Phi Phi Island Tour by Big Boat by Royal Jet Cruiser (First Class)

Exploring the Phi Phi Islands with Royal Jet Cruiser’s First Class Big Boat Tour

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, powdery beaches, and dramatic limestone cliffs, the Phi Phi Islands are likely on your bucket list. This popular day trip from Phuket promises a blend of sightseeing, snorkeling, and cultural discovery, all aboard a comfortable, well-equipped vessel. Based on reviews and detailed itineraries, this tour offers a solid mix of natural beauty and practical convenience, making it an attractive option for many travelers.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its first-class boat experience. The Royal Jet Cruiser combines comfort with a touch of luxury, offering a smooth ride and welcoming amenities that make the long day enjoyable. Plus, the inclusion of round-trip transfers from Phuket hotels means less hassle at the start and end of your adventure. One thing to keep in mind is the additional costs—notably the National Park fee and entrance fee—so budgeting ahead is wise. This tour tends to suit those who value a balanced mix of guided sightseeing, free time, and snorkeling opportunities, especially if you’re after a day that covers the highlights without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation and round-trip hotel transfers simplify your day.
• Rich sightseeing opportunities including Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Pi-Le Cove (weather permitting).
• Well-organized itinerary with enough time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
• Value-packed with included buffet lunch, snorkeling gear, and guide service.
• Additional fees like National Park and entrance fees require cash payment on-site.
• Limited group size (max 7 travelers), ensuring a more intimate experience.

The Essential Overview of the Tour

This 8-hour trip from Phuket packs in a lot, beginning with a convenient hotel pickup and transfer to Rassada Pier. From there, you’ll hop aboard the Royal Jet Cruiser, enjoying a first-class experience with spacious seating, refreshments, and a friendly English-speaking guide. The boat ride itself is part of the charm, offering scenic views of the Andaman Sea, including passing by iconic spots like Maya Bay and Loh Samah Bay, although weather conditions can affect visibility.

The Itinerary in Detail

Phuket Pickup and Transfer

The day kicks off with a pickup from your Phuket hotel, which is a huge bonus for travelers who dislike managing their own transport. The transfer to Rassada Pier takes about an hour and a half, giving you time to settle in and get ready for the adventure ahead.

Phi Phi Don: Long Beach & Snorkeling

At approximately 10:30 am, you’ll arrive at Long Beach on Phi Phi Don. This is where the tour really gets going. You’ll have free time to swim, sunbathe, or snorkel beyond the shore reef. The snorkeling here is often highlighted as a major plus, with colorful tropical fish visible just off the beach. Reviewers like Andrea mention the short 30-minute stop, noting it felt rushed—something to consider if you love longer snorkel sessions or beach lounging.

Buffet Lunch & Leisure on Phi Phi Don

At around 12:00 pm, a buffet lunch is served at a seaside restaurant. The menu includes Thai, international, and Indian options, making it a meal suitable for diverse tastes. After lunch, you’ll get some leisure time—perfect for exploring, relaxing on the beach, or just soaking up the scenery. This is also when many travelers explore Tonsai, the lively hub of Phi Phi Don, with shops, cafes, and stunning viewpoints.

Afternoon Exploration & Sightseeing

Post-lunch, you’ll meet your guide for a short walk to Tonsai Pier, where you can explore the bustling town. The guide provides insights into the island’s culture and environment, enriching your experience. There’s a small entrance fee of 20 THB per person that you’ll need to pay, which is typical for accessing certain areas.

Return Journey with Scenic Passes

At around 2:30 pm, you’ll board the Royal Jet Cruiser again for your return to Phuket. Along the way, expect a scenic passage past Phi Phi Ley, with sights like Viking Cave, Pi-Le Cove, Loh Samah Bay, and, if weather permits, Maya Bay—the famous filming location of “The Beach.” These views are worth the ride, although weather and sea conditions can influence how much you actually see.

Back to Phuket

Your day wraps up with a boat ride back to Rassada Pier, followed by a transfer to your hotel, ending the trip around 8 hours after it began.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The scenic boat ride itself is a highlight, especially with the chance to see several famous spots from the deck. The first-class vessel ensures a comfortable journey, with amenities that make the long hours feel shorter. The guides are noted for their knowledge, adding context to the sights and helping you navigate the busy spots.

The snorkeling gear is included, and many reviewers mention how vibrant the underwater life is just beyond the shore reef, making it ideal for fans of marine life. The buffet lunch offers a generous selection, giving you fuel to explore more or simply relax.

However, some travelers note that the 30-minute stop at Maya Bay is not enough time, especially if you’re eager to swim and explore. Reviewers like Andrea suggest that the timing could be improved, particularly for those staying overnight or with bags, as it gets crowded and rushed.

The Practicalities and What to Expect

Transportation & Group Size

The shared van transfers are convenient, especially for first-time visitors who may feel overwhelmed navigating local transport. The group size is capped at 7, promoting a more personal experience and allowing your guide to give more tailored insights.

Timing & Duration

Spanning about 8 hours, the tour is fairly comprehensive but not overly lengthy, striking a good balance between sightseeing and relaxation. The pickup times vary depending on your hotel location, so it’s worth confirming with the operator.

Cost & Value

At roughly $78.50 USD, this tour offers a solid value considering the inclusions: ferry transfers, snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear, plus guided sightseeing. Be aware of the additional costs: the THB 400 national park fee for Maya Bay is not included in the price and must be paid cash on arrival.

Weather & Flexibility

The tour’s schedule is subject to change due to weather, which is typical for sea-based excursions. If conditions are poor, you might be offered a different date or a full refund, ensuring peace of mind.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

From reviews, it’s clear that guides often excel in their knowledge and friendliness, with Andrea noting that “everything was good” aside from the brief stop duration. The scenic views of the islands and the opportunity to snorkel in colorful waters are often highlighted as major positives.

Some travelers appreciate the smooth boat ride and the well-organized itinerary, while others wish for a bit more time at key spots like Maya Bay. The small group size and personalized service seem to be significant advantages, making this a more intimate experience than larger boat tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want an overview of Phuket’s most iconic islands without too much hassle. It suits snorkelers and beach lovers who want to enjoy marine activities in a comfortable setting. The small group size and guided experience make it ideal for those who prefer a more personal, less crowded day.

However, if you’re someone who loves spending hours in one spot or prefers a very flexible itinerary, you might find the short stops a little limiting. Also, budget-conscious travelers should note the extra fees, which can add up.

The Sum Up

The Phi Phi Island Tour by Big Boat with Royal Jet Cruiser offers a well-rounded, comfortable way to explore the stunning Phi Phi Islands. With scenic boat rides, snorkeling opportunities, and a delicious buffet lunch, it ticks many boxes for travelers after a manageable and enjoyable day out.

The experience excels in providing beautiful views and professional guidance, making it suitable for newcomers and seasoned travelers alike. The small-group setting fosters a more intimate atmosphere, ensuring you won’t feel like just another face in a crowd.

While the timing at Maya Bay might be rushed for some, overall, this tour offers solid value for the price, especially when you factor in the included transfers, gear, and guide service. It’s a smart choice for those wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed day of island hopping, sightseeing, and marine adventure.

FAQ

What is included in this tour?
The tour includes shared van transfer from your Phuket hotel, round-trip ferry transfer, refreshments on board, snorkeling gear, an English-speaking guide, accident insurance, and a buffet lunch.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, you will need to pay cash on-site for the National Park fee (THB 400 for adults, THB 200 for children) if you want to snorkel at Maya Bay, as well as an entrance fee of 20 THB at Tonsai Pier.

How long is the boat ride from Phuket to Phi Phi Islands?
The boat ride is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes each way, providing scenic views of the sea and passing by notable spots.

Is the group size limited?
Yes, the tour caps the group at 7 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What is the best time to take this tour?
Most bookings are made about 17 days in advance, and the tour operates on weather conditions, so clear, calm days are preferable.

Can I snorkel during this trip?
Absolutely. Snorkeling gear is provided free of charge, and the waters around the islands are known for their vibrant marine life.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, some cash for additional fees, and a camera to capture the scenery.

How much time do I get at each stop?
You’ll have around 3 hours at Long Beach on Phi Phi Don, including leisure, snorkeling, and lunch. The stop at Maya Bay is about 30 minutes, which some reviewers find a bit short.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable on boats and in water, and are able to handle the schedule, including potential short stops.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This detailed, balanced review hopefully helps you decide whether this Phi Phi Islands tour matches your travel style. It combines comfort, scenic beauty, and practicality—perfect for making the most of a day in these famous islands.