Travstore Phi Phi Cruise by Big Boat – Lunch Included, Full Day Tour

Visiting Phuket’s famous Phi Phi Islands is often a top priority for travelers exploring Thailand. This particular tour, offered by Travstore, promises a full day of sightseeing, relaxation, and a taste of the island’s iconic spots—without breaking the bank. With a price of just $20, it seems like a budget-friendly way to tick off the must-see locations like Maya Bay and Monkey Beach.

What we like about this tour is that it simplifies the process by including round-trip transfers, a licensed guide, and a lunch. Plus, the itinerary covers some of the most photographed points in the area, which makes it an attractive choice for those wanting a quick overview. However, there are some potential drawbacks, such as the cramped boat conditions and some disappointing service experiences reported by past travelers. This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a straightforward, affordable day trip and don’t mind a bit of hustle and bustle.

Key Points

• Affordable Price Point: At $20, this tour offers a budget-friendly way to visit key Phi Phi sights.
• Convenient Pickups: Includes hotel pickup from popular areas like Patong, Kata, and Karon.
• Major Highlights Covered: Maya Bay, Loh Samah Bay, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach.
• Limitations in Comfort and Service: Some travelers report cramped conditions and unclean boat cabins.
• Flexible Activities: Spend a few hours relaxing or swimming on Phi Phi Island, with optional snorkeling at Coral Bay at an extra cost.
• Mixed Reviews on Experience Quality: While views are stunning, service and comfort levels vary notably.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Rassada Pier, Early Morning Pickup

Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel in Phuket—an aspect many travelers appreciate, as it saves the hassle of finding the meeting point. The journey starts early around 7:30 am, and you’re transported to Rassada Pier, where snacks and restroom facilities are available. This initial 30-minute stop is straightforward, although some reviews have hinted at a less-than-clean environment at the pier, which can be off-putting if you’re expecting a pristine start.

Cruising Along the Iconic Coastline

Once on board the Big Boat, the cruise kicks off with stunning views of Maya Bay, the famous filming location of “The Beach.” From the boat, you’ll also see Loh Samah Bay and the Viking Cave. These spots are visually impressive, and many visitors enjoy the chance to snap photos from the deck while listening to the guide’s commentary.

However, some reviews mention that the boat design and layout are less than ideal—particularly for those sitting in the economy class at the bottom tiers. A reviewer described the boat as having “very small windows” and a cabin that resembled a “cattle pen” due to its uncleanliness and the presence of sweeping brooms. This might be a concern if comfort is a priority.

Monkey Beach and Optional Longtail Boat Tour

At around the halfway point, the boat reaches Phi Phi Island’s Ao Ton Sai Pier. Here, you get about 3-4 hours to relax, explore, or have lunch. Many travelers find this period ideal for swimming or sunbathing on the white sandy beach. If you’re more adventurous, you can pay extra (THB 400) for a boat trip to Coral Bay, which includes snorkeling and swimming, adding an active element to your day.

A unique aspect is the opportunity to see the monkeys at the cliffs and even feed them bananas if you’re on a separate longtail boat tour—something some guests found charming and memorable. One reviewer noted that they enjoyed the chance to observe the monkeys up close, adding a personal touch to the sightseeing.

Lunch and Free Time on Phi Phi Don

Lunch is included in the tour, generally served at a local restaurant. Past reviews indicate confusion here—some expected Indian cuisine but received a Thai set lunch instead, with no prior warning. This mismatch disappointed some travelers, highlighting the importance of clarifying meal details beforehand if food preferences are crucial for your trip.

The remaining time can be spent swimming, relaxing, or exploring the island’s shops and viewpoints. Remember, the overall experience here is somewhat dependent on the weather and crowds, as Phi Phi Island can get quite busy.

The Good, The Bad, and The Reality

What Travelers Love:
Many appreciate the stunning views from the boat and the chance to visit iconic spots like Maya Bay and Monkey Beach. Guides, when attentive, can enhance the experience with knowledgeable commentary, making the trip more engaging. The inclusion of lunch and round-trip transfers offers convenience and value for the price.

The Downsides:
Some travelers, however, report uncomfortable boat conditions, with descriptions of small, unclean cabins and limited space, especially in economy seating. One review succinctly called the boat a “cattle cabin,” which might be a dealbreaker for those sensitive to comfort. Plus, the tour’s timing and organization sometimes leave guests feeling rushed or unfulfilled, particularly if they were expecting a more personalized experience.

Service and Communication:
Confusion about lunch options—expecting Indian cuisine but receiving Thai—was noted by some guests, with no prior notice. This highlights that the tour might not be ideal if you’re particular about food. Also, the optional snorkel trip at Coral Bay is an extra expense, and not included in the base price, which is worth considering if snorkeling is a priority.

Authentic Experiences:
One reviewer mentioned the thrill of seeing monkeys up close, which adds a layer of authenticity beyond the usual sightseeing. The guide’s role in pointing out distant caves and bays can expand your understanding of the landscape, even if the overall comfort is lacking.

Practical Aspects and What to Expect

Duration and Timing:
With an entire day stretching from around 7:30 am to late afternoon, it’s a full-on experience. The tour lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, including pickups, boat rides, and free time on the island. Be prepared for a long day under the sun, especially if you plan to swim or snorkel.

Group Size & Atmosphere:
The tour limits groups to about 25 travelers, which helps prevent overcrowding. However, during peak season, crowds on Maya Bay and the beaches can still be overwhelming, so patience is key.

Transport & Comfort:
Round-trip transfers are included but are only from key areas like Patong, Kata, and Karon. If you’re staying far from these zones, expect additional costs or arrangements. The boat ride itself is the main point of contention—if you prioritize comfort, this might not be your ideal choice, but if you’re adventurous and want a budget option, it could suffice.

Cost and Value:
At $20, this tour is certainly on the low end in price, which makes it accessible. Keep in mind, snorkeling at Coral Bay and other extras cost more, so factor that into your overall budget. For the price, the experience provides decent value, mainly if your priority is the sights rather than luxury.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is best suited for budget travelers or those who want a simple, no-frills day of sightseeing without the need for luxury. If you’re looking for a quick overview of Phi Phi’s key spots and are okay with some discomfort, this tour can be a practical choice.

It’s less ideal for travelers who value comfort, personalized service, or are particular about food arrangements. The experience is also suited for those willing to accept some logistical limitations, like crowded beaches or a basic boat environment.

Final Thoughts

The Travstore Phi Phi Cruise by Big Boat offers a straightforward way to see the famed island highlights without a hefty price tag. You’ll get to marvel at Maya Bay’s beauty, see vibrant cliffs and caves, and potentially spot monkeys up close—all with the convenience of hotel pickup and included lunch.

That said, the experience isn’t without its flaws. Some travelers have found the boat conditions uncomfortable, and service quality can be inconsistent. The lunch, while included, may not meet everyone’s expectations, especially if you were hoping for a specific cuisine.

If your main goal is to tick off the major sights and you’re on a budget, this tour provides a decent, if somewhat basic, way to enjoy Phi Phi. However, if comfort and a tailored experience matter more, you might want to explore other options or private tours.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickups are included from Patong, Kata, and Karon areas. Hotels outside these zones may incur extra costs or need to meet at an alternative location.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes round-trip transfer, an English-speaking licensed guide, life jackets, and lunch.

Can I snorkel at Coral Bay?
Yes, snorkeling at Coral Bay is available for an additional fee of THB 400 and involves a 1.5-hour trip separate from the main tour.

How long do we stay on Phi Phi Island?
You’ll have around 3-4 hours to relax, swim, or explore the island after arrival.

What are the main attractions seen on the cruise?
Expect to see Maya Bay, Loh Samah Bay, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach from the boat, with the chance to see monkeys in their natural habitat.

What should I know about the boat conditions?
Some reviews mention cramped, unclean cabins and limited sea views from certain tiers. If comfort is important, this might not be the best choice.

In summary, this tour offers a low-cost, convenient way to experience the highlights of Phi Phi Island, especially if you’re eager to see Maya Bay and enjoy some beach time. Just be prepared for the basics, and don’t expect a luxury cruise. It’s best suited for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize sightseeing over comfort and are happy to accept some logistical quirks along the way.