Phi Phi Islands Speedboat Tour Adventure from Krabi

This full-day speedboat tour from Krabi offers a taste of Thailand’s most iconic islands, renowned for their stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic limestone cliffs. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it’s an accessible, fun, and memorable way to learn about the beauty of the Phi Phi Islands.

What we love about it? First, the ease of round-trip transfers from your hotel makes it a hassle-free day. Second, the variety of stops, from Maya Bay’s famous sands to snorkeling at coral reefs, keeps the trip engaging. Third, the family-friendly vibe and inclusion of snorkeling gear and buffet lunch make this appeal to travelers of all ages.

A notable consideration is that during busy seasons, certain locations like Maya Bay can get quite crowded, which might impact the serenity you’re seeking. The tour is best suited for those who want to experience the highlights of the islands comfortably and with a well-organized plan.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and active day with plenty of photo opportunities and a taste of local Thai hospitality, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

Good To Know

• Convenient Door-to-Door Service: Hotel pickups in Ao Nang, Krabi Town, or nearby areas.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Includes snorkeling equipment, buffet lunch, bottled water, snacks, and basic insurance.
• Varied Itinerary: Stops at Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, and Bamboo Island.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for travelers of all ages, with a moderate physical activity level required.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Time Management: Well-paced stops with clear timing, but expect crowds at popular spots.

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Pickup and Transfer

Your day begins early with hotel pickup in Ao Nang or nearby, making transportation one of the tour’s highlights. The air-conditioned vehicles ensure you’re comfortable before the adventure starts. The team at the Nopparat Thara Pier, where you’ll check in, is professional and easy to identify; staff wear distinctive Sea Eagle Tour shirts.

The Journey to Phi Phi Islands

A short 45-minute speedboat ride whisks you across the waters to Koh Phi Phi Leh. Traveling on a boat designed for just 45 passengers ensures you’re not crammed but still part of a lively group. This size strikes a balance between social atmosphere and comfort.

First Stop: Loh Samah Bay and Maya Bay

The initial stop at Loh Samah Bay allows you to climb from a floating pier onto a wooden trail leading straight to Maya Bay. Floating over rocks and along the trail, you get a sneak peek of the bay’s famous white sands and turquoise waters. Reviewers mention around 50 minutes here to relax and soak in the scenery, though some note the area can be crowded, making it tricky to find a quiet moment. One guest said, “The beaches visited were mobbed, queued to get on Maya Beach, seriously oversold,” which is worth considering during peak times.

Pileh Bay and Snorkeling

Next, you’ll marvel at Pileh Lagoon, with its towering limestone cliffs framing the water. An optional longtail boat ride to explore secluded coves is available for an extra charge, adding an element of adventure for those interested. Travelers typically spend around 45 minutes here, enjoying the stunning views and snorkeling in the clear waters. Snorkeling gear is provided, and from reviews, the reefs are vibrant with coral.

Phi Phi Leh and Viking Cave

You’ll cruise past Phi Phi Leh’s east side, where the Viking Cave is a highlight. Known for the bird nests harvested for bird’s nest soup, the cave is a quick but intriguing stop with plenty of photo opportunities. The 15-minute visit is enough to see the cave but not to explore extensively.

Monkey Beach

En route to Phi Phi Don, there’s a 30-minute stop at Monkey Beach. The lush cliffs and white sands make it a picturesque location, and you might spot some monkeys—just remember to keep your belongings secure. The reviewer called it “enchanting,” and it’s a good break to stretch your legs.

Lunch at Phi Phi Don

Midday, you’ll enjoy a Thai-style buffet lunch at Phi Phi Arida Restaurant. Vegetarian, seafood, or allergen requests can be accommodated if notified in advance, which adds to the appeal for many travelers. The food quality and variety are often praised, making this a genuine highlight of the day.

Free Time on Phi Phi Don

After lunch, there’s about 30 minutes to explore the island’s charming streets and shops or relax on the beach. The walk along the island’s path offers picturesque views of bays like Ton Sai and Loh Dalum, with some reviews mentioning that the area is touristy but still charming.

Bamboo Island (Koh Pai)

The final stop is Bamboo Island, a tranquil spot with lush greenery and soft sands perfect for swimming and relaxing. With a generous hour here, you can unwind, snorkel off the shore, or just enjoy the peaceful scenery. The coral reefs extend up to 500 meters from the shore, providing ample underwater sights.

The Experience: What We Think Travelers Will Love

The Value of a Full-Day Tour

At just under $50 per person, this tour offers incredible value. It includes round-trip transfers, multiple scenic stops, snorkeling gear, and a buffet lunch. While entrance fees to the national park are extra (400 THB per adult, 200 THB per child), the comprehensive nature of the trip makes it a worthwhile investment for those wanting a hassle-free day exploring the most famous parts of the Phi Phi Islands.

The Balance of Sightseeing and Relaxing

The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to balance active snorkeling and sightseeing with downtime on beaches. Reviews suggest the guide’s knowledge enhances the experience, sharing insights about the caves and islands that add context to the stunning visuals.

Snorkeling and Beaches

Snorkeling opportunities are plentiful, with coral reefs teeming with life. The snorkeling gear is included, making it easy to jump in and explore. The beaches—like Maya Bay and Bamboo Island—offer soft sands and inviting waters, but they can get crowded, especially during peak seasons.

Food and Refreshments

The buffet lunch is consistently praised, with many reviewers highlighting the delicious Thai dishes and the convenience of eating on Phi Phi Don. Bottled water and seasonal fruits keep you refreshed throughout the day, which is essential given the tropical climate.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during busy seasons.
• Bring sun protection—sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses—since you’ll spend a lot of time outdoors.
• Prepare for crowds at popular spots like Maya Bay; arriving early might give you a quieter experience.
• Notify the tour provider of any dietary restrictions ahead of time for the buffet lunch.
• Budget for the park entrance fee if you plan to explore more thoroughly; it’s not included.
• Wear comfortable clothing for the boat ride and bring a towel for beach stops.
• Keep your belongings secure, especially at busy beaches and when snorkeling.

Who This Tour is Best For

This experience is ideal for families, first-time visitors, and travelers on a budget looking to see the highlights of Phi Phi without the hassle of planning individual transport and activities. The organized nature, inclusive features, and scenic stops make it accessible for all ages.

However, if you prioritize tranquility and avoiding crowds, be aware that these popular spots can get busy, and some reviewers noted queues and over-crowding at Maya Bay. Still, for a comprehensive sightseeing experience in one day, it’s hard to beat the convenience and value.

Final Thoughts

Choosing this Phi Phi Islands speedboat tour means opting for a well-organized, fun-filled day that hits all the must-see spots. The knowledgeable guides, combined with the scenic stops, snorkeling, and delicious lunch, make it a strong choice for travelers eager to soak up Thailand’s most famous island sights comfortably.

The tour’s moderate price point, combined with its inclusive nature, allows you to focus on enjoying the views and making memories without worrying about logistics. Just remember to arrive early, be flexible with crowds, and take full advantage of the snorkeling gear and scenic stops.

This tour offers an authentic and practical way to experience the stunning beauty of the Phi Phi Islands, especially for those who want a balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural insight all in one day.

FAQ

Does this tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, the tour offers hotel round-trip transfers in Ao Nang, Krabi Town, Ao Nam Mao, Klong Muang, or Tubkaek Beach, making logistics easy.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, including transfers, sightseeing, and free time on the islands.

Are snorkeling masks and equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, allowing you to explore the vibrant reefs at various stops like Phi Phi Leh and Bamboo Island.

How much is the national park entrance fee?
It’s 400 THB per adult and 200 THB per child, payable separately on the day of the tour.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. The tour is family-friendly and suitable for ages 2 and up, though some walking and swimming are involved.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, vegetarians, those with seafood allergies, or other dietary needs can be notified in advance for the buffet lunch.

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 many people will be on the boat?
The boat is designed for around 45 passengers, balancing social interaction with comfort.

This Phi Phi Islands speedboat tour from Krabi promises a lively, scenic, and well-organized day in paradise, perfect for those wanting to tick off Thailand’s most iconic sights with ease and enjoyment.