Full Day Tour of Phi Phi Island by Big Boat from Rassada Pier, Phuket (SHA Plus)

Experience the Full Day Tour of Phi Phi Islands by Big Boat from Rassada Pier, Phuket (SHA Plus)

If you’re dreaming of a day spent exploring Thailand’s iconic Phi Phi Islands, this full-day tour offers a convenient way to do so with a larger, more comfortable boat. It’s ideal for those wanting a relaxed, scenic journey that combines sightseeing, snorkeling, and beach time, all with round-trip transfers from Phuket. But, as with many guided tours, there are pros and cons to consider.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is the more spacious boat—it’s a welcome change from cramped speedboats, especially if you’re traveling with family or prefer a bit more room to stretch out. The itinerary covers the most celebrated spots, including Maya Bay and Monkey Beach, with added opportunities for snorkeling and relaxing on the beach. However, some reviews highlight issues with organization and the limited time at each stop, so it’s worth knowing what to expect.

This tour suits travelers who value comfort and a comprehensive experience over adrenaline-fueled speed. It’s perfect for first-timers, families, or those who want to avoid the chaos of smaller boats, but it might not be ideal if you’re after a more flexible or private adventure.

Key Points

• Comfortable big boat provides more space to relax during the cruise.
• Comprehensive itinerary includes popular sights like Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach.
• Snorkeling gear and admission fees are included, giving good value.
• Relaxed pace with ample time for swimming, beach lounging, and lunch.
• Round-trip transfers from Phuket are included, simplifying logistics.
• Occasional criticisms around short stop durations and staff interactions, so be prepared for a busy day.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Rassada Pier and Early Departure

The adventure begins early at Rassada Pier, with meet-up between 7:00 and 7:20 am. This is a straightforward process, especially if you’re already nearby or using local transport. The check-in process is smooth, and the tour offers mobile tickets, so no fuss with paper vouchers. Once onboard, you’ll be greeted with coffee, tea, and desserts—perfect for a quick energy boost before a long day at sea.

The Spacious Big Boat: A Welcome Change

Unlike many tours that operate with speedboats, this vessel is larger, with seating designed for comfort. With a maximum of around 15 travelers on land transport and varying watercraft (speedboats, long-tail boats, or large vessels like June Bahtra), the group size remains intimate, which can enhance the experience. Reviewers mention that the big boat allows for better relaxation and unobstructed views, making the journey more enjoyable.

The Scenic Cruise and Sightseeing on Board

By around 8:30 am, the boat departs, heading toward the Phi Phi Islands. During high season (November to April), the itinerary includes a cruise past Phi Phi Ley Island, where travelers can admire Viking Cave, Pi-Le Cove, Loh Samah Bay, and Maya Bay. The commentary from guides offers insights into these sites, adding context to the stunning scenery.

One reviewer noted the beauty of the views from the boat, praising the “beautiful views” and the “insightful commentary” provided by guides. It’s a chance to sit back and take in the dramatic limestone cliffs, caves, and clear waters, with some reviews mentioning that the guides seem knowledgeable, making the trip more engaging.

Maya Bay and Phi Phi Ley: The Highlight of the Tour

Depending on sea and weather conditions, the tour will typically stop near Maya Bay, famous for its film fame and postcard-perfect scenery. However, it’s important to note that Maya Bay entrance fees are not included (400 THB per person), and snorkelers need to buy a separate ticket if they want to explore beneath the surface.

On some reviews, travelers expressed disappointment about the limited time they had at Maya Bay, often only about an hour, which, while enough for a quick look or photo, might feel rushed. The visibility from the boat is generally praised, but the short stops mean you’ll want to prioritize what you want to see most.

Long Beach and Snorkeling

The tour usually brings travelers to Long Beach on Phi Phi Don, where swimming and snorkeling are big draws. The sea life and coral are frequently described as colorful and vibrant. One reviewer called snorkeling at Long Beach “beautiful,” noting that it was worth the travel with “amazing views.” Snorkel gear and life jackets are provided, making it accessible for all skill levels.

Lunch and Leisure Time

A major highlight of this tour is the included buffet lunch at Long Beach, which is often praised for its quality. One reviewer mentioned that the lunch was delicious and halal, an important detail for Muslim travelers. After lunch, there’s generally free time to relax on the beach, soak up the sun, or explore the nearby surroundings.

Alternatively, during the low season (May to October), the itinerary shifts slightly, with a shorter stop at Laemtong Beach and a different route around the islands. The boat remains a key feature, but the focus is slightly different, emphasizing more on sightseeing from the water.

Return Journey and Final Notes

The tour departs Phi Phi around 2:30 pm, returning to Phuket by approximately 4:30 pm. The timing is quite tight, which reviewers indicate can lead to feeling hurried, especially if you want more time at each stop.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

While many travelers expressed satisfaction, some reviews highlight areas for improvement. For instance, one traveler praised the “excellent snorkeling” and “scenic views” but pointed out that staff behavior was less than friendly. Another review mentioned that the staff was “extremely rude” and that they were made to pay for things that should have been included, such as insurance and entry fees—highlighting a need to clarify what’s covered before booking.

Others appreciated the value for money, especially given the round-trip transfer, guided commentary, and included meals. Conversely, a reviewer pointed out that taking a ticket for the ferry could be cheaper than this package, suggesting that some may find similar experiences at a lower cost if they’re willing to organize independently.

Transportation, Duration, and Group Size

Transportation from Phuket to Rassada Pier is included, and the group size is kept small (maximum 15 travelers on land transport), which helps keep the experience intimate. The boat itself varies in capacity depending on the vessel used, with speedboats accommodating up to 35 people, and June Bahtra holding up to 50.

The full-day experience lasts approximately 10 hours, from early morning pickup to late afternoon return. The time constraints mean that you’ll need to be prepared for a busy day, but the schedule is designed to maximize sightseeing and leisure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:
– Snorkel masks, snorkel gear, and life jackets
– Buffet lunch and seasonal fruit
– Non-alcoholic drinks
– Tour guide with insightful commentary
– Insurance during the tour
– Round-trip boat transfer from Phuket

Not included:
– National park fee (400 THB at Maya Bay)
– Extra charges for snorkeling if you want to explore Maya Bay more extensively
– Hotel pickup and drop-off (you meet at Rassada Pier)

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for families, first-time visitors, and travelers seeking comfort and convenience. The larger boat makes for a more stable, comfortable ride, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or traveling with children. The included meals and guided commentary add value, making it suitable for those who want a full, stress-free day with minimal planning.

However, if you’re after more personalized, flexible, or private experiences, this might feel a bit rushed or crowded. Also, travelers with limited mobility or those who want to spend more time at each site might find the schedule too tight.

Final Thoughts

This Phi Phi Islands tour offers a solid introduction to one of Thailand’s most iconic destinations. The big boat and included amenities provide comfort and convenience, especially for those who prefer a more relaxed pace. The scenic cruise, snorkeling, and beach stop deliver plenty of the stunning views and marine life that make Phi Phi so famous.

While some reviews point to organizational hiccups and brief stop times, most travelers appreciate the value for money, especially considering the round-trip transfers and guided experience. If you’re looking for a day that combines sightseeing with some downtime and snorkeling, this tour can be a great pick.

It’s best suited for those who don’t mind a structured schedule and want to explore the highlights of Phi Phi without the hassle of organizing transport and meals themselves.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at Rassada Pier, so you need to arrange your own transportation there.

What’s the maximum group size?
The land transport is limited to 15 travelers, but the vessel size varies depending on the boat used, accommodating between 12 and 50 passengers.

Are snorkeling gear and admission fees included?
Yes, snorkeling gear and some admission fees are included, but Maya Bay’s entrance fee (400 THB) is an extra charge if you want to snorkel there.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, from early morning meet-up to late afternoon return to Phuket.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a towel, a waterproof camera, and some cash if you plan to buy souvenirs or extra snacks.

Is there an option for a private or more flexible experience?
This tour is designed for small groups with a fixed schedule. For a more personalized experience, private tours or alternative providers might be better options.

This Phi Phi Islands tour strikes a good balance between comfort, sightseeing, and value, making it a reliable choice for most travelers eager to explore Thailand’s legendary islands without too much fuss.