Phi Phi Island Tour by Speedboat from Krabi including Lunch (SHA Plus)

Exploring the Phi Phi Islands by Speedboat from Krabi: A Practical Guide

This Phi Phi Island tour by speedboat offers a lively, scenic adventure designed to showcase some of Thailand’s most iconic island landscapes. Covering famous spots like Maya Bay and Viking Cave, the experience combines swift transport, snorkeling, and a delicious Thai lunch—all within a compact 10-hour day. It’s an attractive choice for travelers seeking a blend of nature, culture, and cinematic history, with a focus on authentic, engaging experiences.

What truly makes this tour stand out is the speedboat journey itself. It ensures you spend more time enjoying the islands rather than sitting in transit, which is especially valuable given how crowded these sites can get. Plus, the inclusion of knowledgeable guides and all essentials—snorkel gear, food, and insurance—adds to its ease and value.

One thing to keep in mind is that the boat rides can be a bit bumpy, especially around the popular Maya Bay, where the influx of boats sometimes makes getting on and off a little tricky. This tour is best suited for those who don’t mind a fast-paced, energetic day filled with sightseeing, swimming, and small group camaraderie.

In summary, this tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized day at the Phi Phi Islands without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a movie enthusiast eager to see “The Beach” filming site, or a snorkel lover looking to explore coral reefs, you’ll find plenty to love.

Key Points

• Fast-paced, well-organized trip that maximizes island exploration and minimizes transit time.
• All-inclusive features—lunch, snacks, snorkeling gear, insurance—ensure a hassle-free experience.
• Expert guides enhance the journey with local insights and safety tips.
• Authentic Thai lunch with a view at Phi Phi Don adds a cultural touch.
• Cinematic highlights like Maya Bay allow fans to walk in the footsteps of Hollywood.
• Small group size (max 15 travelers) fosters a more personal experience and easier interaction.

A Deep Dive into the Phi Phi Island Speedboat Tour

Seamless Pickup and Transportation

Your day begins with a convenient hotel pickup from select Krabi areas, including Ao Nang and Klong Muang. The tour provider, Sightseeingbangkok.com, keeps things simple by offering pickup from central locations, which means you won’t need to worry about transport logistics. Once collected, you’re transferred to Nopparat Thara Pier, a bustling hub where the day’s adventure kicks off.

The boat ride itself is a highlight. Traveling by speedboat offers a noticeable advantage—getting you to the islands faster than traditional slower boats, freeing up more time for exploration. We’ve read that this efficiency is appreciated, especially since the tour includes multiple stops. Plus, you’ll stop at Railay Beach to pick up additional guests, which adds to the scenic journey.

Exploring Bamboo Island and Viking Cave

Your first stop is Bamboo Island, a pristine stretch of sand with clear waters perfect for a quick swim or just lounging. The coral reefs here are vibrant, making it an excellent introduction to snorkeling, which is included with your gear. You’ll spend about 30 minutes enjoying this peaceful island before moving on.

Next, you’ll encounter the Viking Cave, famous for its ancient paintings and swift boat sightings. While you won’t explore inside, the sight of the cave itself is impressive, and it’s fun to spot the swiftlets that nest inside. This snapshot of local wildlife and history offers a quick, but memorable, glimpse of the area’s natural wonders.

Snorkeling at Loh Samah Bay and Pileh Bay

Loh Samah Bay is a favorite for snorkelers, with its colorful fish and coral formations. The water visibility can be excellent here, allowing you to admire the underwater world up close. It’s a quick 30-minute stop that lets you stretch your legs after the boat ride.

A short cruise then takes you to Pileh Bay—a spectacular lagoon in Phi Phi Leh. The calm, turquoise waters provide a perfect setting for relaxing or more snorkeling. Several reviewers have highlighted the beauty of this spot, noting how the vibrant marine life makes snorkeling at Pileh Bay worthwhile.

Maya Bay: The Hollywood Icon

The highlight for many travelers is Maya Bay, known worldwide as the filming location for “The Beach.” The iconic image of towering cliffs framing a perfect sandy cove is as stunning in person as in the movies. However, the area can be crowded with boats, leading some visitors to describe the unload as chaotic—“like D-Day landings,” one reviewer pointed out. The rush of boats can make getting on and off a bit rough, especially if the sea is choppy.

Despite this, the experience of walking along Maya Bay’s sands or taking photos from the boat remains unforgettable. It’s the real reason most people sign up for this tour—getting a taste of Thailand’s cinematic history while surrounded by dramatic scenery.

Monkey Beach and the Lunch Break at Phi Phi Don

On the way back, you’ll cruise past Monkey Beach, an amusing sight with wild macaques often visible from the boat. It’s a quick photo opp and not an official stop, but the chance to see these playful creatures adds an extra layer of fun.

Most tours include a buffet lunch at Phi Phi Don, the main island. You’ll have about an hour to enjoy a well-prepared Thai meal and browse souvenirs if you wish. The lunch view, overlooking the bay, makes it a memorable pause in your busy day.

Returning to Krabi

The tour winds down with the cruise back to Ao Nang, arriving around 4 p.m. The boat ride offers a chance to process the day’s highlights and enjoy more scenic views of the coastline. Once back, your transfer will take you to your hotel, completing a full, rich day of island adventures.

What We Liked and What to Consider

What We Loved:
The speedboat’s efficiency means you get more time at each stop—something many tours struggle to offer. The knowledgeable guides, as noted in reviews, add value with local stories and safety tips, creating a friendly, informative atmosphere. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment, lunch, and insurance brings peace of mind and convenience, making this a good value overall.

Possible Drawbacks:
The crowded nature of Maya Bay can be a bit overwhelming, with the chaos of multiple boats unloading simultaneously. The sea can also be choppy, which might cause discomfort for sensitive travelers. Since the tour is fast-paced, those looking for a relaxed, leisurely day may find it a bit hectic.

Who It’s Best For:
This tour suits travelers who want a rundown of the Phi Phi Islands in one day, especially those keen on cinematic sites and snorkeling. It’s great for small groups who appreciate personal interaction with guides and don’t mind a busy schedule. Ideal for first-timers wanting a taste of Thailand’s famous islands without excessive travel time or complexity.

The Cost and Its Value

At around $108.62 per person, this tour offers solid value considering it covers all essentials—transport, lunch, snorkeling gear, insurance, and park fees. While it’s not the cheapest option, its efficiency and inclusions make it a smart choice for travelers wanting a well-rounded day. You won’t need to worry about extra costs or logistics, as everything is taken care of, and the small group size ensures a more intimate experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re craving an action-packed day with highlights like Maya Bay, snorkeling, and visits to famous caves, this tour provides a practical, enjoyable way to see the best of Phi Phi Islands. It’s especially appealing for first-time visitors and those eager to combine sightseeing with cultural and cinematic experiences. The tour’s small group size and inclusive features offer good value, making it a reliable choice to get the most out of your island day trip.

However, if you prefer a more tranquil, less crowded environment or a relaxed pace, it’s worth considering whether the busy boat traffic and the quick stops align with your travel style. Still, for most, this tour promises a memorable day of adventure, beautiful views, and a chance to tick off one of Thailand’s most famous destinations from your bucket list.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off from select Krabi locations, lunch, snacks, fresh fruits, soft drinks, tea, coffee, snorkeling equipment, life jackets, experienced guides, insurance, and all national park entrance fees.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, starting with pickup around 7:50-8 a.m. and returning around 4 p.m.

Are there any restrictions on group size?
Yes, the maximum group size is 15 travelers for land transport. Water transport vessels vary, with the speedboat accommodating up to 35 passengers.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkel gear and life jackets are included for participants wanting to explore under the water.

What are the main highlights of the itinerary?
Highlights include Bamboo Island, Viking Cave, Loh Samah Bay, Pileh Bay, Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, and a buffet lunch at Phi Phi Don.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In essence, this Phi Phi Island speedboat tour offers a lively, all-included day that gets you into the heart of Thailand’s most scenic and cinematic spots. With a focus on efficiency, expert guides, and stunning views, it’s well-suited for those eager to pack a lot into one day, especially if you’re visiting Krabi for a short stay.