Phi Phi and Bamboo Islands Tour from Phuket

Planning a trip to Phuket and craving a full-day escape to Thailand’s most iconic islands? This tour, priced at around $69.26 per person, promises a comprehensive experience packed with breathtaking scenery, exciting stops, and plenty of opportunities to relax and explore. It’s a popular choice, often booked about 23 days in advance, and offers a balance of guided sightseeing, snorkeling, and beach time.

What really stands out about this tour is the combination of professional guides and well-organized itinerary that aims to make the most of your day. The trip is designed to be accessible, with hotel pickups, comfortable speed boats, and all the essentials like snorkeling equipment included. But, like any popular tour, it’s not without its crowds and busy moments—something to consider if you’re after a more secluded experience.

Overall, if you’re looking for a value-packed day, a chance to see top sights like Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Bamboo Island, and enjoy some quality snorkeling, this tour could be a great fit—especially for travelers who don’t mind sharing these stunning locations with others. Now, let’s break down what makes this adventure tick, what you can expect, and some honest insights from previous travelers.

Key Points

• Comfortable, well-organized transportation ensures a smooth start and finish to your day.
• Guides like Ami are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, adding a personal touch.
• Crowds at popular stops like Maya Bay can be a downside but are part of the experience.
• Snorkeling and beach time are highlights, with equipment provided for an easy underwater adventure.
• Value for money is high, with included meals, drinks, and activities making it a worthwhile cost.
• Flexible itinerary with some stops subject to weather, but the main points are reliably included.

The Overall Experience: What You’re Sign Up For

This full-day tour from Phuket is designed for travelers eager to see the most famous islands and beaches in a single trip. It’s ideal for those wanting a hassle-free way to tick off major sights like Maya Bay—famous from “The Beach”—and enjoy a day filled with snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on gorgeous beaches.

You’ll love the organized pickup, which means no fuss about logistics. The morning begins with a brief hotel transfer, followed by a quick stop at Panwa Pier where you meet your guide, receive your tour bracelet, and enjoy snacks and drinks before heading out. The crew, including an experienced captain and friendly guides, make the journey comfortable and informative—one reviewer mentioned Ami, the guide, as being “good fun” and attentive.

The day’s highlights include Maya Bay, where you can walk around the famous beach (though it’s worth noting it’s closed for preservation from August 1 to October 1, so your visit might be limited to photos from the boat during that period). Next, you’ll cruise to Pileh Lagoon, a tranquil spot perfect for swimming in emerald waters surrounded by cliffs, which a reviewer described as “calm and beautiful.” Viking Cave and Monkey Beach offer quick sightseeing moments, with the latter featuring playful monkeys, though the crowds can be noticeable.

The lunch on Koh Phi Phi Don is a highlight for many, with a buffet spread that satisfies even the most ravenous travelers. Afterward, you’ll snorkel around Phi Phi Don, observing a variety of fish, and then arrive at Bamboo Island for some relaxing beach time—swimming, sunbathing, or just soaking in the views.

Finally, the journey winds down with a return to Phuket, making it a long but rewarding day. The overall flow is well-paced, with enough time at each stop to appreciate the scenery without feeling rushed.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Morning Pickup and Pier Arrival

The trip kicks off with hotel pickups via minibus, which most travelers find convenient and stress-free. Arriving at Panwa Pier, you’re greeted by your guide, who hands out colorful bracelets indicating your group. A quick safety briefing and snacks—tea, coffee, cookies—set the tone for the day ahead. As one reviewer noted, the safety aspect, including the presence of life jackets for snorkeling, helps ensure peace of mind.

Maya Bay – The Iconic Beach

Your first stop is Maya Bay, famous for its appearance in “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio. The walk from Phi Phi Ley offers great photo opportunities, with stunning cliffs framing the sandy bay. However, note that from August 1 to October 1, the bay is closed for conservation, so the stop becomes a sightseeing photo point from the boat. Despite the crowds, the scenery remains breathtaking.

Pileh Lagoon – A Serene Swim Spot

Next, heading to Pileh Lagoon, where the calm, emerald waters are perfect for swimming and relaxing. The cliffs surrounding the lagoon create a dramatic backdrop, and previous visitors mention how peaceful and stunning this location is. If you’re lucky with the weather, you’ll enjoy a tranquil swim in this natural pool.

Viking Cave and Monkey Beach

The Viking Cave is a quick sightseeing stop, mostly to admire the ancient cave paintings and learn about the nesting birds that produce the famous bird’s nest soup. Monkey Beach, also brief, provides a chance to see playful monkeys in their natural environment. Be mindful that this stop can be crowded, and some travelers noted the presence of many boats and people at these spots.

Lunch at Koh Phi Phi Don

Lunchtime is a buffet spread on Koh Phi Phi Don, giving you a chance to refuel. Many reviews mention the lunch as decent and satisfying, with fresh fruits and drinks available. The meal is included in the tour price, making it good value considering the scenic setting.

Snorkeling and Beach Relaxation

Post-lunch, you’ll get snorkeling gear to observe the vibrant marine life around Phi Phi Don. One reviewer shared that staff helped with snorkeling, making it accessible even for beginners. Expect to see various fish species, and the equipment is well-maintained. Bamboo Island follows, where you can swim, relax, or take photos of the pristine beaches—noted for their quiet, scenic beauty and clear waters.

Return Journey and Hotel Drop-off

After a final hour on Bamboo Island, the boat heads back to Phuket, with the return trip allowing for some rest and reflection on the day’s sights. The tour ends with a hotel drop-off, completing a long but memorable day.

The Value of This Tour

For $69.26, you’re getting a full-day adventure that covers the standout sights of Phi Phi Islands and Bamboo Island, plus included meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and a knowledgeable guide. Many reviews emphasize the good value for money, especially considering the number of stops and the quality of the experience.

The combination of a comfortable speed boat, organized logistics, and friendly crew ensures a smooth trip. Plus, the fact that the tour is suitable for most travelers—most participants can join, except pregnant women—makes it accessible. The inclusion of insurance and safety briefings also adds peace of mind.

While crowds can be notable at popular stops like Maya Bay, this is typical of Phuket’s most famous islands, and the boat’s large size means you’re unlikely to feel crowded aboard. Some travelers found the long day a bit tiring, but most agree that the scenery, snorkeling, and overall organization make it worthwhile.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors to Phuket eager to see the most famous islands without the hassle of planning individual transfers. It’s ideal for groups, families, or solo travelers seeking a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation.

If you’re seeking views of Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Bamboo Island, along with snorkeling opportunities, this tour offers it all. It’s also suited for those who don’t mind sharing the space with other travelers, as crowds are common at these sites.

However, if you prefer seclusion and avoiding busy spots, you might find the crowds at some stops a little overwhelming, especially during peak season. The tour’s flexibility with weather and sea conditions is also worth noting—adverse weather can lead to cancellations or alterations, but safety always comes first.

The Sum Up

This Phi Phi and Bamboo Islands tour from Phuket offers a well-rounded, accessible way to explore some of Thailand’s most famous island scenery. The inclusion of professional guides like Ami, comfortable transportation, and a good balance of activity and relaxation make it a practical choice. Travelers who value expert guidance, stunning views, and good value will find this trip rewarding.

While it can get crowded at certain locations, the overall experience remains authentic and enjoyable, especially considering the variety of stops and activities packed into one day. It’s a fantastic option for those wanting an introduction to the Phi Phi Islands or a fun, hassle-free day on the water.

If you’re after a scenic, activity-rich day with friendly staff and the assurance of safety, this tour could be your next memorable adventure in Phuket.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup from Phuket, making start and end hassle-free.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, covering all the major stops.

Are meals provided?
Yes, a buffet lunch, along with soft drinks and seasonal fruits, are included on board.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Absolutely. Snorkeling gear is provided, and many enjoy observing different fish species near Phi Phi Don.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
Most speed boat tours are not allowed for pregnant women, and staff may refuse participation for safety reasons.

What about Maya Bay’s seasonal closure?
From August 1 to October 1, Maya Bay is closed for conservation, and visits are limited to photos from the boat.

How crowded are the stops?
Popular spots like Maya Bay and Monkey Beach can be busy, with many boats and visitors, especially during peak season.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and a waterproof camera. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, but you might prefer your own.

Is the itinerary flexible?
Weather and sea conditions can affect the schedule. If conditions are unsafe, stops may be skipped or altered without a refund.

This tour is a great way to see the highlights of the Phi Phi Islands region, especially if you’re after a convenient, well-organized day out that balances sightseeing with relaxation.