Phi Phi Islands Premium Trip By Royal Jet Cruiser and Speedboat From Phuket

Taking a day trip to the Phi Phi Islands is a classic Thailand experience, but how do you know if a particular tour will meet your expectations? The Phi Phi Islands Premium Trip by Royal Jet Cruiser and Speedboat offers a luxurious and flexible way to see this famous archipelago, with highlights like Maya Bay and Viking Cave, plus plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling. It’s a well-organized excursion that seems to cater well to travelers craving comfort and stunning scenery.

What we love about this tour is its combination of premium seating and private outdoor viewing deck, which adds a touch of exclusivity to a busy tourist spot. The inclusion of delicious buffet lunch with seafood and the convenience of hotel transfers make it an attractive option. However, some may find the multiple transfers between ferry, speedboat, and shore a bit tiring or unsuitable for very young children or those with certain health issues. This trip is best suited for those who value comfort, scenic beauty, and a flexible schedule.

Key Points

• Luxury onboard experience with private viewing deck and premium seats.
• Variety of stops including Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Pileh Bay for sightseeing and snorkeling.
• Delicious buffet lunch with seafood, plus complimentary drinks and snacks.
• Flexible itinerary with plenty of free time on Phi Phi Don for exploring.
• Ideal for travelers seeking comfort and stunning vistas but less suitable for very young children or elderly with health concerns.
• Easy hotel pickup and drop-off add to overall convenience.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

This tour is designed for travelers who appreciate a mix of comfort, adventure, and efficiency. Starting early around 7:00 am, you’ll be picked up from your hotel—an aspect that already sets the tone for a hassle-free day. The trip lasts around 8 to 9 hours, so plan for a full day out, but with plenty of highlights packed in.

The Journey to Phi Phi

We loved the way the Royal Jet Cruiser combined the ease of a modern, comfortable vessel with the thrill of moving quickly between islands. The cruise takes about 1.5 hours from Phuket, giving you ample time to settle in and enjoy the views. The boat features premium cabin seating, which means you won’t be crammed into a standard seat—something appreciated by those who dislike feeling like sardines on busy boat trips.

Sightseeing from the Deck

Once underway, the onboard guide provides commentary about the route, pointing out Viking Cave, Pi-Le Cove, Loh Samah Bay, Maya Bay, and Monkey Beach. Reviewers mention that guides like “very knowledgeable” and make the journey informative. From the outside deck, you get a panoramic view of the islands, making it a great way to capture pictures without lugging around a camera all day.

Stops at Phi Phi Ley and Maya Bay

The first major stop is Ko Phi Phi Le, where everyone disembarks for swimming and snorkeling. The waters are described as crystal clear, attracting tropical fish and vibrant coral. One reviewer shared that they loved the private outdoor viewing deck, giving them a perfect spot to relax while watching the islands drift past.

Later, you’ll reach Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach.” While the bay can get crowded, the boat’s design allows you to enjoy the scenery comfortably. The reviewers mention that the snorkeling gear was of good quality, and the free rental made it easy to explore the underwater world.

Pileh Bay and Viking Cave are also included in the sightseeing route, offering impressive cliffs, caves, and bird nests. These spots provide excellent photo opportunities and a sense of the islands’ natural grandeur.

Lunch and Free Time at Phi Phi Don

The highlight for many is the approximately three-hour stay at Phi Phi Don, where a buffet lunch with seafood is served at a local restaurant. Reviewers rave about the delicious food, describing it as “sumptuous” and featuring fresh seafood. After lunch, you’ll have free time to walk around, shop, or simply lounge on the beach.

One review noted the freetime to explore, mentioning that the tour guides arranged the schedule well, so there’s enough opportunity to enjoy the island’s atmosphere without feeling rushed. The guides also helped coordinate snorkeling and swimming, making sure everyone could enjoy the water.

Snorkeling and Relaxing

Snorkeling is a key part of this trip, with gear rental included. Reviewers highlight how beautiful the underwater scenery is, with tropical fish and coral easily spotted in the clear waters. Some loved the fact that the speedboat was luxurious enough to feel exclusive, giving them a feeling of private adventure amidst the crowds.

Transportation Details and Comfort

What sets this tour apart is the combination of Royal Jet Cruiser and speedboat, providing a smooth and fast journey with comfortable seating. The private sundeck is a real perk, giving you space to relax, sunbathe, or simply take in the views from outside.

However, some reviewers mention multiple transfers—from ferry to speedboat and back—which might be tiring, especially for the elderly or very young children. The tour is rated 4 out of 5, with some noting that the transfers can be a bit hectic but manageable if you’re prepared.

The small group size (max 100 travelers) helps maintain a more intimate experience, avoiding the chaos of big tours. The hotel pickup and drop-off are included, which is a big plus for convenience in Phuket.

Pricing and Value

At around $113.55 per person, this tour offers a balanced mix of luxury, sightseeing, and free time. When you factor in the lunch, snorkeling gear, and transfers, the price feels reasonable, especially considering the comfort of the onboard amenities.

While it’s not a budget option, the premium seating and private deck add a layer of comfort that many standard tours lack. If you’re after a more relaxed and plush experience with plenty of time to enjoy the islands, this tour provides good value.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a leisurely day amid the stunning Phi Phi scenery without sacrificing comfort. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate quality seating, scenic views, and good food.

However, those with mobility issues, very young children, or medical conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease might find the transfers and busy boat environment challenging. Similarly, if you’re looking for a very budget-friendly or active snorkeling-focused adventure, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

The Phi Phi Islands Premium Trip by Royal Jet Cruiser offers a well-rounded day filled with beautiful vistas, snorkeling, and tasty food—wrapped in a comfortable, slightly exclusive package. The combination of private viewing decks and excellent guides makes it a memorable experience, especially if you value comfort and scenic beauty over raw adventure.

You’ll appreciate the professional organization, the delicious buffet, and the chance to relax while soaking up some of Thailand’s most iconic scenery. While the transfers could be a bit tiring, the overall experience is a strong choice for those who seek a luxurious, hassle-free trip.

For travelers wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing, comfort, and leisure on one of Thailand’s most famous islands, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making the day more convenient and stress-free.

How long is the total trip?
The entire experience lasts roughly 8 to 9 hours, from pickup in the morning to return in the evening, including travel, sightseeing, and free time.

What is included in the lunch?
A buffet lunch featuring seafood is provided at a local restaurant on Phi Phi Don, described as delicious and satisfying with a variety of options.

Are snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, complimentary snorkeling gear rental is included, allowing you to explore the underwater scenery comfortably.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 4-11 years old under 120 centimeters in height can participate, but the experience may be less ideal for very young children or those with health issues due to the transfers and boat environment.

What makes this tour different from others?
The premium seating, private outdoor deck, and luxury speedboat provide a more comfortable, less crowded experience, along with flexible free time at Phi Phi Don.

This tour balances scenic beauty with comfort and convenience, making it a solid choice for travelers who want to enjoy the Phi Phi Islands without sacrificing quality or ease.