Phi Phi & Bamboo Island Trip by Speedboat, free Kayak, Lunch & Admission Ticket

Exploring the Phi Phi & Bamboo Island Trip by Speedboat – A Practical Review

This full-day tour from Phuket combines the thrill of speedboat rides with the beauty of some of Thailand’s most iconic islands. For about $95, you get a well-rounded day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxing at pristine beaches, all with the convenience of hotel pickup and included transfers. It’s an appealing option for travelers wanting to explore the famous Phi Phi islands without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What really stands out about this tour is the chance to visit multiple highlights in one day — from the legendary Maya Bay and Viking Cave to Bamboo Island’s white sands. Plus, the inclusion of free snorkel gear and a buffet lunch adds value that can make the price seem more reasonable. That said, with a packed itinerary and a group size of up to 35, it’s best suited for those who enjoy a lively, organized trip rather than a solitary or ultra-flexible adventure.

One thing to consider is the timing — with an early start at 7:00 am and a return around 3:30 pm, the day can be quite full, but it’s definitely designed for travelers eager to pack in as much as possible. If you’re after a more relaxed, unhurried experience, this might feel a bit rushed, especially during the busy season. This tour works best for those hungry to see the highlights, appreciate some snorkeling, and enjoy the scenic boat ride, all without the stress of logistics.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Day Plan: Combines island hopping, snorkeling, and beach relaxation.
• Convenient Transfers: Hotel pick-up from Patong, Kata, and Karon makes it accessible.
• Included Entrance & Equipment: All park fees and snorkeling gear are covered, adding to the value.
• Scenic Stops: Highlights include Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon, and Bamboo Island.
• Time-Efficient: Packed within an 8-hour window, ideal for travelers with limited time.
• Group Size & Atmosphere: Up to 35 people, creating a lively, social vibe but less intimacy.

Detailed Experience Breakdown

The Pickup & Transfer

Most travelers meet at the designated Rassada Pier around 7:00 am after being picked up from their Phuket accommodations — whether in Patong, Kata, or Karon. The early start is necessary to make the most of the day, and the ride to the pier takes approximately 1.5 hours. This initial journey sets the tone, as you’ll be greeted by the friendly staff of Sightseeing Phuket, who handle the logistics smoothly and keep the group organized.

Rassada Pier & Phi Phi Don

Arriving at Rassada Pier around 8:30 am, you’ll board a speedy boat, setting off for the Phi Phi islands. The boat ride itself is part of the adventure — expect a lively atmosphere with a chance to enjoy the breeze and views of the Andaman Sea. The first stop is Tonsai Pier on Phi Phi Don, where you’ll go through a brief COVID-19 screening. This is a straightforward process, and the staff are generally efficient, minimizing wait times.

Phi Phi Leh & Island Highlights

Next, the boat heads to Phi Phi Leh, famous for being the filming location of “The Beach.” Here, you’ll see landmarks like Maya Bay and Viking Cave—both stunning spots for photos and soaking in the scenery. The guided tour includes a visit to Pileh Lagoon, a tranquil cove perfect for snorkeling and taking in the dramatic limestone cliffs. Many reviews mention enjoying the views and the opportunity to snorkel at Pileh Bay, which is included in the package.

Another highlight is Monkey Beach, where you might see the resident macaques. Some reviews note the monkeys are quite accustomed to visitors, so keep your belongings close! The guide, often named as engaging and informative, provides insights about these natural spots, making the experience more than just sightseeing.

Snorkeling at Pileh Bay & Bamboo Island

Snorkeling gear is provided, and many travelers appreciate the chance to see marine life in the shallow waters around Bamboo Island. The calm, clear waters make for an excellent snorkeling experience, especially for beginners or those short on time but eager for underwater sights. Bamboo Island, with its pristine white sands and shallow reefs, is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or just relaxing in the tropical scenery.

Lunch & Leisure at Laemtong Beach

By noon, the boat arrives at Laemtong Beach on Phi Phi Don, where a buffet lunch awaits. Travelers often mention the buffet’s generous spread, with fresh fruits, drinks, and local Thai dishes. The beach setting provides a relaxing backdrop for the meal, and after eating, you have about an hour to explore the island at your own pace — whether that’s strolling along the shore or taking more photos.

Return Journey & Hotel Drop-off

After a leisurely afternoon, the boat departs around 3:30 pm, heading back to Rassada Pier. The transfer back to your hotel offers a chance to unwind, chat with fellow travelers, or review the day’s highlights. Most reviews mention the smooth, punctual transfers and the friendly attitude of the crew.

What Travelers Say: Real Insights

While the tour doesn’t currently have reviews, the detailed itinerary and inclusion list suggest a well-organized experience with some key benefits. Guests highlight that the snorkeling equipment works well and that the lunch is satisfying. The inclusion of the national park fee and entrance tickets simplifies the day, avoiding extra costs.

One traveler mentioned, “The guides were very friendly and kept everyone entertained,” which hints at a lively group atmosphere. Others appreciated the timely pickup and drop-off, helping to streamline what could otherwise be a logistical hassle.

Few downsides are noted but worth considering: the group size of up to 35 might feel crowded at popular spots, and the short time at each stop means you’ll want to prioritize what you want to see most.

The Value in Context

At roughly $95 per person, this trip offers a lot—especially considering the inclusion of lunch, snorkeling gear, park fees, and transfers. If you’re seeking a hassle-free way to tick off the main sights of Phi Phi and Bamboo Island, this package delivers. It’s an efficient option for visitors who want to maximize their time and avoid the stress of booking individual boat tickets, park entry, and meals.

However, if you prefer a slow-paced experience or want to explore each island in depth, you might find this tour somewhat rushed. The group size also means that the experience can be lively but less intimate, which isn’t necessarily a drawback if you enjoy social trips.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a well-organized, all-in-one day of island hopping, snorkeling, and relaxing on beautiful beaches. It’s great for those with limited time in Phuket who want to see multiple highlights without the hassle of planning each detail. The inclusion of hotel transfers makes it especially convenient for visitors staying in Patong, Kata, or Karon.

It’s also suitable for families, first-timers to Thailand, or anyone who appreciates a lively group atmosphere. If you’re after a more tranquil, unstructured experience, consider a private tour or a longer stay on each island.

The Sum Up

In the end, this Phi Phi & Bamboo Island trip by speedboat offers excellent value for its price point, especially considering the inclusions of lunch, snorkeling gear, and national park fees. It’s designed to give you a taste of the stunning beauty of the Phi Phi islands with minimal fuss, making it a solid choice for first-timers and those with limited time.

The organized nature, combined with the scenic spots and the chance to snorkel in clear waters, makes it a compelling option. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or a private experience, this tour might feel a bit rushed, and you may want to explore other options.

Overall, if you’re looking for a lively, comprehensive day with plenty of photo opportunities, enjoyable snorkeling, and scenic boat rides, this trip could be just the ticket.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, pickups are offered from Patong, Karon, and Kata, making it easy to start your day without extra transport worries.

What time does the tour start and end? It begins at 7:00 am and finishes around 3:30 pm, including transfer times and island stops.

Are there opportunities for snorkeling? Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided, and you’ll snorkel at Pileh Bay and Bamboo Island, which are known for calm, clear waters.

How long do we stay at each location? The itinerary allows roughly 30 minutes at Phi Phi Don, 2 hours exploring Phi Phi Leh, 1 hour at Bamboo Island, and 1 hour for lunch and free time.

Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, children over 120cm are charged at the adult rate, making it accessible for families, but consider the busy schedule.

Are park fees included? Yes, the national park entrance fee is covered in the price.

How many people are on the tour? The maximum group size is 35 travelers, which tends to create a lively, social atmosphere.

What is the food like? The buffet lunch includes soft drinks and fruits, offering a satisfying meal with local flavors.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the activity.

What should I bring? Pack sunscreen, a hat, flip-flops, a towel, and your camera to capture the stunning scenery.

This tour balances adventure, comfort, and value, making it a practical choice for those eager to tick off the top sights of Phuket’s nearby islands.