Early Bird Phi Phi Islands Tour From Phi Phi by Speedboat

A Detailed Look at the Early Bird Phi Phi Islands Tour From Phi Phi by Speedboat

Taking a trip to the Phi Phi Islands is a must for anyone visiting Thailand, and doing it early in the day can make a real difference. This Early Bird Phi Phi Islands Tour offers a chance to see the most famous spots before the crowds arrive — a real perk for those wanting cleaner photos and a more relaxed experience. Starting at dawn, this tour packs in a variety of stops, from iconic beaches to vibrant snorkeling spots, all within a solid 7 to 8 hours.

What we love about this tour is the value for the price—at around $64.34 per person, you get quite a lot for your money, including group transportation, multiple island visits, and several snorkeling opportunities. Plus, the chance to beat the heat and crowds adds a real bonus, especially for the more socially inclined or those wanting serene scenic moments. On the flip side, the tour can feel crowded at times and some reviewers mention rough seas or shorter snorkeling windows, so it’s worth considering if you prefer a more laid-back, less bustling experience.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy organized group excursions, are comfortable with early mornings, and want a comprehensive snapshot of Phi Phi’s highlights. If you’re after a thorough, value-packed adventure that hits many must-see spots, this one deserves a spot on your list.

Key Points

• Early start to beat crowds and heat
• Includes visits to multiple iconic locations such as Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Bamboo Island
• Snorkeling and swimming opportunities in crystal clear waters
• Group tour with transportation included for convenience and affordability
• Tour duration of approximately 7-8 hours offers a full day of exploring
• Reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and stunning scenic views

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Early at Maya Bay

The tour kicks off at 6:30 am with hotel pickup in Phi Phi, giving you a head start before the inland and boat crowds arrive. Your first stop is Maya Bay, the famous movie location, known for its dramatic cliffs and white sandy beaches. The early morning light makes for beautiful photographs, and you get about 30 minutes here. While access to Maya Bay is often limited or restricted, this tour still offers a chance to admire it from a distance and snap some memorable shots, as one reviewer mentions, despite Maya Bay being closed to further entry.

Loh Samah Bay and Pi Leh Bay

Next, the boat heads to Loh Samah Bay for another 30 minutes—another scenic spot perfect for photos and soaking in the sunrise. Following that, you get an hour for Pi Leh Bay, which many describe as a highlight for snorkeling. The waters here are crystal clear, teeming with colorful fish and coral reefs. Reviewers mention how the snorkeling, especially at Pi Leh Bay, offers a close encounter with tropical fishes, making it a worthwhile stop even if the weather is a bit rough at times.

Pi Leh Lagoon and Viking Cave

A unique feature of this tour is the cruise into Pi Leh Lagoon, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. It’s the kind of view that stays with you. This stretch takes about an hour and offers incredible scenery. The next stop, the Viking Cave, is a 1.5-hour visit that’s especially interesting for its floating nests—highly valuable swift nests collected for traditional medicine and bird’s nest soup. One reviewer mentions seeing the cave and its nesting birds, adding a bit of authentic local culture to the day.

Bamboo Island and Monkey Beach

Bamboo Island is a major highlight. It’s a flat, evergreen island with white sand beaches and spectacular coral reefs. Expect about an hour here for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. Many guests enjoy the pristine waters and the chance to see tropical fish close-up, with some noting the delicious lunch provided on the island.

A brief stop at Monkey Beach follows, where you can observe wild monkeys and snap photos. One reviewer remarks that this spot was less about the monkeys and more about the travelers, but nonetheless a fun chance to see the island’s famous residents.

Nui Beach and Shark Point

Later in the day, the tour includes a peaceful visit to Nui Beach, perfect for relaxing or a quick swim. The last snorkel spot is Shark Point, where you might see blacktip reef sharks hunting near the coral reefs. This snorkeling stop lasts about 30 minutes and is free. Multiple reviews praise guides for pointing out sharks and marine life, making it a highlight for marine enthusiasts.

Practical Details & What to Expect

Transportation & Group Size

The tour includes round-trip transport from Phi Phi hotels or meeting points, making logistics simple. The group size is capped at 25 travelers, which helps balance a lively social atmosphere with enough space on the boat. The boat itself is described as crowded at times, so if you prefer silence and solitude, this may not be your ideal experience.

Duration & Pacing

Spanning approximately 7 to 8 hours, the tour offers a full day’s worth of sightseeing. The itinerary is fairly packed, but the early start allows you to enjoy the sites before they become overwhelmed with travelers and heat. Reviewers mention that the timing at each stop is generally sufficient, although some found the lunch a bit underwhelming compared to other tours, with a comment about the lack of buffet options.

Cost & Value

At $64.34 per person, this tour provides good value for the number of stops, snorkeling, and transport included. For travelers on a budget looking for a comprehensive day trip, it’s an attractive option. Many reviews highlight how the trip’s pacing and guide’s knowledge made the experience worthwhile, despite some criticism about crowded boats or shorter snorkeling windows.

Guides & Experience

Guides, like the one mentioned as “Mate,” are praised for their engagement and knowledge. One review mentions a guide dressed as Batman—a humorous highlight that added fun to the day. Reviewers appreciate when guides point out marine life and hidden spots, making the experience more interactive and memorable.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Beat the crowds with an early start, especially at popular sites like Maya Bay
• Multiple stops offer a well-rounded experience of the Phi Phi Islands
• Snorkeling opportunities at prime locations like Pi Leh Bay and Shark Point
• Group transport simplifies logistics and reduces hassle
• Affordable price point considering the number of destinations visited
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the overall experience

Cons

• Boat can be crowded, impacting comfort for some
• Shorter snorkeling windows might disappoint marine enthusiasts
• Lunch options may be basic compared to other tours
• Some stops, like Monkey Beach, are more tourist-heavy than wildlife-focused
• Weather can impact the experience, especially if seas are rough

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a full-day, organized adventure that hits many of the Phi Phi highlights without the hassle of planning individual trips. It suits those who value early mornings to avoid crowds and are happy to share a lively boat with other travelers. If you’re keen on snorkeling, stunning scenery, and iconic beaches, this tour hits those marks well.

However, if you prefer quiet, solo exploration or are sensitive to boat crowds, you might find the experience a bit busy or hurried. It’s also a good fit for budget-conscious travelers looking for solid value, as the price includes transport, multiple stops, and snorkeling.

The Sum Up

This Early Bird Phi Phi Islands Tour offers a comprehensive, value-packed day exploring Thailand’s most famed islands and beaches. Starting early gives you a significant advantage in avoiding the crowds, letting you soak in the stunning vistas and vibrant marine life with fewer travelers around. Guided by knowledgeable guides who are praised for their engagement, you’ll visit everything from Maya Bay’s iconic sands to Shark Point’s marine creatures, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and relaxing.

While the boat can feel a little crowded and the lunch may be basic, these are minor trade-offs for the overall experience—which is both scenic and well-organized. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to maximize their island experience without spending a fortune, and who don’t mind a bit of early rising.

In the end, this tour provides a solid balance of adventure, scenery, and culture, making it a good choice for those eager to see the best of Phi Phi with a guide to help navigate the day.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transport from Phi Phi is included, making it easy to relax and focus on the scenery.

What is the start time?
The tour begins at 6:30 am, so be prepared for an early pickup.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 7 to 8 hours, giving you a full day of sightseeing.

Are snorkeling equipment and admission fees included?
Yes, all snorkeling gear and admission to stops like Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Bamboo Island are included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and there are child tickets for ages 4-11. Always check with the provider if you have specific needs.

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

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from the Early Bird Phi Phi Islands Tour. It’s a fantastic option for those looking to see multiple islands, enjoy snorkeling, and beat the crowds—all at a reasonable price.