Phi Phi, Maya Bay and Khai Island Tour from Phuket

Taking a boat trip around Phuket’s famous islands is often heralded as a must-do experience for visitors craving stunning scenery, water activities, and a taste of Thai island life. This particular tour by Oh-Hoo promises to cover the major highlights — from the cinematic Maya Bay to the coral reefs of Khai Island — all packed into an 8 to 9-hour adventure. It’s a popular choice for those eager to see many sights in one day, and at a price point of around $65, it’s quite accessible.

What we love about this tour is the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, which means you can skip the hassle of navigating Phuket’s busy piers. Plus, the inclusion of a seafood buffet lunch and snorkeling gear simplifies planning and makes this feel like a well-rounded experience. On the flip side, some visitors warn that the trip can get crowded, and that overbooking might lead to long lines and a less relaxed vibe.

This tour works best for travelers who want a rundown of Phi Phi’s key sights without the need for multiple bookings or extra planning. It’s ideal for first-timers, group travelers, or those short on time but eager to tick off the major landmarks. However, if you’re seeking a more intimate or leisurely experience, or if you’re sensitive to crowds, you might want to consider alternatives.

Key Points

• Coverage of Major Sights: Includes Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, and Khai Island.
• Time-Efficient: Designed to maximize sightseeing while minimizing transit time with a speedboat.
• Inclusive Comforts: Hotel transfers, snorkeling gear, and a buffet lunch are included.
• Crowd Factor: Some reviews mention overcrowding and long lines, which could affect the experience.
• Guides and Crew: Friendly, knowledgeable guides and efficient crew, highly rated in reviews.
• Additional Costs: Park entry fees and some transfer charges are not included in the base price.

The Actual Experience: What to Expect

Starting Out: Early Morning Pickup and Transport

The tour begins with a pickup from your Phuket hotel around 7:30 am. The transportation is by air-conditioned minibus, making the journey to Rassada Pier comfortable and straightforward. This part of the experience is often appreciated because it removes the stress of finding a meeting point. From there, you’ll board a luxury speedboat that will be your home for the day.

The First Stop: Maya Bay

Maya Bay, made globally famous by The Beach, is the first major stop. Expect about 30 minutes here, which might not seem like much, but it’s enough to take in the iconic limestone cliffs and swim in the clear waters. You’ll appreciate that admission tickets are included, saving you the hassle of separate fees.

However, it’s worth noting that Maya Bay can get extremely crowded, especially when multiple boats arrive simultaneously. One reviewer described the scene as “playing bumper boats,” warning that the area can feel quite congested. The bay’s popularity means you’ll want to keep your camera ready for those postcard-worthy views, but don’t expect tranquility during peak hours.

Loh Samah Bay and Viking Cave

Next, the tour moves to Loh Samah Bay for more snorkeling and swimming, with an opportunity to relax on the pristine white sands or explore jungle trails. The guide typically shares interesting details about the limestone formations and local flora and fauna, making this a scenic and educational stop.

Viking Cave is included as well, where you might get a chance to observe ancient cave paintings and learn about the local bird nests harvested for bird’s nest soup. The 30-minute stop here is more about scenery and curiosity than extensive exploration, but it’s still a highlight.

Monkey Beach: Encountering Local Wildlife

Monkey Beach is famous for its playful primates. The tour usually allows about 30 minutes for visitors to spot monkeys and perhaps even snap a selfie or two. Some reviews mention the possibility of monkeys being a bit cheeky or eager for snacks, so it’s wise to keep your belongings secure.

One reviewer humorously noted that you might even get a “monkey selfie”, which adds a touch of fun to the visit. Do note that some travelers mention the area can be crowded and that monkeys might be more interested in food than wildlife observation.

Lunch at Ko Phi Phi Don

After several water stops, the boat docks at Ko Phi Phi Don for a 3-hour buffet lunch. The included seafood buffet offers a chance to refuel while enjoying stunning sea views. This is a great time to relax and soak in the island atmosphere, with many guests praising the quality of the food and the scenic setting.

However, some reviews point out the potential for the lunch stop to be busy, as many tours converge here. Still, the laid-back vibe and delicious food tend to make up for the crowd. It’s also an opportunity to explore a bit if you wish—though time might be limited.

Khai Nok Island: Snorkeling in Crystal Waters

The final stop is Khai Nok Island, famous for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Those interested in snorkeling get about an hour here to glide over the reefs and spot colorful marine life. Snorkel equipment and life jackets are provided, which makes it easy for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.

A reviewer described Khai Island as “breathtaking,” with clear waters that allow for fantastic underwater views. But note that the shallow waters mean it can get crowded with boats and snorkelers, so patience and awareness are key.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price, at roughly $65, covers a lot—luxury speedboat, hotel transfers, snorkeling gear, lunch, and insurance. The park entry fee (400 THB per adult) is not included, adding a small extra cost upon entry. Also, some transfer charges might apply depending on where you’re staying, ranging from 100 to 1,200 Baht depending on your location.

The inclusion of tea, coffee, fresh fruits, life jackets, and guide services adds value, making this a comfortable and fuss-free adventure. On the flip side, some reviews have pointed out issues like overcrowding and the need to pay additional fees, which can detract from the overall experience.

Group Size, Duration, and Timing

With a maximum of 30 travelers, the tour isn’t overly crowded, but it can still feel busy during peak seasons. The 8 to 9-hour duration allows enough time to explore all the stops comfortably, including travel, snorkeling, and lunch.

Starting early in the morning ensures maximum time at each location, but be prepared for a full day. The group size and efficient crew help keep things moving, but some guests have expressed concern about overcrowding, especially at popular stops like Maya Bay and Khai Island.

The Realities, Based on Reviews

While most feedback highlights the friendly guides and beautiful scenery, there are some notable criticisms. One review labeled the trip as “horrible” due to overbooking and long lines, describing the experience as chaotic and uncomfortable. Another mentioned that smoking in confined areas was prevalent, which could be a concern for non-smokers or those with respiratory sensitivities.

Conversely, many guests praise the professionalism of the crew and the value for money. One reviewer called the guides “amazing,” noting they made the day fun and efficient. Others appreciated that the tour included snorkel equipment and a buffet, making it easy to relax and enjoy without extra costs.

Summing Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, water activities, and cultural insights. Its value lies in the comprehensive coverage of the highlights with convenient logistics, especially for those new to Phuket or short on time.

However, if you’re a traveler who prefers quiet, uncrowded experiences, this may not be the best fit. The popularity of the stops means you’ll share stunning views with many other travelers, and some might find the crowds detract from the serenity they seek.

For those who love guided, all-in-one adventures, and are looking for good value and expert guidance, this tour can be quite satisfying. Just be aware of the potential for large crowds and manage your expectations accordingly.

The Sum Up

For travelers eager to tick off the iconic sites around Phuket quickly and comfortably, this tour offers a practical solution. It combines beautiful scenery, snorkeling, and a tasty buffet, with the convenience of hotel transfers. The knowledgeable guides and crew often earn praise for making the experience enjoyable despite the busier aspects.

This tour is particularly suited to first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Phi Phi’s top sights without the hassle of multiple bookings. It’s also a good choice for groups or families, as the itinerary covers a variety of activities and scenery in one day.

However, if your priority is peace and solitude, or if you’re sensitive to crowds and noise, you might want to explore smaller or private options. Still, for those seeking value, ease, and a memorable snapshot of Phuket’s island life, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip hotel transfers by air-conditioned minibus are included in the package, making it easy to start and end your day without hassle.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:30 am, giving you a full day of sightseeing and water activities.

Are snorkeling gear and life jackets provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment and life jackets are included, so you can enjoy the underwater scenery without bringing your own gear.

Do I need to pay additional fees?
Yes, a national park fee of 400 THB per adult is payable at entry. Some additional transfer charges might apply depending on where you stay.

How much time do we spend at each stop?
Expect approximately 30 minutes at Maya Bay, Loh Samah Bay, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach. Khai Island and the lunch break are longer, with 1 hour and 3 hours, respectively.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, child tickets are available for ages 4-11. However, expect some water activity and busy stops, so consider your child’s comfort with crowds.

Are pregnant women allowed to join?
No, pregnant guests are advised not to join, and refunds are not provided in such cases.

What if the weather is poor?
If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How crowded does the tour get?
The maximum group size is 30, but popular spots like Maya Bay can get very crowded, especially during peak season, which might affect your experience.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether this Phi Phi, Maya Bay, and Khai Island Tour fits your travel style and expectations. It offers a fantastic way to see many of Phuket’s most iconic sights, provided you’re comfortable with a lively, crowded adventure.