Phi Phi Islands Adventure: Ferry, Snorkeling & Island Lunch

Introduction: A Relaxed Day at the Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi Islands Adventure, offered by I Asia Thailand, promises a full-day escape to one of Thailand’s most iconic destinations. This tour combines scenic ferry rides, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back visit to famous spots like Maya Bay and Viking Cave—all with the convenience of hotel transfers and a delicious buffet lunch. It’s a popular choice for travelers seeking a balance of scenic beauty, light adventure, and comfort, all without breaking the bank.

What really appeals to us is how this tour emphasizes relaxation and natural beauty. The fact that it includes snorkeling equipment and a leisurely island lunch makes it a great value for those who want to make the most of their day without complicated logistics. On the flip side, some reviews highlight that the experience can feel somewhat rushed or crowded, especially during peak season. Still, for those wanting a straightforward, well-organized trip with scenic highlights, this tour fits the bill well.

This tour appears best suited for travelers who want an affordable, stress-free day trip with some snorkeling, scenic views, and iconic photo stops. If you’re someone who appreciates a good balance of guided sightseeing and free time, this might be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Comfortable transport: Ferry ride from Phuket to Phi Phi Islands takes approximately 90 minutes, with options for pickup.
• Highlights: Snorkeling, Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon, and Phi Phi Don.
• Value for money: Includes snorkeling gear, buffet lunch, and national park fees for premium options.
• Guided experience: An English-speaking guide provides insight and assistance throughout.
• Flexible options: Surcharge may apply for transfers outside common pick-up points.
• Potential drawbacks: Limited beach time and some reviews mention a feeling of being herded or rushed.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The Ferry Ride: Relaxing Scenic Start

The journey begins early at 8:30 am, with most guests being picked up from their hotels. The ferry departs from Phuket, with the ride lasting about 90 minutes. Onboard, you’ll enjoy refreshments like tea, coffee, and snacks, which help pass the time as you admire the views of the Andaman Sea. The ferry itself is designed for comfort, with plenty of space to stretch out and take in the shimmering blue waters.

Travelers appreciate the smooth ride, though some note that the boat can feel crowded during peak bookings. The transfer options outside Phuket Town, Patong, Karon, and Kata areas are available for an extra charge, which is worth considering for convenience.

Stop 1: Maya Bay – The Star of the Show

Maya Bay is usually the main reason travelers choose this tour. This stunning cove boasts towering limestone cliffs on three sides, creating a natural amphitheater of sorts. Inside, you’ll find white sand beaches and coral reefs teeming with colorful tropical fish. The entire bay acts as a massive reef, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling.

One review describes Maya Bay as “exceptionally clear water with underwater colorful coral,” which truly captures why it’s so famous. It’s also a place that’s been made iconic by movies, so expect plenty of photo opportunities. Be aware, though, that during busy periods, the area can feel crowded, and the tour schedule might limit your time here—the typical stop is just enough to take photos, snorkel, and soak in the scenery.

Stop 2: Ko Phi Phi Don – The Main Settlement

Next, the tour stops at Phi Phi Don, the largest island and the hub of activity. This limestone island is partly connected by a flat strip of land, hosting most resorts, restaurants, and shops. The two-hour visit offers a chance to explore the lively vibe of the island, grab some souvenirs, or simply enjoy the views from the shore.

One reviewer appreciated the “beautiful scenery” and noted that the island’s main settlement is a lively but charming place. While there’s limited time, it’s enough for a quick stroll or some photo ops before heading back to the boat.

Viking Cave – Art and History in Limestone

Viking Cave is a brief but fascinating stop. Located on Koh Phi Phi Leh’s northeastern side, this limestone cave is famous for its ancient paintings of Scandinavian-style boats—hence the name. The cave itself is a quick 20-minute visit, but it offers a glimpse into local history and the island’s unique art.

A reviewer describes Viking Cave as “notable for recent paintings of boats,” which adds a layer of curiosity and cultural interest to the trip. While you won’t spend much time here, it’s a memorable spot to observe the island’s natural and artistic features.

Snorkeling & Marine Life

Snorkeling is included in the tour, with gear provided (mask & snorkel). For standard and first-class passengers, snorkeling is done on a long-tailed boat, which allows for closer access to vibrant coral reefs and marine life. The reviews indicate that the snorkeling spots are a highlight, with some travelers remarking on the “exceptionally clear water” and colorful fish.

However, some reviews note that the snorkeling experience might be limited depending on sea conditions and the time allocated—so if snorkeling is your priority, consider the overall constraints of a day trip.

Lunch & Relaxation

The buffet lunch is served at a beachfront restaurant on Phi Phi Don, giving you a relaxed break with stunning views. Reviewers have praised the quality of the food, calling it “very good,” which adds to the overall value, especially considering the tour price.

The lunch break also allows some downtime to enjoy the surroundings, take photos, or just relax with a cold drink (note that cold drinks are not specifically mentioned as included onboard, but the buffet is described as generous).

Practical Aspects & What to Expect

Group Size & Guides

The tour is limited to a maximum of 300 travelers, which keeps things reasonably manageable. An English-speaking guide accompanies the group, providing commentary and assistance. One review mentions that the guide was “hard to understand,” highlighting that experiences can vary depending on individual guides and group dynamics.

Pricing & Value

At $55.06 per person, this tour offers solid value for what is included—transportation, snorkeling gear, national park fees for premium bookings, and a substantial lunch. For budget travelers or those seeking an all-in-one experience, it’s a good deal, although some reviews suggest that the experience might feel rushed or crowded, especially during busy seasons.

Surcharges & Additional Costs

Be aware that extra charges apply if your hotel is outside the main pick-up zones. The transfer surcharge can range from 100 to 1000 baht, payable directly to the driver. Plus, a national park fee of 400 baht (adults) and 200 baht (children) applies for premium packages, which is a common fee across many tours in Thailand.

Weather & Sea Conditions

Sea and weather conditions can influence the actual experience. The tour notes that docking at Maya Bay or Phi Phi Don may vary based on tide and sea safety. Sometimes, the boat will transfer to the island via long-tail boat, which adds to the adventure but also to the unpredictability.

Real Feedback & What Travelers Say

One major critique comes from a reviewer frustrated with the “herding” feeling—being moved quickly from one boat or stop to another, with limited time at each. They also noted the absence of cold drinks on the boat, which can be a letdown on a hot day. On the positive side, another traveler praised the “awesome boat” and “very good lunch,” emphasizing the overall experience of the trip.

A recurring theme in reviews is the knowledgeable guides and stunning views. One reviewer appreciated that despite some shortcomings, the tour delivered on its promise of scenic beauty and marine exploration.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This Phi Phi Islands tour offers a solid value for travelers who want a guided day with snorkeling, iconic scenery, and a relaxed schedule. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate comfortable transportation, good food, and the chance to take photos at famous locations like Maya Bay and Viking Cave. The included snorkeling gear and lunch boost the overall experience, making it an efficient way to see the highlights without a lot of fuss.

However, if you’re after more beach time, a less rushed vibe, or a tailored snorkeling experience, you might find this tour a little too busy or brief. It’s best for travelers who are happy with a standard, guided excursion that hits the main sights without extensive exploration or multiple stops.

In the end, this tour strikes a good balance between affordability, scenic highlights, and logistical convenience—making it a popular choice for first-time visitors and those with limited time in Phuket.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered from most major locations, but surcharges apply for hotels outside Phuket Town, Patong, Karon, and Kata areas.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry from Phuket to Phi Phi Islands takes approximately 90 minutes, offering a comfortable start to your day.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes an English-speaking guide, snorkeling equipment, refreshments onboard, a buffet lunch, and a national park fee for premium packages.

Can I snorkel at Maya Bay?
Yes, snorkeling is available at Maya Bay and other spots, with gear provided. The reefs are vibrant, but sea conditions can influence the experience.

Are children allowed?
Children 3 and younger are free, but children 11 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Some parts of the tour might not be suitable for very young or health-compromised travelers.

What if the weather is bad?
Sea and weather conditions may lead to adjustments in the itinerary, including changing docking spots or skipping certain stops for safety reasons. No refunds are usually provided for weather-related changes.

How much should I expect to pay for transfers outside main zones?
Surcharges for transfers outside Phuket’s central areas can range from 100 to 1000 baht, payable directly to the driver.

This Phi Phi Islands adventure offers a beautiful, straightforward way to experience the magic of Thailand’s most famous islands, perfect for those seeking scenic views, snorkeling fun, and good food without a complicated itinerary.