From Phi Phi: Full Day Longtail Tour Maya Bay & Snorkeling

Experience the Full Day Longtail Tour of Maya Bay & Snorkeling from Phi Phi

If you’re looking for a comprehensive day on the water around Koh Phi Phi, this full-day longtail boat tour offers a satisfying mix of iconic sights and snorkeling adventures. Departing at 10:30 AM from the local McDonald’s in Tonsai Bay, this 8-hour journey ($36 per person) explores some of the most photographed and beautiful spots in the area—from Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach,” to snorkeling at Shark Point, and relaxing on Bamboo Island’s white sands.

What we appreciate most about this tour is the opportunity to see multiple highlights in one day—without feeling rushed—and the chance to snorkel in vibrant reefs alongside graceful marine creatures. Also, the small group limit of 15 people makes it more intimate, allowing for personalized tips from guides and easier socializing.

A potential consideration is the weather dependency—tours run rain or shine, but rough seas or storms can lead to delays or cancellations. If you’re prone to seasickness or dislike being outdoors in unpredictable weather, this might be worth keeping in mind.

This tour suits travelers who love stunning landscapes, cultural insights, and snorkeling, especially those who want a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure. It’s especially ideal for those who don’t mind a full day on the water and are eager to explore multiple destinations with a knowledgeable guide.

Key Points

All-in-one experience visiting Maya Bay, snorkeling spots, and Bamboo Island.
Small group size enhances comfort and personalized attention.
Includes snorkeling gear, water, fruit, and lunch, providing good value.
Weather can impact the schedule, so flexibility helps.
National Park fee of 400 THB is payable in cash, covering access to multiple sites.
Ideal for those seeking a balanced mix of sightseeing, beach time, and marine life encounters.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Diving Into the Details: What to Expect on this Longtail Tour

This tour is designed to pack as much enjoyment into a single day as possible, making it perfect for travelers eager to maximize their time in Koh Phi Phi. Let’s break down each part of the itinerary and what you’ll likely experience.

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Starting Point: The Meeting at McDonald’s in Tonsai Bay

Your adventure begins in front of McDonald’s, a familiar landmark that keeps logistics straightforward. Make sure to arrive about 20 minutes early to meet your guide, who will brief you on the day ahead. This meeting point is specifically in Koh Phi Phi, not in Krabi or Ao Nang, so plan your transport accordingly.

Monkey Beach: Encounter Playful Monkeys & Coastal Views

The first stop is Monkey Beach, where you can observe the monkeys in their natural habitat. While the main attraction here is the playful animals, you’ll also get a glimpse of the rugged coastline. This is a good warm-up for your day on the water, though some may find the monkeys a bit cheeky—best to keep valuables out of reach!

Viking Cave: A Peek into Local Legends & Snorkeling

Next, you’ll visit Viking Cave, one of the most historic and visually distinctive spots in the area. Though only a brief stop, it offers a chance to learn about the local legends and see ancient cave paintings. Snorkeling here can be rewarding, with underwater caves and colourful marine life likely to delight underwater enthusiasts.

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Pileh Lagoon: Crystal-clear Waters & Swimming

One of the tour’s highlights is the Pileh Lagoon, a tranquil haven with turquoise waters and impressive cliffs. Expect to swim and snorkel in calm, pristine waters—perfect for cooling off and spotting marine creatures. We loved the way this spot offers both serenity and vibrant underwater scenery.

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Loh Samah Bay: A Tranquil Snorkel Stop

Loh Samah Bay is another excellent snorkeling location, where coral reefs thrive just beneath the surface. The bay’s peacefulness invites you to glide over the reefs and observe vibrant fish and coral formations. Guides are usually attentive, ensuring safe and enjoyable snorkeling.

Maya Bay: The Iconic Film Location

Of course, no trip would be complete without a visit to Maya Bay. This stunning cove, with its towering cliffs and crystal waters, truly lives up to its fame. You’ll have time to walk along the soft, white sand and take photos—though be mindful of the entry fee of 400 THB for the national park, payable in cash. Some reviews mention that the bay was crowded in the past, but with a small group, you’ll have more space to enjoy the scenery.

Shark Point: Snorkeling with Graceful Reef Sharks

At Shark Point, snorkelers can see blacktip reef sharks in their natural environment. Guides emphasize safety and help you spot these elegant creatures without disturbance. This stop is often described as thrilling—an authentic encounter with marine life that adds a sense of adventure.

Bamboo Island: Relaxation on Powdery Sands

A favorite for many travelers, Bamboo Island offers a white sandy beach and clear waters perfect for swimming, lounging, or beachcombing. You’ll have some free time here to soak up the sun, wade in the shallow waters, or simply relax with views that are postcard-perfect. Many reviews mention how idyllic this spot is for unwinding after several active stops.

Sunset over Koh Phi Phi

As the day winds down, the boat makes its way back, offering a scenic ride during sunset. Witnessing the sky change colors over the Andaman Sea provides a fitting end, and you’ll likely want to capture some memorable photos.

Return to Meeting Point

The tour concludes back at the initial meeting spot, around 6 or 7 PM, depending on weather and sea conditions.

Value and Practical Tips

This tour is priced at just $36, which covers a lot—snorkeling gear, water, fruits, and a packed lunch. Considering the number of locations visited and the personalized attention from guides, it offers good value for those eager to explore multiple sites with minimal hassle.

The small group size of 15 means you’ll get more tailored guidance and less jostling, making it more comfortable for everyone. Guides are generally attentive and seem well-informed, providing cultural insights and helpful tips for snorkeling and beach activities.

One important aspect to note is the national park fee of 400 THB, payable in cash on site. While it’s an extra expense, it grants access to multiple protected areas, supporting conservation efforts.

The tour operates rain or shine, which can be a double-edged sword. Some travelers, like Jim, noted that the boat isn’t fully sheltered during bad weather, so prepare for the possibility of getting a little wet, especially during rain showers. Packing a waterproof bag or rain jacket can make a difference.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy beautiful coastlines and snorkeling, this tour is a great fit. It’s perfect for those who want to see multiple highlights in one day without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple bookings. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate small groups and personalized attention.

However, if you’re sensitive to weather or prefer a more relaxed, less active day, you might want to plan accordingly. It’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or who dislike being on boats for extended periods.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This full-day longtail tour around Koh Phi Phi offers a well-rounded experience—glorious scenery, interesting cultural stops, and lively snorkeling experiences. The small group size and knowledgeable guides significantly enhance the quality of the outing, making it more than just a typical boat ride.

You’ll love the picture-perfect beaches and vibrant marine life, and the opportunity to visit famous sites like Maya Bay with fewer crowds. The ability to snorkel alongside sharks and explore quiet lagoons makes this tour memorable.

At a reasonable price point, especially considering the included gear and lunch, it’s a good option for adventure-minded travelers or those wanting to maximize their time exploring Koh Phi Phi’s natural beauty.

Just remember to bring essentials like sunscreen, water shoes, and cash for the park fee. Weather can be unpredictable, but with flexible plans, you’re likely to enjoy an exciting, scenic day on the water.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While it’s family-friendly, young children or babies might find the boat ride long or the snorkeling challenging. Check with the provider if you have very young kids.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, water shoes, and cash for the park fee. A waterproof bag is also helpful.

Will I get wet during the tour?
Yes, especially in bad weather. The boat isn’t fully sheltered, so expect some splashes or rain. Packing waterproof gear can help.

Are there any physical restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or people over 243 lbs (110 kg). It also isn’t recommended for babies under 1 year or those over 95 years old.

What is the group size?
Limited to 15 persons, which helps keep the experience more personal and comfortable.

How long is the snorkeling?
Snorkeling stops at Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon, Loh Samah Bay, and Shark Point last roughly 30-45 minutes each, depending on weather and group interest.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours proceed in rain, but if conditions are unsafe, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled. You’ll be notified beforehand if possible.

This longtail boat tour from Phi Phi offers a genuine mix of the stunning scenery, marine encounters, and cultural sights that make Koh Phi Phi such a special destination. Perfect for those eager to explore comfortably in a small group, it promises a memorable day on some of Thailand’s most beautiful waters.