Phi Phi Island Half Day Tour From Phi Phi by Longtail Boat

This guided tour promises a quick, scenic way to see some of the most famous spots in the Phi Phi archipelago—all within about four hours. Traveling by traditional longtail boat gives you a chance to dodge the crowds and enjoy a more authentic experience, making it ideal for travelers who want a taste of Phi Phi without spending the whole day on the water. What makes this tour stand out is the variety of stops—each offering something different—plus the inclusive snorkeling gear and drinks, which add to the overall value.

Of course, there are a few considerations. The tour can get crowded, especially at hotspots like Monkey Beach and Maya Bay, which might affect your sense of tranquility. Safety concerns have been raised in some reviews, particularly about the use of life jackets and the safety of snorkeling without supervision. Still, if you’re comfortable with a lively, small-group adventure and want to see the highlights in a short amount of time, this tour could be just right for you.

Who should consider this experience? If you’re a traveler with limited time in Phi Phi, a budget-conscious visitor eager to see key sights, or someone who enjoys snorkeling and outdoor adventures, then this tour offers a good combination of sights, activity, and affordability. Just be prepared for some busy spots and the typical chaos of popular tourist destinations.

Key Points

• Authentic transportation: Traditional longtail boats provide a more genuine Thai sea experience.
• Diverse stops: From lagoons and caves to monkey beaches and iconic Maya Bay, each stop offers a different perspective.
• Snorkeling included: All gear and drinks are provided, making it easy to jump straight into the water.
• Time-efficient: Perfect for travelers who want a quick yet comprehensive look at the Phi Phi sights.
• Potential crowds: Expect busy beaches and popular spots, especially during peak times.
• Safety concerns: Some reviews mention safety issues, so use caution and stay vigilant.

The Itinerary Deep Dive: What to Expect

Starting Point and How You Get There

You’ll meet your guide at Andaman Beach Resort and hop onto a traditional longtail boat. This style of boat isn’t just picturesque; it’s a symbol of Thai maritime culture. With a group size capped at around 20 travelers, the atmosphere is intimate enough to ask questions but busy enough to feel the buzz of a shared adventure. The ride out into the Andaman Sea sets the tone—relaxed, scenic, and full of anticipation.

Koh Phi Phi Leh and Maya Bay

Your first stop is Koh Phi Phi Leh, a limestone mountain rising dramatically from the sea, famously used as a movie set. Then, you’ll head to Maya Bay, the star attraction. Here, you’ll get a quick photo op, but don’t expect to swim or lounge—it’s often crowded and currently closed for swimming, according to recent reviews. One guest mentioned, “Maya Bay is beautiful, but the corals are dead,” which highlights the environmental toll from tourism.

Snorkeling at Pileh Bay

One of the tour’s highlights, according to many, is snorkeling at Pileh Bay. The clear waters and vibrant marine life make it a favorite for underwater photography. Reviewers describe it as “an underwater wonderland,” with plenty of fish and colorful coral. All snorkeling equipment is included, and drinks are provided, so you can stay hydrated and refreshed while exploring the marine world.

Loh Samah Bay and Monkey Beach

Next, you’ll visit Loh Samah Bay, known for its underwater caves and diving opportunities. The reviews confirm this as a “world-class diving area,” with many guests enjoying snorkeling here. The final stop, Monkey Beach, is inhabited by macaques. However, one reviewer pointed out that “Monkey Beach gets very crowded,” and during high tide, no monkeys are visible, which can be disappointing.

Viking Cave

Your last stop is Viking Cave, famous for its rock formations and vibrant coral. Here, you’ll get a chance to take photos of the cave’s striking features. Reviewers often mention the “mural paintings and colorful coral,” adding a bit of natural artistry to the experience.

Return Journey and Drop-off

The tour wraps up back at your original meeting point, offering a compact but comprehensive glimpse of Phi Phi’s best. The overall experience is designed to maximize sightseeing while fitting into a four-hour window, making it perfect for those with tight schedules.

What Travelers Say: Honest Feedback and Tips

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and friendly captains for making the trip enjoyable. One reviewer appreciated the “super nice” guides and the captain who even pointed out a coral reef shark while snorkeling. The inclusion of drinks, fruit, and snorkeling gear adds value—especially for just around $20 per person.

However, safety concerns do surface. One reviewer shared, “Longtail boat dangerous, no life jacket compulsory, snorkeling allowed without guard,” which is a stark reminder to remain cautious during water activities. The tour provider has acknowledged this and plans to review safety protocols.

Crowd levels are a common theme. Some note that Monkey Beach and Maya Bay can be overrun with visitors, impacting the serenity of these spots. The fact that Maya Bay is currently closed for swimming is also a disappointment for those hoping to relax in its famous waters.

Lastly, the experience offers good value for money. For many, it’s a quick, efficient way to tick off key sights without the expense of private tours. But some mention that if you’re seeking a more relaxed, less crowded experience, a private or speedboat tour might suit you better.

Deep Dive into the Value and Practicalities

Price and What You Get

At about $20.18 per person, this tour is remarkably affordable considering the stops and included gear. You get all snorkeling equipment, drinks, fresh fruit, a guided experience, insurance, and the chance to see multiple iconic locations. It’s a straightforward, budget-friendly option for travelers who want a taste of Phi Phi without the hefty price tag.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Being limited to around 20 travelers helps keep the experience personable, but it’s still a lively environment. Some reviews mentioned that getting onto the boat can be a little confusing, especially for solo travelers or first-timers. The boat’s ladder isn’t recommended for those with limited mobility, and there’s a note about crowded spots like Monkey Beach and Maya Bay, which might feel overwhelming, especially during peak hours.

Duration and Timing

The four-hour window strikes a good balance—enough time to see all the main sights without feeling rushed. Since most trips are booked 10 days in advance, planning ahead is advisable. The tour departs from Krabi’s Ao Nang area, making it accessible if you’re staying nearby.

Safety and Environmental Concerns

It’s worth highlighting that some reviews have raised safety issues, particularly regarding life jackets and supervision during snorkeling. The tour provider has acknowledged the need for improvement. Environmentally, the condition of the coral reefs, especially Maya Bay’s, reflects the impact of tourism—something to keep in mind when visiting.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This half-day Phi Phi tour is a good fit for travelers who want to see the highlights efficiently and aren’t necessarily seeking solitude or a luxury experience. It’s perfect for those on a budget, families with kids (ages 4-10), and adventure lovers who enjoy snorkeling and boat rides. The informal and lively atmosphere suits those who don’t mind the crowds and are okay with some environmental degradation at popular spots.

If you’re pregnant, have high blood pressure, or serious health conditions, this tour might not be suitable due to safety and physical activity involved. Also, if you prefer a more relaxed experience or fewer visitors, consider private options or speedboat alternatives.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

The Phi Phi Island Half Day Tour from Phi Phi by Longtail Boat offers a great snapshot of the archipelago’s must-see spots at an incredible price. You’ll love the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, explore caves, and snap photos of Maya Bay—all with friendly guides and the charm of traditional Thai boats. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and drinks makes it convenient and adds to the value.

However, expect some crowds and environmental wear, especially at popular sites like Monkey Beach and Maya Bay. The safety concerns raised in reviews should prompt you to stay vigilant, but they don’t overshadow the overall fun of the trip. This tour strikes a balance between affordability, adventure, and sightseeing—ideal for travelers with limited time or a budget-conscious mindset.

If your goal is to tick off the main sights efficiently and enjoy some snorkeling without breaking the bank, this tour will serve you well. But if you’re after a peaceful, secluded experience, you might want to look into alternatives. Either way, it’s a lively, scenic romp through some of Thailand’s most famous islands.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 4-10 can participate, but parents should be mindful of safety, especially around water activities and boat ladders.

Do I need to pay the national park fee?
Yes, there’s a 400 THB per adult fee and 200 THB per child to be paid at the park entrance, but some reviews warn about payment issues—it’s best to clarify payment procedures with the guide.

What’s included in the tour?
All snorkeling equipment, drinks, fresh fruit, a tour guide, first aid kit, and accident insurance are included.

Are there any safety concerns?
Some guests have voiced concerns about safety, such as the lack of mandatory life jackets and unsupervised snorkeling. The tour provider plans to review these issues, but travelers should exercise caution.

How busy are the spots?
Expect crowds at Monkey Beach and Maya Bay, especially during peak times. Maya Bay might only be visible from the boat since swimming is often restricted.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a quick and efficient way to see the main sights.

Is this tour eco-friendly?
Environmental impact is a concern, with reports of dead coral at Maya Bay. Visitors are encouraged to snorkel responsibly and avoid touching marine life.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Embark on this lively, budget-friendly day out if you’re eager to see Phi Phi’s highlights, enjoy snorkeling, and experience traditional Thai boat rides—just remember to bring your camera and a cautious attitude about crowds and safety.