Luxury Speedboat : Day trip to PhiPhi with National Park fee

Planning a day trip around Phuket’s famous Phi Phi Islands can be tricky. With so many options, it’s hard to know which tour offers the best mix of comfort, adventure, and value. This particular speedboat tour promises a luxurious experience with hotel transfers, guided visits, and plenty of snorkeling and sightseeing. While it’s certainly appealing, some reviews hint at areas where it might fall short, making it useful to look at the full picture before booking.

One thing we love about this trip is the comfort of round-trip hotel transfers—no fussing with taxis or navigating busy piers. The itinerary is packed with iconic sights like Maya Bay and Viking Cave, plus time on gorgeous beaches. That said, the long duration—about eight hours—could be a challenge for those with limited patience or stamina, especially since some reviewers felt the schedule could be a tad rushed or repetitive.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who don’t mind a full day of sightseeing, enjoy guided tours, and want convenient, all-in-one transportation. If you’re after a relaxed vibe with plenty of photo opportunities and snorkeling, this could be a good fit. However, if you prefer a more flexible, leisurely pace or have concerns about reliability, it’s worth weighing the reviews carefully.

Key Points

• Comfortable logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Packed itinerary visiting Phi Phi Leh, Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Khai Island
• Guided experience with knowledgeable guides and equipment provided
• Dining included with a Thai buffet lunch
• Some reviews mention long wait times and group size considerations
• Mixed reviews on reliability — some praise guides, others mention logistical issues

The Journey Begins: From Phuket to the Andaman Sea

Your day starts early, with hotel pickup around 8:00 am. This is a major plus—no need to pre-arrange taxis or worry about meeting points. The tour provider, Phuket Shanti Travel, offers a seamless start, though one reviewer had a hiccup with pick-up—highlighting the importance of confirming your location and details.

By 9:30 am, you arrive at the pier, greeted with a light breakfast—a small but appreciated touch for those who prefer to skip a heavy meal before a busy day. Once onboard, the boat sets off around 10:30 am, cruising the Andaman Sea in style on a luxury speedboat. The vessel comfortably accommodates up to 35 travelers, so you won’t be lost in a crowd, but it’s not a private charter either.

Exploring Phi Phi Leh and the Iconic Sights

Your first stop is Phi Phi Leh, where guides will point out notable landmarks such as Loh Samah Bay and Maya Bay, where the movie “The Beach” was filmed. The views from the scenic wooden staircase are stunning—perfect for photos and taking in the landscape’s rugged beauty. The guide’s knowledge here is often highlighted as a major plus; they provide interesting facts about the islands’ geology and film history.

Next is Pileh Lagoon, often called the “swimming pool in the sea”—a tranquil spot with emerald waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. While swimming here is optional, many travelers find it a highlight, especially given the clear water and peaceful surroundings. An optional long-tail boat ride can be paid for separately, adding an extra adventure element.

Viking Cave and Monkey Beach offer a more casual viewing experience, with some travelers noting that the cave’s rock formations are “stunning” from a distance, and the opportunity to snap photos with monkeys at Monkey Beach adds a fun touch. However, one reviewer mentions that some stops feel a bit repetitive—passing the same sights from the boat multiple times.

Lunch, Relaxation, and Island Hopping

By midday, it’s time for a buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don, offering Thai favorites in a relaxed setting. The lunch is typically served on the beach, giving you an authentic island experience. Afterward, some travelers enjoy strolling along the long, white sandy beach or relaxing under the shade, soaking in the scenery.

Post-lunch, the trip continues to Khai Nok Island around 3:45 pm, where you’ll have about an hour to swim in crystal-clear waters and relax on quiet beaches. Many reviews describe Khai Island as “peaceful” and “perfect for swimming,” though some felt the time here should be longer, especially since the day is quite full already.

Later, the boat heads to Rang Yai Island, known for its unspoiled sandy beach and calm waters. It’s a fitting last stop before heading back, with the journey wrapping up around 6:00–6:30 pm. You’re then chauffeured back to your hotel, ending a long but packed day.

What’s Included and What You Should Know

This tour offers round-trip hotel transfers, a light breakfast, buffet lunch, and soft drinks, which are all part of the package, adding to its convenience and value. Equipment such as kayaks and paddle boards are also included, giving you options to stay active once you arrive at each stop.

However, reviews remind us that reliability can vary. One traveler had a poor experience with pick-up logistics, emphasizing the importance of confirming your details beforehand. The guides are described as knowledgeable, but the overall experience depends heavily on the crew’s professionalism.

The price of $96.28 per person is competitive considering the inclusions, especially given the full day’s itinerary and the convenience of hotel transfers. But it’s worth considering whether the long hours and group setting suit your travel style.

The Verdict: Is This Tour Worth It?

This speedboat trip from Phuket to Phi Phi Islands definitely offers value for money, especially if you’re keen to see multiple highlights in one day without worrying about transportation logistics. The guides seem to be a highlight—they share insights and keep the day moving—though some reviews mention that the schedule can feel overly packed or repetitive.

The scenic stops like Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Khai Island are genuinely stunning, and the inclusive equipment makes snorkeling convenient. The buffet lunch on the beach adds a charming touch, though some might find the overall pace a bit rushed, especially if they prefer more relaxed exploration.

For families, first-time visitors, or adventure seekers who want to tick off major sights comfortably, this trip is an appealing option. However, those looking for a more flexible or private experience might find it less satisfying, especially given the mixed reviews on reliability and timing.

Final Thoughts

This tour excels in providing an efficient, guided way to see the highlights of Phi Phi Islands, with the added bonus of hotel transfers and snorkeling gear. The stunning views, especially at Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon, make it a memorable outing, perfect for those wanting a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning.

That said, the length of the day and some logistical issues noted in reviews suggest that travelers should be prepared for a busy schedule. It’s best suited for those who prioritize convenience and guided experiences over flexibility.

Overall, it offers a good balance of comfort and adventure, making it a solid choice for first-timers or those wanting to see everything in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, round-trip hotel transfers are part of the package, making it convenient and saving time on logistics.

What meals are included?
A light breakfast at the pier and a buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don Island are included, giving you fuel for the day’s activities.

How many people are typically on the boat?
The tour accommodates up to 35 travelers, so it’s not a private boat but still manageable for a group.

Are snorkeling and water activities available?
Yes, equipment like clear kayaks and paddle boards are provided, and you can snorkel at Khai Nok Island.

What are the main sightseeing stops?
Expect to visit Phi Phi Leh, Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, Khai Nok Island, and Rang Yai Island.

Is there any flexibility in the schedule?
The itinerary is quite structured and long, which may leave little room for spontaneity or extended stays at each stop.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic day with all the comforts of guided transport and a variety of stops, this tour offers solid value. Just be prepared for a full day of sightseeing and check the reviews for tips on how to make the most of your experience.