Private Phi Phi and Bamboo Islands Snorkeling Tour by Speedboat

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant marine life, then this Private Phi Phi and Bamboo Islands Snorkeling Tour by Speedboat might just be your perfect escape. Rated a flawless 5.0 based on 96 reviews and recommended by 99% of travelers, this full-day adventure offers a personalized way to see some of Thailand’s most iconic islands.

What sets this experience apart? For starters, it’s a private tour, meaning you won’t be stuck in a large group fighting for space or chairs. Instead, you get the flexibility to customize your day, with attentive guides ensuring every moment counts. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, paddleboarding, and a delicious lunch makes it great value for those wanting a comprehensive, relaxing day on the water. However, keep in mind that the entire experience lasts around 7 to 8 hours, so it’s best suited for those with a full-day window and a love for adventure.

One thing to consider is the cost—at $1,470 for up to 15 people, it’s not cheap, but the exclusivity and personal attention often justify the price for groups or couples looking for a premium experience. This tour is ideal for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and authentic island encounters without sacrificing quality or guidance.

Key Points

• Private experience offers personalized attention and flexibility in your itinerary.
• Snorkeling gear and two snorkel stops allow you to explore vibrant underwater worlds comfortably.
• Round-trip hotel transfers simplify logistics, making it easy to relax and enjoy your day.
• Multiple iconic stops including Maya Bay and Viking Cave give a well-rounded island experience.
• Delicious included lunch and snacks keep you energized for the entire day.
• Expert guides like Tony, Jib, or others ensure a smooth and engaging adventure, even for first-timers.

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Royal Phuket Marina: Starting Point of Comfort

Your day kicks off with a luxurious hotel pickup—no need to worry about organizing transport or finding your way. The transfer is in a cozy, air-conditioned minivan, setting a tone of comfort from the outset. Arriving at the Royal Phuket Marina, you’ll notice the prestige of the location, which sets the tone for a premium experience.

Ko Phi Phi Lee: The Heart of the Adventure

Your speedboat swiftly takes you to the famous Ko Phi Phi Lee, where expansive bays and iconic cliffs await. Expect breathtaking views that you’ll want to photograph endlessly. One reviewer, Albert, noted how well the tour captures the island’s beauty, emphasizing that the stops are “well timed and perfect.”

Maya Bay: The World-Famous Film Location

Just a short cruise from Phi Phi Lee, Maya Bay is a highlight for many. Known globally thanks to Leonardo DiCaprio’s film The Beach, this bay offers photographers stunning vistas and a chance for a quick swim or just soaking in the scenery. The tour includes 40 minutes, enough to take some photos, paddle around, or just relax on the soft sand. The inclusion of admission to Maya Bay makes this stop convenient and hassle-free.

Pileh Lagoon: A Serene Seaside Sanctuary

Next, you’ll visit Pileh Lagoon, a calm, turquoise haven encircled by limestone cliffs. Many reviewers, like Ryan, appreciated how guides turned the boat around for a “fun time” and helped tailor the experience to their tastes. Here, you can paddleboard or swim, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings.

Viking Cave: A Cultural and Underwater Marvel

A cruise to Viking Cave combines natural beauty with a glimpse into local practices. The cave displays wall paintings and is a bird nest harvesting site—an intriguing mix of nature and culture. The highlight for many is the snorkeling around the vibrant coral reef, where you’ll encounter a variety of marine life. Reviewers like Dennis compare this to a “once-in-a-lifetime experience,” noting the guides’ helpfulness with snorkeling gear and safety.

Monkey Beach: Up Close with Playful Macaques

A quick stop at Monkey Beach offers an opportunity to see macaques in their natural habitat. The 20-minute visit is enough to observe these playful animals and enjoy the scenery. Many travelers, including Albert, loved this stop for its lively atmosphere and photo opportunities.

Lunch Break at Phi Phi Don

After a busy morning, you’ll enjoy a delicious, included lunch at a beachside restaurant on Phi Phi Don. The 1 hour and 10-minute stop is flexible—many guests walk around, explore the shops, or simply relax with a drink. Critics appreciated the local, laid-back vibe and the chance to taste fresh Thai cuisine.

Bamboo Island: A Natural Paradise

The day winds down with a visit to Bamboo Island, famed for its white sand beaches, palm trees, and tranquil waters. The snorkeling here is often praised—many find the underwater scenery stunning. The beach is perfect for a relaxing walk or soaking up the sun, and the reviewers’ comments about the “unparalleled” natural environment reflect its true beauty.

Return to Royal Phuket Marina

The tour wraps up with a speedboat cruise around Phi Phi Island, giving you fantastic views before heading back to Phuket. The transfer from the jetty to your hotel is seamless, with most travelers feeling satisfied and relaxed after a full day of adventure.

What We Loved About This Tour

The personalized approach truly elevates this experience. Unlike large, crowded tours, a private boat means your guides can adapt to your pace and interests—whether that’s spending extra time at a favorite spot or skipping a less appealing one. Reviewers like Ryan appreciated how guides like Tony and crew made accommodations on the fly, turning a good day into an unforgettable one.

The guides’ knowledge was another standout. From sharing interesting facts about Viking Cave to pointing out marine life during snorkeling, they clearly know their stuff. The reviews mention guides like Jib and Tony as friendly, attentive, and eager to ensure everyone has a good time.

The scenery across the islands is every bit as stunning as you’d hope, with towering limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. The snorkeling stops are well chosen, giving you a chance to see underwater life in shallow, accessible spots, even for beginners.

Lunch and snacks are included, which is a huge bonus, especially on a long day. Many reviewers noted the quality of the food and appreciated not having to worry about finding a place to eat amidst the busy island scenes.

The Practicalities: What to Know Before Booking

While this tour offers incredible value in terms of experience, a few practical considerations are worth noting. The cost of $1,470 per group might seem high, but considering the private boat, all guides, snorkeling gear, and lunch, it’s a solid deal for groups seeking exclusivity and comfort. The group size of up to 15 keeps things intimate without feeling crowded, which many reviews praise.

The timing—around 7 to 8 hours—means you’ll need a full-day window, but that allows plenty of time to enjoy each stop without rushing. The itinerary is flexible to accommodate weather or tide conditions, so some stops might be shortened or extended.

Transport logistics are smooth, with hotel pickups and drop-offs included, saving you hassle. Just be aware of the national park fee of 400 THB per adult (or 200 THB per child), payable to the guide at check-in. This fee is standard for visiting protected sites in Thailand.

The booking process is straightforward, often done 27 days in advance on average. This is ideal if you’re planning ahead, especially during peak season.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for couples, families, or groups of friends who want a private, all-inclusive day on the water. Travelers who appreciate customized itineraries, knowledgeable guides, and stunning scenery will find it hard to beat. It’s especially suited for those seeking luxury and comfort without sacrificing the authentic island vibe.

If you’re a first-timer in Phuket or Thailand, this tour provides a great mix of cultural sights, natural beauty, and marine exploration. It’s also ideal for snorkelers of all levels, thanks to the well-chosen stops and quality gear.

While the price might seem steep compared to group tours, the personalized attention and flexibility often make this a worthwhile investment for a special occasion or a memorable family adventure.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included? Yes, it is. The tour provides round-trip transfers in an air-conditioned minivan in Phuket, making it very convenient.

How long does the tour last? Expect about 7 to 8 hours from pickup to return, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are snorkeling masks and gear provided? Yes, snorkeling equipment and paddleboarding are included in the tour, so you can comfortably explore underwater.

Do I need to pay extra for park fees? Yes, a national park fee of 400 THB per adult (200 THB per child) must be paid to your guide upon check-in.

Can I customize the itinerary? Since this is a private tour, guides are flexible and can adapt the schedule to your preferences, weather, or tide conditions.

Is food included? Yes, a lunch at Phi Phi Don and snacks are included, ensuring you stay energized all day.

What is the group size? The tour accommodates up to 15 people, maintaining an intimate and personalized experience.

Final Words

This private speedboat tour around Phuket’s most famous islands offers a blend of stunning scenery, marine adventures, and personalized service. With knowledgeable guides, well-chosen stops, and all essentials included, it stands out as a premium way to experience Thailand’s island paradise.

It’s best suited for those who want the comfort of a private tour, are willing to invest a bit more for exclusivity, and love snorkeling, scenic vistas, and relaxed exploration. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a high-quality adventure, this tour promises a memorable day on the water.

For travelers craving authentic encounters, excellent guidance, and the chance to see iconic sites like Maya Bay and Viking Cave without the crowds, this experience could very well be your highlight in Phuket.