Phi Phi and Khai Islands Snorkeling Tour with Lunch by Speedboat

This tour promises a full day of snorkeling, island hopping, and scenic views, all wrapped into around 7 to 8 hours of fun. It’s operated by Amazing Canoeing, a reputable provider with hundreds of positive reviews, and it’s designed to get you into the water quickly, see iconic sights, and enjoy a laid-back lunch by the sea.

What really shines here is the speedboat transfer, which minimizes transit time and maximizes your island time. Plus, the itinerary includes some of the most famous spots in the region like Maya Bay—famous from the Leonardo DiCaprio movie The Beach—and the Viking Cave, with its intriguing wall paintings and bird nests.

However, it’s important to note that some travelers have found the tour quite crowded and rushed, especially during peak season, which can mean less relaxed time on each island. Also, if snorkeling is your main goal, keep in mind that some reviews suggest the experience may not always meet expectations, depending on the crowd and weather conditions.

All in all, this tour suits those who want a comprehensive, no-fuss day with plenty of stops, stunning scenery, and a good mix of activities—ideal for first-timers or families eager to see the highlights efficiently.

Key Points

• Fast-paced but comprehensive: Visits to key spots like Maya Bay, Pileh Bay, Viking Cave, and Khai Nok Island.
• Ideal for first-timers and families: The itinerary covers must-see sights with comfortable transportation.
• All-inclusive experience: Snorkeling gear, paddleboarding, lunch, and local taxes are included.
• Crowd considerations: Some reviews mention busy islands and crowded boats, especially during peak season.
• Value for money: At $92 per person, it offers a lot — including snorkeling, lunch, and transfers.
• Expert guides: Reviewers highly praise guides like Dino, Ohma, and Nancy for their helpfulness and friendliness.

In-Depth Review of the Tour Experience

The Booking and What It Means for You

Booking this tour usually happens 18 days in advance, which indicates it’s popular—likely due to its comprehensive itinerary and the reputation of Amazing Canoeing. For $92, you’re getting a full day with hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a huge plus. No need to find meeting points or worry about transport; just relax and wait for your guide to arrive in an air-conditioned minivan.

Starting Your Day: Pickup and First Stop

Your adventure kicks off at around 9:30 am with a pickup from your Phuket hotel. The early start is designed to maximize your day, and the first stop is at the Royal Phuket Marina, where you’ll meet your guide and jump aboard the speedboat. The boat cruise itself is the highlight for most—moving swiftly across the water, you’re treated to panoramic views of lush islands and rugged cliffs.

One reviewer, Mark_L, appreciated Dino’s patience and smooth schedule management, which helped keep everyone comfortable and on time. The boat is described as comfortable, though some reviews mention being cramped or bumpy, especially if you’re prone to seasickness. Pack some travel pills if you’re sensitive to motion.

First Major Stop: Phi Phi Leh and Maya Bay

The speedboat whips you over to Ko Phi Phi Lee, a natural marvel of sweeping bays and towering cliffs. You’ll get about an hour here, giving enough time to snap plenty of photos or simply soak in the scenery. The star attraction is Maya Bay, where the clear, calm waters and powdery sand have made it world-famous.

Guests repeatedly praised the guides’ knowledge about the sites. Augusto_B mentioned that the experience was unforgettable, especially noting the beautiful waters and the chance to see the film location.

However, some reviews warn about the crowds—it’s a popular stop with a lot of visitors, and the beach can become congested during peak hours. Still, the views and the chance to wade into the water are worth it. Expect about 40 minutes at Maya Bay, which usually feels enough to take photos, swim, and enjoy the scenery.

Pileh Bay and Viking Cave: Hidden Gems

Next is Pileh Bay, a serene lagoon surrounded by limestone cliffs. With about 40 minutes allocated, you can paddleboard, swim, or just relax in this “swimming pool in the sea”. Many reviewers found this a highlight, describing it as an idyllic spot for a quick dip.

Cruising through Viking Cave is another memorable moment. The cave’s wall paintings and bird nests are fascinating, and snorkeling here is often described as vibrant, with lots of marine life. One reviewer, Mark_P, noted that the underwater world had colorful coral and fish, which makes snorkeling here worthwhile.

Monkey Beach and More Snorkeling

A quick 15-minute stop at Monkey Beach offers a chance to see the playful primates and enjoy the island’s natural beauty. While some reviews mention overcrowding, the short stop allows for a quick visit—just enough for some photos and a walk along the shore.

Snorkeling equipment is provided, and the underwater scenery is consistently praised, with many reviewers emphasizing the diverse marine life. However, as Heather_R pointed out, the overall snorkeling experience can vary depending on crowd levels and weather conditions—sometimes it’s more about the photo ops than the underwater immersion.

Lunch at Phi Phi Don

After a morning of sightseeing and water fun, it’s time for a buffet lunch at Ton Sai Bay. The meal is described as generous, with a variety of choices and fresh desserts. Guests often mention the beautiful seaside setting, making it a relaxing break after a busy morning.

One reviewer, Neil_H, recommended bringing beach shoes for walking on the sand, as some parts can be rocky. The 1 hour and 10 minutes here is enough to eat, stroll, and take some photos—another chance to capture the island’s vibe.

Khai Nok Island: Relaxation and Swimming

The final main stop is Khai Nok Island, a tranquil spot with white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. It’s frequently praised for its pristine environment and gentle waves, perfect for swimming or just lying back on the soft sand.

Guests like Albert_G loved the laid-back atmosphere, highlighting the opportunity to relax, swim, and enjoy the scenery at their own pace. It’s a great way to wind down after a hectic morning of island hopping.

Returning and Wrap-up

After a leisurely hour at Khai Nok, the boat heads back to the marina. The last part of the trip involves canoeing back at the Royal Phuket Marina, which many reviewers enjoy as a gentle finale.

From there, a smooth transfer by minivan takes you back to your hotel, concluding a full day of exploration.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Transportation and Group Size

The included hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics easy—you won’t need to worry about finding meeting points. The tour operates with a maximum of 30 travelers, which helps keep the experience manageable and less overwhelming than larger tours.

Duration and Pacing

Spanning nearly 8 hours, this tour is quite packed. While it offers a great overview of the highlights, some reviewers found it a bit rushed—especially during busy season when islands are crowded. It’s best suited for those who want to see as much as possible without spending days on the water.

Cost and Value

At $92 per person, this tour is generally seen as good value, considering the inclusion of lunch, snorkeling gear, paddleboarding, transfers, and the speedboat ride. For those wanting an all-in-one experience with minimal effort, it’s a solid choice.

Considerations and Drawbacks

Some reviews highlight that crowds can diminish the serenity of certain stops like Maya Bay and Monkey Beach. Others mention concerns about overcrowding and the fast pace of the trip, which leaves little downtime.

If your priority is relaxed snorkeling or exploring at your own pace, this tour might feel a bit too timed and busy. Also, be aware that additional fees for national park entry (400 THB for adults, 200 THB for children) are payable upon check-in.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors wanting an overview of Phuket’s most famous islands. Families or groups looking for a hassle-free day with all logistics handled will appreciate the hotel pickup and included amenities.

It’s also ideal if you’re keen on seeing iconic sights like Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Pileh Bay, and enjoy snorkeling and swimming.

However, if you prefer less crowded, more relaxed trips or are a seasoned snorkeler seeking solitude and less transit time, you might want to explore other options or plan a customized trip.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, this tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off in Phuket, so you don’t need to worry about transportation to the marina.

What is included in the price?
The price covers speedboat transfers, snorkeling equipment, paddleboarding, a buffet lunch, refreshments, local taxes, and travel insurance.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, national park fees are payable on the day—400 THB for adults and 200 THB for children. You may also rent fins for 200 THB if desired.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 to 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am and returning in the evening. The itinerary is packed, so expect a full day.

Is snorkeling good on this tour?
Many guests enjoy snorkeling, especially at Viking Cave and Khai Nok Island. However, some reviews mention that snorkeling quality can vary depending on weather and crowd levels.

Can children join?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. It’s suitable for families, but keep in mind that the trip involves boat travel and some walking.

What about the boat itself?
The speedboat is generally comfortable, but some reviews mention it can be cramped or bumpy, so bring seasickness remedies if needed. The boat is designed for quick transit rather than luxury lounging.

Final Thoughts

The Phi Phi and Khai Islands Snorkeling Tour from Phuket offers a convenient way to tick off many of the region’s most famous sights in one day. With expert guides, included amenities, and breathtaking scenery, it’s a solid choice for those eager to see the highlights without the hassle of planning individual excursions.

While crowds and a brisk pace might be downsides for some, the tour’s value and variety make it a popular pick for first-timers or those short on time. If your goal is to relax and snorkel at your own pace, consider other options, but for a comprehensive, fun-filled day with plenty of photo opportunities, this tour delivers.

Whether you’re a curious traveler wanting to see Maya Bay or a family aiming for a memorable adventure, this speedboat trip balances excitement with comfort. Just prepare for a busy day, and you’ll return with plenty of stories (and probably some great photos).

Note: Always check the latest reviews and confirm inclusions before booking, as schedules and prices can change.