Phi Phi Islands : Longtail Boat Tour with Sunset

If you’re craving a snapshot-perfect experience of Thailand’s famous Phi Phi Islands, this 4-hour longtail boat tour promises to showcase some of the most iconic sights from a comfortable and intimate perspective. While it might not be the most comprehensive or luxurious option out there, it offers a good balance of natural beauty, fun activities, and unforgettable sunset moments.

What attracted us to this tour? First, we love the chance to see wild monkeys in their natural habitat, which is always a crowd-pleaser. Second, the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters and witness bioluminescent plankton creates a magical vibe. Lastly, the stunning sunset viewing from the boat is something truly special. That said, a potential downside is that some stops might feel rushed, and the guide might not be as engaging or informative as you’d hope. This tour is ideal for those looking for a short, scenic excursion with a taste of everything—nature, wildlife, and sunset magic.

Good To Know

• Short but sweet: This is a 4-hour tour, perfect if you want a quick taste of Phi Phi’s highlights.
• Limited group size: Small groups (up to 10 participants) mean more personalized experiences.
• Diverse stops: From wild monkeys to Viking Cave, there’s a range of sights packed into a few hours.
• Sunset finale: Ending with a sunset from the boat creates a memorable closing scene.
• Snorkeling with plankton: A rare chance to see bioluminescent creatures, especially on dark moon nights.
• Park entrance fee: Remember, you’ll need to pay 400 Baht in cash for the national park entry.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed for travelers who want a quick yet engaging glimpse of Phi Phi’s natural wonders, with an emphasis on scenic views and wildlife. It begins at the meeting point on Phi Phi Island, right in front of a guesthouse, in a small group setting that keeps things cozy and manageable. Expect a live guide who speaks English and offers stories along the way, though some reviews mention that the guide’s engagement might vary.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: Monkey Beach
Your first stop is Monkey Beach, home to playful wild monkeys. You’ll get a chance to see these creatures in their natural habitat and snap photos of their antics. Be mindful of your belongings — the monkeys are cheeky and curious, often reaching out for snacks or cameras. The experience here is lively, and you might find it amusing or slightly chaotic, depending on the monkeys’ mood on the day.

Viking Cave
Next, the boat heads to Viking Cave, which holds both historical significance and visual intrigue. The cave’s limestone walls are decorated with ancient paintings, and the guide may share stories about its past. While the cave itself isn’t accessible for entry, viewing and photographing it from the boat is enough to appreciate its cultural and geological importance.

Natural Pools and Snorkeling
The tour continues to a vibrant lagoon where you can swim and snorkel in clear waters. Expect to see an array of marine life, with the added thrill of possibly encountering bioluminescent plankton—if conditions are right, especially on darker nights. The water here is inviting, and the snorkeling gear is typically provided, making it easy for beginners to enjoy.

Loh Samah Bay and Maya Bay
A highlight for many is the stop at Loh Samah Bay and Maya Bay—famous from the Leonardo DiCaprio movie. While the tour does not include a full visit to Maya Bay (due to time constraints), you’ll get a good view of its pristine beach and turquoise waters from the boat. You can relax, soak in the scenery, and snap plenty of photos. Some reviews mention that the stops in these areas can feel quite brief, which might leave you wanting more time to explore on land.

Sunset Viewing
The tour wraps up with a scenic ride back to the meeting point, culminating in a spectacular sunset scene. Watching the sky change colors over Phi Phi’s islands from the deck of a boat offers a peaceful and breathtaking end to the journey.

The Value of the Experience

While this tour doesn’t claim to be the most comprehensive or luxury-filled, it offers a good snapshot of Phi Phi’s most photogenic and wildlife-rich spots. The price, which includes the boat ride, snorkeling gear, and guide services, is reasonable considering the limited duration—just four hours. You get to cover multiple locations, each with its unique appeal, without feeling overwhelmed or overbooked.

However, some travelers, such as Frank from Germany, mention that the stops can be quite short, making it a bit rushed. He also notes that the guide’s attitude was somewhat stressed, especially when trying to convince passengers to stay for activities like plankton viewing, which might not always be feasible due to weather or lunar conditions. This suggests that the experience could be more enjoyable if you set your expectations accordingly—knowing that this is a quick snapshot, not a comprehensive tour.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Be sure to bring water, sunscreen, your camera, and snacks to make the most of the stops and stay comfortable.
• The meeting point is straightforward to find—just in front of the guesthouse, with lounge services nearby.
• Remember to pay the 400 Baht national park entrance fee in cash before starting the tour.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or non-swimmers, so plan accordingly.
• Since the tour is limited to 15 people, expect a more personalized experience than larger boat trips.

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How to Make the Most of Your Experience

To truly enjoy this tour, come prepared for a relaxed pace and be flexible with timing at each stop. While it’s tempting to linger at each location, the short durations mean you’ll want to prioritize the moments that matter most to you. For instance, if snorkeling or wildlife photography is your priority, arrive early and ready to make the most of those activities.

The sunset view from the boat is the real star here. Bring your camera and warm clothes, as it can get chilly when the sun dips below the horizon. If bioluminescent plankton are your thing, plan your trip during a dark moon phase for the best chance to see these glowing organisms.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a quick, scenic overview of the Phi Phi Islands without committing a full day. It’s perfect for those who love wildlife, stunning views, and sunset moments but don’t mind the possibility of a rushed schedule. If you’re a first-timer looking for a balanced introduction to the islands, this is a practical choice.

However, if you’re seeking an in-depth exploration, more time in Maya Bay or Viking Cave, or a luxury experience, you might find this tour a bit too brief. It’s also ideal for travelers on a tight schedule or those who prefer smaller groups for a more intimate feel.

Final Thoughts

This Longtail Boat Tour with Sunset offers a delightful, if fleeting, glimpse of Phi Phi’s most enchanting sights. You’ll love the chance to see playful monkeys, beautiful lagoons, and ancient cave paintings, all set against the backdrop of a stunning sunset. The tour’s small group size contributes to a more personal vibe, and the inclusion of snorkeling with bioluminescent plankton adds a touch of magic.

While it’s not without its shortcomings—some stops might feel rushed, and the guide’s enthusiasm could vary—the overall experience is quite worthwhile for those seeking a short, scenic escape. It’s a good balance of nature, wildlife, and iconic views, making it suitable for travelers who want to tick off the highlights without a long commitment.

If your goal is a memorable snapshot of Phi Phi with a touch of adventure and relaxation, this tour will deliver. Just keep expectations in check regarding timing, and you’ll walk away with plenty of photos and stories to tell.

FAQ

Where does the tour meet?
The meeting point is in front of the guesthouse on Phi Phi Island, with lounge services nearby. The coordinates are 7.743305206298828, 98.77456665039062.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 4 hours long, making it perfect for a quick yet fulfilling experience.

Is there a guide?
Yes, a live English-speaking guide accompanies the group, sharing stories and insights along the way.

What should I bring?
Be sure to bring swimwear, a towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water for comfort and convenience.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, a 400 Baht cash fee for the national park entrance is required, which covers access to the protected areas.

Can I snorkel?
Absolutely. Snorkeling equipment is typically provided, and you’ll have the chance to see marine life and bioluminescent plankton if conditions are right.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
No, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or non-swimmers due to the nature of activities and boat travel.

What’s the best time to see bioluminescent plankton?
The activity is best during dark moon nights, when plankton glow most vividly, adding a surreal element to the snorkeling.

Can I get a full day tour?
This particular tour is 4 hours and focuses on highlights; for more extensive exploration, there are other options available with longer durations and more stops.

To sum it up, this Phi Phi Islands longtail boat sunset tour is an accessible, scenic, and wildlife-rich experience that packs plenty into a short window. It’s well-suited for travelers wanting a taste of island beauty, wildlife, and sunset magic, especially if they’re after a small-group adventure with authentic Thai scenery. Just remember to stay flexible and bring your camera—you’re likely to capture some stunning moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby