Phi Phi & Khai Island by Speed Boat

Planning a day trip from Phuket to the iconic Phi Phi Islands and Khai Island? This popular speedboat tour promises a blend of snorkeling, sightseeing, and beach relaxation. But does it deliver on expectations? While some travelers find it offers memorable scenery, others warn about logistical hiccups and value concerns. We’ve gathered the details and real traveler insights to help you decide if this experience matches what you’re after.

One thing we like about this tour is its compact 9-hour itinerary, which packs in multiple stops—perfect if you’re short on time but eager to see the highlights. The speedboat transfer means you’ll cruise swiftly between islands, maximizing sightseeing and beach time. However, a notable drawback is the poor punctuality reported by some travelers, with departure delays and logistical issues that can cut into your enjoyment. If you’re someone who values timely, smooth arrangements, this might be a consideration.

This tour could suit travelers looking for a cost-effective, quick island-hopping experience with opportunities to snorkel and relax on beautiful beaches. It’s best for those who don’t mind a crowded group (up to 30 people) and are willing to accept some organizational quirks. If you’re after a more exclusive or well-organized trip, you may want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Timing and Punctuality: Expect delays; departure can be significantly later than scheduled.
• Itinerary Highlights: Focus on iconic spots like Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Monkey Bay.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Plenty of time for underwater adventures at Phi Phi and Khai Island.
• Food & Facilities: Lunch at Phi Phi Don offers a break, but facilities at the pier may be underwhelming.
• Group Size & Pace: Max 30 travelers; expect a lively, busy atmosphere.
• Value for Money: Competitive price but may not match the quality or organization of premium tours.
• Authentic Experiences: Some travelers mention fantastic views, but organizational issues affect overall experience.
• Tour Duration: Long enough to see key sites without feeling rushed, but logistics can be frustrating.
• Accessibility: Pickup service and mobile tickets make logistics easier, but punctuality remains a concern.

The Itinerary Breakdown and What It Means for You

The day begins early, with pickup from your hotel between 7:30 and 8:30 am, followed by a short ride to the pier. Here, you’re treated to light breakfast snacks—toast, coffee, tea, and water—though some reviewers found the facilities lacking, describing the toilets as “horrific.” Despite this, it’s a nice touch to have some refreshment before heading out, especially if you’re not a morning person.

At 9:00 am, the departure by speedboat begins, headed toward the famous Phi Phi Islands. The first stop is Maya Bay, which many travelers recognize from the film The Beach. You’ll spend around an hour here, taking in the spectacular views and snapping photos of the iconic cove. This is undeniably the highlight for most, with its towering cliffs and pristine waters. But be prepared—some travelers noted that the actual departure was delayed from 9 am to 11 am, which significantly shortened your time at Maya Bay and other sites.

Following Maya Bay, the boat visits several renowned spots: Loh Samah Bay, Viking Cave, Pileh Cove, and Monkey Bay. Each offers a unique perspective—vivid limestone formations, fascinating cave paintings, and the chance to see monkeys up close. Snorkeling here is a big part of the experience. One reviewer mentioned “full of snorkeling time,” which indicates plenty of opportunities to swim among tropical fish and coral.

Around 12:30 pm, you’ll stop for a lunch on Phi Phi Don—a chance to refuel and relax. The meals are generally included or available as part of the package, though reviews do not specify the quality. After lunch, there’s free time to explore or relax on the beach.

Next, it’s off to Khai Nok Island, arriving around 2:20 pm. Here, you’re encouraged to enjoy feeding fishes, swimming, and snorkeling or simply lounging on the beach. The reviews suggest this is a peaceful, less crowded spot ideal for unwinding, with plenty of space for sunbathing and water fun.

The return journey begins around 4:20 pm, arriving back at the pier by 4:30 pm, after which you are transferred back to your hotel. The length of the day allows for a full experience, but some travelers found the timing frustrating, especially due to the late departure and delays.

The Realities: What Travelers Have Noted

One of the most consistent complaints is timing issues. A Tripadvisor reviewer vividly described their frustration: “Retrieval worked well at 7:45 a.m., not much after that. After a 1.5h journey, a longer wait at the pier (with a small breakfast with toast, coffee, tea, water and horrific toilets) and briefing, the departure by boat was only at 11 am instead of 9 am!” Such delays mean less time on the islands and a rushed feeling overall.

Another traveler pointed out the disorganization as a key pain point, with the actual boat departure often being much later than scheduled. This can be disappointing if you’re expecting a smooth, well-timed adventure. Despite these hiccups, some still valued the beautiful scenery and the opportunity to snorkel at prime spots.

The Practicalities: Transportation, Group Size, Price

The pickup service is a plus—making logistics simpler—and the mobile ticket system is convenient. However, the tour’s maximum group size of 30 can feel crowded during peak times, especially at popular snorkeling sites and beaches.

At $74.61 per person, the tour is reasonably priced for the destinations covered. But given the logistical issues and the variable quality of facilities, some may feel it’s not the best bang for your buck compared to other, more organized tours. It’s worth considering whether the price justifies the inconvenience if punctuality and comfort are priorities for you.

This experience appeals most to travelers who want a cost-effective, half-day adventure with the chance to see the classic sights of Phi Phi and Khai Island. If you enjoy snorkeling, beach time, and iconic scenery, you’ll find plenty to like here. It’s ideal for those who can tolerate some organizational flaws and are prepared for a somewhat lively, crowded atmosphere.

If your priority is punctuality, comfort, or a more personalized experience, you might want to explore alternative tours that emphasize smaller groups and smoother logistics. Likewise, if you’re after luxury amenities or a private boat experience, this tour might fall short.

This tour offers a good introduction to the Phi Phi Islands and Khai Island, especially for budget-conscious travelers or those on a tight schedule. The stunning views and snorkeling opportunities are genuine highlights, and the included lunch provides a decent break amid a busy day. However, the delays and organizational shortcomings mean you should temper expectations if punctuality and comfort are high on your list.

It’s best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a lively scene, are flexible with timing, and want to glimpse the iconic landscapes without splurging on a more exclusive experience. Keep in mind that some reviewers found the experience “only a disaster,” so patience and a sense of humor are recommended.

What time does the tour start?
Pickup is scheduled between 7:30 and 8:30 am, with the tour departing for Phi Phi Islands around 9:00 am, though delays can occur.

Is there breakfast included?
Yes, a light breakfast with toast, tea, coffee, and water is offered at the pier before departure. However, some travelers found the facilities and food quality lacking.

How long is the boat ride to Phi Phi Islands?
The journey takes approximately 50 minutes on a speedboat, providing a quick but scenic transfer.

What are the main stops on this tour?
The key stops include Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Monkey Bay, Pileh Cove, and Khai Nok Island. The itinerary combines sightseeing, snorkeling, and beach relaxation.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, there are multiple snorkeling opportunities at several stops, with the chance to swim among tropical fish and coral.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 30 travelers, making it a relatively lively and busy experience.

Can I expect punctual departure?
Some travelers report significant delays, with departures often postponed from the scheduled times, which affects the overall experience.

Is lunch provided?
A buffet-style lunch is available at Phi Phi Don, giving a chance to refuel before more beach time.

What facilities are available at the pier and islands?
Facilities at the pier may be basic, and some travelers have described the toilets as “horrific.” Expect natural, no-frills amenities on the islands.

This comprehensive review aims to help you weigh the pros and cons before booking. While this tour offers stunning scenery and snorkel opportunities, organizational hiccups could impact your overall enjoyment. Consider your priorities and expectations carefully to decide if this adventure fits your island-hopping plans.