Phi Phi Island Tour from Koh LantaSpeedboat, Snorkeling&Maya Bay

Exploring the Phi Phi Islands from Koh Lanta: A Balanced Look at a Popular Day Trip

Taking a day trip from Koh Lanta to the Phi Phi Islands is a tempting way to tick off some of Thailand’s most iconic spots—think crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and the famous Maya Bay. This particular tour, offered by Opal Travel Speed Boat, promises a full day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and island hopping for around $50 per person. But, as with all popular tours, it’s worth digging a little deeper before you book.

One thing we genuinely like about this trip is the well-structured itinerary that covers several must-see spots, from the movie-famous Maya Bay to the Viking Cave and Bamboo Island. The inclusion of a buffet lunch and snorkeling gear makes it feel like a solid value, especially given the number of stops packed into the day. However, a potential drawback is that the tour’s advertised stops don’t always match what travelers end up experiencing, which can lead to disappointment—more on that shortly.

This tour would suit travelers looking for a budget-friendly day out with a mix of snorkeling, sightseeing, and island walking. It’s ideal for those who want to do a lot in a single day, but perhaps aren’t expecting a completely personalized experience. If you’re after a relaxed, less crowded trip, or want guaranteed stops like Monkey Bay, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Cost-Effective: At just over $50, this tour offers numerous stops and activities, including a buffet lunch and snorkeling gear.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: You visit Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Pileh Bay, Bamboo Island, and Phi Phi Don, with time for snorkeling and short walks.
• Guide and Group Size: The tour is limited to about 20 travelers, which helps keep things manageable and more personal.
• Mixed Reviews: Some reviews highlight exceptional snorkeling experiences and authentic Thai food, while others note discrepancies in advertised stops, especially regarding Monkey Bay.
• Timing and Transportation: Pickups from Koh Lanta are included, and the trip typically lasts about 7-8 hours, starting at 9 am.
• Value: Many travelers consider this an incredible value considering the multiple locations visited, though punctuality and adherence to the itinerary can vary.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Saladan Pier – Starting Point

Your day begins with a pickup from your Koh Lanta resort, transporting you to Saladan Pier. The process starts smoothly with a quick sign-in for tourist insurance, and then you’re on your way. The boat ride to Phi Phi takes about 50 minutes, which is a comfortable length for settling in and enjoying the views.

The boat itself tends to be a larger vessel, accommodating up to 20 travelers, which is a plus for those who dislike crowded boats. Travelers often mention the availability of plentiful drinking water and a restroom on board—a simple but appreciated touch during the long day.

Maya Bay – The Movie Star

Maya Bay is the star of the trip, famous from the film “The Beach.” We love the fact that you get to step ashore for about 40 minutes to take in the stunning scenery. The view of the bay, with its towering limestone cliffs and white sand, lives up to the hype.

However, one common frustration from reviews is that the tour doesn’t always guarantee a visit to Maya Bay, or the experience can be rushed. Some travelers, like Tom, noted that although the tour was well-organized, they missed out on visiting Monkey Bay—an advertised stop—leading to disappointment. The national park fee of 400 baht for adults is an extra cost, so it’s worth budgeting for that.

Pileh Bay and Viking Cave

The next stops are Pileh Bay and Viking Cave—both known for their unique landscapes and natural wonders. Pileh Bay offers a quick sail-through, providing photogenic views of lush green islands. Viking Cave is a snorkel stop and home to swallow’s nests, which some travelers find fascinating.

We especially appreciate the free snorkel gear included, which allows you to float over vibrant coral reefs and spot all kinds of colorful fish. One reviewer mentioned seeing a shark about four feet long—an exciting highlight for snorkeling enthusiasts.

Phi Phi Don – Lunch and Exploration

Approximately two hours are allocated for lunch and a walk around the main island, Phi Phi Don. The guide typically takes you to a restaurant where a buffet meal is served, including dishes like chicken Mussaman curry, fried vegetables, deep-fried chicken, and seasonal fruit. Many reviewers praise the authenticity of the Thai food, describing it as one of the best they had during their trip.

Post-lunch, you’ll have some free time for shopping or wandering the island. Guides usually set a meeting point, making it easy to regroup for the return journey. If you’re a shopper or just want to soak in the lively island atmosphere, this is your chance.

Return to Koh Lanta

The journey back to Saladan Pier takes around 50 minutes, closing out the day. The smooth organization and timely return are often appreciated, with many travelers noting the trip ends well before evening, leaving some room for additional activities.

What Travelers Are Saying

The positive reviews often highlight fantastic snorkeling, with one traveler noting encountering a shark and abundant fish, describing the experience as “amazing.” Many praise the authentic Thai lunch and the large, comfortable boat that doesn’t feel overcrowded.

On the flip side, some reviews bring up issues such as discrepancies in the advertised stops—notably missing Monkey Bay—and feeling rushed. One reviewer warned that this trip is more of a transfer rather than an immersive tour, so if you’re expecting to spend a lot of time on each spot, you might need to adjust your expectations.

The consensus is that this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the number of locations visited and the included amenities. The guides, like Maxime and Lesley, are often described as friendly and knowledgeable, adding a personal touch to the experience.

Practical Details and Tips

• Pricing and inclusions: At $50.07 per person, the tour covers multiple stops, snorkeling gear, and a buffet lunch. The national park fee of 400 baht isn’t included, so budget accordingly.
• Timing: Depart at 9:00 am, with the trip lasting about 7-8 hours. It’s ideal for those who like a full, packed day without feeling rushed.
• Transportation: Pickup from Koh Lanta resorts simplifies logistics. The boat is large and comfortable, helping reduce seasickness or congestion.
• Group size: Limited to 20 travelers, which balances social interaction with personal space.
• Physical fitness: Moderate fitness is recommended, given the walking and snorkeling involved.

The Sum Up

This Phi Phi Island tour from Koh Lanta offers a cost-effective way to tick off several of Thailand’s most famous sights. With a well-organized schedule, friendly guides, and a variety of stops, it’s ideal for travelers who want a full day packed with snorkeling, sightseeing, and good food—all for a budget-friendly price.

While it might not satisfy those seeking a totally personalized or unhurried experience, it provides solid value and memorable moments, especially for first-time visitors. Keep in mind the potential for missing out on some stops like Monkey Bay, and plan your expectations accordingly.

If you’re looking for an active, fun-filled day with the opportunity to snorkel in vibrant waters and see iconic spots like Maya Bay, this trip is a good option. Just be prepared for a busy schedule and verify whether the stops meet your priorities.

FAQ

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from Koh Lanta resorts, making logistics straightforward and hassle-free.

What’s the duration of the trip?
The whole trip lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting around 9 am.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is included, featuring Thai dishes such as chicken Mussaman curry, fried vegetables, and seasonal fruits.

Do I need to pay the national park fee separately?
Yes, the fee of 400 baht for adults (200 baht for children) is paid on-site at Maya Bay. It’s not included in the tour price.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkel equipment is included, allowing you to enjoy the coral reefs and marine life comfortably.

Can I expect to visit Monkey Bay?
There are mixed reports; some travelers mention missing Monkey Bay, which was part of the advertised itinerary. It’s best to clarify with the tour provider beforehand.

Is there a limit on the number of travelers?
The tour generally caps at around 20 guests, helping keep the experience manageable and less crowded.

What 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.

Deciding to join this Phi Phi Islands trip really comes down to what you value most. If you want a budget-friendly, action-packed day with beautiful scenery and snorkeling, it’s a solid choice. Just keep in mind the possibility of changes in stops and the busy schedule. Perfect for travelers eager to explore many highlights but not necessarily seeking a deeply relaxed or overly personalized experience.