Private Speed Boat to Phi Phi Island from Phuket

Discovering Phuket’s Islands by Speedboat: An Honest Review of the Private Phi Phi Experience

If you’re considering a day trip from Phuket to explore the surrounding islands, a private speedboat tour might seem like the perfect way to pack in as much as possible. This particular tour offers a mix of snorkeling, island hopping, dolphin spotting, and relaxing on pristine beaches—all in around 10 hours. While it promises a luxurious, personalized experience, some travelers have found certain aspects less than perfect.

What we love about this trip is its efficiency and the small-group feel—you’re not just another passenger on a crowded boat. Plus, the fact that lunch and snorkeling gear are included makes it easier to budget and plan. On the flip side, some reviewers have expressed disappointment around the chances of actually seeing dolphins, which can be hit or miss depending on the day.

This experience works best for travelers who want to maximize their island time, enjoy scenic vistas, and prefer the comfort and flexibility of a private tour. If you’re looking for a fun, action-packed day with lots of variety, this could be a good fit—just keep expectations in check about wildlife sightings.

Key Points

• Private & Personalized: Only your group participates, offering a more intimate experience.
• Time-Efficient: Cover multiple islands without long transit times thanks to speedboat travel.
• All-Inclusive: Snorkeling gear and lunch are included, simplifying the day.
• Variable Dolphin Sightings: Captain is experienced in finding wild dolphins, but sightings are not guaranteed.
• Secluded Beaches: Enjoy quiet, less crowded spots like Maya Bay and Khai Nok Island.
• Weather Dependence: The trip is weather-sensitive and may be canceled or altered in bad conditions.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point at Phuket Boat Lagoon Marina

The day kicks off early—around 7:30 am—to make the most of your 10-hour window. Your driver will pick you up from your hotel (if you’ve opted for the added convenience of hotel pickup) and transfer you to the Phuket Boat Lagoon Marina. Once there, you’ll be greeted with coffee, tea, and snacks to fuel your adventure. Be aware that this boat is fast, which means a bumpy ride at times, and if you’re prone to seasickness, it’s wise to take medication beforehand. A seasick pill is available on board, which many travelers appreciated.

Maya Bay: The Movie Star of the Tour

The first major stop is Maya Bay, famous worldwide thanks to the film “The Beach.” Here, you’ll get a glimpse of the stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and white sands. Your captain will cruise around to give you the best view and find a good snorkeling spot. Reviewers have loved the chance to snorkel amidst schools of fish in turquoise waters—masks and life jackets are provided.

Some travelers, however, noted that the visit to Maya Bay isn’t very long—about 45 minutes—so don’t expect to linger for hours. And during certain months, Maya Bay is closed for environmental recovery, so the tour will show you a perimeter view instead.

Loh Samah Bay & Viking Cave

Next, you’ll briefly see Loh Samah Bay, a stunning lookout point with a dramatic backdrop, offering fantastic photo opportunities. Then, your journey takes you to Viking Cave, famous for its ancient cave paintings and thousands of swallows nesting on the ledges. This stop, though short—about 15 minutes—provides a peek into local wildlife and history, though you won’t get to explore inside.

Pileh Bay: Crystal Clear Swimming

One of the highlights is Pileh Bay, where you’ll have around 30 minutes to swim, jump off the boat, and relax in the calm, transparent waters. This spot often receives praise for its natural beauty, with some noting it’s a perfect place to cool off after the bumpy speedboat ride.

Lunch and Exploration at Phi Phi Don

Your group will stop at Koh Phi Phi Don for a buffet lunch, which many find surprisingly tasty and plentiful. After eating, you’ll get an hour to walk along the white-sand beaches, explore, or simply lounge in the sun. The island itself is lively but still retains a relaxed vibe—great for a quick stroll or some beachside lounging.

Khai Nok Island: The Hidden Gem

The final stop is Khai Nok Island, a small, egg-shaped island famous for its calm waters and vibrant coral reefs. Here, you can sunbathe, snorkel, or enjoy fresh fruit and water provided by staff. Some reviews mention the presence of vendors selling alcoholic drinks, so bringing cash is a good idea if you want a cold beer or cocktail.

What We Think About the Value

For $1,233.58 per group (max 10 people), this tour offers a private, tailored experience with multiple island visits packed into a single day. Including lunch and snorkeling gear, it simplifies planning and ensures comfort and convenience. However, the price may seem steep compared to group tours that offer similar destinations, yet the private aspect means fewer crowds and a more personalized day.

The inclusion of hotel pickup, which is optional, adds significant value for those staying in Phuket, saving time and hassle. On the downside, national park fees (400 Baht per adult, 200 Baht per child) are extra and need to be paid on-site, adding to the cost.

Weather and Wildlife Spotting

One of the major uncertainties is dolphin sightings. The captain is known for knowing the best spots, but there’s no guarantee you’ll see any dolphins. A review from one traveler mentioned disappointment, highlighting that no dolphins were actually seen despite expectations. This is common in wildlife tours—nature is unpredictable.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring seasickness medication if you’re sensitive to rough rides.
• Pack sunscreen, a hat, and waterproof camera.
• Carry cash for park fees and any purchases at Khai Nok Island.
• Expect a long, bumpy ride in the morning.
• Opt for hotel pickup if you want a stress-free start (not included in the base price).

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private speedboat trip is ideal for those who value personalized attention and want to see multiple islands without the hassle of group tours. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate scenic views, snorkeling, and secluded beaches. If you’re flexible about wildlife sightings and want a day packed with variety, this tour can deliver.

However, if your main goal is dolphin watching, it’s worth managing expectations—dolphins are wild animals, and sightings aren’t guaranteed. Also, those on a tight budget might find other tours more economical, especially with the additional park fees.

Final Thoughts

This private speedboat tour around Phuket’s islands offers a luxurious and flexible way to experience the region’s natural beauty. The stops are carefully chosen for their stunning scenery and opportunity to relax or snorkel, making it a comprehensive day out. The inclusion of lunch and snorkeling gear adds convenience, and the small-group setting ensures a more intimate experience.

While the trip does come with some caveats—like the unpredictability of dolphin sightings and extra park fees—the overall value depends on what you’re looking for. For travelers craving a combination of adventure, comfort, and privacy, this tour hits the mark. Just remember, it’s a full day, and the ride can be bumpy, so come prepared.

In the end, whether you’re seeking picturesque views, quiet beaches, or just a day away from crowds, this tour offers a memorable way to enjoy Phuket’s island gems—just keep your camera ready and your expectations realistic.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the price?
No, hotel pickup is an optional extra. If you choose it, you’ll be picked up from your hotel, making the trip more convenient.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 10 hours, starting around 7:30 am and returning to the meeting point later in the day.

Are snorkeling masks provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks and breathing tubes are included in the tour, so you don’t need to bring your own.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, national park fees (around 400 Baht per adult and 200 Baht per child) are payable on site and are not included in the tour price.

What is the likelihood of dolphin sightings?
Captain knows the best spots, but sightings are not guaranteed. Some travelers haven’t seen dolphins despite hopeful expectations.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Be aware that the ride can be bumpy, and some stops require walking or swimming.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from the private speedboat tour to Phi Phi and surrounding islands. Whether you’re after stunning scenery, a quiet escape, or a day of adventure, this experience offers plenty of opportunities—just go in with open expectations and a sense of adventure.