Phi Phi’s Extended Grand Odyssey by Speedboat

Planning a trip to Krabi and eager to experience its most iconic islands? The Phi Phi’s Extended Grand Odyssey by Speedboat offers an engaging, full-day adventure that promises a blend of breathtaking scenery, vibrant marine life, and delicious Thai cuisine. We’ve taken a close look at this tour to help you decide if it’ll fit your travel style, budget, and expectations.

What really makes this trip shine are the expertly guided tours to legendary spots like Maya Bay, the opportunity for snorkeling in lively reefs, and relaxing on pristine beaches like Bamboo Island. We love the convenience of hotel pickup, meaning less stress upon arrival, and the diversity of stops ensures a well-rounded island experience. On the flip side, some travelers have noted that the tour can feel quite packed with many stops, which might mean less downtime at each location. This tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive, action-packed day on the water, without sacrificing comfort or guidance.

Good To Know

• All-inclusive experience with hotel pickup, snorkeling gear, and lunch
• Multiple iconic stops including Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Bamboo Island
• Longer duration (around 7 hours) for a thorough exploration
• Expert guides providing safety instructions and local insights
• Affordable value for the variety of locations and activities included
• Potential for crowds and busy schedules, so early planning helps

Introduction: What to Expect from the Phi Phi Extended Grand Odyssey

This full-day speedboat tour from Krabi covers an impressive list of highlights across the Phi Phi Islands, making it a great pick for travelers who want to see as much as possible in one trip. The tour kicks off early, with pickup from your hotel, setting the tone for a smooth, hassle-free day. For just over $45, you’re getting a packed itinerary that includes snorkeling, sightseeing, swimming, and delicious Thai food.

One of the standout features of this experience is its timing and structure. The itinerary is thoughtfully planned — you’ll start at the popular Maya Bay, then explore lagoons, snorkel vibrant reefs, and finish with some well-earned relaxation on Bamboo Island. The tour’s guides are described as professional and knowledgeable, which is especially helpful when navigating the busy islands or explaining cultural points of interest.

However, with 13 stops compressed into about 7 hours, some may find the pace a little rapid, especially if you prefer slow mornings or extended beach relaxation. Still, for those craving a comprehensive snapshot of Krabi’s marine and island scenery, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary and What You’ll Experience

Start Point and Early Morning Pickup

The day begins at Nopparat Thara Pier around 9:00 am, where you’ll check in and receive a safety briefing from your guide. Expect a quick introduction to the day’s schedule and some tips on snorkeling and safety. The small group size (max 45 travelers) allows for more personalized attention, something many reviewers appreciated, especially from guides who are described as friendly and informative.

Railay Beach and the Speedboat Ride

The first stop is at Railay Beach, a quick 10-minute pickup. While brief, this stop allows for a bit more socializing or photo opportunities with the stunning limestone cliffs in the background. From there, the real adventure begins as you blaze the waves to Phi Phi, with about 45 minutes on the speedboat to soak in the sea breeze and panoramic views.

Exploring Maya Bay and Loh Samah Bay

The next stop is at the famous Maya Bay, which is the star attraction. Known for being the filming location of “The Beach,” Maya Bay is a stunning setting with its towering cliffs and clear waters. While the tour doesn’t include admission, the 35-minute visit gives enough time to stroll on the sands and admire the dramatic scenery. Expect to see lots of fellow travelers, but the view remains breathtaking.

Nearby, you’ll visit Loh Samah Bay, where you can access the floating pier to walk along the sandy paths leading to Maya Bay. This stop is short, but it provides a perfect photo op and a chance to appreciate the scale of the cliffs that surround the bay.

Pileh Lagoon: Swimming in Emerald Waters

One of the tour’s highlights is Pileh Bay, a hidden gem framed by towering limestone walls. The 45-minute stop allows you to swim and snorkel in its luminous waters, which are often described as surreal. The water here is calm and inviting, ideal for floating or taking quick dips. Reviewers have loved the tranquility of this spot and the chance to see underwater life with snorkeling gear provided.

Snorkeling near Phi Phi Leh and Viking Cave

Next, you’ll snorkel near Ko Phi Phi Leh, exploring vibrant coral reefs that are home to colorful fish and marine creatures. The 40-minute snorkeling session is often praised for its lively underwater ecosystem, perfect for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.

Adding to the island’s allure, the Viking Cave offers a quick photo stop where you can marvel at ancient paintings and the cave’s intriguing facade. The 15-minute visit is brief but memorable, especially for those fascinated by local legends and cave art.

Monkey Beach and Lunch Break

A cruise around Monkey Beach offers a chance to see wild macaques in their natural habitat. Visitors mention it’s fun to watch the monkeys, but also to remember not to feed them — as one reviewer cautioned, “feeding the monkeys makes them aggressive.”

The tour’s mid-morning break concludes with a buffet lunch at Arida Restaurant on Phi Phi Don. The 30-minute sit-down meal is well-rated for its Thai flavors and variety, providing energy for the afternoon’s adventures.

Afternoon Relaxation and Bamboo Island

Post-lunch, you’ll have about half an hour to explore Phi Phi Don at your own pace. Many travelers enjoy wandering local shops or simply soaking in the island’s lively atmosphere.

The afternoon truly shines with a longer stretch at Bamboo Island — 1 hour and 30 minutes of pure relaxation. Here, you can swim, sunbathe, and take in the stunning white sands and crystal-clear waters. Reviewers loved the tranquility here, calling it a peaceful, postcard-perfect spot.

The Grand Finale: Chicken Island and Return

On the way back, the boat passes Chicken Island, renowned for its rock formation resembling a chicken’s head. The 15-minute stop provides a scenic photo opportunity. The relaxed cruise back to Krabi offers ample chances to reflect on the day’s highlights and capture last-minute photos.

What We Love About This Tour

Expert Guides & Safety: Several reviews highlighted guides’ professionalism and friendliness, which helps make the experience more engaging and secure. They provide clear safety instructions, especially important during snorkeling and boat rides.

Stunning Locations: From Maya Bay’s iconic cliffs to the peaceful waters of Pileh Lagoon and Bamboo Island’s beaches, each stop offers a different facet of Krabi’s natural beauty. The variety keeps the trip exciting and visually rewarding.

Delicious Thai Buffet: The included lunch at Arida Restaurant allows you to refuel with authentic flavors, saving you money and time. Many reviewers appreciated the quality and variety of the food.

Value for Money: For less than $50, this tour packs in multiple highlights, transportation, snorkeling gear, and lunch. It’s a cost-effective way to see the main attractions without booking separate trips.

Considerations to Keep in Mind

Fast-paced Schedule: With so many stops in one day, some travelers felt rushed, especially at popular spots like Maya Bay. If your ideal trip is leisurely, this might be a bit too busy.

Crowds at Major Sites: Maya Bay and similar spots tend to be busy, especially during peak season. Early arrival helps mitigate the crowds somewhat, but expect some company.

Seasonal Closures: Maya Bay is closed in August and September for conservation, so check the tour dates if visiting during these months. The tour will adjust its itinerary, possibly replacing Maya Bay with other locations.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Phi Phi’s Extended Grand Odyssey is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day exploring Krabi’s most famous islands. The tour offers a great mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxing on idyllic beaches, all while enjoying the guidance of knowledgeable locals.

If you’re someone who appreciates a well-structured day with multiple highlights, this trip provides excellent value. It’s especially suitable for first-timers to Krabi, or those short on time but eager to see the best of Phi Phi without the stress of planning every detail.

However, if you’re after a slow, contemplative beach day or dislike busy tourist spots, this might feel a bit rushed. The pace, while exciting, can be tiring if you prefer more downtime or less crowd exposure.

This tour balances adventure, comfort, and affordability, making it a strong choice for most travelers eager to tick off the main highlights of Krabi’s marine treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel round-trip transfer, which makes the start and end of your day much more convenient.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, from morning pickup to late afternoon return.

Are snorkeling masks and equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear including masks and snorkels are included, along with life jackets for safety.

How much does the entrance fee to the national park cost?
Adults pay 400 THB (~$12), and children pay 200 THB (~$6). This fee is not included in the tour price.

Can I swim at Maya Bay?
No, swimming is not permitted at Maya Bay itself, but you’ll have time to enjoy the beaches and surrounding waters at other locations like Pileh Lagoon and Bamboo Island.

Is food included?
Yes, you’ll get a Thai buffet lunch at Arida Restaurant on Phi Phi Don, which many say is a highlight.

What should I wear and bring?
Wear quick-drying shorts, water shoes for better protection, and bring sun protection, a hat, and a waterproof camera or phone case.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for children who are comfortable on boats and able to handle a busy schedule.

Are there any seasonal closures I should be aware of?
Maya Bay is closed in August and September, so the itinerary may change if you book during these months.

How many people usually join?
The tour has a maximum of 45 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and manageable experience.

This detailed review aims to help you decide if the Phi Phi’s Extended Grand Odyssey by Speedboat aligns with your travel goals. Whether you’re chasing iconic views, underwater adventures, or simply a fun day on the water, this tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of Krabi’s marine paradise.