Snorkel Tour to Phi Phi Islands by Speed Boat from Koh Lanta

Exploring the Phi Phi Islands by Speedboat from Koh Lanta: A Deep Dive

Travelers eager to see some of Thailand’s most iconic islands will find this snorkel tour to the Phi Phi Islands an attractive option. Offered by Trip Store Krabi, this full-day adventure packs in visits to famous spots like Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, and Shark Point, all with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off from Koh Lanta. The tour lasts approximately seven hours, making it a manageable day trip that combines snorkeling, sightseeing, and delicious Thai food.

What really stands out in this experience is the speedboat, which allows you to maximize your time at each location—something that slow boat tours often struggle to do. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling equipment and a buffet lunch makes it feel like a well-rounded, value-packed day. That said, a potential consideration is that Maya Bay and Loh Samah Bay are closed indefinitely, which means the itinerary has been slightly adjusted. Still, the tour offers a variety of other breathtaking sights and marine adventures that are well worth your time. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day exploring the stunning marine landscapes of the Phi Phi Islands without the need to organize transport or meals independently.

Key Points
– Fast-paced and efficient way to see multiple Phi Phi highlights
– Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience
– Great snorkeling spots with equipment provided
– Delicious Thai buffet lunch included, offering local flavors
– Limited to groups of 60 ensures a comfortable experience
– Indefinite closure of Maya Bay means some sites may be replaced

The Tour Experience in Detail

Starting Off: Hotel Pickup and Transfer

The tour kicks off early at around 9:00 am with hotel pickup on Koh Lanta. From there, you are whisked to Saladan Pier, where the crew of the speedboat awaits. This part of the journey is straightforward, with most reviews highlighting the professionalism of the staff, including guides like “very organized and knowledgeable,” which sets a positive tone for the day.

The Speedboat Journey: Getting to the Islands

The transfer from Koh Lanta to Phi Phi Leh via speedboat takes roughly 50 minutes—a swift ride that beats the slower, more sluggish longtail boats. Traveling at speed means more time on the islands. The boat itself is described as clean and comfortable, with plenty of space to relax while taking in the ocean views.

First Stop: Viking Cave

Your first stop is Viking Cave, famous for the swiftlet nests harvested by local traders. Expect to pass by this site slowly, giving you a chance to admire the sheer cliffs and learn a bit from your guide. It’s a quick stop but a fascinating glimpse into local wildlife harvesting.

Snorkeling at Viking Bay and Shark Point

Next, it’s time for some snorkeling. Viking Bay features a man-made reef and natural sloping reef, making it a fantastic spot to see marine life up close. Reviewers like “the snorkeling was amazing,” and the clear waters with vibrant coral make it easy to spot colorful fish.

The tour then moves to Shark Point, a lively site where soft corals and schools of fish congregate. The water here is known for its many fish and sea urchins, giving snorkelers a lively underwater scene. Expect to spend about an hour exploring these two spots, with snorkeling gear and life jackets provided, so you’re set even if you’re a beginner.

The Iconic Maya Bay (or Its Replacement)

Maya Bay is the star attraction, with its silky white sand and limestone cliffs. However, due to its closure, the tour’s itinerary has been adjusted. Instead of ashore, you’ll enjoy a photo stop and swimming in the bay, which is still magnificent even without stepping onto its beaches. One reviewer noted, “the bay was beautiful, and the water was crystal clear,” even if they couldn’t go onshore. The 50-minute stop allows enough time to soak in the scenery, take photos, and snorkel.

Pileh Lagoon and Loh Samah Bay

The cruise continues to Pileh Lagoon, a stunning emerald-green inlet surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. The calm waters here are perfect for relaxing and appreciating nature’s grandeur. The 40-minute stop offers a chance to swim and enjoy the scenery.

Next, Loh Samah Bay offers a quick visit, including a walk to the “famous” spot known from “The Beach” film. It’s a brief stop but adds to the overall sense of adventure and discovery.

Lunch Break on Koh Phi Phi Don

After several spectacular sights, it’s time for a Thai buffet lunch on Koh Phi Phi Don. The meal includes Massaman chicken curry, fried chicken, stir-fried vegetables, steamed rice, fresh fruit, and soft drinks. Reviewers praised the food as “delicious” and a highlight of the day, with some noting the staff’s friendly service.

Post-lunch, there’s roughly 90 minutes to explore the island’s beaches, walk around, or relax. This is a time to soak up the islands’ charm, with some reviewers mentioning how the beaches have a “gentle, relaxing vibe,” and the scenery contrasts beautifully with the rugged cliffs.

Monkey Beach and Shark Point: Marine and Wildlife Encounters

The tour then visits Monkey Beach, where the resident macaques are a crowd favorite. Reviews caution against feeding the monkeys, as they tend to become aggressive. You’ll have about 20 minutes here, enough time to observe the playful primates and snorkel nearby coral reefs, which are described as “memorable” and full of colorful marine life.

Finally, before heading back, the boat makes a stop at Shark Point for one last snorkel. Here, you can spot soft corals, various fish, and sea urchins, making it a fitting end to a day full of underwater discovery.

Return Journey and Drop-off

The trip back to Koh Lanta begins after Shark Point, with a leisurely cruise that offers plenty of opportunities to reflect on the day’s highlights. The tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel, making it a seamless experience.

Value and Real-World Feedback

The price of $50.32 per person offers a lot of value, considering the comprehensive itinerary, boat transfers, meals, and snorkeling gear. Guests repeatedly mentioned the professionalism of guides and the quality of snorkeling as major plus points. One review described the crew as “organized and friendly,” which can make a big difference when you’re in a busy tour environment.

The buffet lunch is viewed as a highlight, especially since it features authentic Thai dishes like Massaman curry. Reviewers appreciated that the meal was plentiful and tasty, perfect for refueling after morning activities.

However, some travelers expressed a bit of disappointment that Maya Bay was not accessible ashore, but most agreed that even viewing from afar remained impressive. The tour’s adjustment due to the park closures is a reminder that in these natural environments, things can change unexpectedly.

Group Size and Booking Tips

The tour is capped at 60 travelers, which balances crowd control with a lively group atmosphere. Booking 15 days in advance is recommended, as spots fill up quickly—especially during peak season.

Practical Considerations

• Timing: The tour starts promptly at 9:00 am, so arriving on time is key.
• Weather Dependence: As with any outdoor activity, weather can impact the experience. Tour operators will reschedule or refund if canceled due to poor conditions.
• Participants: Suitable for most travelers, with the tour including basic accident insurance for guests aged 4 to 69.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This speedboat tour delivers a well-rounded experience for those looking to combine snorkeling, island scenery, and a taste of local cuisine without the hassle of organizing logistics. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to maximize their time on the water and see multiple hotspots in a single day.

Families will appreciate the included lunch and the shorter, manageable day, while adventurers will love the snorkeling opportunities and the chance to explore different marine environments. The tour is also ideal for those who want an easy, all-in-one package that covers transportation, meals, and activities.

That said, if you’re seeking complete access to Maya Bay or prefer quieter, less crowded spots, you might want to explore other options or private tours. Also, the group size means it’s not a solitary experience, so if privacy is your priority, consider a private charter.

This tour offers a balanced blend of adventure, comfort, and value, making it a reliable choice for anyone wanting to experience the beauty of the Phi Phi Islands with minimal fuss.

FAQ

Will I be picked up from my hotel?
Yes, hotel pickup is included, and you’ll be taken directly from your Koh Lanta accommodation to Saladan Pier.

What is included in the price?
Your tour price covers round-trip hotel transfer, snorkeling equipment, life jackets, a Thai buffet lunch, drinking water, fresh fruit, and a professional guide.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, there’s an entrance fee to Hat Noppharat Thara – Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park that’s not included in the tour price.

How long is the snorkeling?
You’ll have around two main snorkeling stops—at Viking Bay and Shark Point—each lasting about an hour, giving plenty of underwater time.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 4 and up can join, and the basic accident insurance is available for ages 4-69. However, feeding monkeys is discouraged.

Is Maya Bay accessible?
Currently, Maya Bay’s beaches are closed indefinitely, so the tour visits the bay for sightseeing and swimming only, not ashore.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, waterproof camera, towel, and some cash for optional souvenirs or park fees.

How many people are in the group?
The tour caps at 60 travelers, which helps keep the experience comfortable and social.

To sum it up, this speedboat tour to the Phi Phi Islands offers a solid mix of snorkeling, sightseeing, and local flavor—all from the comfort of a well-organized group experience. It’s best for those wanting a hassle-free day with plenty of marine adventures and stunning scenery, making it an excellent addition to your Koh Lanta itinerary.