Phi Phi Early Bird & 4 Islands – Day Tour by Speedboat From Krabi

If you’re visiting Krabi and want a full day of adventure on the water, the Phi Phi Early Bird & 4 Islands tour by speedboat offers an exciting way to see some of the most iconic sights while avoiding the crowds. This tour packs in multiple stops across stunning islands, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and snapping photos. It’s a popular choice for those short on time but eager to experience the beauty of Thailand’s Andaman Sea.

What really caught our eye is how this tour is designed to beat the tourist rush with an early start, ensuring you get peaceful moments at famed spots like Maya Bay and Monkey Beach. Plus, with hotel pickup, lunch, and all equipment included, it offers a lot of value for a full-day adventure. On the flip side, the schedule can be quite packed, and some might find the early morning pick-up a bit of a stretch—especially if you’re not a morning person.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy boat trips, scenic views, and a mix of relaxing and adventurous activities. If you’re traveling with friends or family and love exploring islands with well-organized guides, this could very well be your ideal day out.

Key Points

• Beat the crowds with an early start that allows for more peaceful experiences at popular spots.
• All-in-one convenience: hotel transfers, meals, snorkeling gear, and insurance included.
• Multiple stops offer a balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and sightseeing.
• Good value for money considering the variety of activities and inclusions.
• Guides and organization earn praise for their friendliness and professionalism.
• Weather-dependent; the itinerary can change due to tides or weather conditions.

A Detailed Look at the Phi Phi Early Bird & 4 Islands Tour

This tour spans approximately 9 hours, which means you’ll pack a lot into a single day. The key to its appeal is the well-planned itinerary that hits the highlights of Krabi’s famous islands and beaches, with enough flexibility to enjoy each stop.

The Pickup and First Leg: From Nopparat Thara Pier

Your adventure begins with a hotel pickup — a feature that many reviewers appreciate. The tour departs from Nopparat Thara Pier between 6:45 and 7:00 a.m., so be prepared for an early start. As some reviews mention, the early timing is a big plus because it helps you avoid the crowds that often swarm popular spots later in the day.

The boat itself accommodates up to 30 people, ensuring a comfortable, not overly crowded environment. This size strikes a good balance, allowing for social interaction without feeling cramped.

Tup Island & Koh Mor: The Sandbar Spectacle

The first stop takes you to Tup Island and Koh Mor, famous for their white sandbar that appears at low tide and links the islands together. During this brief stop, you’ll get about 40 minutes to walk on the sandbar, take photos, or simply enjoy the views. Reviewers have raved about this stop, calling it “an amazing sight” and noting it’s a must-see when visiting Krabi.

Expect this part of the tour to be quiet and peaceful, especially since it’s early morning. It’s the perfect time for picture-taking without the crowds.

Maya Bay: The Iconic Movie Set

Next up is Maya Bay, the stunning cove made famous by the movie The Beach. The bay boasts turquoise waters and towering cliffs—truly postcard-worthy. However, visitors should note that swimming is not allowed here to preserve the environment, and drones are prohibited without permission. The hour-long stop provides enough time to admire the scenery from the boat or take photos from the shore.

Several reviews mention the cleanliness and preservation efforts, with some travelers noting that the early morning timing helps avoid the overcrowding that Maya Bay is known for later in the day.

Pileh Bay & Viking Cave: Nature’s Lagoon and Birds’ Nests

After Maya Bay, the tour takes you to Pileh Bay, a lush, emerald lagoon surrounded by cliffs. Accessible during high tide, it’s a fantastic spot for swimming, jumping off the boat, or just soaking in the scenery. You’ll spend around 40 minutes here, giving you ample time to take photos or cool off in the water.

Next is the Viking Cave, a sight that’s more about the view than exploration. From the boat, you can spot bird nests—which are harvested for bird’s nest soup—but entering the cave isn’t permitted. Many reviewers enjoy just capturing photos of the cave’s impressive façade, with some calling it “a quick but interesting stop.”

Monkey Beach: Wildlife Encounters

True to its name, Monkey Beach offers a chance to see crab-eating macaques in their natural environment. They’re visible from the boat, and while you won’t go ashore, the sight of these lively animals adds a fun element to the tour. Reviewers mention that the monkeys are accustomed to boats, making for some great photo opportunities.

Loh Samah Bay: Snorkeling Paradise

A highlight for many is Loh Samah Bay, where you’ll have 45 minutes for snorkeling and swimming. The reef here is vibrant, with colorful tropical fishes and clear water. Tour guides often assist with gear and ensure everyone is safe, which reviewers appreciate. If you love marine life, this stop is definitely worth the effort.

Bamboo Island & Chicken Island: Relaxation and Unique Formations

The tour includes Bamboo Island, known for its powdery white beaches and crystal-clear water—a perfect spot for lounging or a quick swim. Many find the beachfront lunch here particularly enjoyable; the Thai buffet is well-reviewed, with options for vegetarians and vegans.

Chicken Island, with its distinctive rock formation resembling a chicken, is another photo-worthy stop. It’s a brief 15-minute visit but memorable for its unique natural sculpture.

Poda Island: The Perfect Finish

The final stop is Poda Island, famous for its scenic views and soft sands. Tourists spend about 45 minutes here relaxing, swimming, or just soaking in the sunset views if timing aligns. Reviewers often mention this as a beautiful, peaceful end to a busy day.

What Our Reviewers Say

Throughout reviews, certain themes keep emerging. Guide Natty was praised as “welcoming and friendly,” with many appreciating how guides check on guests and ensure everyone has a good time. Special mentions go to guides like Bi and Wawa, who are described as helpful, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic.

The meals often receive compliments—”lunch was outstanding,” and “plenty of snacks and fresh fruits” are common themes. Vegetarian options are available and well-prepared, which is a thoughtful touch considering dietary preferences.

Many reviewers also highlight the organized nature of the trip—timely pickups, efficient boat boarding, and smooth transitions—making the experience stress-free.

A Few Downsides to Keep in Mind

While most reviews are glowing, some mention that the itinerary is quite full, meaning you may feel rushed at certain stops. Weather can also impact the schedule, so expect some flexibility. The tour is weather-dependent, and if conditions aren’t ideal, your plans might change or be canceled for safety reasons.

A handful of reviews note that the early start can be a challenge if you’re not a morning person, but most agree it’s a small price to pay for avoiding the crowds.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For $81.59 per person, the tour includes hotel transfers, lunch, snorkeling equipment, soft drinks, fruits, and insurance. When you consider the number of stops and the variety of activities, this is a solid deal. Plus, the professional guides ensure safety and add local insights, making the experience richer.

The small group size and early departure help you enjoy the sights more intimately and avoid the large crowds that often dominate popular spots later in the day. The mix of relaxing beaches, snorkeling, and sightseeing makes it a well-rounded day trip.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who loves being on the water, appreciates well-organized trips, and prefers avoiding the crowds, this tour is a strong choice. It’s particularly suitable for active travelers who are comfortable with a full schedule and early mornings. If you’re traveling with friends or family who will enjoy a mix of scenic views, wildlife spotting, and snorkeling, this trip ticks all those boxes.

However, if you’re looking for a slow-paced, leisurely day or have mobility issues, the tight schedule and boat rides might feel a little rushed. Also, if you’re prone to seasickness, be prepared, as the speedboat can be somewhat bumpy.

FAQs

How early does the tour start?
The tour departs from Nopparat Thara Pier between 6:45 and 7:00 a.m., so you’ll need to be ready for an early start.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel round-trip transfers in Krabi, Ao Nang, or Railay Beach, with a minimum of 2 people required.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers breakfast, lunch, snacks, soft drinks, snorkeling gear, life jackets, guides, and basic accident insurance.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be requested at the time of booking.

Can I swim at Maya Bay?
No, swimming is not allowed at Maya Bay to protect the environment. However, many other stops like Loh Samah Bay and Bamboo Island offer snorkeling and swimming.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, towel, sun protection, and waterproof camera. Since luggage and baby strollers aren’t allowed, travel light.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the physical activity level is moderate. It’s not recommended for babies under 3 years or pregnant travelers.

Final Thoughts

This Phi Phi Early Bird & 4 Islands tour offers an impressive lineup of some of Krabi’s most iconic sights, all rolled into one well-organized day. The early start helps you beat the crowds and enjoy more serene moments at places like Maya Bay and Tup Island. The inclusions—meals, snorkeling gear, and transfers—add considerable value, making it suitable for travelers seeking a hassle-free, fun-filled day.

The knowledgeable guides and positive reviews highlight the quality of the experience, while the variety of stops ensures there’s something for all—whether it’s lounging on powdery beaches, marveling at limestone cliffs, or snorkeling among tropical fish.

If you’re after a balanced, well-priced adventure that combines sightseeing, wildlife, and relaxation, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to rise early, pack light, and bring your camera ready to capture the breathtaking scenery of Krabi’s islands.

Ready to explore Krabi’s islands in style? Book early, enjoy the adventure, and make memories that last a lifetime.