Phi Phi Don & Phi Phi Leh Sunset Trip by Arisa Speed Boat

If you’re dreaming of experiencing the iconic Phi Phi Islands without spending your entire day stuck in long lines or battling crowds, the Phi Phi Don & Phi Phi Leh Sunset Trip by Arisa Speed Boat might be exactly what you need. This 8.5-hour adventure offers a quick yet immersive taste of some of the most breathtaking spots in the archipelago, all from the comfort of a speedy and manageable group. With a maximum of 35 guests, the focus remains on personalized service and authentic exploration—plus, you get to witness the sunset, a magical moment to wrap up your day.

One of the standout features of this trip is its speed and efficiency. We love how it packs in multiple highlights—like Maya Bay and Bamboo Island—without making the day feel rushed. The trip’s well-structured itinerary allows you to see a good number of sites in a single day, which is perfect for travelers short on time but eager to tick off the must-see spots. A potential consideration is that, since the tour includes a lot of stops, it might feel a little fast-paced for those wanting a more relaxed experience with plenty of downtime. This tour suits travelers who prefer a focused, guided adventure that hits all the big sights efficiently, especially if sunset views are a must for you.

Key Points

• Efficient Island Hopping: Cover multiple highlights of Phi Phi in just over 8 hours.
• Exclusive Access: Reach parts of the archipelago only accessible by boat.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Snorkeling & Marine Life: Equipment is provided, and chances are good to spot marine creatures like Leopard Sharks.
• Sunset Experience: Enjoy the stunning sunset from a peaceful vantage point.
• All-Inclusive Value: Water, seasonal fruit, lunch, and park fees are included, making it a straightforward day out.

The Itinerary: Breaking Down the Highlights

Meeting Point & First Stop: Monkey Beach and Shark Point

The day starts at McDonald’s near Ton Sai Pier, where the crew from Arisa Speedboat greets you warmly and gets everyone comfortably settled on the boat. With a maximum of 35 guests, the atmosphere is intimate, making socializing easy and your guide more attentive.

The first stop is Monkey Beach, a white sandy stretch famous for its playful crab-eating macaques. Visitors often find this part surprisingly charming—not just for the wildlife but also for snorkeling opportunities. The water here is clear, and the beach offers a good chance to see some marine life in shallow waters. Reviewers mention how snorkeling gear is provided, so you can get in the water easily.

Next, it’s off to Shark Point, where the “sharks” are mostly harmless Leopard Sharks resting on the sandy seafloor. This site is renowned among divers and snorkelers alike. From the boat, you get a good view of the shallow dives, and the guides are known to share fascinating tidbits about these gentle predators, adding a layer of education to the trip.

Exploring Ko Phi Phi Lee & Bamboo Island

The tour then moves to Ko Phi Phi Lee, the smaller but equally captivating island. You’ll have around 2 hours here, which is ample time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the scenery. Many find this stop an excellent chance for a quick swim or to explore some of the island’s coves.

Afterward, it’s a short hop to Bamboo Island, where you’ll spend about an hour. The island’s smooth, powdery beach and calm waters make it ideal for relaxing, beach games, or snorkeling. One reviewer appreciated the “beautiful, unspoiled” nature of Bamboo Island, emphasizing how it feels like a true getaway.

Iconic Maya Bay & More in Phi Phi Don

The next major highlight is Maya Bay, made famous by the movie The Beach. With just 15 minutes allocated here, it’s enough to snap some iconic photos without the overwhelming crowds that typically flock here. The tour offers a serene view, and many travelers enjoy standing at the water’s edge, soaking up the scenery.

Loh Samah Bay, Viking Cave, and Shark Point follow as part of the cruise around Phi Phi Don. These stops provide further opportunities to marvel at limestone cliffs, explore caves (Viking Cave is known for its ancient paintings), and spot marine creatures. With about 30 minutes at Shark Point again, you might get lucky and see more of the local marine life.

Sunset & Final Relaxation

The last leg of the trip is perhaps the most memorable: witnessing the sunset from a peaceful vantage point. The guide will steer the boat to a quiet spot as the sun dips below the horizon, offering stunning views that make the long day worthwhile. The relaxed atmosphere ensures you can enjoy the evening without feeling hurried.

Practical Details & What’s Included

What truly sets this tour apart is its all-inclusive approach: water, seasonal fruit, a lunch box, snorkeling gear, life jackets, and basic accident insurance are all provided. The National Park entrance fee is also covered, which saves you the hassle of paying separately.

However, note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point at McDonald’s in Ao Nang or Krabi. The tour starts at 11:00 am, giving you a late morning start—ideal for those who prefer a leisurely breakfast.

Weather & Flexibility

The tour’s schedule is subject to weather conditions, which is typical for sea-based trips in Thailand. The company mentions their flexibility in rescheduling or issuing refunds if the weather turns unfavorable, giving an extra layer of reassurance.

Authentic Traveler Insights

One recent reviewer highlighted the guides’ professionalism and friendliness, mentioning how they made everyone feel comfortable and shared interesting facts about the islands and marine life. They also appreciated the small group size, which fostered a more personalized experience.

Another traveler praised the stunning views at Maya Bay and Bamboo Island, noting that the timing for sunsets was perfect to avoid the crowds often seen at land viewpoints. They also enjoyed the lunch, saying it was “simple but satisfying”—a good quality for a day tour.

Some found the pace a little quick, especially at the stops, but overall, the consensus is that the tour offers great value for the price—particularly considering the included snorkeling gear and park fees.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you enjoy efficient sightseeing that covers major highlights without sacrificing depth, this trip is a strong contender. The guided format suits those who prefer to learn about the sites from knowledgeable locals, as opposed to wandering independently.

It’s also perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time, especially if they’re only in the area for a short stay but still want to experience the beauty of the Phi Phi Islands. The sunset viewing makes it more special than typical daytime tours, delivering memorable photos and peaceful moments.

Be aware, though, that if you’re looking for a very relaxed, slow-paced boat ride with lots of free time, this setup might feel a little rushed. The stops are relatively brief, but the focus on highlights balances this well.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is excellent for travelers wanting a comprehensive, memorable day that hits the main sights of Phi Phi—Maya Bay, Bamboo Island, and Monkey Beach—without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. Its smooth organization, friendly guides, and beautiful scenery make it a standout choice for those eager to see the best quickly and comfortably.

It’s especially suited for first-time visitors or anyone short on time but craving authentic, picture-worthy moments. Sunset views add a romantic touch, perfect for couples or anyone who enjoys a peaceful end to a busy day exploring.

While it may not be ideal for those seeking a full day of leisure or a luxurious, slow-paced experience, it offers solid value and authentic island adventures within a manageable timeframe.

FAQ: Practical Questions About the Tour

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 11:00 am, giving you a relaxed late-morning start.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point at McDonald’s near Ton Sai Pier.

How long is the entire trip?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops and activities.

What is included in the price?
Your package includes water, seasonal fruit, lunch, snorkeling gear, life jackets, basic accident insurance, and the national park entrance fee.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Most travelers can participate, and snorkeling gear is provided, but always check if your group has specific needs.

What about weather conditions?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll get a different date or full refund.

How crowded does it get?
The small group size (max 35) keeps the experience intimate, avoiding the overwhelming crowds typical of land-based viewpoints.

Will I have enough time at each stop?
Stops range from 15 minutes at Maya Bay to 2 hours at Ko Phi Phi Lee, which is generally enough for photos and brief exploration.

To sum it up, this speedboat tour to the Phi Phi Islands offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, stunning scenery, and practical organization. It’s especially ideal for those who want to see the key sights efficiently while enjoying the magic of sunset views. With friendly guides, inclusive amenities, and picturesque stops, it’s a memorable way to experience one of Thailand’s most famous island groups—perfect for a day trip that’s packed with highlights but relaxed enough to enjoy every moment.