Early Bird Phi Phi Island & 4 Islands Speed Boat Tour from Krabi

Travelers seeking an all-in-one day trip to explore the iconic Phi Phi Islands and surrounding spots will find this tour offers an impressive lineup of sights and experiences. This full-day adventure, operated by Trip Store Krabi, combines early departure, swift speedboat rides, and a well-curated itinerary that promises to beat the crowds — or at least try to.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the chance to visit Maya Bay (when open), snorkel at pristine reefs, and relax on white-sand beaches, all while enjoying a buffet lunch and all park fees included. We especially appreciate the professional guides and the straightforward logistics, which make it suitable for most travelers.

However, a notable consideration is that the day can be quite long, and the schedule, while packed, involves some early morning starts and a fair bit of time on the water. If you’re someone who prioritizes comfortable pacing or has small children, this might require some extra planning.

This tour tends to suit those who want a comprehensive, efficient, and scenic experience with a focus on avoiding the biggest crowds — especially if you’re prepared for a full day of adventure.

• Early departure helps beat the crowds and makes the most of the day.
• All park fees and lunch are included, offering good value.
• Snorkeling gear and professional guides enhance the experience.
• The itinerary covers key spots like Maya Bay, Pileh Bay, Monkey Beach, Bamboo Island, and more.
• The tour is suited for most travelers, but the full-day schedule might be long for some.
• Be aware of weather conditions and seasonal closures, especially Maya Bay’s annual closure in August-September.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The tour’s foundation is its early start, with pickup in Krabi around 6am, which is perfect for travelers who want to avoid the heavy crowds and enjoy the islands in a more peaceful setting. The minibus ride to Nopparat Thara Pier takes about 45 minutes, where you check in with the Sea Eagle crew and grab a light breakfast — a simple but thoughtful touch that sets the tone for a smooth, organized day.

Once aboard the speedboat — comfortable with up to 40 seats — you’ll be cruising past Railay Beach, giving you a quick scenic glimpse of this famed limestone coastline. The boat is swift, making the 45-minute trip to Phi Phi Leh feel short and exciting.

Exploring the Islands

Loh Samah Bay and Maya Bay are the first stops, with the highlight being Maya Bay itself. The tour allows roughly 50 minutes here, during which you can step onto the soft white sand, dip your toes in the turquoise water, or snap photos of the iconic cliffs. Reviewers note the experience is enhanced by the “majestic waters” and the chance to see blacktip reef sharks if luck is on your side.

It’s worth mentioning that at Maya Bay, swimming is no longer permitted to protect the reef, but touching the sand and taking photos remain options. The guidelines—like reef-safe sunscreen and no drones—are important to respect to preserve this stunning location.

Pileh Bay follows, where the 600-meter-long canyon framed by towering limestone cliffs offers fantastic photo opportunities. Some travelers opt to explore nearby coves via longtail boat (for an extra fee). Here, the scenery is dramatic enough to make your camera work worthwhile.

Next, snorkeling enthusiasts will love the crystal-clear reefs around Koh Phi Phi Leh, where you can float over vibrant corals. Reviews highlight the quality of the snorkeling equipment provided, which helps ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Viking Cave gives a brief but fascinating glimpse into local bird nest harvesting, while Monkey Beach offers a fun, if fleeting, chance to see monkeys playing along the shoreline. While the tour does not stop at Monkey Beach itself, you can observe the monkeys at low tide while cruising past, which reviewers found delightful.

Lunch and Relaxation

After a busy morning of sightseeing and snorkeling, the tour makes its way to Koh Phi Phi Don for a Thai buffet lunch at Arida Restaurant. Many reviews praise the delicious food and the convenience of the setting, which provides a break from the boat’s hustle. Travelers with dietary preferences should pre-order vegetarian options, as per the tour notes.

Post-lunch, the journey continues to Bamboo Island, a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing at a tranquil, almost heart-shaped beach. The shallow coral reefs here add to the appeal for snorkelers wanting a calm, shallow reef experience.

The 4 Islands and Beyond

In the afternoon, the tour explores Chicken Island, famous for its bizarre rock formation, and walks the sandbar at Thale Waek, which connects several small islands. The sandbar walk is often a highlight, offering a unique photo opportunity and a chance to stand between islands.

Finally, the trip concludes at Poda Island, where guests can unwind on powdery sands or take a dip before heading back to Krabi. The entire excursion lasts about 9 hours, making for a substantial day out.

What Travelers Say

The reviews offer a balanced picture. Many guests love the professional guides, with some quoting the guides’ friendliness and helpfulness as major positives. As one reviewer said, “The team was very kind and took great care of us,” emphasizing the organized, friendly vibe.

Other travelers mention the value for money, with all park fees, lunch, snorkeling gear, and transfers included, making it a budget-friendly option for a full-day adventure. Notably, some reviews highlight the delicious buffet lunch as a pleasant surprise, with fresh, well-prepared Thai dishes.

However, not all reviews are glowing. A few travelers found the day long and tiring, especially if waves are rough, and some felt the schedule was tight, with limited time at each stop. One reviewer expressed frustration about the short stays, noting that some locations felt rushed, with only 20-minute windows.

A couple of reviewers also mentioned confusion about pier locations or some logistical hiccups, but these seem to be exceptions rather than the rule.

Transportation and Group Size

You’ll be picked up from your hotel, which adds convenience, especially in Krabi. The group size is limited to 40, helping keep the experience intimate enough to enjoy but still lively. The boat ride is swift, and the overall pacing aims to maximize island time without excessive waiting.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Start early: The 7am departure is ideal for beating the crowds, but be prepared for an early wake-up.
• Dress comfortably and bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
• Snorkel gear is provided, but you might want to bring your own mask and fins if you are particular.
• Pre-order vegetarian lunch if you have dietary restrictions.
• Wear your life jacket during boat rides and snorkeling for safety.
• Be mindful of weather conditions; rough seas can make the trip less comfortable.
• Remember that Maya Bay is closed for part of the year (August-September), so check the current status before booking.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This trip is particularly well-suited for first-time visitors to Krabi who want a rundown of the Phi Phi Islands and nearby spots. Its early departure helps avoid the most crowded times, which is a huge plus.

It’s ideal for adventurers and snorkelers eager to see vibrant reefs and stunning scenery, especially given the inclusion of snorkeling gear and multiple stops. Families with kids—especially those who are comfortable with a full-day schedule—will also appreciate the organized transfers and lunch.

If you’re someone who values efficient, guided tours with all essentials covered, this one will hit the mark. However, if you prefer a slower pace or a more relaxed approach, some might find the schedule a touch packed.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
It begins with hotel pickups around 6am, with check-in at Nopparat Thara Pier by 7am. The entire day lasts approximately 9 hours.

Is snorkeling equipment included?
Yes, snorkeling gear and life jackets are provided, making it easy to explore the reefs without extra expense.

Are park entrance fees included?
All entrance fees for the national park are included in the price, which is a great value considering some tours charge extra.

Can I swim at Maya Bay?
Swimming at Maya Bay is currently not permitted to protect the reef. You can touch the sand and take photos, but swimming isn’t allowed.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a towel. If you want to bring snacks or extra drinks, feel free, but water and fruits are provided.

Is there a minimum number of guests required?
Yes, a minimum of 6 travelers is needed for the tour to run. The maximum group size is 40.

What happens if weather conditions are bad?
The tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Early Bird Phi Phi Island & 4 Islands Speed Boat Tour from Krabi offers a well-rounded, value-packed adventure. Its highlights—such as snorkel opportunities, stunning viewpoints, and the iconic Maya Bay—are balanced with practical touches like included park fees and a buffet lunch. Its early start helps travelers beat the crowds and make the most of their day, although the long schedule may suit more energetic, adventure-loving types.

Perfect for first-timers or travelers who want a full-day, guided experience with plenty of photo opportunities and snorkeling. The knowledgeable guides, combined with the efficient itinerary, make this a reliable choice for those seeking a busy but rewarding day on the water.

For anyone who values authentic scenery, good organization, and a taste of Thai hospitality, this tour hits most marks. Just buckle up for a full day and come prepared for adventure.