Phi Phi Island Speedboat Tour from Krabi

An Honest Look at the Phi Phi Island Speedboat Tour from Krabi

Thinking about exploring the iconic Phi Phi Islands? This speedboat tour from Krabi promises a fun-filled day of scenic sights, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of opportunities for adventure. With perfect reviews and a steady reputation, it’s a popular choice for travelers eager to see these famed islands without the fuss of a multi-day trip.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the personalized small-group experience, the expert local guides (including some standout personalities like Patty), and the chance to snorkel in vibrant waters. Plus, the carefully planned itinerary balances popular highlights with quieter moments.

A potential drawback? The marine park entrance fee of 400 THB isn’t included, so budget for that cash expense. Also, as with any busy tour, crowds can gather at some spots, although the guides seem adept at keeping groups feeling relaxed and less congested.

This adventure is ideal for couples, families, and anyone craving a mix of relaxation and adventure. If you’re looking for a day trip that combines stunning scenery, lively guides, and excellent value, this tour could be your perfect match.

Good To Know

• Small Group Size: Fewer crowds and more personalized attention with a max of 35 travelers.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, entertaining local guides like Patty and Uncle Alex enhance the experience.
• Diverse Itinerary: From iconic Maya Bay to peaceful Bamboo Island, every stop offers a different vibe.
• Inclusion of Snorkeling & Lunch: All necessary gear, water, fruits, and a Thai buffet included for added value.
• Flexible Experience: The schedule is thoughtfully designed to maximize sights while avoiding overly crowded moments.
• Cost & Additional Fees: Price is competitive at around $90, but remember the 400 THB national park fee is separate.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Maya Bay – The Hollywood Star

The tour kicks off early, with Maya Bay as the star attraction. Known worldwide thanks to the film The Beach, this spot is famous for its powdery white sand and clear waters. Reviewers describe it as “even more beautiful in person” and mention that the beach is the perfect place to relax and snap photos.

However, the admission ticket isn’t included, so be prepared to pay 400 THB per person on-site. This can be a slight hassle but is standard for protected parks in Thailand. Expect around 45 minutes at Maya Bay — plenty of time to soak in the views, paddle in the shallow waters, and maybe even catch a glimpse of the iconic limestone cliffs framing the bay.

Pileh Lagoon – The Hidden Gem

The next stop, Pileh Bay, is a lagoon that’s often called a “photographer’s paradise”. The calm, turquoise waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, and the admission is covered in your tour. Guests describe this as a peaceful spot that offers “beautiful scenery and great underwater life”. You’ll stay here for about 20 minutes, enough to take photos, enjoy the water, and appreciate the natural beauty.

Viking Cave – A Cultural Squeeze-In

A quick visit to Viking Cave offers a glimpse into local traditions, specifically the bird’s nest harvesting industry. You won’t have long — just about 15 minutes — but enough time to take pictures of the cave’s fascinating structure and learn a bit about the bird’s nest trade. It’s a brief, but interesting stop, especially appreciated by those curious about local Thai culture.

Loh Samah Bay – A Scenic Trail View

Loh Samah Bay provides a chance to stretch your legs with a short walk trail that leads to fantastic views of Maya Bay’s front. Reviewers mention that this is a “beautiful scenic spot” where you get a different perspective of the islands. It’s a quick 15-minute stop, but one that offers a quieter moment amid the busy tour schedule.

Monkey Beach – A Chance to Observe Wildlife

For animal lovers, Monkey Beach is a must-see. Here, you’ll see groups of macaques hanging out near the shoreline. The key here? Stay on the boat — the monkeys are used to visitors but can be unpredictable. Guests highlight that this is a brief stop of about 15 minutes, but it’s fun to watch the monkeys from a safe distance, adding a lighthearted element to the day.

Bamboo Island – Relaxation and Exploration

After the high-energy stops, the tour heads to Bamboo Island for about an hour. This island is renowned for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Reviewers describe it as a perfect place to kick back, snorkel, or take a leisurely walk along the shore. Note that the island’s entrance fee isn’t included, so bring cash if you want to explore beyond the beach.

Ko Phi Phi Don – Lunch & Leisure

The last stop is Ko Phi Phi Don, where you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch at a local restaurant. Many reviews mention the deliciousness of the Thai food and appreciate the free time to explore the island or relax on the beach. It’s a great way to recharge before heading back to Krabi, and the 1-hour stop is well-paced, giving ample opportunity to mingle and soak up the island vibe.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers hotel transfers within Aonang, Klong Muang, and Tubkaek areas, which makes it convenient for most travelers. The professional local guides (with standout personalities like Patty and Uncle Alex) ensure the journey is engaging and informative. You’ll also get snorkeling gear, drinking water, seasonal fruits, and a Thai buffet lunch.

However, keep in mind the 400 THB marine park fee payable in cash at the entrance, and the admission tickets for Maya Bay and Bamboo Island are not included in the price. The total cost of approximately $90 offers solid value, considering the inclusions, but you’ll want to budget for the extra fees.

Transportation & Group Size

The tour includes pickup from hotels in key areas, making logistics smooth and hassle-free. The group size is limited to a maximum of 35 travelers, meaning you won’t be lost in a crowd. Many reviews highlight how this smaller group size helped avoid the typical chaos, especially at popular spots like Maya Bay.

Duration and Timing

Starting at 8:00 am, the tour lasts around 8 hours, making it a full and satisfying day. The schedule balances sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxation, with enough time at each stop to appreciate without feeling rushed.

Authentic Experiences and the Guides

Numerous reviewers praise the guides, especially Patty and Uncle Alex, for their humor, kindness, and knowledge. Patty, in particular, is described as “entertaining with jokes and facts”, making the trip feel more personal and fun. Uncle Alex is fondly called a “legend,” with many mentioning how he made their day memorable through his storytelling and humor.

Guests also appreciated the effort to minimize crowds by the crew’s modifications to the itinerary, ensuring a more peaceful experience at key sites. The crew’s helpfulness, willingness to modify plans, and the overall friendly atmosphere contribute heavily to the trip’s glowing reviews.

Snorkeling & Food

The snorkeling equipment is provided, and the water clarity seems excellent based on reviews. The buffet lunch is another highlight, with many calling it delicious and satisfying. Some travelers mention they could request special dietary options, such as gluten-free meals.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

This speedboat tour offers a well-organized, authentic way to see the best of Phi Phi Islands without feeling overwhelmed. It’s perfect for travelers who want personalized service, stunning scenery, and engaging guides. With flexible stops, good value, and a mix of adventure and relaxation, it suits those who prefer a curated experience over self-led exploration.

If you love snorkeling, are eager to relax on iconic beaches, or want to enjoy the beauty of Phi Phi in a day, this tour ticks all those boxes. Just remember the extra fees for certain entries, and be prepared for a lively, fun-filled day with a small, friendly group.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, transfers are offered within Aonang, Klong Muang, and Tubkaek areas, making pickup convenient.

What is the tour duration?
The whole experience lasts about 8 hours, starting at 8:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.

Are snorkeling and lunch included?
Yes, snorkeling equipment, water, seasonal fruits, and a Thai buffet lunch are all included.

How much does the Marine Park entrance fee cost?
The fee is 400 THB per adult and 200 THB per child, payable in cash on-site.

Can I visit Maya Bay?
Yes, you’ll visit Maya Bay, but the entrance fee is separate. Expect about 45 minutes at this iconic beach.

What stops are part of the itinerary?
Stops include Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, Loh Samah Bay, Monkey Beach, Bamboo Island, and Ko Phi Phi Don.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, a maximum of 35 travelers per tour ensures a more intimate experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
Most travelers with moderate physical fitness enjoy it; the tour involves walking and swimming, so consider individual stamina.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How can I book this tour?
You can book through Viator or directly via Krabi Muk Andaman Travel, the experience provider.

Final Word

This Phi Phi Island Speedboat Tour from Krabi is a fantastic choice for those seeking an authentic, engaging, and scenic day trip. The combination of stunning beaches, lively guides, and well-planned stops ensures you’ll leave with beautiful memories and plenty of stories. Whether you’re a snorkeler, beach lover, or adventure seeker, this tour offers a balanced taste of everything Phi Phi has to offer — all in style and comfort.