Explore Phi Phi Islands by Ferry Snorkeling & Lunch Included

Exploring the Phi Phi Islands by Ferry: A Complete Review

Thinking about a day trip from Phuket to the famous Phi Phi Islands? This popular ferry tour with snorkeling and included lunch offers a straightforward way to explore some of Thailand’s most breathtaking scenery. It’s a good option if you want a mix of relaxing beach time, vibrant underwater life, and iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines convenient hotel transfers, a professional guide, and significant destinations like Maya Bay and Viking Cave—all in one package. Plus, the included buffet lunch is a real plus for those who want to enjoy local flavors without extra effort.

That said, the 90-minute ferry ride can be a bit long, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or looking for a more luxurious experience. The overall vibe tends to suit travelers who are eager for an active day out rather than those seeking high-end comfort. It’s perfect for adventure seekers and first-timers eager to tick off the Phi Phi highlights with good value.

Key Points

• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple, especially for busy travelers.
• Value for Money: At around $58, the tour offers a full day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and lunch.
• Diverse Experiences: From stunning Maya Bay to Viking Cave, there’s a lot packed into 8 hours.
• Snorkeling Options: Choice between longtail boats or speedboats, with gear provided.
• Group Size: Large tours with up to 450 travelers, which can influence the intimacy of the experience.
• Weather Dependence: Tours are subject to weather and sea conditions, which might affect the itinerary.

The Full-Day Phi Phi Islands Tour: What to Expect

The Booking and Preparation

Booking this tour typically happens about 40 days in advance, which suggests it’s quite popular, especially among those planning ahead. You’ll be asked to provide your hotel details for the pickup service, with a call the day before confirming the exact time. The tour starts early, with a suggested departure time of 8:30am, giving you a full 8 hours to soak in the sights.

Transport to the islands is by express ferry, with options for standard or first-class seating. The latter, often described as “recliner-like” seats, might not fully recline, as some reviews pointed out, but they do offer a bit more comfort—particularly with the air conditioning, a highlight for some travelers.

The Ferry Ride

The ferry trip from Phuket to Phi Phi lasts about 90 minutes. Reviewers like Carla noted that the ferry ride was a bit uncomfortable, despite opting for first-class seats. The seats don’t recline as advertised, and the ride can be a little bumpy, especially if the sea is rough. If you’re sensitive to motion, bringing a seasickness pill or ginger snacks might be wise.

Stops and Highlights

Maya Bay is the star attraction, and it truly lives up to its reputation. Surrounded by towering cliffs, this semi-enclosed bay offers the kind of postcard-perfect scenery everyone dreams of. Inside, you’ll find white sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and a clear, calm sea. Reviewers mention that the bay is quite small and only accessible at certain tide levels, sometimes limiting how much time you might spend there. Still, it’s an iconic spot that’s well worth the visit.

Next, you’ll stop at Viking Cave, a limestone cliff with paintings of Scandinavian boats. While the cave itself isn’t accessible, the 20-minute stop allows you to snap photos and marvel at the paintings and the dramatic rock formations. The cave’s name and paintings are rather recent, and some reviewers found the stop brief but worthwhile for the scenery and photo opportunities.

Ko Phi Phi Don, the main island, offers a chance to see the largest settlement, with resorts and local shops. The stop here is about two hours, giving enough time to explore, grab a drink, or just relax on the beach. Keep in mind that some travelers, like Carla, found the ferry ride uncomfortable; but the smaller group size on the island itself and the chance to stretch your legs help balance that out.

Snorkeling and Water Activities

Included in the tour is snorkel gear, and you’ll typically do snorkeling by longtail boat or speedboat, depending on your ticket class. Many travelers mention how vibrant the underwater scene is, with colorful coral and countless fish. Bryan emphasized the importance of the knowledgeable guides who helped with gear and safety tips, making the experience enjoyable even for beginners.

Reviews from snorkelers highlight that the currents can vary, especially if weather conditions change unexpectedly—something to keep in mind if you’re a cautious swimmer. The premium option, which involves snorkeling by speedboat, allows you to cover more locations quickly, though this detail isn’t always available for purchase on the day of the trip.

Lunch and Refreshments

The buffet lunch is often praised for its Thai flavors and variety. Many reviewers, including Lewie787, say the food was well worth the extra money and a highlight of the day. The meal typically includes rice, noodles, vegetables, and some meat or vegetarian options, along with snacks and beverages like tea, coffee, or soft drinks.

Miscellaneous Details

The tour includes hotel transfers, but extra charges apply if your stay is outside the main tourist areas like Patong, Kata, or Karon. The cost is approximately 1000 baht for transfers from more remote locations or the airport, payable directly to the driver.

Weather and sea conditions can influence the itinerary. If seas are rough or the weather turns stormy, the company may adjust plans, such as substituting boat trips or delaying stops—sometimes without refunds, so flexibility is key.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Based on reviews, the guides and crew seem quite knowledgeable, with some guests mentioning specific staff by name. For example, the guide “Nick” received praise for his attentiveness. Many travelers also appreciated the timeliness of pickups and the overall organization, which makes a big difference in such a packed schedule.

While some found the ferry uncomfortable, others thought the air-conditioned seats in first class or premium options were worth the upgrade, especially on the longer ride. The snorkeling is consistently described as a fun highlight, with plenty of marine life visible even for beginners.

The lunch generally gets good marks, with reviewers mentioning how it adds value and makes the trip more relaxing. A common theme is that this tour offers great value for the cost, especially given the comprehensive itinerary and included amenities.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is a solid choice for first-time visitors to Phuket wanting a hassle-free, full-day experience. It’s especially appealing if you’re keen on snorkeling, seeing iconic sights like Maya Bay, and enjoying a delicious buffet lunch without breaking the bank. The tour’s large group size and somewhat basic amenities** might not satisfy travelers looking for a luxurious, intimate cruise, but it’s ideal for those seeking a balance of adventure and comfort.

If you’re someone who prioritizes convenience, with hotel transfers and organized schedules, this tour makes planning easy. However, if seasickness or long ferry rides aren’t your thing, you might want to consider other options. The tour’s reliance on weather conditions also means flexibility is key, so be prepared for possible itinerary changes.

The Sum Up

This Phi Phi Islands ferry tour delivers a well-rounded experience packed with iconic sights, snorkeling, and local flavor at a reasonable price. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want value and convenience in one package. The inclusion of buffet lunch, snorkeling gear, and hotel transfers makes it a practical choice for those new to the area or those eager to see the highlights without the fuss of self-planning.

While some may find the ferry ride a bit uncomfortable or the large group setting less intimate, the stunning scenery and friendly guides often make up for it. The tour balances adventure with relaxation, making it a fantastic way to spend a day exploring the Phi Phi Islands’ natural beauty.

If you’re looking for an accessible, fun, and affordable way to see these gorgeous islands and enjoy some snorkeling, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to pack seasickness remedies if you’re sensitive, and come prepared for a busy, energetic day of island-hopping.

FAQ

How long is the ferry ride from Phuket to Phi Phi Islands?
The ferry ride takes approximately 90 minutes each way, making it a manageable trip for most travelers, though some found it a little uncomfortable despite the first-class options.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for most areas, but there is a surcharge for pickups outside Phuket Town, Patong, Karon, or Kata, payable directly to the driver.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes round-trip transfers, a buffet lunch, refreshments onboard, snorkeling gear, and guided commentary. Snorkeling is done by longtail boat or speedboat depending on your seating class.

Are there options for upgrading seats?
Yes, you can upgrade to first-class or premium seats before boarding at the pier, but upgrades cannot be purchased onboard. Premium options also include snorkeling by speedboat.

What are the main sights visited?
Highlights include Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Ko Phi Phi Don. The stops offer a chance to relax, explore, and take photos of some of Thailand’s most famous scenery.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, a National Park Fee of 400 baht (adults) or 200 baht (children) applies, payable during the tour if you’re in Standard or First Class. Extra charges for transfers outside specified areas also apply.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with health concerns?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour may not be suitable for pregnant women, seniors, or those with certain health issues due to sea conditions and physical activity involved.

Exploring the Phi Phi Islands by ferry remains a popular, practical way to see this stunning corner of Thailand. With a balance of sights, activities, and local flavor, it’s a day well spent for those looking to tick off bucket list destinations with ease and good value.