Snorkeling Phi Phi Islands Tour From Phi Phi by Speedboat

Snorkeling Phi Phi Islands Tour From Phi Phi by Speedboat: A Full Breakdown

Planning a trip to Thailand’s Phi Phi Islands? If you’re after a fast-paced, well-organized day filled with snorkeling, stunning scenery, and a taste of local wildlife, this tour might just be your best bet. Offered by Oh-Hoo, this nine-and-a-half-hour adventure promises a comprehensive look at the highlights of Phi Phi—without the hassle of slow, crowded boats or overly touristy spots.

One thing I particularly love about this tour is the speedboat itself. It cuts down on transit time, giving you more opportunity to swim, snorkel, and relax at the various stops. Plus, the crew’s reputation for helpfulness and professionalism shines through in reviews, making the day smoother and more enjoyable. However, a potential downside is that crowd levels can sometimes be high, especially at popular sites like Maya Bay, which might be a consideration if you prefer quieter, less congested spots.

This experience would suit travelers who want a full-on, active day exploring the best of Phi Phi, especially those eager to snorkel and take tons of photos. If you’re a wildlife lover or a fan of scenic beaches, this tour hits all the right notes. But if you’d prefer a more relaxed, less crowded experience, some stops might feel hectic or overrun with boats. Still, for the value and variety packed into one day, it’s a solid pick for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering major Phi Phi highlights in one day
• Fast speedboat offers more time for snorkeling and exploring
• Knowledgeable guides and helpful crew enhance the overall experience
• Multiple snorkeling spots including Shark Point, Maya Bay, and lagoons
• Crowded spots possible, so patience and flexibility are key
• Great value for money considering the variety of stops and activities

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Meeting Up and Starting Out

The adventure begins with a simple meet-up at McDonald’s near Tonsai Pier in Krabi, making it easy to incorporate into your travel plans. From there, a speedboat whisks you off, setting the tone for a day that combines comfort with adventure. The group size is capped at around 30 travelers, which helps keep things manageable but still lively.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

This tour boasts a full itinerary that packs in some of the most sought-after sights of Phi Phi. It’s designed to maximize your time on the water and on land, with a mix of popular landmarks and hidden gems. You’ll visit Koh Phi Phi Leh, the limestone mountain island famous for its dramatic landscape, and Maya Bay, known worldwide from The Beach.

Maya Bay, however, isn’t always as tranquil as you’d hope. Recent reviews mention it being “a zoo” due to crowds, but once on the sand, you’ll find a peaceful moment if you’re patient. The white sand and turquoise waters continue to impress despite the congestion. The tour providers are aware of this, and the speedboat allows you to move quickly between sites to avoid long waits.

Next, you’ll experience Pileh Bay, noted for its crystal-clear waters and limestone cliffs. Here, the water is so transparent that you can see the sand and marine life with ease. Many reviewers mention that snorkeling here is a highlight, with sightings of fish and even harmless sharks—a thrill for both first-timers and more experienced snorkelers.

Snorkeling and Wildlife Encounters

A key feature of this tour is its focus on snorkeling at multiple locations. The crew is experienced, and guides like “helpful, professional, and upbeat,” according to reviews, ensuring you get the most out of each snorkel stop. You’ll encounter a variety of marine life, from colorful fish to occasionally sharks—reviewers have even seen sharks at Shark Point, which adds an extra dash of excitement.

Some travelers appreciated the ample snorkeling time—with about 1 hour 40 minutes in total, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore underwater. The water is described as very clear, and the reefs vibrant, making it an ideal setting for photography and fish-spotting.

Wildlife and Landmarks

Beyond marine life, the tour offers chances to see monkeys at Monkey Beach, a popular spot where reviewers have watched them playing or lounging in the trees. The guides are generally praised for their knowledge, and some reviewers specifically mention how safe and professional they felt during the visits.

The Food and Additional Experiences

Lunch is included and is often described as tasty, served on a scenic beach like Bamboo Island, where you can enjoy your meal with a view. Some reviews mention the bioluminescent plankton at the end of the day, a magical natural spectacle that caps off an already memorable trip.

Crowds and Comfort

One consistent theme in reviews is the crowd factor. Maya Bay, in particular, can be crowded, as “the island for Maya Bay is an absolute zoo,” but once you find a quiet spot, the scenery remains breathtaking. The boat itself can get crowded, with some reviewers noting that it was “packed full of people,” which affects comfort levels.

The tour’s speedboat design helps overall, but at popular spots, patience and tolerance for others’ presence are necessary. It’s worth considering if you prefer serene, less busy environments—this tour leans toward the lively, bustling side of island hopping.

The Crew and Guides

Reviews consistently praise the friendly, helpful crew. The captain and staff know their stuff, helping guests recover snorkeling gear and making sure everyone stays safe. One reviewer even mentioned how helpful the crew was when they dropped equipment, emphasizing their commitment to guest experience.

However, not all feedback is perfect. Some found the tour guide to be somewhat rude or difficult to understand, which can slightly mar the experience. Still, these instances seem to be exceptions rather than the rule.

Duration, Price, and Overall Value

The nine-and-a-half-hour tour packs in numerous stops and activities for just $64.89 per person. Considering the number of destinations, snorkeling, and meals included, this is a good value, especially for first-time visitors eager to see as much as possible in one day.

The tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy snorkeling, scenic boat rides, and lively groups. It’s not ideal if you’re seeking a quiet escape or planning to avoid crowds.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This is a fantastic choice for adventurous types who want a full day of exploration without the hassle of planning each stop. If you enjoy snorkeling, love beautiful beaches, and want to see the iconic sights of Phi Phi—this tour ticks all those boxes.

It’s well-suited for travelers who are okay with some crowds and prefer a more energetic, guided experience. Families with children aged 4-10 have also joined, though pregnant women or those with health issues are advised to check with their doctor before booking.

For those who value professional guides, excellent scenery, and marine encounters, this tour delivers plenty of memorable moments. But if your priority is solitude and tranquility, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

This Snorkeling Phi Phi Islands Tour from Phi Phi by Speedboat offers a dynamic, engaging way to see the highlights of one of Thailand’s most famous archipelagos. By combining speed and efficiency with knowledgeable crew and multiple snorkeling opportunities, it offers a great value for those eager to maximize their day.

While the crowd factor can be a concern, the overall experience is highly praised for its scenic beauty, diverse marine life, and professional guides. It’s perfect for travelers who want a full-on adventure with plenty of photo-worthy moments, from playful monkeys to shark sightings.

If you’re after an active, well-organized day exploring the best of Phi Phi, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to bring your patience for the crowds and your sense of adventure for underwater surprises.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 4-10 can join, but parents should consider their child’s comfort with boat rides and snorkeling.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes, including travel time, snorkeling, and meals.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at McDonald’s near Tonsai Pier in Krabi and ends back at the same meeting point.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers boat transportation, snorkeling gear, and lunch. The tour is mobile ticketed for convenience.

Is there a minimum number of travelers?
Yes, a minimum number of participants is required for the tour to proceed, but the maximum group size is 30.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, waterproof camera, and a light snack if desired. Bilingual guides are available, but understanding might vary.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Are there any health restrictions?
Pregnant women, and travelers with high blood pressure, heart disease, or bone issues, are not recommended to join.

What if the weather turns bad?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Will I see Maya Bay?
Yes, unless it’s closed, which can happen unexpectedly. Recent reviews note Maya Bay can be crowded and sometimes inaccessible, but the other stops are equally stunning.

This tour offers an energetic, scenic, and varied day out in the Phi Phi Islands, making it a solid choice for those looking to pack in as much as possible—without sacrificing the beauty and wildlife that make these islands so special.