Phi Phi Island and Bamboo Island Snorkeling Tour From Krabi

This full-day island-hopping adventure offers an excellent way to see some of Thailand’s most iconic sights around Krabi. From the powdery sands of Bamboo Island to the famed Maya Bay of “The Beach” fame, this tour covers a lot of ground—and a lot of water—in a single day. The experience is perfect for travelers who love snorkeling, stunning scenery, and well-organized trips that handle the logistics for you.

One standout feature of this tour? The expert guides consistently get high praise for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making the day not just beautiful but also educational. Plus, the inclusion of lunch, snorkeling gear, and round-trip transfers adds great value.

That said, if you’re a traveler who prefers quiet, uncrowded spots, be aware that some stops like Maya Bay can be busy and touristy—especially during peak season. Still, for those seeking a comprehensive, well-rounded day on the water with plenty of opportunities to relax, snorkel, and snap photos, this trip is a real winner. It suits adventurous families, first-timers, and anyone wanting to tick off multiple sights in one go.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Multiple island stops including Bamboo Island, Viking Cave, Pileh Bay, and Maya Bay.
• All-Inclusive: Food, snorkeling gear, life jackets, and insurance are included, offering great value.
• Expert Guides: Well-rated guides, like “Noon” and “Coke,” are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Flexible Transfers: Free hotel pickup in Ao Nang, with optional additional charges from Krabi town.
• Timing & Duration: About 7-8 hours, starting early at 8:00 am, perfect for a full day of adventure.
• Authentic Experiences: Opportunities to snorkel among colorful reefs and visit famous filming locations.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Smooth Pickup and Early Start

The tour kicks off early at 8:00 am from Nopparat Thara Pier. If you’re staying in Ao Nang, you’ll appreciate the complimentary hotel pickup, which makes logistics hassle-free. For those in Krabi town, there’s an optional extra fee of 100 THB per person if you need transfers, so consider your location when booking.

The group size is capped at 45 travelers, maintaining a balance between social atmosphere and personal space. Once aboard the boat, the trip is comfortable, and the crew is attentive, making sure everyone’s gear is ready and safety measures are in place, including life jackets and a first aid kit.

First Stop: Bamboo Island—A Slice of Paradise

The first destination is Bamboo Island, famed for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. This stop offers about an hour to swim, relax, or take a walk along the shore. Reviewers like Isabella praised the stunning beaches, calling it a “perfect place to swim and lay on the beach.”

You’ll find this spot ideal for snapping photos or just soaking up the sun. The shallow waters and vibrant marine life make it a favorite for snorkelers, though some may prefer to just lounge on the soft sands.

Viking Cave: A Limestone Wonder and Bird Nest Harvesting Site

Next, the boat visits the Viking Cave, a limestone formation rich with wall paintings and a working bird’s nest harvesting operation. This 30-minute stop is great for photo opportunities and learning about local bird nest harvesting practices. Reviewers like Stephanie appreciated the informative guides explaining the significance of the cave’s history and ongoing use.

Pileh Bay: The Hidden Lagoon

Then it’s on to Pileh Bay, often called a hidden gem. Surrounded by towering cliffs, this cliff-lined lagoon offers 45 minutes of tranquil scenery perfect for a dip or just soaking in the views. Its clear waters are a magnet for snorkelers, and the serenity here is a stark contrast to the busier spots.

Loh Samah Bay: Snorkeling Among Colorful Fish

From here, the focus shifts to snorkeling at Loh Samah Bay, where the reefs teem with vibrant fish and coral. The 45-minute stop, praised by reviewers like Kym, offers excellent underwater visibility. Expect to see an array of marine life, and the snorkeling masks provided make it accessible even for beginners. Reviewers also mention that the guides are always on hand to assist and share interesting facts, enhancing the experience.

Maya Bay: The Iconic Film Location

No trip to Phi Phi is complete without a visit to Maya Bay—the film set for “The Beach.” At about 30 minutes, this stop is mainly for photography and sightseeing. Be aware that Maya Bay can be crowded, especially in high season, which some travelers found less than ideal. Gromits_F mentioned that the busyness of Maya Bay slightly detracted from the experience, but still called it a “gorgeous day on the water.”

Lunch at Phi Phi Don: Rest and Recharge

After a morning packed with sightseeing, it’s time for lunch at a beachside restaurant on Phi Phi Don. The buffet-style meal lasts about 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax, chat with fellow travelers, and enjoy the stunning surroundings. Reviewers like Stephanie appreciated the quality of the meal, though some noted it was a busy experience—lunch is a highlight for many, offering a good break before more sightseeing.

Afternoon Stops: Wondrous Bays and Monkey Beach

Post-lunch, the tour continues with visits to Wang Long Bay and Monkey Beach. The former offers picturesque views and great photo opportunities, while the latter is perfect for swimming, relaxing, and snorkeling with playful monkeys. The 30-minute stops here are well-rated, with guests like Gromits_F mentioning the beautiful scenery and the chance to see monkeys up close.

Overall Value and Practical Considerations

Charting this tour’s value is straightforward: at $64.08 per person, including snorkeling gear, lunch, transfers, and insurance, it offers a comprehensive package. The inclusion of admission tickets for Viking Cave and other stops adds to the convenience and value, saving you extra fees.

The timing is well-structured, starting early and wrapping up around 4-5 pm, making it a full but manageable day. The boat ride itself is comfortable, and the group size ensures an intimate feel without being overwhelming.

What Reviewers Say

• Guide Excellence: Many mention guides like “Noon” and “Coke,” highlighting their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make the trip enjoyable.
• Stunning Views & Snorkeling: The colorful reefs and photo-worthy landscapes get rave reviews, with travelers emphasizing the quality of snorkeling gear and the beautiful marine life.
• Crowd Dynamics: Maya Bay tends to be busy, which might be a downside if you’re after quiet, secluded spots. However, the tour’s structure allows for plenty of time to appreciate each site.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

• The lunch can be busy and may not suit those seeking a more private or gourmet meal.
• The additional transfer fee from Krabi town could be a consideration if you’re staying outside Ao Nang.
• Visitors with certain health conditions, like pregnancy or heart issues, are advised against joining, as the activity involves boat rides and snorkeling.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors eager to see the highlights of Phi Phi and Bamboo Islands without the hassle of planning individual transport or activities. It’s also well-suited for families and snorkeling enthusiasts, thanks to the gear and guided instruction.

Adventure seekers will appreciate the multiple stops and marine activities, while those interested in photography will love the chance to capture iconic landscapes and underwater scenes.

However, if you prefer less touristy, secluded spots**, or are sensitive to crowds, you might find some of the stops, like Maya Bay, a bit crowded.

The Sum Up

This Phi Phi Island and Bamboo Island snorkeling tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed day that combines scenic beauty, marine life, and iconic sights. With knowledgeable guides, all essential gear included, and carefully curated stops, it’s a great way to experience some of Thailand’s most famous islands without the stress of self-organized logistics.

It’s particularly suited for those who want a full immersion in the area’s natural beauty, enjoy snorkeling, and appreciate a well-planned day with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxation. The inclusion of a buffet lunch and round-trip transfers makes it a convenient choice, especially if you’re staying in Ao Nang.

While some spots like Maya Bay might be busy, the overall experience promises stunning vistas, memorable underwater encounters, and the chance to learn from friendly, knowledgeable guides. If you’re ready for a fun, active, and scenic day on the water, this tour hits the right notes.

FAQ

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, free hotel pickup is available for guests staying in Ao Nang. For Krabi town, there is an additional fee of 100 THB per person.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting at 8:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.

Are snorkeling masks and gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear, masks, and life jackets are included, making snorkeling accessible even for beginners.

Do I need to pay any extra fees?
You will need to pay a national park fee of 400 THB per adult and 200 THB per child at the entry point. An extra transfer fee may apply if you’re not in Ao Nang.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a buffet-style lunch at a beachside restaurant on Phi Phi Don is included, offering a good variety of food and plenty of time to relax.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there is free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity, with a full refund.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children aged 4-11 can purchase child tickets and join the trip.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women or those with certain health conditions?
No, pregnant women, or those with high blood pressure, heart, or bone diseases are advised not to participate.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of beautiful scenery, expert guides, and well-organized stops makes it ideal for those wanting a complete day of island exploration without the hassle.