Premium Phi Phi Ferry: Island Tour & Lunch

Exploring the Phi Phi Islands: A Practical Review of the Premium Ferry & Island Tour

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, towering limestone cliffs, and pristine beaches, the Premium Phi Phi Ferry: Island Tour & Lunch promises a day packed with natural beauty and fun. While not a private exclusive, the tour offers a good balance of sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxing, all for around $50 per person. We’ve looked into what travelers experience, the highlights, and the possible downsides to help you decide if this adventure is right for you.

What we really like about this tour is the combination of scenic cruising, snorkeling stops, and the chance to see iconic locations like Maya Bay and Viking Cave—all with an affordable price tag. The comfort options in Silver and Gold classes elevate the experience, making it ideal for those who value a bit more space and amenities. However, it’s worth noting that the boat can get quite crowded, especially during peak season, which might affect your comfort level. This tour suits travelers seeking a full-day adventure, with plenty of opportunities to take photos, swim, and relax in a laid-back setting.

Good To Know

• Affordable Price Point: At around $50, it offers good value for a full-day tour with lunch, snorkeling, and transport.
• Multiple Comfort Classes: Options like Silver and Gold offer reclining chairs, private sea-view rooms, and additional amenities.
• Stunning Itinerary: Stops at Maya Bay, Lohsama Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach provide varied scenic, cultural, and wildlife experiences.
• Snorkeling Opportunities: Clear water and marine life make for enjoyable underwater exploration, although some reviews mention overcrowding.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance increase peace of mind.
• Mixed Feedback: While the ferry and views are praised, some travelers find the boat overcrowded or the guides somewhat pushy.

What to Expect from the Tour

Early Morning Pickup and Transfer

The day kicks off early, between 7:00 and 7:30 AM, with pickup from your hotel (if located within the free transfer zone). This shared transfer helps keep costs low but can mean a slightly longer morning as the group is collected from multiple locations before heading to the Sea Angle Pier. Expect the journey to be comfortable, and be prepared for an approximate 10-hour day, including travel, sightseeing, and lunch.

Welcome Aboard and Safety Briefing

Once at the pier, a friendly guide will greet you and give a brief overview of the day’s plan. Travelers have reported that guides are generally helpful, but some mention that the pre-departure instructions could be more detailed. It’s a good idea to listen carefully to safety tips, especially for snorkeling and swimming.

Cruising Past Limestone Cliffs to Phi Phi Leh

As the boat departs around 8:00 AM, you’ll immediately notice the impressive limestone formations that rise dramatically from the water. The cruise offers fantastic photo opportunities of towering cliffs with lush greenery, setting the tone for the day.

The boat will take you past popular spots like Maya Bay, famous for its appearance in movies and its stunning beach, and Lohsama Bay, known for its tranquility. You’ll also visit Pileh Lagoon, a smaller, peaceful spot perfect for swimming in calm, clear water.

Visiting Viking Cave and Monkey Beach

A key highlight is Viking Cave—locally called “Tham Phaya Nak”—with its ancient paintings and intriguing history. It’s a quick stop, but the cave’s murals offer a glimpse into local lore and makes for some memorable photos.

Later, you’ll have the chance to observe wild monkeys at Monkey Beach. Reviewers note that the beach is relatively small and water conditions can be choppy depending on the tide, so keep your expectations realistic if you’re hoping for a long, relaxing stay.

Snorkeling Adventures

The tour includes snorkeling gear, and many travelers enjoy the vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. The water’s transparency is praised, making underwater viewing pleasant. Again, some reviewers mention the boat can get crowded, which might make snorkeling less intimate, especially on the main stops. Still, if you love seeing colorful fish and coral, this part of the tour offers plenty of opportunities.

Lunch and Relaxation on Phi Phi Don

Around 1:00 PM, the boat pulls into Phi Phi Don for a buffet lunch. The menu features Thai and Indian dishes, providing a decent range of flavors to suit different tastes. Post-lunch, many guests choose to relax on the beach or explore the surroundings for a short while. The scheduled time here is flexible, giving you some downtime before heading back.

Return Journey and Hotel Drop-Off

In the late afternoon, between 3:00 and 5:00 PM, the boat heads back to Phuket, with a comfortable transfer waiting to deliver you back to your hotel. The return journey offers a chance to reflect on the day and enjoy the last views of the islands.

Details That Matter: Comfort, Cost, and Experience

Transport and Group Size

The tour provides roundtrip transfer within designated areas, which simplifies logistics. However, with a maximum capacity of 400 travelers, the boat can feel bustling, especially in high season. The boat itself offers economy seating and premium options like Silver and Gold classes.

In Silver and Gold classes, you’ll find reclining seats and separate sea-view rooms, which significantly boost comfort. Gold class even includes electric seats and soft drinks on board, making the longer ride more enjoyable. The economy seats are still described as quite good, but they lack some of the added amenities.

Price and Value

At $49.70 per person, this tour is quite accessible, especially considering the inclusion of lunch, snorkeling gear, insurance, and transfers. The price point makes it attractive for budget-conscious travelers who want a comprehensive day out without breaking the bank.

Some reviews mention that the boat gets crowded, and the food is “OK,” but the overall value remains high, particularly given the multiple scenic stops and the chance to snorkel in some of the best waters around Phi Phi. The options to upgrade to Silver or Gold seats might justify a slightly higher price if comfort is a priority.

Criticisms and Considerations

While the tour is generally well-received, some guests have expressed disappointment over overcrowding on the boat, which can affect comfort and the snorkeling experience. A reviewer noted that the guide’s sales tactics were somewhat pushy, which might detract from the relaxed vibe some travelers seek.

Another point to keep in mind is that some of the attractions, like Monkey Beach, are small and can be crowded, especially in peak season. The beach and water quality may vary depending on the weather and tide conditions.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a cost-effective, full-day adventure to see the highlights of Phi Phi Islands without needing private arrangements. It suits those who enjoy breathtaking scenery, are interested in snorkeling, and don’t mind sharing the boat with a large group. It’s also good for first-timers wanting a structured, guided experience with comfortable transport.

If you’re looking for luxury amenities or a quiet, intimate experience, you might prefer more exclusive, smaller tours. Conversely, if your priority is seeing iconic locations like Maya Bay and snorkeling in vibrant waters, this tour covers those bases well.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Premium Phi Phi Ferry: Island Tour & Lunch offers a solid value for its price. The chance to see stunning cliffs, swim in clear waters, and enjoy a buffet lunch makes it appealing. The multiple class options allow for some tailored comfort, though the crowds can be a drawback for those seeking privacy or serenity.

The tour’s highlights—like Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach—are genuinely memorable, and the snorkeling opportunities add an extra layer of fun. The flexible cancellation policy and organized transfers make it a practical choice for many travelers.

If you’re after a full-day, scenic, and active experience of Phi Phi, this tour can serve as an excellent introduction, especially if you’re okay with sharing the boat with many others. It represents good value, but keep your expectations in check regarding crowd levels and food quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with hotel pickup between 7:00 and 7:30 AM, depending on your location.

Is pickup available from all hotels?
Pickup is offered within a designated free zone. Confirm your hotel’s inclusion when booking.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, including transfers, sightseeing, snorkeling, and lunch.

What’s included in the tour?
Roundtrip transfers, accident insurance, an English-speaking guide, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, a Thai and Indian buffet lunch, life jackets, and soft drinks (Gold class only).

Are there different seating options?
Yes, you may choose Economy, Silver, or Gold class, with Silver and Gold offering more comfort and amenities like reclining seats and private rooms.

What about overcrowding?
Some reviewers mention the boat can be quite crowded, which could impact comfort and snorkeling experience. It’s advisable to arrive early or opt for upgraded seating if possible.

Do I need to bring anything?
Towels are not included, so consider bringing one along. Also, sunscreen and waterproof bags for valuables are recommended.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider your child’s comfort with boat rides and snorkeling. Check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

To sum it up, the Premium Phi Phi Ferry: Island Tour & Lunch offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, snorkeling, and cultural sights at a reasonable price. It suits adventurous travelers who enjoy group tours and are looking for a well-organized day without fussing over logistics. While crowds and food quality might be minor frustrations, the stunning views and memorable stops make this a solid choice for your Phi Phi adventure.