Phi Phi + Bamboo Island Sunset by Speed Catamaran

Planning a day trip from Phuket to the iconic Phi Phi Islands and Bamboo Island? This tour offers a chance to see some of Thailand’s most famous sights while enjoying the comfort of a speed catamaran. With a focus on natural beauty and adventure, it promises a full day of snorkeling, sightseeing, and relaxing on white sandy beaches.

One of the best aspects of this experience is the opportunity to visit multiple renowned spots in one day, such as Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Viking Cave. The tour includes a buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don, which is a welcome break after a busy morning. We also appreciate the stunning sunset on Maiton Island, which makes for a memorable end to the day.

However, some travelers note that the overall experience can be long and somewhat uncomfortable, especially in Phuket’s hot weather, which might not be ideal for everyone. The tour is best suited for those who enjoy adventure, scenic views, and snorkeling, and are comfortable with a full day of activity and a moderate group size.

Key Points

• Highlights include snorkeling at Viking Cave, relaxing on Maya Bay, and enjoying sunset views at Maiton Island.
• Comfort level can vary, with some reviews mentioning the long wait times and the weather challenges.
• All-inclusiveness covers most essentials like snacks, lunch, snorkeling gear, and transfers.
• Group size is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, promoting a more intimate experience.
• Price point offers value given the multiple stops and included amenities, but consider how long the day might be for you.
• Best for those seeking a full-day adventure with scenic highlights and some downtime for sunbathing or snorkeling.

What You Can Expect on the Tour

Starting at 7:30 am, you’ll be picked up from your Phuket hotel and transferred to the boat ramp pier. This early start is typical for day trips packed with sightseeing, so mornings can be a bit brisk. Once on board the speed catamaran, you’re greeted with a welcome drink and snack box — a nice touch to kick off the day.

The Journey by Speed Catamaran

Traveling by speed catamaran is generally faster and more stable than traditional boats, allowing you to cover multiple islands in a single day. The boat is equipped with snorkeling gear, and the crew typically provides coffee, tea, and soft drinks on board, making it easy to stay refreshed.

Bamboo Island: Pristine White Sands

The first stop is Bamboo Island, famous for its powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters. Here, you’ll have some free time to relax, sunbathe, or take a dip in the calm waters. Reviewers mention that the island’s beauty is spectacular, perfect for lounging and capturing photos. It’s an ideal spot to unwind before the more active parts of the day.

Lunch on Phi Phi Don

Next, the tour moves to Phi Phi Don, where a buffet lunch awaits. Expect a selection of local dishes served on the island, giving you a taste of authentic Thai cuisine amid stunning views. This mid-day break is appreciated by many travelers as a chance to refuel after a busy morning of sightseeing.

Snorkeling and Sightseeing

Post-lunch, the tour shifts to snorkeling excursions. The Viking Cave is a favorite for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and variety of tropical fish and coral. Reviewers highlight that the snorkeling here is quite good, offering vibrant marine life in a relatively accessible setting.

Following that, you’ll visit Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach.” Its white sands and dramatic cliffs create a stunning backdrop for relaxing or taking photos. Many mention the bay’s beautiful scenery, though some note that crowds can be an issue, depending on the time of year.

Pileh Lagoon

Another highlight is Pileh Lagoon, accessible via longtail boat. Its emerald waters and surrounding limestone cliffs make for a picturesque scene. Here, you can enjoy gentle swimming or simply admire the scenery. The lagoon’s calm waters are perfect for a relaxing break and offer ideal conditions for snorkeling.

Viking Cave and Coral Reefs

The Viking Cave is famed for its bird’s nests and prominent location for snorkeling. Reviewers note that the crystal-clear waters and rich coral reefs make it a favorite for underwater photography and marine exploration.

Sunset at Maiton Island

The day concludes with a stunning sunset at Maiton Island. The island’s peaceful atmosphere and scenic setting make it a perfect spot for winding down. Travelers often find this a highlight, with the golden light casting a magical glow over the landscape.

Drop-off and Return

After sunset, you’ll head back to the pier, and the transfer service will take you back to your hotel. The entire excursion lasts around 8 hours, making for a full but manageable day.

The Value of This Tour

Considering the price of $122 per person, the tour includes insurance, round-trip transfers, snorkeling gear, a guide, and meals. These amenities add significant value, especially since they cover most essentials and reduce the hassle of organizing individual activities.

However, some reviews point out that the long wait times and crowd levels can detract from the experience. One reviewer suggested that the speed boat might be less comfortable than an AC long boat, especially in Phuket’s hot weather. Also, the length of the tour might feel tiring for those not used to full-day excursions.

The Experience from a Traveller’s Perspective

From review snippets, it’s clear that while the views are breathtaking, the overall comfort varies. For example, one reviewer mentioned the tour’s long duration in June’s weather as a challenge, suggesting that a different boat type might improve comfort. Others appreciated the organized nature of the trip and the chance to visit multiple iconic spots in a single day.

The group size limit of 15 is a good feature, preventing overcrowding and making the experience more intimate, although some might find the early start and full schedule a bit demanding.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a full day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and stunning scenery, this tour hits the spot. It’s ideal for adventure lovers who don’t mind a packed itinerary and are comfortable with moderate group sizes. It’s also a good fit for those seeking value, given the included meals, transfers, and activities.

Travelers who prefer more comfort or less time in the sun might want to consider alternatives or earlier departures. People with limited mobility or those sensitive to long boat rides should weigh the weather conditions, especially during hotter months.

Final Thoughts

This Phi Phi + Bamboo Island Sunset tour by speed catamaran offers a comprehensive snapshot of Phuket’s most famous islands. You’ll love the stunning vistas of Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Maiton Island, especially if you’re into snorkeling and photography. The included meals and gear add practical value that makes it easier to enjoy the trip without fussing over extra costs.

That said, it isn’t without drawbacks. The length and potential discomfort in Phuket’s June heat are worth considering, especially if you’re sensitive to long periods in the sun or boat rides. The crowds at Maya Bay can also impact the serenity of your experience, but that’s a common challenge in popular spots.

This tour suits active travelers looking to tick off multiple highlights in one day, with an appreciation for natural beauty and marine life. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a well-organized, value-packed adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and scenic moments.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:30 am, with hotel pickup included.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, round-trip hotel transfers are part of the package.

What’s included in the price?
You get insurance, snacks, lunch, a catamaran with park fees, snorkeling equipment, a tour guide, and drinks on board.

Are there any extra costs?
Gratuities, towels, fins, dry bags, and souvenir photos are not included.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, making for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the start time.

What should I bring?
While not explicitly listed, it’s wise to bring sun protection, a towel, and perhaps a dry bag if you want to keep valuables dry.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
Considering the physical demands and full-day schedule, it may be better suited for active travelers in good health. Reviewers suggest the boat ride can be somewhat uncomfortable in hot weather.

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

In essence, if you’re looking for a scenic, adventure-packed day around Phuket’s most celebrated islands, this tour offers plenty of highlights. Just pack your sunhat, your sense of adventure, and a bit of patience for a memorable trip.