Ko Lanta: Maya Bay & Phi Phi Islands Full-Day Speedboat Trip

Exploring Phi Phi Islands from Koh Lanta: A Practical Guide to the Maya Bay & Speedboat Adventure

If you’re in Koh Lanta and craving a full-day escape that mixes stunning scenery, snorkeling, and island hopping, the Maya Bay & Phi Phi Islands Full-Day Speedboat Trip might be just what you’re looking for. For around $65 per person, this tour promises a day full of picture-perfect moments and lively marine encounters. It’s operated by Oh-Hoo and generally includes hotel pickup, lunch, snorkeling gear, and a guide, making it a convenient way to see some of Thailand’s most celebrated islands.

What I love about this experience is how it combines iconic sights like Maya Bay—famous from the movie “The Beach”—with the chance to snorkel in vibrant reefs and relax on quiet beaches like Bamboo Island. Plus, the chance to see Monkey Island’s playful residents adds a bit of wildlife fun. On the flip side, a potential downside is that weather can sometimes affect the day’s schedule, with some reviews mentioning delays or missed stops. Still, if you’re looking for a well-organized, memorable day on the water, this tour is worth considering, especially if you enjoy active, sightseeing-packed excursions.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want to see multiple islands in one day, enjoy snorkeling, and aren’t expecting a perfectly smooth weather day. It’s also good for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and good food, as many reviews highlight these points. Just keep in mind that certain attractions, like Maya Bay, may have limited access on some days, so flexibility is key.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Iconic Locations: Visit Maya Bay, Bamboo Island, Monkey Island, and Pileh Bay.
• Snorkeling: Vibrant reefs at Bamboo Island and Shark Point give you a chance to see diverse marine life.
• Wildlife & Nature: Monkey Island offers a fun look at playful monkeys in their natural habitat.
• Food & Comfort: A buffet lunch with local flavors and provided water and fruit help fuel your day.
• Weather Considerations: Tours can be affected by weather, leading to delays or route changes.
• Value for Money: For $65, you get a full day of island hopping, snorkeling gear, and transport—generally a good deal.

The Experience in Detail: What to Expect on the Water

Starting from Koh Lanta, your day begins with hotel pickup—an easy way to avoid any hassle. From there, you’ll drive to the dock, where you’ll meet your guide and board your speedboat. The boat is your main mode of transport for the day, giving you that exhilarating feeling of racing across the water with the wind in your hair and scenic views on all sides.

The first stop could be Bamboo Island, a jewel of soft white sand and turquoise waters. Here, you’ll have the chance to snorkel among coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, according to reviews, which highlight the “awesome” snorkeling experience. The island’s calm waters and clear visibility make it ideal for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers.

Next, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch on Bamboo Island itself. Many customers mention the “good food” served in buffet style—though some have noted limited variety or flavors not to their liking. Still, the setting with island views makes the meal a relaxing break before more activities.

After lunch, the tour continues to Monkey Island, home to mischievous monkeys that often play near the shore. Visitors are advised to keep belongings close because the monkeys are quite curious and cheeky. Several reviews praise this portion for its lively wildlife experience, describing the monkeys’ antics as “playful” and entertaining.

The highlight for many is Maya Bay, famously made popular by the film “The Beach.” Access has recently been permitted, allowing visitors to step onto its pristine sands—something that was previously off-limits. While crowds can be an issue, most travelers agree that the scenery lives up to the hype, with some reviewers describing it as “sublime.” From Maya Bay, you can walk along the sand, take photos, and appreciate the towering cliffs surrounding the bay.

In addition, you’ll visit Pileh Bay, a small emerald lagoon enclosed by steep cliffs. Many find this spot to be the “hidden gem” of the trip—quiet, scenic, and perfect for a dip or peaceful photo session. Shark Point is another snorkel stop where marine life tends to be abundant, giving you a good chance to see fish and perhaps even small sharks.

Throughout the day, the guide—often praised for their knowledge and attentiveness—provides commentary, making sure you understand the significance of each stop and helping you make the most of your time. The tour wraps up after a full day of island hopping, swimming, and snorkeling, returning to Koh Lanta in the late afternoon.

How the Tour Is Organized and Its Value

The structure of this tour aims to maximize your time on the water while balancing activities and rest. The speedboat is faster than traditional longtail boats, giving you more time at each destination and less waiting around. The inclusion of snorkeling masks and life jackets ensures everyone can enjoy the underwater world safely.

In terms of value, at $65, this tour offers quite a bit—transport, lunch, snorkeling gear, and guided commentary—making it a practical choice for travelers looking to cover a lot of ground without multiple bookings. However, the national park fee of 400 THB per adult (about $12) and 200 THB per child is not included, so be prepared for that expense if you want full access to Maya Bay and other protected areas.

Some reviews reveal that weather can interfere with the plan. One reviewer noted, “We had some unexpected events due to the weather changes and we were unable to see part of what was planned,” which underscores the importance of flexibility. Rain or rough seas can cause delays or route modifications, sometimes leaving out stops like Monkey Island.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides as a major plus, with one commenter praising the “attentive and knowledgeable team.” Many travelers loved the stunning views and the delicious buffet lunch, which they found added to the overall enjoyment of the day.

However, not all experiences were flawless. One traveler described a “disappointing” day where the crew seemed unmotivated, and the route was altered, missing Monkey Island altogether. This reminder that day trips can sometimes be unpredictable—especially with weather and group dynamics.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re eager to see famous film locations like Maya Bay, snorkel at lively reefs, and enjoy a full day of island scenery, this trip fits the bill. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate organized tours with guides and don’t mind a fast-paced day. It’s also ideal if you want a competitive price for a comprehensive experience.

But, if you’re seeking a more relaxed or private experience, or if you’re sensitive to weather disruptions, you might want to consider alternative options. Also, if you prefer exploring at your own pace or avoiding large crowds, some stops—like Maya Bay—may feel crowded at peak times.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

In essence, this full-day speedboat trip from Koh Lanta to the Phi Phi Islands offers a great balance of iconic sights, snorkeling, wildlife, and local flavors. For $65, you’re getting a full day packed with activity, comfortable transportation, and a guide to help interpret the scenery.

The chance to visit Maya Bay and walk on its sands—something previously restricted—is a highlight that many travelers will cherish. The snorkeling at Bamboo Island and Shark Point provides a fun, visual feast of marine fish and coral. The wildlife on Monkey Island adds a playful element that surprises many visitors.

The main caveat is the weather, which can sometimes limit what you see or cause delays. But if you’re flexible and eager to explore the stunning waters and islands around Koh Lanta, this tour delivers good value and memorable moments.

To sum it up, this trip is perfect for active travelers who want to see the most photogenic and popular spots of the Phi Phi Islands in one well-organized day. It suits those who are comfortable with group tours, enjoy snorkeling, and are excited by the idea of island hopping on a speedboat. Just remember: weather can be unpredictable, so go with an open mind and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a speedboat ride, a guide, lunch, fruit, water, life jackets, and snorkeling masks.

What is not included?
The national park fee of 400 THB per adult and 200 THB per child is not included.

How long is the tour?
It’s a full-day tour, starting from Koh Lanta and returning in the late afternoon.

Can I snorkel at all the stops?
Snorkeling is available at Bamboo Island and Shark Point, with snorkeling gear provided.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for children, but the national park fee applies, and keep in mind the tour’s pace.

What if the weather is bad?
The activity provider states that if the tour is canceled due to weather, you will be informed in advance and offered alternative options.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, heart issues, or high blood pressure.

How much does the national park fee cost?
400 THB per adult and 200 THB per child, payable separately.

Can I book the tour and pay later?
Yes, reservations are flexible—book now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if I want a more private experience?
This tour is designed for groups and popular spots; for a more personalized trip, consider alternative options or private charters.

In summary, the Ko Lanta: Maya Bay & Phi Phi Islands Full-Day Speedboat Trip offers an energetic, scenic, and well-organized way to sample Thailand’s famed island scenery and marine life. It caters well to those craving an active, fun-filled day with plenty of photo opportunities and snorkeling—just keep in mind the weather and crowds can influence your experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: