Phi Phi and Khai Islands Tour from Phuket

Experience the Beauty of Phi Phi and Khai Islands on a Full-Day Speedboat Tour from Phuket

Our review of the Phi Phi and Khai Islands tour from Phuket highlights an adventure packed with stunning scenery, snorkeling, and island hopping. This 9-hour journey, offered by Phuket Top Tour, is designed to showcase some of Thailand’s most iconic spots, from the famous Maya Bay to the tranquil waters of Khai Island. With a mix of guided sightseeing, relaxing moments, and opportunities to snorkel, it promises an active yet relaxing day on the Andaman Sea.

What we particularly like about this tour is the way it combines multiple highlights in one day — giving travelers a taste of everything. The inclusion of hotel transfers, a buffet lunch, and snorkeling gear makes it a practical option for those wanting a hassle-free experience. But, as with any popular tour, patience with crowds and weather considerations might be part of the package. This tour is best suited for travelers eager to see several islands in one go, especially those who enjoy snorkeling and scenic views.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covers Maya Bay, Phi Phi Don, Khai Island, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach.
• All-inclusive value with hotel transfers, lunch, snorkeling gear, and insurance.
• Great for nature lovers with opportunities to snorkel, paddleboard, and admire diverse marine life.
• Occasional crowding on the speedboats and some logistical constraints noted by travelers.
• Flexible cancellations with full refunds available up to 24 hours beforehand.
• Guides and crew praised for friendliness and knowledge, enhancing the overall experience.

In-Depth Review of the Phi Phi and Khai Islands Tour

If you’re visiting Phuket and looking for a full day of island hopping, snorkeling, and scenic vistas, this tour from Phuket Top Tour offers an organized and reasonably priced way to explore some of the Andaman Sea’s most breathtaking spots. Costing around $58.02 per person, it strikes a good balance between value and quality, especially considering the inclusions like transfers, meals, and snorkeling equipment.

How the Day Starts: From Phuket to the Islands

The adventure kicks off early with hotel pickups from key areas like Kata, Patong, Karon, and others, starting at 7:00 am. The bus ride provides a chance to see a bit of Old Phuket Town — giving a taste of local architecture and daily life before heading to the harbor. Once you arrive at Rassada Harbor, there’s a brief registration process, but from there, it’s smooth sailing with snacks, coffee, and fruit provided to fuel your day.

The Itinerary Breakdown: From Maya Bay to Khai Island

Maya Bay — The Movie Star of the Tour

Your first stop is Maya Bay, famous for its starring role in “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio. Keep in mind it’s closed from August 1 to October 1, so if you’re booking during that window, it won’t be on the schedule. When open, you’ll get about an hour to walk along the beach and soak in the scenery. The walk through the island offers plenty of photo opportunities, with stunning cliffs framing the white sands.

Note: One reviewer pointed out that the boat trip can be quite bumpy and that the speedboat ride is very wet, which is typical for this kind of tour but worth considering if you’re sensitive to seasickness or getting splashed.

Ko Phi Phi Lee & Pileh Lagoon — Calm Waters and Colorful Reefs

Next up is Pileh Lagoon, a calm emerald pool nestled between towering limestone cliffs. Here, you can swim or snorkel in tranquil waters, surrounded by impressive natural formations. The tour offers paddleboarding for free—an appreciated addition for those wanting more active fun in the water.

Viking Cave & Monkey Beach — Unique Sightseeing

The Viking Cave is a quick stop, famous for its ancient cave paintings and the seabirds (sea gypsies) collecting swallow nests. Just a 10-minute viewing, but enough to marvel at the cave’s history and natural beauty. Then, a visit to Monkey Beach in Yong Kasem Bay lets you see playful monkeys in their natural habitat—remember to keep your belongings secure as the monkeys are curious and bold.

Lunch Break at Phi Phi Don

A buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don gives you a well-earned rest and a chance to explore this lively island. The reviews praise the food’s quality, describing it as delicious and plentiful. The free time here is sufficient to browse local shops or relax on the beach before heading out again.

Snorkeling at Ko Phi Phi Lee

After lunch, you’ll snorkel near Phi Phi Don, observing a variety of fish species. The snorkeling gear, including masks, snorkels, and life vests, is provided—making this a highlight for many guests. Expect to see vibrant marine life and coral formations, which many reviewers find to be the most memorable part of the trip.

Khai Nok Island — Beachfront Relaxation

The last stop is Khai Nok Island, often called the pearl of the Andaman Sea. This tiny island offers pristine beaches, ideal for relaxing or snorkeling further. Optional activities like jet-ski rentals or hanging out at the beach bar provide additional fun, though they come at extra cost.

The End of the Day: Return and Reflection

After a full day of sightseeing, the tour returns to Rassada Harbor where a mini-bus awaits to take you back to your hotel. The overall flow of the day is smooth, though some reviews mention that the boat can be overcrowded, making it less comfortable, especially during peak seasons.

What You Can Expect From the Experience

Transport & Group Size:
The tour uses a standard speedboat, which can accommodate up to 40 travelers. Some guests have noted that the boat can feel crowded, but the crew tries to keep everyone safe and comfortable. The minibus transfers are generally punctual and convenient, especially if your hotel is within the listed pickup zones.

Guides & Crew:
Reviewers repeatedly mention the guides’ helpfulness and good English skills. Jenny, in particular, received praise for her friendliness and insightful commentary, making the journey more engaging. The crew’s professionalism and attentiveness help mitigate the typical chaos of a busy tour.

Snorkeling & Equipment:
The snorkeling gear is described as good quality, and the guided snorkeling spots are selected for their marine diversity. Expect to see a variety of fish and corals, which are often compared favorably to more expensive or specialized snorkeling trips.

Food and Breaks:
The buffet lunch receives positive comments; it’s described as tasty and satisfying. The timing allows enough free exploration on Phi Phi Don and Khai Island, giving a relaxed pace.

Weather & Safety:
Weather can influence the day’s pace. While most tours run rain or shine, severe weather or big waves might cause cancellations or changes, especially for the Maya Bay visit. As a safety note, pregnant women are advised not to participate, and the tour can refuse service if necessary.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to tick multiple islands off their Phuket bucket list without the hassle of organizing transport and activities themselves. It’s perfect for those who enjoy snorkeling and want to see iconic sights like Maya Bay and Monkey Beach in a single day. The tour’s value is especially evident when considering the inclusions—meals, snorkeling gear, and transfers—making it a convenient choice.

However, if you prefer a more private or less crowded experience, or if you’re particular about boat comfort, you might find some aspects of this tour less appealing. The overcrowding and the speedboat ride’s wetness could be downsides for sensitive travelers, but most seem to accept this as part of the adventure.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

The Phi Phi and Khai Islands tour from Phuket offers a solid, well-organized way to explore some of Thailand’s most breathtaking islands in one day. The combination of stunning views, vibrant marine life, and easy logistics makes it a good choice for first-time visitors or those short on time. It’s especially suited for travelers who value convenience—thanks to hotel transfers and all-inclusive amenities—and enjoy active days with snorkeling and sightseeing.

While some guests have noted that the boat can feel crowded and that the ride can be wet, these are typical of speedboat tours in busy season. The knowledgeable guides and quality lunch add a personal touch that enhances the overall experience. This tour strikes a decent balance between cost, comfort, and adventure, making it a worthwhile option for most visitors to Phuket.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel transfers are provided from key areas including Kata, Patong, Karon, and others. Additional pickups from non-listed areas cost 200 THB per person.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 7:00 am and returning in the late afternoon.

Are there any age restrictions?
While most travelers can participate, the tour explicitly states it is prohibited for pregnant women, likely due to safety concerns on the speedboat.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is around $58.02 per person, which includes transfers, lunch, snorkeling equipment, and insurance. Additional fees like national park entry (400 THB for adults) are payable on-site.

What are the highlights of the itinerary?
Expect visits to Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, Phi Phi Don, and Khai Island, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, photography, and relaxing.

Can I snorkel at all stops?
Yes, snorkeling is available at several stops, including near Phi Phi Don and at Khai Island, with equipment provided.

Is the tour suitable for families or groups?
Yes, the tour works well for families and groups, but keep in mind the crowded boat conditions and physical activity involved.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, waterproof camera, personal belongings in a dry bag, and swimwear. Some reviewers suggest packing light due to limited space on the boat.

All in all, this tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed day of island exploration. Whether you’re after iconic landscapes, underwater adventures, or simply a day of sun and sea, it’s a busy but rewarding way to experience the highlights of the Phi Phi Islands and Khai Island from Phuket.