Sunrise Premium Tour to Phi Phi Island by Speed Boat

Sunrise Premium Tour to Phi Phi Island by Speed Boat: A Detailed Look

This Sunrise Premium Tour to Phi Phi Island by Speed Boat offers a full-day adventure that promises to beat the crowds, thanks to an early morning departure. It’s designed for travelers eager to explore the iconic Phi Phi Islands with minimal fuss — complete with guided snorkeling, scenic viewpoints, and included meals. While the tour boasts a lot of value, some might find the early start and the pace a little intense.

What we appreciate most about this experience is how it combines convenience and a well-rounded itinerary — from the moment you’re picked up from southern Phuket to the moment you return in the late afternoon. The package covers all the essentials: guided snorkeling, park fees, meals, and transportation, giving you a hassle-free day out. However, potential travelers should note that the reviews indicate some areas for improvement, particularly regarding timing and meal arrangements.

This tour is particularly suited to those who want to see the Phi Phi Islands quickly and efficiently, especially if beating the crowds is a priority. It’s ideal for travelers with a limited timetable who want a guided, all-inclusive day out with plenty of highlights.

Key Points

• Early departure allows you to beat the crowds to Phi Phi Islands and enjoy a quieter experience.
• All-inclusive package with guide, snorkeling gear, park fees, meals, and transfers offers great value.
• Hassle-free pickup and drop-off from southern Phuket simplifies logistics.
• Time at each stop is generally well-balanced, giving you a taste of the islands’ highlights.
• Criticism regarding breakfast suggests it might be underwhelming, so consider bringing snacks if you’re hungry.
• This tour is suitable for most travelers, but those sensitive to early mornings may want to plan accordingly.

The Experience: A Deep Dive into the Tour

Starting Early from Royal Phuket Marina

The day kicks off sharply at 5:00 am with pickup from a variety of locations across southern Phuket. The early start is a key feature, designed to give you a head start on the crowds and maximize your time on the islands. You’ll check in at Royal Phuket Marina, where you can expect a quick breakfast and some pre-boarding nerves. From what we’ve read, the breakfast here is average — a point some reviewers, like James D., pointed out — but it gets the job done before the main event.

Chasing the Sunrise and Setting Off by Speedboat

The ride to Phi Phi Le is approximately one hour, with the high-powered speedboat offering the thrill of zipping across the water. The speed enhances the adventure and reduces travel time, meaning you’ll spend less time sitting and more time exploring. This ride is generally smooth, and the guide, Dee, was praised for her professionalism and knowledge.

First Stop: Ko Phi Phi Le

Arrival at Ko Phi Phi Le is timed perfectly to avoid the larger crowds that flock later in the day. You’ll get about two hours here, with key stops like Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, and Viking Cave. Maya Bay, now open again, is the star of the show, with its iconic cliffs and clear waters. The early arrival means fewer travelers around, which is a huge plus for those wanting that Insta-worthy shot without a crowd.

However, some reviews caution that the time here is somewhat limited, especially if you want to swim, snorkel, or take photos. It’s a quick glimpse but enough to appreciate the stunning landscape.

Lunch on Phi Phi Don

Next, the group heads to Phi Phi Don for about two hours. Here, the package includes a buffet lunch at a beachfront restaurant, which is a highlight for many. The meal offers a decent variety of local and Western options, served in a relaxed setting. It’s a good chance to recharge and enjoy the view.

Reviewers like James D. mentioned that the lunch was served on Bamboo Island rather than at the restaurant as advertised, which might cause some confusion but doesn’t usually impact the overall experience. The fact that the lunch is included adds significant value, especially considering the cost of similar tours.

Visiting the Viewpoint

After lunch, you’ll visit Phi Phi Viewpoint. This short walk uphill offers panoramic views over the islands — a real highlight. Expect to spend around an hour here, enough time to snap photos and take in the scenery. It’s a popular spot, so arriving early helps avoid the busier afternoon crowds.

Snorkeling at Bamboo Island

The last major stop is Bamboo Island for about an hour. Here, you’ll get the chance to snorkel in calm, shallow waters filled with colorful fish and coral. The snorkeling gear is provided, making it easy to jump in right away. This is generally rated as a relaxing, fun part of the tour with vibrant marine life.

Returning to Phuket

The tour wraps up with a roughly 20-minute boat ride back to Royal Phuket Marina, arriving around 3-4 pm. This timing allows for a full day out, with a little time to relax afterward.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour package covers everything you need for a smooth experience: national park fees, a professional guide, buffet lunch, snorkeling equipment, soft drinks, and bottled water. This all-in-one approach means no hidden costs or last-minute expenses, which often makes tours like this attractive.

The group size is capped at 30 travelers, making it a comfortable, manageable experience rather than a crowded bus. The availability of a vegetarian meal option is a considerate touch, catering to dietary preferences.

Transportation and Logistics

Hassle-free pickups from various locations across southern Phuket are included, saving you the trouble of arranging transport. The speedboat ride is quick and exhilarating, with the benefit of avoiding long boat trips on larger vessels.

The Downside: Timing and Breakfast

While the early start is a big plus for beating crowds, it’s also the main downside for some. As James D. noted, “too much time spent at the marina having an average breakfast before setting off” can feel a bit slow and unexciting. If you’re not a morning person or dislike rushed mornings, this could be a concern.

On top of that, the limited time at each stop might feel rushed for travelers wanting to linger longer at each location. Some, like James, felt that the advertised buffet lunch was not served at the promised restaurant but on Bamboo Island, which could affect expectations.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

The guide, Dee, was consistently praised for her professionalism and knowledge, making the trip more enjoyable. This highlights the importance of a good guide in transforming a standard tour into a memorable experience.

One traveler mentioned that despite the early start, the tour provided “a quick glimpse of the islands’ highlights,” which is perfect for those short on time. Others appreciated the transparency about what’s included, especially park fees and snorkeling gear, making it easier to budget.

The main critique revolves around the breakfast and the limited time at key locations. If you’re someone who prefers a leisurely pace or more time at each stop, this might not be the ideal tour for you.

Final Thoughts

This Sunrise Premium Tour to Phi Phi Island by Speed Boat offers a fast-paced, all-inclusive day that’s perfect for travelers eager to see the highlights of the Phi Phi Islands with minimal fuss. The early start, guided snorkeling, and included meals make it a solid value, especially if you prioritize efficiency.

However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed experience with extensive time at each site, or if you’re sensitive to early mornings, you might want to consider other options. The tour’s success hinges on your desire to beat the crowds and enjoy a guided, well-organized day.

This tour is best suited to energetic travelers who want to maximize their island time without worrying about logistics or extra costs. It’s a good choice for those wanting a snapshot of the Phi Phi Islands with the convenience of all-inclusive service.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 5:00 am with pickup from various southern Phuket locations, making for an early but rewarding start.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is included, served at a beachfront restaurant or on Bamboo Island, depending on the day. Vegetarian options are available if requested in advance.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride from Phuket to Phi Phi Le takes about one hour, providing a swift and exciting start to the day.

What stops are included in the tour?
The key stops are Ko Phi Phi Le (Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, Viking Cave), Phi Phi Don (lunch and town visit), Phi Phi Viewpoint, and Bamboo Island for snorkeling.

Are snorkeling gear and park fees included?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided and included in the price, along with national park fees.

Can I cancel this tour for a refund?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. Cancellations within 24 hours are not. Weather cancellations are fully refunded or rescheduled.

To sum it up, this tour offers a practical, guided way to experience the Phi Phi Islands efficiently—ideal for travelers who value convenience and a structured itinerary over leisurely exploration. While the early start and some timing issues are considerations, the overall experience provides a solid value for those eager to see the highlights with all logistics handled.