Phi Phi Islands: Maya & Khai Speedboat Experience

If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters, jaw-dropping limestone cliffs, and beaches straight out of a postcard, a speedboat tour of the Phi Phi Islands might be just what you need. This tour, offered from Phuket, promises a full day of island hopping, snorkeling, and beach relaxation, all packed into roughly 8 hours. While the adventure is packed with iconic stops like Maya Bay (the movie star of beaches) and Khai Nok Island, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before booking.

One thing we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines stunning scenery with practical touches such as light breakfast, snacks, and a Thai lunch catering to various dietary needs. The highlight? Seeing those famous limestone cliffs rise dramatically from emerald waters — a sight that truly lives up to the hype. However, a potential challenge is the size of the boat and the number of stops, which can mean a crowded, sometimes rushed experience for some travelers.

This tour is best suited for those who love a lively, full-day adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and don’t mind sharing the boat with others. If you’re after a more relaxed, intimate experience, you might prefer private tours or smaller groups. Still, if you’re after the quintessential Phi Phi experience with a good balance of sightseeing and beach time, this one’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery with limestone cliffs and turquoise waters
• Multiple stops at iconic locations like Maya Bay and Monkey Beach
• All-inclusive with breakfast, lunch, snorkeling gear, and insurance
• Crowd considerations due to large group sizes and busy stops
• Flexible options for snorkelers and beach lovers
• Value for money given the length and variety of activities

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Phuket and the Early Morning Ride

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup, typically between 7:30 and 9:15 am, depending on your location in Phuket. The transfer is a major convenience, especially if you’re staying in popular areas like Patong, Kata, or Karon. The most noteworthy part here: the morning light breakfast provided at the pier — a nice touch after a potentially early start.

Once registered and equipped with snorkel gear and life jackets, it’s time to set off. The boat is described as fully equipped, with safety a priority, which is comforting given the number of stops and the open water crossings. The journey to Maya Bay takes about an hour, giving you a chance to get excited as you cruise along.

Maya Bay: The Star of the Show

No surprise, Maya Bay is the main attraction, thanks to its fame from “The Beach” movie. The beach is stunning — white sand, towering cliffs, and vibrant water. However, it’s worth noting that Maya Bay will be officially closed from August 1 to October 1, 2024. During this period, visitors can enjoy the view from the boat, but actual land visits won’t be possible.

Reviews mention that the time spent here is around 45 minutes, which might seem short given its popularity. But that’s typical for day trips, especially when trying to cover multiple locations. One traveler noted, “We loved the way the cliffs framed the water, a picture-perfect moment.” Just keep in mind, during peak season, it can be crowded, with many other boats vying for space.

Monkey Beach: A Low Tide Treasure

Next stop is Monkey Beach, a tiny bay where you can spot some playful primates and take a quick swim. The tide plays a big role here — if it’s high, the island almost disappears, and the stop may be cut short or replaced with a sightseeing cruise.

A review highlights that “Monkey Beach appears only during low tide,” which is true for many visitors. Expect about 45 minutes here, but be prepared for a potential short visit if the tide isn’t cooperating. The beach itself is small, and some guests have mentioned it’s quite crowded during busy times, so don’t expect a secluded experience.

Viking Cave: A Cultural Curiosity

Viking Cave is mostly a sightseeing stop from the boat — a quick 30-minute look at the cave’s walls painted with ancient drawings, supposedly made by pirates or early explorers. It’s less about exploring and more about admiring the natural and historical mystery.

One reviewer pointed out that Viking Cave “gets its name from the paintings,” which is an interesting tidbit to share with fellow travelers. It’s a brief but visually striking stop, especially if you’re into natural formations and cave art.

Pileh Bay and Lagoon: Swimming and Paddleboarding

At Pileh Bay, you’ll find some of the clearest waters on the tour. Here, you can swim or rent a paddleboard to enjoy the calm, turquoise lagoon. Some tour operators offer extra boat rides via longtail boats for photos, which come at an extra cost.

The 45-minute stop gives ample opportunity for lounging, swimming, or snapping photos of the towering cliffs surrounding the lagoon. One guest mentioned, “The water here was so clear, I could see all the way to the bottom,” emphasizing just how picture-perfect this spot is.

Phi Phi Don: Lunch and Snorkeling

The tour offers a unique split here: travelers who prefer to relax and eat can head straight to lunch at Arida restaurant, while snorkelers are taken to nearby spots before dining. This flexibility is appreciated; some reviewers note that snorkeling is best before lunch to avoid feeling unwell afterward.

You’ll get about two hours on Phi Phi Don, with a generous one-hour window for relaxing on the beach, soaking up the sun, or wandering around. The included Thai lunch caters to various dietary needs, including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and halal options — a thoughtful touch that many travelers appreciate.

One traveler highlighted that “the lunch was delicious and filling,” making the long day a bit more comfortable. Don’t expect gourmet cuisine, but it’s certainly satisfying after a morning of sightseeing.

Khai Nok Island: Water Fun and Relaxation

The final stop is Khai Nok Island, about an hour away. Known for its soft sands and abundant fish, this is a perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling among colorful marine life. Water activities like paddleboarding or just relaxing on the beach are popular here, with some options at an extra cost.

One reviewer described it as “a relaxing end to a busy day,” capturing the vibe perfectly. Just note that additional activities are charged separately if you want to extend your fun.

Return to Phuket

The tour wraps up around 4:30 pm with the boat returning to the pier, followed by a transfer back to your hotel. The convenience of door-to-door service means you don’t have to worry about navigating public transport after a full day of adventure.

Practical Considerations

• Group Size and Safety: The boat can hold up to 47 people, and reviews indicate that sometimes it gets quite crowded, with some guests feeling crammed in. The tour’s response clarified that capacity is indeed around 47, so overcapacity complaints may be due to miscommunication or overcrowding on specific days.

• Timing and Pacing: The itinerary’s timing is tight, with many stops lasting around 45 minutes. This means you’ll need to be ready for a fairly fast-paced day, but it also ensures you cover all the key highlights.

• Food and Snacks: The included Thai meal is a highlight for many, especially given dietary options. Fruits and snacks on board help keep energy levels up.

• Cost and Value: At $88 per person, this tour offers a lot — multiple stops, snorkeling gear, lunch, insurance, and transfers. It’s a reasonable price for a full-day adventure in such iconic locations. For travelers who prioritize seeing a variety of spots in one day, it’s a solid value.

What Reviewers Say

Some guests have loved the professionalism and enthusiasm of guides like Serena, praising the well-organized schedule and friendly service. Others, however, have experienced frustrations, including overcrowding, poor organization, or feeling rushed. One reviewer described the boat as “super dirty,” and others mentioned the short visits at popular spots.

Despite mixed reviews, many mention that the scenery is breathtaking and the logistics are generally smooth, especially with good communication from the tour operator.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want to pack a lot into one day. If you love iconic beaches, snorkeling, and island vistas, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also ideal if you’re comfortable with large group tours and don’t mind sharing the boat with others.

Those who value well-planned meals, safety gear, and organized transfers will appreciate the comprehensive package. However, if you’re seeking a more intimate or relaxed experience, you might consider private tours or smaller group options.

The Sum Up

The Phi Phi Islands speedboat tour from Phuket offers a full-day dose of Thailand’s most beautiful sights. From the famed Maya Bay to the serene waters of Khai Nok Island, you’ll get a taste of everything that makes these islands so special. The inclusion of meals, snorkeling gear, and transfers provides good value, especially for first-time visitors eager to tick off the main attractions.

That said, the experience can feel a little rushed, and the potential for crowds might not suit everyone. It’s a lively, energetic adventure best suited for those who thrive in group settings and want a broad overview of the Phi Phi archipelago.

Overall, if you’re after a fun, scenic, and activity-packed day with plenty of photo ops and water fun, this tour delivers. Just be prepared for a busy, sometimes crowded day — and don’t forget your camera and sense of adventure.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes roundtrip transfers from various Phuket locations, a light breakfast, snorkeling equipment, lunch, fruits on board, and accident insurance. Entrance and national park fees are also covered.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a towel, your camera, sunscreen, and possibly extra cash for activities not included like longtail boat rides or water sports on Khai Nok Island.

How long are the stops at each location?
Most stops are around 45 minutes, with some shorter like Viking Cave (30 minutes). Lunch on Phi Phi Don lasts about 2 hours, giving ample relaxation time.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear including masks, snorkels, and life jackets are included in the tour.

Are there dietary options for lunch?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal options are available, making the meal suitable for most dietary restrictions.

What happens if Maya Bay is closed?
If Maya Bay is closed during your trip, you’ll still get to see the bay from the boat, but land access will be restricted during the closure period from August 1 to October 1, 2024.

This Phi Phi Islands speedboat experience offers a lively, scenic, and well-organized way to explore Thailand’s most famous islands — perfect for travelers eager for adventure and iconic views.