibes. The hour-long stop allows you to stretch your legs and take a breather from the boat. However, it’s notable that this part tends to be more about quick sightseeing rather than deep exploration.

Khai Nok Island: Lunch and Relaxation

At 1:00 PM, the group heads to Khai Nok Island, where a buffet lunch is served at Nonthasak Marine’s Restaurant. Travelers can enjoy seasonal fruits and soft drinks while soaking in views of the cool rock formations. Many find the lunch to be decent, with the scenery making up for any culinary shortcomings. Post-lunch, it’s beach time—snorkeling, sunbathing, or just relaxing.

End of the Day

By 4:00 PM, the boat heads back to Nonthasak Marine Sirey Port. The return journey caps off a full day of island-hopping—though some travelers might feel the experience was somewhat rushed or lacking in transparency, especially in light of the critical review that described the tour as “absolutely fleeing” and deceptive.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Inclusions are quite comprehensive: round-trip transfers from Phuket, soft drinks, fresh fruits, the buffet lunch, snorkeling masks, life jackets, park fees, and accident insurance. This makes the upfront price of $62.70 per person seem reasonable, especially considering the number of stops and activities packed into the day.

However, it’s important to note that personal expenses and gratuities are not included, so budget accordingly for tips or souvenirs. The small group size helps keep things intimate, but if the experience is marred by poor conduct or misleading practices, the value diminishes.

Transportation & Logistics

The pickup points cover major Phuket areas like Phuket Town, Kata, Karon, and Patong, which is convenient for most travelers staying in these hotspots. The tour starts early at 8:30 AM, so be prepared for an early day, but the included transfers help avoid the hassle of arranging your own transport.

The duration of around 7 to 8 hours means you’ll spend most of your day on the water or coastal stops, which is ideal for those wanting to maximize island time without overstaying. The small group size means fewer crowds onboard, but it also emphasizes the importance of good customer service, which one reviewer felt was lacking.

Realistic Expectations Based on Reviews

While the scenery on this tour is undoubtedly the main draw—stunning views of Maya Bay and the rock formations at Khai Island—not all experiences are smooth. One reviewer expressed frustration, calling the experience “absolutely fleeing” and citing deceptive practices and unacceptable behaviour. This kind of feedback suggests that travelers should be cautious, perhaps researching the tour provider further or reading multiple reviews before booking.

Others have mentioned that the tour’s value could be compromised if the conduct or the transparency about what’s included isn’t up to standard. It’s worth noting that, given the short stops and the packed itinerary, some travelers may find it rushed, especially if they want more time at certain spots.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for beach lovers and first-timers who want to tick off the major sights of Phi Phi and Khai Islands in a single day. It offers good access to iconic locations and includes snorkeling gear and park fees, which add to the convenience and value.

However, if you’re someone who prioritizes authenticity and transparency, or if you dislike crowded spots and hurried stops, you might want to explore other options or do some additional research. It’s also better suited for people who are comfortable with mixed reviews and understand that some parts of the experience could be more polished than others.

The Sum Up

The Phi Phi Island and Khai Island tour from Phuket offers a beautiful snapshot of Thailand’s famous islands, with gorgeous scenery, snorkeling opportunities, and a scenic buffet lunch. The small-group experience and inclusive costs make it a straightforward choice for travelers wanting a full day of island-hopping without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

However, be aware of the mixed feedback—some travelers found the experience to be rushed or less authentic than expected, and a negative review cites deceptive practices and poor conduct. If you’re flexible and open-minded, you’ll enjoy the scenery and the variety of stops, but do keep your expectations in check.

This tour provides value for money and memorable views—but it’s essential to do a bit of homework beforehand to ensure it matches your travel style and standards.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins around 8:30 AM with hotel pickups, and the boat departs at 9:00 AM from Nonthasak Marine Sirey Port.

How long is the entire tour?
Expect about 7 to 8 hours, including transfers, island stops, and the return to Phuket’s port in the late afternoon.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch with seasonal fruits and soft drinks is provided at Khai Island.

What sights will I visit?
You’ll visit Maya Bay, Loh Samah Bay, Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, Ko Phi Phi Don, and Khai Nok Island.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks and life jackets are included, making it easy for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers for a more personal experience.

Are there any hidden costs?
Park fees and snorkeling gear are included, but personal expenses, tips, and souvenirs are not.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but check the specific age restrictions or health considerations, especially for snorkeling or swimming.

If you’re considering this tour, weigh the stunning scenery against the possibility of rushed stops or less-than-transparent practices. It’s a solid way to see major sights in one day, especially if you’re on a budget and want to avoid logistical hassles. Just keep your expectations realistic and be prepared for a busy, sometimes imperfect, but ultimately scenic adventure.