Phi Phi Islands One Day Tour By Ferry From Phuket

Exploring the Phi Phi Islands on a One-Day Ferry Tour from Phuket

This Phi Phi Islands One Day Tour by Ferry promises a full day of scenic cruising, snorkeling, and island exploration—all packed into approximately 8 to 9 hours. While it’s certainly an accessible way to tick off the iconic sights of the Phi Phi archipelago without breaking the bank, it’s worth knowing what you’re signing up for.

What stands out most about this experience is the ease of logistics—your transfer from Phuket is included, and the ferry journey offers some truly Instagram-worthy views of landmarks like Viking Cave, Maya Bay, and Loh Samah Bay. The tour also features a buffet lunch and free snorkeling gear, making it a fairly complete package for budget travelers.

However, one notable point from reviews is that the ferry approach has limitations—mainly, you only get to see most beaches from a distance, with very limited snorkeling time at specific spots. This might not satisfy those expecting a more immersive beach or snorkeling experience.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a quick, budget-friendly way to see the highlights of Phi Phi without dedicating multiple days or spending too much. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic overview and don’t mind the short snorkeling window, it could work well. But if you’re seeking deep beach lounging or extensive underwater exploration, other options might be more fitting.

Key Points

• Convenient round-trip transfers from Phuket make the day straightforward.
• Sightseeing from the ferry offers views of famous landmarks like Maya Bay and Viking Cave, perfect for photo ops.
• Limited beach access and snorkeling time may disappoint those craving more underwater activity.
• Lunch and snorkeling gear are included, adding value to the overall experience.
• Tour duration of 8-9 hours suits travelers with a packed schedule or those wanting a relaxed overview.
• Cancellations are flexible, and the tour is suitable for most travelers except pregnant women or those with certain health issues.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting Early for a Full Day of Adventure

The tour kicks off at 7:00 am, with most travelers being picked up from their Phuket hotels around that time. The early start is helpful for maximizing the day—by leaving early, you avoid the midday heat and crowd, and you get more time on Phi Phi’s highlights.

The Ferry Ride: Sights and Scenery

The journey from Phuket to Phi Phi Le takes about 1.5 hours aboard a luxury motorboat. This isn’t a traditional slow ferry; it’s a comfortable vessel that allows for decent onboard sightseeing of the island’s famous landmarks.

As the boat glides past Viking Cave, you get a chance to snap photos of the cave’s ancient paintings, and the views of Pi-Le Cove, Loh Samah Bay, and Maya Bay are captivating. Many reviews mention that the ferry ride itself is a highlight, offering a relaxed way to see the islands from a distance.

Island Landing and Snorkeling

Once at Phi Phi Don, the main inhabited island, you’ll step ashore for a few hours of free time. The highlight here is snorkelling, with free rentals of mask and snorkel included. If you’re lucky, you’ll encounter a variety of tropical fish and coral.

Most reviews note that the snorkeling time is limited—about an hour at a single beach—so don’t expect a full underwater adventure. On top of that, some visitors found that the ferry’s stops don’t allow much beach time, as most of the beaches can only be viewed from afar or during quick visits.

Lunch Break and Relaxation

A buffet lunch is served at an island restaurant, with options including seafood dishes and other local flavors. The reviews mention that the lunch was enjoyable, and the food quality provided good value for the price. The inclusion of snacks, soft drinks, tea, and coffee makes this a comfortable break in the day.

Free Time and Exploration

After lunch, you get a few hours of free time to explore Phi Phi Don, swim, or relax. While some reviewers appreciated the chance to wander around, others expressed disappointment at the limited time—just enough for a quick stroll or a swim.

Return Journey and End of Day

The return ferry departs late afternoon, completing your day trip. The journey back offers one last chance to enjoy scenic views, making it a fitting end to a busy day.

What Travelers Say

The only review available gives a realistic picture: “Transfer was on time. View was nice but with Ferry you cannot visit Beaches except one. So you have to look them from far till you go to Hafen where Ferry stops and you have lunch. We had just one hour time for Snorkelling at that beach.” This highlights the practical limitations—if your goal is to explore beaches thoroughly or snorkel extensively, this might not be the ideal tour.

Some travelers appreciated the smooth logistics, with pick-up and drop-off working as promised, and the included extras like snorkeling gear and lunch. But the same reviewer noted the experience felt somewhat rushed, with limited beach time and snorkeling.

Value and Pricing

At $49.81 per person, this tour offers decent value for those who want a taste of Phi Phi without splurging on speedboats or multi-day stays. The included lunch, snorkeling gear, and insurance add to the value, but keep in mind the $400 national park fee isn’t included in the standard class price—so budget accordingly if you want full access.

Some might find this a good introduction, especially if they’re limited on time or budget. Still, the tour’s focus on sightseeing from the ferry rather than deep immersion means it’s more about the views than the beaches.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance: The tour is often booked about 57 days ahead, indicating its popularity.
• Arrive early: The start time is 7:00 am, so set your alarm.
• Bring essentials: Sunscreen, a hat, and waterproof phone cases enhance comfort.
• Consider the weather: The tour depends on good weather; cancellations are possible if storms roll in.
• Prepare for limited beach time: If you’re eager to lounge on the sand or snorkel extensively, consider other tours or multi-day options.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This trip suits those looking for a cost-effective, hassle-free way to see the key sights of Phi Phi from Phuket. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a structured day with transportation and lunch included, and who are content with short snorkeling sessions and a quick island overview.

However, if you crave more time on the beaches, extensive underwater exploration, or a more relaxed pace, you might find this tour somewhat rushed. Also, those with mobility issues or health concerns should note the early start and walking required at some stops.

Final Thoughts

The Phi Phi Islands One Day Tour by Ferry offers a practical and visually appealing introduction to Thailand’s world-famous islands. Its main strength lies in the ease of logistics and the views from the boat, making it a good option for travelers who want an overview without a hefty price tag.

But the limited beach access and short snorkeling window mean it’s less suited for those wanting a deeply immersive experience. For most, it will provide memorable photos and a taste of the islands’ beauty—perfect for a quick escape or a first visit.

In the end, this tour is about balancing convenience and cost. It’s best for relaxed explorers, budget travelers, or those short on time who still want to tick the Phi Phi Islands off their bucket list.

FAQ

Is the transfer from Phuket included?
Yes, the tour includes shared van transfers from select Phuket areas, making pickup and drop-off straightforward.

How long is the ferry ride from Phuket to Phi Phi?
The ferry ride lasts about 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the views and take photos of landmarks like Viking Cave and Maya Bay.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes round-trip ferry transfers, a buffet lunch, snorkeling gear, an English-speaking guide, and accident insurance. The national park entrance fee (THB 400 for adults, THB 200 for children) is not included in standard and first class bookings.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided free of charge, though snorkelers should be aware that the time spent snorkeling is limited—about an hour at one beach.

What are the main drawbacks of this tour?
The biggest limitation is the short beach and snorkeling time, with most beaches only viewed from the ferry or during quick stops, which may disappoint those wanting a more immersive experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s generally suitable for most travelers, but pregnant women or those with health issues like high blood pressure or heart disease are not recommended to participate.

This tour offers a balanced mix of convenience, scenic views, and value, making it a solid choice for those wanting a snapshot of Phi Phi’s beauty from Phuket. Just keep expectations realistic about the limited beach access and snorkeling time, and you’ll likely find it a worthwhile addition to your Thailand adventure.