Exclusive Phi Phi, Maya Bay and Bamboo Island by Speed Boat

Taking a day trip from Phuket to the iconic Phi Phi Islands, Maya Bay, and Bamboo Island is one of those bucket-list adventures many travelers dream of. This full-day speedboat tour promises a chance to see some of Thailand’s most famous sights, such as the crescent-shaped Maya Bay and the powdery white sands of Bamboo Island, all while relaxing on a comfortable boat with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the scenery. The tour also includes a Thai buffet lunch and hotel transfers—an appealing package for those wanting an all-in-one experience.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines the thrill of speedboat cruising with enough time at each stop to truly appreciate the surroundings. Plus, the inclusion of a knowledgeable guide and safety equipment makes for a stress-free day. However, the full-day schedule means you’ll be on the move for quite a few hours, so it might not be ideal if you prefer a slower, more relaxed pace.

If you’re someone who loves exploring renowned islands with a taste for adventure and beach lounging, this trip offers a fantastic way to tick multiple boxes in just one day. However, if you’re looking for a more intimate, less rushed experience or want to avoid the crowds, this might not be the perfect fit. Overall, it suits travelers who value convenience, stunning views, and a lively group atmosphere.

Key Points

• Stunning Island Highlights: Visit Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, and Bamboo Island, each offering unique scenery and activities.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Hotel pickup (if booked), a Thai buffet lunch, snacks, bottled water, and snorkeling gear are included.
• Fast-Paced but Rewarding: The schedule packs in many stops, ideal for those who want to see a lot in one day.
• Guided Experience: The tour is led by an English-speaking guide known for being friendly and informative.
• Crowd and Timing Considerations: Expect a busy day with around 47 travelers, and note that Maya Bay might be viewable only from a lagoon due to conservation closures.
• Value for Money: At around $62.75, it offers a good balance of sights, food, and comfort, although reviews note some food quality issues and limited island time.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary and What to Expect

Early Morning Pickup and Check-In

The day begins with a pickup from your Phuket hotel between 6:00 and 7:00 am, with shared transfers available if you select that option. This early start means you’ll be on the water before many other travelers arrive, giving you a chance for more peaceful sightseeing, especially at popular spots. The tour includes a light breakfast—sandwiches, fresh fruit, juice, tea, and coffee—served at Panwa Pier, where you’ll also check in and meet your guide.

The Speedboat Journey Begins

At around 8:30 am, after a quick safety briefing, your full-speed, well-equipped speedboat departs. The boat, described as safety-minded with life jackets provided, offers a more intimate and faster way to reach the islands compared to larger, more cumbersome vessels. We loved the way the guides pointed out impressive cliffs and natural formations along the route, setting a scenic tone right from the start.

Maya Bay (From a Distance)

The highlight for most is always Maya Bay, famous for its appearance in the movie “The Beach.” However, the tour’s schedule recognizes recent conservation efforts, so the actual beach may be off-limits for land visits from July to September. Instead, you’ll get a lagoon view of Maya Bay, which still offers fantastic photo opportunities. As one reviewer noted, “The beauty is in the views from the lagoon,” and it’s still worth seeing the iconic crescent shape from afar.

Pileh Lagoon: Swimming in Nature’s Pool

Next stop is Pileh Lagoon, often called the “Swimming Pool in the Sea.” Expect emerald green waters and towering limestone cliffs surrounding the tranquil waters—perfect for a relaxing swim or just floating… with a drink in hand, if you’re lucky! The reviews mention that this stop is a favorite for its stunning scenery and calm waters, ideal for snorkeling.

Viking Cave and Snorkeling

Cruising onwards, you’ll pass the Viking Cave, known not just for its striking appearance but also for the swallows’ nests inside, which are harvested under concession. Here, snorkeling is included, giving you a chance to explore the underwater world teeming with colorful fish and coral reefs. One review mentioned snorkeling among “various kinds of fish along the coral reef,” which can be a real highlight if you enjoy underwater exploration.

Monkey Beach and Local Wildlife

A quick stop at Monkey Beach provides a fun, if somewhat chaotic, encounter with the resident monkeys. Be cautious with your belongings—these monkeys are notorious for snatching snacks or sunglasses. The 10-minute stop is brief but memorable, especially for animal lovers.

Lunch at Tonsai Beach

Around mid-day, you’ll arrive at Tonsai Beach on Phi Phi Don for a buffet lunch at a seaside restaurant. The food, described as “typical for the area,” includes seafood and Thai dishes. While some reviews mention the lunch being “subpar” and only semi-tasty, others appreciated the relaxing break and the chance to walk around the vibrant island scene. The free time here also allows for photos, shopping, or just relaxing on the beach.

Bamboo Island: The Showstopper Beach

Post-lunch, the trip heads to Bamboo Island, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Andaman Sea. Expect powdery white sands stretching along a curved shoreline, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the scenery. The hour spent here is enough for a quick dip and some relaxing on the beach—though some travelers wish they had more time, as one reviewer noted, “Enjoy swimming and relax on the beach” — but the schedule is tight.

Return and Hotel Drop-Off

By 3:30 pm, it’s time to head back to Panwa Pier, concluding the tour with a transfer back to your hotel, ensuring a safe and comfortable end to a busy day. The entire experience lasts around 9.5 hours, packed with sightseeing, activities, and dining.

What Works Well

Knowledgeable Guides: Several reviewers praised the guides for their friendliness and helpfulness, noting that they made the trip enjoyable and informative. One even mentioned a “full program briefing” that covered safety and eco-awareness, which adds value for eco-conscious travelers.

Stunning Views: The scenery along the route—from towering cliffs to turquoise lagoons—is genuinely spectacular. The photos of Maya Bay from a lagoon perspective are stunning and offer a more sustainable way to view the iconic location.

Food and Snacks: The provided buffet lunch is a highlight for some, although reviews indicate it’s hit-or-miss in quality. You get snacks and bottled water throughout the day, which helps keep you energized.

Snorkeling Equipment: Included in the tour, these offer a great chance to see marine life up close, making the underwater part of the day memorable, especially for snorkelers of all levels.

Areas for Consideration

Limited Island Time: With the packed schedule, some travelers feel they don’t get enough time on each island to fully explore or relax. The stop at Maya Bay, for example, is mostly from a distance due to closure restrictions.

Food Quality: A recurring criticism concerns the lunch served at the Phi Phi hotel, described as “cold” and “subpar.” While the buffet at Tonsai is decent, those with specific dietary preferences or high expectations may be disappointed.

Crowds and Timing: The tour is popular, with around 47 travelers at a time, which can lead to a busy, sometimes crowded experience. Early booking is advised, as it’s booked 74 days in advance on average.

Weather Dependence: The tour is weather-dependent, and bad weather could lead to cancellations or delays, although full refunds are offered if this happens.

Is This Tour Worth It?

At around $62.75, this tour offers a solid value for its all-inclusive nature, covering transportation, meals, snorkeling gear, and guided sightseeing. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a comprehensive day of island-hopping without the hassle of planning each stop individually. If you’re keen on seeing the iconic Maya Bay, snorkeling in beautiful lagoons, and relaxing on powdery beaches, this trip delivers.

However, it’s important to manage expectations about the time spent on each location. The schedule is tight, and the focus is more on seeing as much as possible rather than lingering. If you’re looking for an unhurried experience or want to explore each island at your own pace, consider whether this full-day tour matches your travel style.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This excursion is best for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a busy day filled with sightseeing, swimming, and quick island stops. It’s ideal if you want to tick off multiple iconic sights in one go and don’t mind sharing the boat with a sizable group. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy guided tours and vibrant group atmospheres will find this a fun way to explore the Phi Phi Islands.

On the other hand, if you prefer quiet, private beaches or more time on each island, you might find this tour too rushed. Those with a keen interest in marine life and snorkeling will appreciate the inclusion of snorkeling gear and the chance to explore underwater reefs.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the transfer option, your hotel pickup is included between 6:00 and 7:00 am.

How long is the boat ride?
The cruise to the islands takes approximately 2 hours from the pier, with the trip designed for speed and efficiency.

What meals are included?
A breakfast of sandwiches, fresh fruit, juice, tea, and coffee is served at the pier. Lunch is a buffet served at Tonsai Beach, offering Thai dishes and seafood.

Are snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear including life jackets, breathing tubes, and mouthpieces are included for use during the snorkeling stops.

What are the major stops during the tour?
Key stops include Maya Bay (from a lagoon view if closed), Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, Tonsai Beach for lunch, and Bamboo Island.

Can I swim at Maya Bay?
If the beach is closed for conservation (July-September), you’ll view Maya Bay from the lagoon but won’t be able to land or swim on the beach.

How much does the National Park Fee cost?
The entry fee is 400 THB for adults and 200 THB for children, payable separately if required.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours and 30 minutes, including transfers.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers of all ages can participate, but keep in mind the early start and the busy schedule.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, full refunds are available if the tour is canceled due to poor weather, or you can reschedule.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat trip to the Phi Phi Islands, Maya Bay, and Bamboo Island offers a lively, scenic, and well-organized way to see some of Thailand’s most renowned beaches and lagoons in one day. With knowledgeable guides, snorkeling opportunities, and a convenient all-in-one package, it’s a solid choice for travelers eager to tick all the major sights off their list. Do note that the schedule is fast-paced, and the quality of food and time on each location may vary depending on your expectations.

For those who want an energetic, guided adventure packed with unforgettable views and photo ops, this tour delivers. If you’re seeking a more relaxed, in-depth exploration, you might prefer to carve out separate days for each spot. Either way, it’s a memorable way to experience the natural beauty of the Phi Phi Islands.

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