6 Hours Private Tour Around Phi Phi Islands From Phi Phi

Taking a private tour around Phi Phi Islands offers a flexible, intimate way to enjoy some of Thailand’s most stunning scenery. This 6-hour adventure, operated by Oh-Hoo, takes you on a traditional long-tail boat to visit highlights like Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, and Viking Cave—all at your own pace and with a knowledgeable captain guiding the way. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a personalized experience away from crowded group tours.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the ability to tailor your stops—spend more time snorkeling at a favorite spot or relax on a quiet beach without feeling rushed. Plus, the emphasis on authentic locations and wildlife spotting makes it feel genuine rather than overly commercialized. That said, keep in mind that some beaches and islands may be affected by weather or tides, which can influence your experience.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who want to explore the Phi Phi Islands in a relaxed, more personal setting. Families, couples, or small groups looking for a flexible and memorable day on the water will also find it appealing. If you’re after a quick, budget-friendly group trip, however, you might prefer other options on the island.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience: You decide how long to stay at each stop, making it more flexible than group tours.
• Authentic sites and wildlife: Visit Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, and enjoy snorkel opportunities with tips from the captain.
• Iconic filming locations: See Maya Bay, the famous backdrop from “The Beach.”
• Comfortable, traditional boat: Enjoy a scenic ride on a long-tail boat with a friendly, knowledgeable captain.
• Cost and value: At $180.95 for up to 2 people, it’s an investment in a personalized experience that many find worthwhile.
• Included essentials: Water, ice, life jackets, snorkeling masks, and insurance are provided; you only need to bring your snacks or extra gear.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

This tour covers a well-curated route that hits some of the most famous and beautiful parts of the Phi Phi Islands. The journey starts at Monkey Beach, where you’ll have about 30 minutes to enjoy the company of the resident monkeys and snap some photos. Reviewers mention how this stop feels both fun and a bit surreal—seeing the monkeys in their natural habitat is a highlight for many.

Next is Viking Cave, a 30-minute stop that reveals a mysterious site famous for its bird’s nests. The cave’s significance goes beyond its visual appeal, as it’s a key collection point for the highly prized swift nests used in bird’s-nest soup. It’s a quick stop, but the story behind Viking Cave adds an interesting layer to your trip.

The tour then moves inside Phi Phi Leh, with a 30-minute stop at Phi Leh Bay. This emerald lagoon, accessible only by boat, offers a peaceful spot to marvel at the scenery and perhaps take some photos of the towering cliffs surrounding the water.

Loh Samah Bay follows, a similarly serene spot perfect for snorkeling and relaxing. Many reviewers mention how clear the water is here, and the natural beauty makes it easy to see why this part of the island is so popular.

Maya Bay is the star of the show—a 45-minute stay allows plenty of time for walking along the iconic white beach, swimming, and snapping pictures of the cliffs that frame this world-famous location. Despite some restrictions in recent years, visitors still find Maya Bay breathtaking and worth the visit, especially when they arrive early or later in the day to avoid crowds.

Long Beach and Loh Lana Bay are next, with quiet, pristine sands and shallow waters ideal for relaxing and swimming. Wading into Wang Long Bay, you’ll find turquoise waters buzzing with colorful fish—one of the aspects that reviewers truly loved for the chance to snorkel in lively, shallow waters with abundant marine life.

Each stop is about 30 minutes, but the flexibility means you can spend more or less time depending on your preference. The captain, often praised for knowledge and friendliness, can suggest spots based on weather conditions and your interests, making the experience feel personal.

The Value of a Private Tour

At $180.95 per group, this private experience offers a different level of intimacy and control compared to shared excursions. Reviewers like Lua_C emphasize how worth it it was to have the freedom to decide how long to linger at each location, especially at hotspots like Monkey Island, which they found “heavenly.” The small group size also means fewer crowds and a more relaxed pace.

The inclusion of essentials like drinking water, ice, life jackets, snorkeling masks, and insurance adds peace of mind. Optional extras such as fins or packed lunches are available, making it easy to customize your day. Some reviews highlight the value in the guide’s friendliness and tips, like how to coax more fish to swim with you, which enhances the snorkeling experience.

However, bear in mind that at the listed price, some reviewers have pointed out that similar tours on the island can be cheaper, especially if you’re willing to negotiate or book directly. Still, many feel that the personalized service, flexibility, and quality of the boat ride justify the cost.

Practicalities and Tips for Your Trip

The tour departs from the McDonald’s on Koh Phi Phi, which is a convenient meeting point if you’re staying nearby. Confirm your booking in advance—most travelers book about three weeks ahead—since this tour is popular.

Plan to bring snacks and drinks, especially if you’re not opting for the offered lunch, which costs an extra 100 THB. The tour includes all necessary safety gear and a first aid kit, but remember that fins are rented, not provided, so bring your own if you prefer.

The national park fee of 400 THB per adult (200 THB per child) isn’t included in the tour price and must be paid upon entry. This is a standard cost across the islands and should be factored into your budget.

If you’re pregnant or have health issues like high blood pressure or heart disease, it’s best to consult with the provider beforehand, as some activities might not be suitable.

The tour’s cancellation policy is flexible—full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Weather can impact your day, so clear communication with the operator is essential if conditions change.

What the Reviews Tell Us

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with many mentioning their friendliness and helpfulness. One reviewer, Slve_h, highlighted how the guide even cut up pineapple for the group and showed the best diving spots, despite some beaches being temporarily closed due to wind.

The scenery and beaches are often described as stunning—Maya Bay, in particular, receives high praise for its iconic beauty. Many travelers remark on the crystal-clear waters and abundant fish, which make snorkeling especially enjoyable, as noted by those who learned tricks from the captain to attract more marine life.

Some reviews mention the value for money, especially when compared to other options. The ability to customize stops and spend more time at favorite spots is a clear advantage. That said, a few reviewers have pointed out that booking directly on Phi Phi or elsewhere might be cheaper, especially for larger groups or if you’re willing to negotiate.

A handful of critical reviews touch on issues like delays in pick-up or feeling that the tour was overpriced relative to what was received. These points remind us that coordination and communication are crucial, so confirming your plans and expectations beforehand is wise.

A private long-tail boat tour around Phi Phi Islands offers a unique, flexible way to enjoy some of Thailand’s most famous scenery. You’ll love the intimacy, the control over your itinerary, and the chance to explore iconic spots like Maya Bay and Monkey Beach in a relaxed setting. The knowledgeable guides and beautiful stops make it a memorable experience, especially for those who want to avoid the crowds and create their own adventure.

While it does come at a higher price than group tours, many find the added comfort and customization worth the cost. If you’re traveling as a couple or a small group seeking a personalized, scenic day on the water, this tour is a fantastic choice. Just be sure to factor in the national park fee and consider weather conditions when planning your day.

This tour balances authenticity, comfort, and value, making it a great way to see the best of the Phi Phi Islands with minimal fuss and maximum enjoyment.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
Guests who are pregnant or have health issues like high blood pressure, heart disease, or bone conditions are not recommended to join, mainly due to the physical nature of boat travel and water activities.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes drinking water, ice, a first aid kit, life jackets, snorkeling masks, and accident insurance. Fins are rented separately if needed.

Do I need to pay the national park fee?
Yes, the national park fee of 400 THB per adult (200 THB per child) is paid upon entry and is not included in the tour price.

Can I bring my own snacks or drinks?
Absolutely. You’re welcome to bring snacks, drinks, or food. The tour operators can also prepare packed lunches for an extra 100 THB per person, with options like Thai fried rice or baguette sandwiches.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can decide how long to stay at each stop, making it easy to spend more time snorkeling or relaxing on your favorite beaches.

What should I wear or bring?
Wear swimwear, bring sunscreen, a hat, and a towel. It’s also wise to bring some cash for extras like fins or snacks, and a waterproof camera if you want to capture underwater moments.

What happens in bad weather?
If weather conditions force cancellation, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund. The tour provider prioritizes safety above all.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at the McDonald’s on Koh Phi Phi, which is a central and accessible spot. Confirm your booking and arrival time in advance for a smooth start.

This private tour offers a blend of natural beauty, personalized service, and the chance to explore some of the most photogenic spots in Thailand’s Phi Phi Islands—ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, tailored adventure.