PHUKET-Phi Phi Island-Khai Island-Lunch by Sea Angel Speed Boat

Exploring the Phuket-Phi Phi Island-Khai Island Tour by Sea Angel Speed Boat

If you’re considering a day trip from Phuket to some of Thailand’s most iconic islands, the Phuket-Phi Phi Island-Khai Island tour offers a compact, scenic getaway. This nine-hour adventure, led by a small group of up to 12 travelers, includes round-trip transfers on a luxury speedboat and visits to Maya Bay, Phi Phi Don, and Khai Island. It’s an easy way to tick off those must-see locations, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a more intimate group experience.

One thing we really like about this tour is the careful attention to safety and comfort. Life jackets and snorkel gear are provided, and the small group size helps keep things personal and manageable. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious lunch on Phi Phi Island adds value to the day, making it less about rushing and more about enjoying the scenery and activities.

However, a key consideration is the overall boat size and seating arrangements. Some reviewers have noted discomfort due to limited space, and the experience may not suit those expecting a VIP or luxurious setting despite the “Silver” VIP option. It’s best suited for travelers craving a straightforward, scenic day with a friendly guide—not for those wanting a plush, high-end experience.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and beach time without a hefty price tag. If you’re looking for a quick, well-organized day trip with plenty of opportunities to swim and explore, this could be a good pick.

Key Points

• Small group size (max 12 travelers) promotes a more personal experience
• Includes lunch, snacks, and drinks to keep you energized throughout the day
• Snorkel gear and life jackets provided for safe exploration of sea life
• Visiting top spots like Maya Bay, Loh Sama Bay, and Viking Cave
• Round-trip transfers from Phuket simplify logistics
• Some feedback about boat comfort suggests it’s not the most luxurious ride

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Pickup and Breakfast

The day begins early, around 8:00-8:30 am, with pickup from your Phuket hotel. We appreciate how the company handles transfers—air-conditioned vehicles making the journey to the pier comfortable and straightforward. Upon arrival at Sea Angel Pier by 9:00 am, you’ll be greeted with a complimentary breakfast including sandwiches, fresh fruit, coffee, and tea. For many, this small gesture sets a friendly tone for the day ahead.

Boarding and Departure

At 9:30 am, the group departs on a luxury speedboat, which is a significant advantage. The boat, described as luxurious, is designed for small groups, meaning you’ll avoid the overcrowded feel common on larger tour boats. That said, some reviews mention that despite booking a VIP Silver seat, they were assigned seats at the bottom of the boat, which was disappointing for travelers expecting better views. It highlights the importance of clarifying seat preferences in advance.

First Stops: Exploring Phi Phi’s Iconic Sites

The cruise heads directly to Maya Bay, made famous by the film “The Beach”. The scenery at Maya Bay is impressive, with towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters—truly picture-postcard perfect. The boat makes stops at Loh Sama Bay and Pileh Lagoon, which many agree are excellent for swimming and snorkeling. Pileh Lagoon, often called a “swimming pool in the sea,” offers calm, emerald waters ideal for relaxing or taking photos.

The Viking Cave, adorned with ancient paintings and home to swallow nests, is a quick stop. Reviewers note that snorkeling here reveals vivid coral reefs and abundant marine life, although some mention that water clarity varies depending on the day.

Monkey Beach provides a chance to observe local monkeys in their natural habitat, depending on the tide and weather conditions. The reviews suggest this stop is more about enjoying the natural environment than expecting close animal encounters.

Lunch and Leisure at Phi Phi Don

By around 12:45 pm, the boat arrives at Tonsai Bay on Phi Phi Don, where most guests indulge in a buffet lunch. The tour recommends requesting Halal or vegetarian options if needed, which is a considerate touch. Many travelers appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and the chance to relax, sunbathe, or explore the nearby shops and beaches.

Afternoon Activities: Khai Island and Return

After lunch, some tours include a stop at Khai Island, a small, sandy paradise popular for snorkeling and beach downtime. Even if not explicitly mentioned as part of this specific tour, many similar trips involve a quick dip in Khai’s shallow waters, with plenty of opportunities to float over colorful reefs.

Later, the boat heads back towards Phuket, with a final cruise along the coastline. The entire experience wraps up around 5 pm, with transfers back to your hotel.

Practicalities and What You Need to Know

Transportation and Comfort

The tour’s inclusion of air-conditioned vehicle pickup and luxury boat transfer makes the day relatively hassle-free. However, some travelers have expressed that the boat’s seating arrangement, despite the VIP booking, does not always meet expectations—seats placed at the lower deck can limit ocean views and comfort.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 12 people, this trip offers a more intimate atmosphere than larger group tours. This allows for easier interaction with your guide, and you might find it easier to snorkel in smaller groups or secure a good spot for photos.

Cost and Value

Priced at around $80.15 per person, the tour includes lunch, snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, and park fees. For a full day of sightseeing, this represents reasonable value—especially considering the small group size. Still, it’s worth noting that some may find the boat experience less plush than higher-end options, and extra expenses are not included.

Reviews and Real-World Insights

The single disappointing review by Kym W highlights an important consideration: seat allocation. Despite booking a VIP Silver seat, they were assigned seats at the bottom of the boat, which was a letdown. The company’s response emphasizes that they aim to match customer preferences but suggest confirming your seat preference ahead of time.

Another review points out that the scenic views are stunning, but comfort may vary depending on the boat and seating arrangements. The emphasis on safety gear and small group size, however, remain consistent positives.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers who value a small-group environment and want to see the main highlights of Phi Phi and Khai Islands without paying for a luxury experience. It’s ideal for those eager to snorkel and swim amidst breathtaking scenery, especially if they appreciate a more personal touch.

Those who prioritize comfort and high-end amenities might find this tour a bit basic, given some feedback about seating discomfort. It’s also perfect for travelers who want a budget-friendly, active day with opportunities to relax, take photos, and enjoy Thai hospitality.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour does a good job of balancing cost, convenience, and adventure. You’ll get to see Maya Bay’s iconic cliffs, snorkel over coral reefs, and relax on tropical beaches—all within a manageable nine-hour schedule. The small group size can make the experience more personal and less hectic, which many travelers will appreciate.

However, if you’re expecting a luxurious boat or guaranteed premium seating, you may feel a bit disappointed. The experience hinges heavily on boat comfort and crew organization, so clear communication and realistic expectations are key.

In essence, this trip offers an authentic taste of the islands—with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and soaking up natural beauty—making it a solid choice for adventurous, budget-conscious travelers who value intimate group sizes and scenic views.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes round-trip luxury boat transfers, snorkeling gear, life jackets, lunch at Phi Phi Island (with vegetarian and Halal options available), snacks and drinks, and park entrance fees.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, starting early in the morning with pickup around 8-8:30 am and returning around 5 pm.

Is the boat comfortable?
The boat is described as luxury and small-group, but some reviews mention that seating arrangements can be less than ideal, with some guests assigned to lower decks.

Can I request specific seats or arrangements?
It’s recommended to confirm seat preferences in advance. Despite the VIP booking option, some travelers have experienced being seated at the back or bottom of the boat.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Most travelers can participate, especially with provided snorkel gear and life jackets, but those who are not comfortable in the water should consider their swimming ability and comfort level.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 12 travelers, which makes for a more intimate experience compared to larger group tours.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and perhaps a waterproof camera. The tour provides some snacks and drinks, but extra personal snacks can be packed if desired.

This small-group speedboat tour offers a balanced and practical way to explore Thailand’s famed islands with a focus on scenic beauty and snorkeling. Just keep your expectations in check about boat comfort, and you’ll likely find it a rewarding day out.