Small Groups of 20 people – Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands with Lunch

Travelers flock to Phuket for its incredible islands, and this highly-rated tour of Phi Phi and Bamboo Islands offers an accessible way to explore some of Thailand’s most iconic spots. With a maximum of 20 participants, it promises a more intimate experience compared to the often overcrowded group tours. Expect a full day packed with opportunities for snorkeling, picture-perfect beaches, and a hearty buffet lunch, all wrapped up in roughly 9 and a half hours of tropical adventure.

What we love about this experience is the small-group vibe. It’s a nice change from the chaos of larger tours—more space to breathe and enjoy the scenery. Plus, the knowledgeable guides and well-organized itinerary ensure you get the most out of your day. A potential consideration is the weather; as with all outdoor activities, this tour depends on good weather, but the flexible cancellation policy provides some peace of mind. It suits travelers who want a relaxed, authentic day in paradise without sacrificing comfort or safety.

Perfect for first-timers eager to tick off top sights, families seeking a fun and safe adventure, or solo travelers wanting a friendly, guided experience, this tour hits many marks. It’s especially recommended if you value quality guides, stunning views, and excellent value for money. Now, let’s explore what makes this trip so appealing—and how it measures up against the reviews and real experiences of past guests.

Key Points

• Small-group format offers more space, personalized attention, and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Comprehensive itinerary includes snorkeling, beach time, a scenic lagoon, and visits to famous landmarks like Maya Bay and Viking Cave.
• Delicious buffet lunch with vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, and gluten-free options, plus fresh seasonal fruits.
• All equipment included for snorkeling, plus beach towels and waterproof phone cases—no need to bring your own gear.
• Hassle-free pickup and drop-off make logistics easier, especially if you’re staying outside the immediate area.
• Highly praised guides like Sunny, P., and Goodie are known for their friendliness, humor, and safety-first approach, creating a memorable experience.

The Itinerary in Depth

Start at Royal Phuket Marina—this is where your day kicks off. You’ll enjoy a short safety briefing and light refreshments while getting introduced to the trip. The quick check-in process and small group size mean you’re not lost in the crowd, and guides like Sunny and P. are often praised for their professional yet friendly approach. You’ll get your snorkeling gear—mask, fins, and a brand-new snorkel mouthpiece are provided, ensuring comfort and hygiene.

Bamboo Island is your first major stop, where you’ll spend about an hour swimming, snorkeling, or just soaking up the sun on the white sand beaches. This island is part of the marine national park system and is known for its relatively uncrowded, pristine environment. Reviewers highlight how much they enjoyed this stop—some describe it as the perfect photo opportunity, with vibrant coral and tropical fish swimming just off the shore. One guest noted that the water was especially warm, which makes snorkeling even more enjoyable.

Monkey Bay is next, where you’ll get a quick glimpse of playful macaques from the boat. It’s important to note that there’s no land access here, so visitors only see the monkeys from a safe distance. Reviewers appreciated this cautious approach, emphasizing safety as a priority. Watching the monkeys swim and jump around in their natural habitat adds a fun twist to the trip, even if you’re not allowed to get close.

Seaside Lunch at Phi Phi Holiday Resort offers a generous buffet with a mix of Thai and international dishes. Vegetarian and special dietary options are available, which many reviewers appreciated, especially those with dietary restrictions. The view from the resort is a highlight, offering a relaxing backdrop after a busy morning exploring. The lunch is served about an hour—enough time for a leisurely meal and some downtime.

Pilea Bay—arguably the tour’s favorite spot—features emerald-green waters surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. Guests can swim, snorkel, or simply enjoy the scenery from the boat. The lagoon’s tranquil waters and dramatic cliffs make for endless photo opportunities. Reviewers mention feeling like they’ve stepped into a postcard, with some describing it as a peaceful, almost surreal experience.

Viking Cave provides a quick stop for sightseeing. The cave is an important site for the island’s swallow birds, whose nests are used in bird’s nest soup. It’s a brief look from the boat, but many guests find it fascinating, especially as part of the broader island-hopping experience.

Maya Bay is the grand finale—famous worldwide thanks to the movie “The Beach.” The pristine white sands and turquoise waters create an iconic setting that truly lives up to its reputation. Guests typically spend about an hour here, soaking in the views, swimming, or taking photos. Many reviewers say it’s a highlight, with one describing Maya Bay as a “magical place to visit.”

Snorkeling and Water Activities

Snorkeling is a core part of this tour, and reviews consistently praise the equipment quality and the abundance of fish. One guest shared how the snorkel stop was the “best part,” with fish eating out of their hand. Since the coral isn’t described as vibrant, it seems the focus is more on the marine life and scenery rather than coral reefs, but the clear waters and variety of tropical fish make up for it.

Beach towels and waterproof phone cases are included, enabling you to relax or capture memories without worry. This thoughtful touch is appreciated by travelers who want to maximize their time in the water or onshore. Be sure to take advantage of the free water, soft drinks, and snacks offered throughout the day—many reviews mention how well the crew kept everyone energized.

The Guides and Crew

Guest reviews highlight the professionalism, friendliness, and humor of crew members like Sunny, Goodie, Ray, and Ong. They’re noted for their attentiveness, safety awareness, and willingness to go the extra mile—like taking photos or explaining the sites in detail. One reviewer said, “Goodie made me feel so comfortable and was so funny,” which sums up the general sentiment. These guides seem committed to creating a fun, safe, and memorable experience.

Group Size and Comfort

With a cap of 20 people, this tour avoids the crowded chaos often associated with island-hopping trips. The boats are reported to have enough space for everyone, even during peak times, and the small group size enhances the feeling of exclusivity. Some reviews note that larger tours can feel cramped, but this one maintains a relaxed vibe. Even with slight variations in group size (some guests mentioned 28 instead of 20), the overall experience remained positive.

Transportation and Logistics

Hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off are included, which is a major plus for travelers staying outside the immediate Patong area. The transfer buses are air-conditioned and punctual, helping set the tone for a smooth day. The check-in process is generally well-organized, with many travelers praising the efficiency of the marina facilities.

Cost and Value

At $99.15 per person, the tour offers significant value considering the inclusiveness—meals, snorkeling gear, water, and insurance are all covered. The reviews suggest that the quality of guides, equipment, and overall experience justifies the price. Guests feel they received a premium experience without overpaying, especially compared to larger, more crowded alternatives.

This Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands tour is a fantastic option for travelers seeking a small-group, well-organized day of island hopping. It balances adventure with comfort, providing ample opportunities for snorkeling, relaxing on stunning beaches, and seeing iconic sights like Maya Bay and Viking Cave. The guides are consistently praised for their friendliness, safety focus, and local knowledge, making it easier for you to relax and enjoy the scenery.

The included buffet lunch, snorkeling gear, and thoughtful touches like waterproof cases add to the overall value. While weather can influence the day’s experience, the flexible cancellation policy — offering full refunds if canceled due to poor weather — provides peace of mind.

This trip is best suited for those wanting a more personal, less crowded experience, whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as part of a small group. If you prefer a smooth, well-paced day with knowledgeable guides and plenty of water activities, this is an excellent choice.

What is the maximum group size for this tour?
The tour is limited to 20 participants, making it a more intimate and relaxed experience compared to larger group options.

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, hassle-free pickup and drop-off are included, with transport scheduled to suit most hotel locations around Phuket.

What gear is provided for snorkeling?
Snorkeling equipment, including life jackets, masks, snorkels, and fins, are all supplied. New snorkel mouthpieces are used for hygiene and comfort.

Is vegetarian or special dietary food available?
Yes, the buffet lunch at Bamboo Island and Phi Phi Holiday Resort can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, gluten-free, and other dietary restrictions if requested in advance.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the trip. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the tour in total?
Expect around 9 hours and 30 minutes, including travel time, sightseeing, snorkeling, and lunch.

What are the main sights visited on the tour?
Highlights include Bamboo Island, Monkey Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, Maya Bay, and the famous spots for snorkeling and swimming.

Are there any age or health restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour is weather-dependent, and guests should be comfortable with boat rides and outdoor water activities.

This carefully curated small-group tour offers a fantastic way to see the Phi Phi Islands with fewer crowds and more personalized service. Whether you’re snapping photos at Maya Bay, snorkelling among tropical fish, or relaxing on Bamboo Island, it’s a day packed with picture-perfect moments and authentic Thai hospitality.