Snorkeling to Phi Phi Islands by Speedboat from Koh Lanta

Experience the Best of Phi Phi Islands by Speedboat from Koh Lanta

This guided day trip by speedboat offers a swift and exciting way to see some of Thailand’s most iconic islands, including Maya Bay and Monkey Beach. With transfers from most Koh Lanta hotels, snorkeling gear included, and a knowledgeable guide, it promises a fun-filled adventure packed with scenic views, marine life encounters, and memorable photo opportunities.

What we particularly like about this tour is the efficiency — it maximizes your time on the water and at key sights without feeling rushed. Plus, the included buffet lunch and drinks help keep everyone fueled for a full day of exploration.

One potential consideration is that the tour can be quite popular, which means crowded spots and some disappointment if expectations about visiting Maya Beach (which has occasional closures) aren’t managed. Still, it’s a great choice for those seeking a lively, guided experience with all logistics taken care of.

Ideal for travelers who want to see the highlights of Phi Phi Islands without the hassle of planning, and who enjoy snorkeling and island scenery, this day trip suits families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Key Points

Efficient Island Hopping: Highlights multiple must-see spots in one day, including Maya Bay and Monkey Beach.
Snorkeling Included: All gear provided, making it easy to jump into the water and spot marine life without extra cost.
Hotel Transfers: Convenient pickups from Koh Lanta hotels save time and effort.
Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides enhance the trip, sharing insights and helping spot marine animals.
All About the Views: Expect stunning scenery, especially at Maya Bay, made famous by The Beach.
Cost Consideration: The tour costs around $62.35 per person, which offers good value given the inclusions and highlights.

A Detailed Look at the Speedboat Phi Phi Tour

The Booking and Arrival

Booking this tour typically requires planning about two weeks in advance — on average, 17 days prior — which speaks to its popularity. The price of roughly $62.35 per person is quite reasonable when you account for hotel transfers, lunch, snorkeling gear, and guided commentary. Many travelers appreciate the convenience of mobile tickets and pickup from various Koh Lanta hotels, which means no need to navigate to a meeting point.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day kicks off early at Ban Sala Dan Pier at 8:00 am, with most tours ending back at the same spot around late afternoon. The group size is capped at 30 travelers, helping keep the atmosphere lively but not overly crowded.

Stop 1: Ko Phi Phi Le (Maya Bay)

Your first stop is Maya Bay, one of the most famous beaches in Thailand thanks to The Beach. The tour guarantees a 2-hour visit here, giving ample time for photos and soaking in the scenery. The bay’s towering cliffs and stunning waters are mesmerizing, but a review from a past guest notes that Maya Beach isn’t always accessible due to closures, meaning you might be taken to a nearby bay instead. This is a common issue, but the guides usually make up for it with other scenic spots.

Stop 2: Ko Phi Phi Lee

Next, your guide offers a quick visit to Ko Phi Phi Lee’s scenic sights, with about an hour to explore or simply enjoy the views. This stop is free of additional charges and provides a relaxed moment amid the island’s natural beauty.

Stop 3: Maya Bay (again or alternative)

A second visit to Maya Bay, or a different nearby bay, allows for swimming, photography, and enjoying the waters. The guide might help you capture that perfect shot of the cliffs and water, although reviews mention that crowds can be intense here, making it hard to find a quiet moment.

Stop 4: Monkey Beach

After a quick 30-minute stop at Monkey Beach, visitors can observe playful monkeys in their natural habitat. Be aware that the review indicates the beach can become crowded, with boats maneuvering in tight spaces, sometimes leading to near-misses with other vessels.

Stop 5: Ko Phi Phi Don & Shark Point

The tour includes about two hours at Ko Phi Phi Don, primarily for snorkeling at Shark Point. You’ll snorkel among coral reefs and hopefully spot the likes of blacktip reef sharks, which adds an extra thrill. The inclusion of snorkeling gear is a real plus, especially for those who don’t want to carry their own equipment.

Stop 6: Blacktip Reef Shark Point

The final stop is a quick 30-minute session at Blacktip Reef Shark Point, where the main attraction is observing the reef sharks in their habitat. Not all reviews mention seeing sharks, but the opportunity is there if conditions are good.

What’s Included & What’s Not

You get hotel pick-up, a buffet lunch, fresh fruit, and drinks, which helps keep everyone energized. The tour supplies life jackets, snorkeling masks, and a guide to point out marine life, adding value and safety. On the downside, the national park fee of 400 THB per adult isn’t included, so you’ll need to budget for that before entry.

The Experience and Atmosphere

The boat ride itself is lively, with a lively group atmosphere and scenic views constantly unfolding. Past guests have enjoyed the guides’ knowledge, though some mention that the experience can be crowded and that certain spots, like Maya Bay, might not always match expectations if it’s closed or busy.

The tour’s timing is well-structured but can be tight, especially during peak season when spots are full. The 7-8 hour duration offers a full day’s worth of adventure, and the inclusion of lunch and drinks helps reduce additional expenses.

Insights from Reviews

One reviewer pointed out that the tour did not visit Maya Beach because it was closed, which highlights the importance of managing expectations. Others appreciated the stunning scenery and clarity of water but noted the crowds, especially at popular spots like Maya Bay and Monkey Beach.

Some guests expressed concerns about safety, citing crowded waters and limited swimming space in some areas. However, guides are generally attentive and helpful, enhancing the safety and enjoyment of the snorkeling.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers wanting an all-in-one day out with minimal hassle — perfect for those eager to tick off the Phi Phi highlights in a single trip. While some reviews mention the crowds and the occasional disappointment in visiting Maya Beach (due to closures), the overall experience offers plenty of photo-worthy moments and marine encounters. It suits families, couples, or solo travelers comfortable with group tours and boat rides.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For around $62.35, this trip offers an accessible way to explore the stunning Phi Phi Islands, especially if you’re looking for convenience and guided insights. The included snorkeling gear, hotel transfers, and buffet lunch make it a straightforward, value-packed option. The scenery alone, from Maya Bay’s iconic cliffs to the colorful coral reefs, justifies the price for many.

However, if your top priority is visiting Maya Beach when it’s open, or avoiding crowds, you might want to consider the timing carefully or look into alternative tours. The popularity of this experience means it’s well-suited to those who don’t mind a lively, sometimes busy atmosphere.

In summary, this tour delivers a solid picture of the Phi Phi Islands with enough time for snorkeling, sightseeing, and photo ops. It’s a good pick for first-timers or travelers who want to maximize their island-hopping adventure without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel transfers are included from most Koh Lanta hotels, making the start of your day seamless.

How long does the tour last?
The trip lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, giving plenty of time to explore, snorkel, and enjoy the scenery.

What spots will I visit?
You’ll see Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, Shark Point, and Blacktip Reef Shark Point, among others, with some stops having free admission.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, all snorkeling masks and life jackets are included, so you don’t need to bring your own.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the national park entry fee of 400 THB per adult must be paid separately at the entrance.

Can children participate?
Child tickets are available for ages 3-11, and most children can join unless they have specific health issues.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to bad conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Overall, this Phi Phi Islands speedboat tour from Koh Lanta offers a full day of lively exploration, stunning scenery, and marine adventure. While crowds and occasional closures are factors to consider, it remains a popular and practical way to experience Thailand’s iconic islands.