Phi Phi island trip with big boat from Phuket

Discovering Phi Phi Islands by Big Boat from Phuket: An Honest Review

Taking a trip to the Phi Phi Islands is often a highlight for travelers visiting Thailand, and doing it by a large, stable boat promises a comfortable day on the water. This Phuket-based tour offers a full-day excursion for about $56, featuring several iconic stops like Maya Bay, Pileh Bay, and Ko Phi Phi Don. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned island hopper, understanding what this tour really offers can help you decide if it’s worth your time and money.

One aspect we appreciate about this trip is the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies planning and minimizes travel stress. The package also includes buffet lunch, soft drinks, and seasonal fruits, making it a decent value for a half-day adventure. However, a recurring concern from travelers is the limited comfort for economy class, and the overall quality of staff support, which some found disappointing.

This tour might suit those looking for a cost-effective way to tick off the major Phi Phi sights without too much hassle. But if you prioritize superior service or personalized experiences, it may fall short. Let’s explore the details to see what makes this trip tick and whether it aligns with your travel style.

Key Points

• Comfortable, stable large boat offers a smoother ride compared to smaller, more unstable vessels.
• Iconic stops such as Maya Bay and Pileh Bay deliver breathtaking scenery and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
• Limited seating options may impact the experience, especially for economy class, with some travelers feeling crowded.
• Rough staff support and some dissatisfaction regarding snorkeling and beach plans, as reported by guests.
• Good value for money considering the inclusion of lunch and hotel transfers.
• Weather-dependent with possible cancellations and refunds if conditions are poor.

An In-Depth Look at the Phi Phi Island Big Boat Tour

The Overall Experience

This tour is marketed as a 5 to 7-hour trip with a focus on comfort and scenic exploration. The large boat’s stability is a real plus, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a smoother ride. The tour operates with pickup and drop-off from hotels around Patong, Kata, Karon, or Phuket Old Town, which is a major convenience, eliminating the need to find your way to the pier.

For $56, the price point seems reasonable, especially considering the buffet lunch, soft drinks, and seasonal fruits are included. The tour also offers multilingual guides (English, Chinese, Russian), ensuring clear communication and safety instructions.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Maya Bay is the star attraction. Known worldwide after the movie “The Beach,” Maya Bay is often the highlight for visitors eager to see stunning beaches with towering limestone cliffs. The tour’s description emphasizes the natural beauty surrounding the bay, but some travelers have noted that the experience can be rushed, and the boat often remains at a distance due to crowds or environmental regulations. Still, the visual impact of Maya Bay is undeniable, and many find it worth the visit.

Next is Ko Phi Phi Don, the main inhabited island. Here, the group is given about an hour for lunch and swimming. The buffet lunch is typically on the boat or at a designated spot, providing a chance to relax and recharge before the next stops. Guests often comment that the admission ticket is free, but the island itself offers opportunities for photos and a quick look around.

Pileh Bay offers a breath-taking lagoon where the waters tend toward a mesmerizing green. Tourists love the chance to snorkel or just float in the calm waters while marveling at the limestone cliffs enveloping them. The reef system here is among the most abundant, making it one of the best snorkeling spots in southern Thailand.

The Limestone cave with wall paintings and bird nest harvesting site adds an element of cultural interest. Visitors can observe traditional bird nest collection, a process that many find fascinating, although access might be limited depending on local regulations or weather.

Practicalities and Group Experience

The tour operates with groups of up to 25 travelers, which balances social interaction with personal space. However, one notable issue from a guest review is that economy seating is often in the lower deck with no view, leading to dissatisfaction. The guide did mention that guests could upgrade or request different seating, but this wasn’t well explained beforehand.

The schedule starts at 7:00 am, so early risers will get the full value of the day. The duration can stretch to 7 hours, including travel time, stops, and lunch, which can be long for some but ideal for those wanting a comprehensive experience.

Snorkeling and Environmental Fees

While snorkeling is highlighted as a feature, some guests were discouraged by the staff from doing it, preferring to stay on the beach instead. This might be due to logistical reasons or staff preferences, but it’s worth noting that if snorkeling is a priority, you might need to pay an additional 400 Baht national park fee to access some sites.

Customer Feedback and What to Watch Out For

The most critical feedback comes from a single review where the guest felt misled about seating arrangements—being placed in the lower deck with no view. They described the staff as rude and unhelpful, especially when asked about snorkeling options or upgrades. The review also mentioned that the staff “played mind games,” encouraging upgrades and discouraging snorkeling, which reflects poorly on the service quality.

This negative experience underscores the importance of managing expectations and understanding that this tour may not offer the most personalized or luxurious experience. The boat’s size and structure seem geared more toward practicality than comfort for every passenger.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who value affordability and convenience over luxury. If you want a straightforward way to see the major Phi Phi sights without breaking the bank, this tour could be a good fit. It’s also suitable for those okay with a group setting and potentially limited comfort in economy seating.

However, if you prioritize excellent service, personalized attention, or top-notch snorkeling and beach experience, you might want to consider other options or private arrangements. The issues raised about staff support and seating arrangements are significant considerations if you’re particular about your comfort or experience.

The Sum Up

This Phi Phi Island trip with a big boat from Phuket offers a cost-effective way to see some of Thailand’s most beautiful islands and beaches. Its major draw is the stunning scenery, especially Maya Bay and Pileh Bay, which promise incredible photo opportunities and memorable views. The inclusion of lunch and hotel transfers adds to the convenience and overall value.

That said, the experience can be disappointing if you’re expecting high service levels or personalized guidance. The seating arrangements and staff attitude have been points of criticism, so managing expectations is key. The tour is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want the highlights with minimal fuss, but those seeking a more tailored or luxurious outing should explore other options.

In summary, if you’re after good views, reasonable prices, and a straightforward itinerary, this tour can serve your needs well. Just remember to clarify seating preferences and keep your expectations in check regarding staff support.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from hotels around Patong, Kata, Karon, and Phuket Old Town, making it very convenient.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers hotel transfers, a buffet lunch, soft drinks, seasonal fruits, and a multilingual guide. The national park fee and snorkeling gear are not included.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Yes, snorkeling is available at spots like Pileh Bay, but some guests have reported staff discouraging snorkeling in favor of beach visits. You’ll need to pay an additional park fee if you want to snorkel at certain sites.

What are the main attractions?
Maya Bay, Pileh Bay, Ko Phi Phi Don for lunch and swimming, and limestone caves with bird nest harvesting. The scenery is what makes this trip worthwhile.

Is the boat comfortable?
The boat is described as large and stable, offering a smoother ride. However, some travelers have noted that economy seating in the lower deck offers limited views, which can be frustrating.

What is the tour duration?
The whole experience lasts around 5 to 7 hours, starting early in the morning at 7:00 am and returning in the late afternoon.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most travelers can participate, but the group size and seating arrangements might impact younger children or those sensitive to boat environments. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with group tours and boat trips.

This provides a balanced, detailed look at what you can expect from the Phi Phi Island big boat trip from Phuket. It’s a solid choice if you’re after iconic sights with convenience and good value—just keep an eye on the details and be prepared for some logistical quirks.