Phi Phi Island Hopping Day Trip by Speed Boat from Phuket

An In-Depth Look at the Phi Phi Island Hopping Day Trip by Speed Boat from Phuket

This Phuket-based tour offers a full day of exploring the breathtaking Phi Phi Islands via speedboat, showcasing everything from iconic Maya Bay to vibrant coral reefs. It’s a popular choice for travelers eager to see the island’s natural beauty without sacrificing comfort or convenience. The tour includes hotel transfers, a buffet lunch, snorkeling gear, and a professional guide, making it a hassle-free way to tick off some of Thailand’s most famous sights.

One of the things we particularly love about this trip is its well-organized itinerary that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and adventure — all within about 7.5 hours. Plus, the small group size (max 30 travelers) ensures a more personal experience. However, since it’s a lengthy day, the early start and long travel times might be a bit tiring for some. Still, the value packed into this tour makes it ideal for those wanting a comprehensive, authentic experience of the Phi Phi archipelago.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights of the islands with ease, enjoy snorkeling among vibrant marine life, and have a taste of local Thai hospitality. If you’re seeking a well-rounded day trip that combines scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and cultural points of interest, this tour could be your perfect day out.

Key Points

• Hassle-Free Transfers: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, removing the stress of logistics.
• Diverse Stops: From iconic Maya Bay to Bamboo Island, each stop offers unique scenery and experiences.
• Snorkeling & Marine Life: Expect vibrant coral reefs and chances to see reef sharks in Maya Bay.
• Authentic Thai Lunch: A buffet lunch at Koh Phi Phi Don offers a delicious break with a view.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 30 travelers, fostering a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.
• Weather Dependent: Some stops, like Bamboo Island or Koh Rang Yai, depend on weather conditions for optimal experience.

The Complete Breakdown of the Itinerary

Pickup and Starting Point

The adventure begins early with a pickup from your Phuket hotel, arranged by Andaman Leisure. The pickup is straightforward and typically efficient, setting a positive tone for the day. You’ll head to Phuket Boat Lagoon for a brief safety briefing and COVID-19 screening — a necessary but quick step that ensures everyone’s safety and peace of mind.

First Stop: Ko Phi Phi Le

After boarding your speedboat, you’ll cruise comfortably with 2 or 3 engines, enjoying the scenic ride that usually lasts around 45 minutes. The first island stop is Ko Phi Phi Le, an uninhabited gem that’s often seen on postcards. Here, you’ll get your first glimpse of the stunning landscape, with towering cliffs and dramatic rock formations.

Maya Bay: A Must-See Spot

Next, you’ll explore Maya Bay, made world-famous by the movie “The Beach.” The lagoon’s beauty is undeniable, with crystal-clear waters and towering cliffs surrounding the bay. One highlight, according to reviews, is spotting black tip reef sharks circling over the shallow reef — a rare and exciting sight for snorkelers. The stop here lasts about 15 minutes, so plan to soak in the scenery quickly.

Loh Samah Bay & Pileh Bay

Continuing along, you’ll stop at Loh Samah Bay, where many visitors jump into the water to snorkel among colorful tropical fish and coral. You might also notice how peaceful and untouched this area feels. Pileh Bay follows, with its towering cliffs and excellent snorkel spots at the entrance. The 30-minute stops here give you a good chance to admire the dramatic landscape and get in some water time.

Viking Cave & Monkey Beach

A short cruise takes you to Viking Cave, notable not for Vikings but for swiftlet bird nests harvested here. It’s a brief stop but interesting from both a cultural and ecological perspective. Then, a quick visit to Monkey Beach offers the chance to see playful primates on their natural habitat, along with a white, powdery stretch of sand ideal for a quick walk or photo.

Koh Phi Phi Don & Lunch

Arriving at Koh Phi Phi Don, you’ll walk to the well-known Ton Sai Banyan tree, a scenic landmark. The included Thai buffet lunch at Phi Phi Harbour View Hotel provides a welcome break, with seating offering views over the bay. It’s a decent-sized meal, allowing you to recharge after a busy morning.

Bamboo Island & Alternative Option

In the afternoon, the tour typically visits Bamboo Island, about 5 km off Koh Phi Phi Don. Here, the coral reef Hin Klang is a highlight, giving snorkelers the sensation of swimming in an enormous, colorful aquarium. The island’s tranquil environment makes it a perfect spot to kick back, soak up the scenery, or even do a quick snorkel.

If weather conditions aren’t ideal, the alternative is Koh Rang Yai, a peaceful island near Phuket, offering similar relaxing vibes and scenic beauty. The flexibility shows the tour’s effort to make sure guests get the best possible experience despite weather unpredictability.

Why This Tour Offers Value

While the price tag of around $106.85 might seem steep at first glance, it covers quite a lot: transportation, multiple stops, snorkeling equipment, lunch, drinks, and a guide. With the convenience of door-to-door transfers, you save time and effort, allowing you to focus on enjoying the scenery and activities.

The small group size ensures that you’re not just another face in the crowd, which often means more personalized attention from guides like “John” or “Anna,” who are typically praised for their friendly and informative manner. The inclusion of snorkel gear and life jackets is a plus, making water activities accessible even for beginners.

Authentic Experiences & Highlights Highlighted by Reviewers

One visitor noted that the boat was of good quality and that the organization was “all first rate and stress free.” Such attention to detail makes the day smooth, especially considering the early start and long hours. The reviews also mention how stunning the views are, emphasizing that the islands truly look as beautiful in person as in the photos.

Another aspect worth noting is the opportunity to see marine wildlife, particularly in Maya Bay, where reef sharks are spotted circling. For many snorkelers, this adds an extra thrill, making the underwater part of the trip memorable.

Practical Considerations

The tour starts at 9:00 am and involves about 7.5 hours of activity. The pickup is scheduled early, and the return time is typically late afternoon. The long day means you should be prepared for a full schedule — packing sunscreen, a hat, and swimwear is a must. If you’re prone to seasickness or easily tired, this might not be the best choice, as the boat rides can be bumpy, especially on windier days.

Since the tour depends heavily on weather, especially for stops like Bamboo Island and Koh Rang Yai, it’s wise to keep flexible in case of cancellations or schedule changes. The tour provider offers free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, which provides some peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day of island exploration with minimal hassle. If you’re passionate about snorkeling, wildlife, and stunning scenery, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s also suitable for those who prefer a small-group setting over large coach tours, ensuring a more relaxed experience.

It’s perfect for first-timers wanting to see the most famous spots, as well as returning visitors eager to revisit these iconic islands with new friends and guided insights. While it’s a long day, the variety of stops and scenic views make it a worthwhile investment for many.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Phi Phi Island day trip offers excellent value for anyone looking to explore the archipelago comfortably and efficiently. The highlights — snorkeling at Pi Leh Bay, seeing sharks at Maya Bay, and lounging on Bamboo Island — create a well-rounded experience that covers natural beauty, wildlife, and local culture.

The tour’s organization, including hotel pickups and small group size, reduces common travel stresses. While weather can influence parts of the itinerary, the flexibility to visit alternate islands ensures you’ll still enjoy plenty of scenic moments.

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a full, immersive day with a balance of adventure and relaxation, all delivered with professionalism and care. Whether it’s your first visit to Phuket or a repeat trip, the experience promises memorable views and authentic encounters with Thailand’s most famed islands.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes hassle-free round-trip transfers from your Phuket hotel, making the start and end of your day seamless.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 9:00 am, with the return in the late afternoon.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and perhaps a waterproof camera. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. This flexibility helps if weather or other factors cause concern.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel transfers, snorkeling equipment, a buffet lunch with scenic views, drinks, fresh fruits, basic accident insurance, and a professional guide.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
While snorkeling gear is provided, children and non-swimmers should feel comfortable in shallow waters and follow safety instructions. The small group setting allows guides to give extra attention when needed.

This trip offers a well-rounded introduction to the Phi Phi Islands, balancing natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural points of interest. It’s perfect for those who want a detailed, comfortable, and memorable day out in Thailand’s most iconic archipelago.