Phi Phi Islands and Khai Island Day Tour from Phuket by Speedboat

An Honest Look at the Phi Phi Islands and Khai Island Day Tour from Phuket by Speedboat

Taking a day trip from Phuket to explore the iconic Phi Phi Islands and Khai Island is a popular way to make the most of your Thai holiday. This particular tour, operated by Mam Holidays Thailand Co Ltd, offers a 10-hour adventure that promises less travel time (thanks to a speedboat instead of a ferry) and a packed itinerary of snorkeling, sightseeing, and relaxing.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the chance to avoid the slow, often crowded ferries that can take up half your day. Instead, the speedy boat allows you to spend more time in the water, on the beaches, or capturing those postcard-worthy views. However, it’s worth noting that the tour can get quite busy, with up to 35 travelers, and some reviews hint at safety concerns when overcrowding occurs.

This trip will suit travelers eager for a full day of tropical sights, wildlife spotting, and snorkeling—especially those who value a good balance of guided explanations and free exploration. If you’re looking for a quick, well-organized way to tick off the major highlights of the Phi Phi Islands, this tour could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Speedy transfer: Significantly reduces travel time compared to traditional ferry trips.
• Diverse stops: Includes highlights like Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, and Khai Island.
• Snorkeling & wildlife: Equipment included, with opportunities to see monkeys and explore underwater life.
• All-inclusive options: Lunch, park fees, and transfers are covered, with optional halal food.
• Group size: Up to 35 travelers, which balances social atmosphere with comfort.
• Authentic experiences: Apart from sightseeing, you get to see local industries like bird’s nest harvesting.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

Transportation and Timing

The tour kicks off early, with hotel pickups from Patong, Kata, Karon, and Phuket Town between 7:15AM and 8:00AM. The overall duration is around ten hours, so prepare for a full day of adventure. The use of a speedboat means you’ll jump from island to island swiftly, giving you more time to enjoy each stop without the sluggishness of a ferry.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Pileh Bay & Green Island
We love the way this tour starts with an exciting 09:20AM departure from Rassada pier. The first stop is Green Island, where snorkeling equipment is provided—ideal for exploring the tall limestone cliffs and vibrant marine life. The highlight here is the chance to take in the breathtaking scenery of Phi Phi Leh, including May Bay and Loh Samah Bay, with some swimming in Pileh Lagoon if you’re feeling brave.

Reviewers mention that the snorkeling is a real plus, giving a glimpse into the rich underwater environment. Some travelers, however, noted that the trip gets crowded, which can take away from the serenity.

Stop 2: Maya Bay
Famous as the filming location for “The Beach,” Maya Bay is a must-see. The tour allocates about an hour here, allowing ample time for photos and soaking in the views of the cliffs that enclose this iconic bay. Because of its popularity, it can get busy, but the scenery remains spectacular.

Stop 3: Loh Samah Bay
This snorkeler’s paradise is right across from Maya Bay. The calm waters and vibrant coral make it one of the most enjoyable spots for underwater exploration. We found that this stop offers some of the clearest waters, making it ideal for those keen on underwater photography.

Stop 4: Phi Phi Don & Viewpoint
After a buffet lunch at a beachside restaurant (with Halal options available), you’ll have some free time on Phi Phi Don. Many reviewers appreciated the opportunity to explore or relax on the beach. The view from the Phi Phi Viewpoint is a highlight and offers a panoramic perspective of the archipelago.

Stop 5: Viking Cave
A quick 30-minute visit here introduces you to the harvesting of swiftlet bird’s nests—a fascinating glimpse into a local industry. The cave’s natural beauty is complemented by its commercial significance, which some travelers find interesting.

Stop 6: Monkey Beach
Famous for the cheeky long-tailed macaques, Monkey Beach is a fun stop, especially for animal lovers. The monkeys roam freely, so keep your belongings close! Reviewers mention that this stop adds a playful element to the trip, with plenty of photo opportunities.

What’s Included & What to Consider

The tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward. The use of snorkel equipment and an English-speaking guide adds to the value, along with a buffet lunch—notably, halal options are available, which is a thoughtful touch.

On the downside, some reviews point out that the boat can get quite crowded, with over 40 people on a vessel designed for 20. This raises safety concerns and can diminish the relaxing experience some travelers seek. It appears that the tour’s popularity sometimes results in a less than ideal crowd size, so if you’re particularly safety-conscious or prefer a more intimate vibe, this is worth considering.

The cost of $70 per person is reasonable given the inclusions, but the experience’s value depends heavily on expectations. For many, the ability to see key sights quickly and comfortably makes this a worthwhile budget option. Others, especially those who prefer a more tranquil snorkeling experience or smaller groups, might find it less so.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One reviewer called this “the best trip and staff,” praising the well-organized nature and the friendly, humorous guides who kept hydration levels up with water and soft drinks. This indicates that the guides, likely including the onboard host, genuinely care about making the trip enjoyable.

However, another reviewer was less pleased, describing the experience as “not what was advertised” and criticizing the overcrowding. They mentioned that over 40 people were crammed onto the boat, with some feeling unsafe and others vomiting due to the crowd. This stark contrast highlights the importance of managing expectations about group size and safety.

The value of knowledgeable guides and good food

Many travelers appreciated the guides’ explanations, especially during visits to Viking Cave and Monkey Beach. The inclusion of a Thai buffet lunch with halal options was also consistently praised, providing a satisfying break during the long day.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour offers a lively, well-organized way to hit the highlights of the Phi Phi Islands without the long ferry ride. It’s perfect for travelers who want a full, active day with snorkeling, wildlife, and iconic scenery all in one package. If you’re okay with larger groups—understanding that crowds can sometimes be a drawback—you’ll likely find this trip to be good value and packed with memorable moments.

For those wanting a quieter, more personalized experience, or if safety concerns about overcrowding are paramount, you might want to explore smaller or private tours. The emphasis on snorkeling, wildlife spotting, and scenic views makes it an appealing choice for adventure lovers and first-time visitors alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from hotels in Patong, Kata, Karon, and Phuket Town via shared vehicles.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 10 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 35, which strikes a balance between social interaction and comfort but can feel crowded at peak times.

Are meals included?
Yes, a Thai buffet lunch is included, with halal options available to cater to different dietary needs.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sun protection, a towel, waterproof camera, and perhaps a light snack. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you can bring your own if you prefer.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included in the tour, giving you the chance to explore the underwater world comfortably.

Are there opportunities to see wildlife?
Absolutely. Monkey Beach is home to free-roaming macaques, and the tour includes visits to Viking Cave where swiftlet birds are harvested.

What are the main highlights?
Highlights include Maya Bay, Loh Samah Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, and Khai Island’s white sands.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely, as it’s a full-day adventure with plenty of water-based activities, but consider safety concerns related to large groups and boat conditions.

In essence, this tour offers an efficient, enjoyable way to experience the beauty and diversity of the Phi Phi Islands. With friendly guides, good food, and plenty of scenic moments, it caters well to travelers eager to pack a lot into one day. Just keep in mind the crowd levels and safety aspects, and you’ll be set for a memorable Thai island excursion.