Phi Phi Islands Speedboat Tour: Khai & Maya

Planning a trip to Phuket without a visit to the Phi Phi Islands is like skipping dessert after a good meal—almost unthinkable. This popular speedboat tour promises a full day of breathtaking scenery, iconic beaches, and island-hopping adventures. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary provide a clear picture of what travelers can expect.

Among the many things that make this experience appealing are its dynamic stops at world-famous sites, the flexibility to swim and relax in crystal-clear waters, and the knowledgeable guides who keep the trip engaging. Its value for money—offering a comprehensive itinerary including lunch, snorkel gear, and transfers—makes it stand out for those eager to explore without breaking the bank.

However, it’s worth noting that some travelers have expressed concerns about crowds and logistical issues, especially at busy pickup points and during peak seasons. The tour is best suited for those who enjoy small-group adventures, appreciate stunning landscapes, and are comfortable with a packed schedule that includes multiple stops. If you’re after a relaxed, exclusive experience, this might not be your first choice. But if you’re after a lively, well-organized day filled with natural beauty, it’s likely to fit the bill.

Good To Know

• Affordable and comprehensive: For around $55, you’ll get a full day of island-hopping, lunch, and snorkel gear.
• Diverse stops: From Maya Bay and Monkey Beach to Viking Cave and Khai Nok Island, each stop offers a unique view or activity.
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides and safety briefings help you make the most of your day.
• Potential crowds: The tour can be busy, especially at popular spots, and some reviews mention crowded boat rides and pick-up points.
• Flexible activities: Swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding are available; some stops offer optional paid water activities.
• Good for travelers who want the highlights: Ideal for those seeking a full-day adventure with iconic scenery, not necessarily a quiet retreat.

What to Expect on the Tour

Pick-up and Early Start

The day kicks off with hotel pickups between 7:00 and 9:00 am, depending on your location. The tour begins at AA Marina, where you’ll register, grab your snorkel gear, and get ready for a full day’s fun. Expect a prompt start, so arriving on time is key. Reviewers note that pickup times can be affected by traffic, so patience is advised—many guests mention that delays are sometimes unavoidable due to busy traffic or high demand.

The Speedboat Experience

Traveling on a full-equipped safety speedboat, you’ll enjoy the thrill of a quick ride across the blue waters, with a smaller group size noted in reviews (around ten passengers in some cases). Many reviewers praise the friendly, professional guides like Dee Dee, who kept everyone informed and safe, sharing interesting facts about each stop. The boat ride offers a chance to enjoy the wind in your hair and the scenic coastlines.

Maya Bay – The Star of the Show

The tour’s signature stop is Maya Bay, famous for its role in the movie “The Beach.” The white sandy beach and towering limestone cliffs make it picture-perfect. However, visitors should be aware that Maya Bay is closed from August 1, 2024, until October 1, 2024 for environmental reasons, so its inclusion depends on the timing of your trip. You’ll have about 45 minutes to relax on the sand, take photos, or swim in the clear waters.

Some reviews have highlighted the slightly crowded nature of Maya Bay, but most agree that the view is worth the photo ops. It’s a strong reminder of how delicate these environments are, and why conservation efforts are important.

Monkey Beach and Viking Cave

Next, you’ll stop at Monkey Beach, which is only accessible during low tide. Here, you may see monkeys and have time to swim or relax ashore. One traveler mentioned that the bay is small and can disappear during high tide, so timing is everything. The experience can be quite charming, but it’s not a large beach, so don’t expect extensive space to roam.

The Viking Cave offers a quick sightseeing stop from the boat, where you can admire the ancient paintings and caves. The cave’s name derives from the Viking paintings on its walls, and although it’s only visible from the water, it’s a highlight for history and nature lovers alike.

Pileh Bay – Swimming and Paddling

At Pileh Lagoon, you get about 45 minutes to swim, relax, or even rent a paddleboard (extra costs apply). The crystal-clear turquoise waters make it an excellent spot for photos or simply floating in the calm surroundings. Some reviews recommend paying extra for a long-tail boat ride to get better photo angles, adding a little local flavor to the experience.

Lunch and Island Exploration

Most guests choose to stop at Ko Phi Phi Don for a Thai lunch at the Arida restaurant, which offers vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal options. The food is generally well-received, with many mentioning it was tasty and filling.

After lunch, you’ll have about 40 minutes to snorkel around the nearby Phi Phi Island. Reviewers mention the snorkeling is good, with the chance to see colorful fish and coral. For those who prefer not to snorkel, the time can be used for relaxing or exploring the island’s surroundings.

Khai Nok Island and Water Activities

The final stop is Khai Nok Island, just an hour away from Phi Phi. Here, you can swim among fish, lounge on the beach, or try optional water sports (which are charged extra). Several guests highlight the relaxed vibe and the chance to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.

Return to Phuket

The tour wraps up around 4:30 pm, with arrival back at the pier and transfers to your hotel. The return journey can depend on traffic, and some reviews note that delays sometimes happen, but generally, the day concludes on a positive note.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• A Thai-style lunch with options for vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and halal diets
• Bottled water, fruits, and soft drinks
• Snorkel equipment and life jackets
• Accident insurance
• Roundtrip transfers (depending on your pickup zone)
• Guided commentary from certified guides

Not Included:

• The national park entrance fee of THB 400 per adult (or THB 200 for children), payable on the day
• Towels and alcoholic beverages
• Optional water activities at Khai Nok Island (extra charge)
• Pickup outside designated zones

The overall value hinges on the inclusive lunch, snorkel gear, and the scenic stops—making it a good deal for travelers wanting a full day of island highlights.

The Realities of the Experience: Authentic Insights from Reviews

While many guests have had memorable days, some points are worth noting. Several reviewers say guides like Dee Dee and the crew are knowledgeable, friendly, and safety-conscious, which adds to the overall enjoyment. One guest mentioned that despite some delays and traffic, staff kept the experience positive, and the tour was well organized.

However, a few reviews highlight crowds and logistical hiccups. For example, one traveler found the boat ride “crowded” and the boat’s visibility limited during the trip, which could be frustrating if you’re after a more exclusive feel. Others mentioned that pickup times can be affected by traffic, so flexibility is key. Still, most agree that the stunning scenery and lively atmosphere compensate for these minor inconveniences.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This speedboat adventure suits travelers who want to tick off the major highlights of the Phi Phi Islands in one day. If you love beautiful beaches, snorkeling, and a lively group experience, this tour will deliver. It’s also great for those who appreciate good value, as lunch, snorkel gear, and transfers are included in the price.

If your goal is a more peaceful, customized experience, or if you prefer small-group exclusivity, you might find this tour a bit crowded or rushed. But for first-time visitors or travelers eager to see the most photogenic spots with minimal fuss, it ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered from your hotel within certain zones. The exact time depends on your location and is confirmed one day before the tour.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting around 7:30 am and returning around 4:30 pm.

What are the main stops on the tour?
Stops include Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, Pileh Bay, Phi Phi Don for lunch and snorkeling, and Khai Nok Island for swimming and relaxing.

Is there an extra cost for activities?
Optional water activities at Khai Nok Island, like water sports, are charged separately. The national park entrance fee of THB 400 (adults) must be paid on-site.

Are snorkel and safety gear provided?
Yes, snorkel equipment and life jackets are included. You’ll also get fruits and bottled water onboard.

Can I visit Maya Bay during the closure?
Maya Bay is closed from August 1, 2024, to October 1, 2024. During this period, the tour may either skip this stop or substitute another attraction.

Final Thoughts

The Phi Phi Islands Speedboat Tour: Khai & Maya offers a lively, scenic day packed with iconic sights and fun activities. Its value for money, inclusive features, and the opportunity to see locations made famous by movies make it a solid choice for many travelers. The guides like Dee Dee add a personal touch, making the experience more engaging and informative.

While the tour can be busy and subject to logistical hiccups, it’s designed for those who enjoy a full, active day with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun. If you’re after a well-organized, fun-filled adventure that covers the highlights of the Phi Phi Islands, this tour checks most boxes.

For travelers who want a balance of scenic beauty, cultural interest, and ease of access, this experience is hard to beat. Just remember to stay flexible, embrace the lively atmosphere, and keep your camera ready—you won’t want to miss a shot of those stunning cliffs and sparkling waters.

Final Recommendations

This tour is most suited for first-time visitors eager to see the iconic Phi Phi sights in one day without the hassle of organizing multiple transfers or activities. It’s perfect if you’re after value-packed adventure with plenty of opportunities to relax and take photos.

Travelers who prioritize guided insights and safety will benefit from the knowledgeable crew and comprehensive briefing. If you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and some crowds, this tour offers a vivid, fun introduction to one of Thailand’s most treasured natural gems.

On the lookout for authentic, scenic moments combined with a lively group vibe—this speedboat trip delivers just that, making it a memorable part of any Phuket itinerary.