Ko Phi Phi Don: Speedboat Day Trip with Shark Snorkeling

Ko Phi Phi Don: Speedboat Day Trip with Shark Snorkeling is a lively adventure that takes you around some of Thailand’s most famous islands and beaches. For $46 per person, this 5-hour tour from Krabi Province combines speed, snorkeling, wildlife viewing, and stunning scenery, with a knowledgeable guide ensuring you get the most out of your day.

Two aspects we really appreciated are the chance to see sharks and turtles in their natural habitat — not just in an aquarium — and the opportunity to swim under the glow of bioluminescent plankton after dark. These add a memorable, almost otherworldly touch to an already beautiful experience.

A possible consideration is the crowds at popular spots like Maya Bay, which can diminish the feeling of solitude. Also, Maya Beach is closed from August to September, so if visiting during those months, you won’t be able to set foot on the beach itself, only admire it from the boat.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy marine life, scenic island-hopping, and a mix of relaxation and adventure. It’s especially good for those who want a comprehensive experience without spending all day on the water, and who value a guide who’s both informative and fun.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Visits to Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon, Maya Bay, and more.
• Snorkeling with sharks and turtles: Unique chance to observe marine wildlife in their natural environment.
• Time-efficient: Cover multiple spots in just 5 hours, ideal for a day tour.
• Inclusive gear and snacks: Snorkel masks, life jackets, fruits, and soft drinks are provided.
• Flexible experience: Tour operates rain or shine, with a focus on safety and enjoyment.
• Bioluminescent plankton: A magical swim in the dark that many reviews highlight as unforgettable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Speedboat Day Trip

If you’re heading to Phi Phi Islands and want a quick yet fulfilling taste of its most famous sites, this tour offers an excellent way to do it. Starting from the meeting point at McDonald’s on Phi Phi Island (a familiar and easy-to-find location), you’ll hop onto a spacious speedboat that whisks you around the islands. The guide, often praised for being friendly and knowledgeable—like Adam, who gets rave reviews for his laid-back vibe—makes guiding a breeze, balancing fun and detailed explanations.

Expect a fast-paced but well-organized day. The itinerary is packed: from Monkey Beach to Viking Cave, then Pileh Lagoon, Maya Bay, and additional snorkel stops. You’ll get around on the speedboat, which cuts down travel time between spots and allows for more time enjoying each location. The stops are a mixture of sightseeing, relaxing, and snorkeling, with some opportunities to walk on soft sands or snap photos of overlooked vistas.

Visiting Monkey Beach and Monkey Bay

The trip begins with a visit to Monkey Beach, where playful monkeys are often seen hanging around. Reviewers like Hunter praise the guide for pointing out the animals and snapping photos. This stop is relatively relaxed, giving you a chance to observe and photograph the monkeys up close. Keep in mind, though, that some travelers find the monkeys more curious than cute, so it’s good to be cautious with belongings.

Viking Cave and Snorkeling with Sharks

Viking Cave is a highlight, offering a glimpse into the island’s history and the chance to snorkel in clear waters. The cave itself is fascinating, but the real draw is the opportunity to see black tip reef sharks, which are often spotted in the area. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, reviews like that of Abbeer mention seeing several small sharks, making it a memorable part of the day. The snorkeling gear, including masks and life jackets, is provided and generally well-received, though some reviews suggest bringing your own mask if you prefer a perfect fit.

Pileh Lagoon and Maya Bay

Next, you visit Pileh Lagoon, where you can swim in calm, turquoise waters and marvel at the dramatic limestone cliffs surrounding the bay. It’s a favorite among travelers for its striking scenery. Followed by Maya Bay, made famous by the Leonardo DiCaprio film The Beach, this spot can be crowded but still awe-inspiring. You get about an hour here to walk along the soft sands and take photos, with some reviews noting they managed to avoid the worst crowds and enjoyed solo moments on the beach.

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Additional Snorkeling and Wildlife

Later stops include more snorkeling opportunities, where you might see sea turtles and vibrant coral reefs. Juan, in his review, describes seeing a “lot of marine fauna,” including turtles, which is a big plus for snorkelers seeking wildlife sightings. While shark and turtle sightings are not guaranteed, the tour’s focus on spots where these animals are “more likely” to appear makes it worth a try.

Sunset and Bioluminescent Plankton

The tour concludes with a relaxing break to enjoy the sunset, often praised for its breathtaking views. As darkness falls, you’ll have the chance to swim in waters illuminated by bioluminescent plankton, a rare and magical experience highlighted by many travelers like Wayne and Anna. Swimming under a starry sky, with glowing plankton swirling around you, is a natural spectacle that many describe as “incredible” and “almost surreal.”

The Overall Value

At $46, this tour offers a lot: multiple island stops, snorkeling gear, snacks, and guided commentary. Reviewers consistently mention the good value for money, especially considering the variety of spots visited and the chance to see wildlife like sharks and turtles. The inclusion of national park fees and snorkel gear in the price simplifies things and avoids surprise costs.

Some guests suggest that the tour could improve with better snorkel gear—a few masks may leak—yet overall, the equipment is considered sufficient. The length of the tour strikes a good balance; five hours is enough to see multiple highlights while leaving plenty of time for relaxation or exploring on your own afterward.

Practical Tips for the Trip

• Meet at McDonald’s on Phi Phi Island for convenience, though some mention it can be tricky to find so arrive a little early.
• Bring sun protection, like a hat and sunscreen, because you’ll be exposed during boat rides and on beaches.
• Consider bringing your own snorkel mask if you prefer a snug fit or are concerned about gear quality.
• Water and soft drinks are included, but you might want to bring extra if you’re particularly thirsty or hungry.
• During peak season, expect crowds at Maya Bay, but reviews say the tour allows enough time to avoid the worst congestion.
• If visiting between August and September, remember Maya Beach is closed but you can still enjoy the boat tour around it.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a well-rounded day of island-hopping, wildlife encounters, and snorkeling, this trip is a good fit. It’s particularly suitable for those who want to see sharks and turtles in the wild and enjoy stunning scenery without a full day commitment. The friendly guides and manageable group size make it appealing for travelers who prefer a more personal touch.

It’s also ideal for first-time visitors wanting a taste of Phi Phi’s best without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. However, if you’re after secluded beaches or less crowded spots, you might find this tour a bit too busy—especially during peak season.

FAQ

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, you are responsible for getting to the meeting point at McDonald’s on Phi Phi Island, which is straightforward to find.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, depending on conditions and group pace.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a waterproof camera if you have one, and a sense of adventure. Snorkeling gear is provided, but bringing your own mask is optional.

Can I swim with sharks and turtles?
Yes, snorkeling stops are planned at locations where sightings of black tip reef sharks and sea turtles sometimes occur, but sightings are not guaranteed.

Is Maya Bay open during the tour?
From August 1 to September 30, Maya Beach is closed for landings, but you will still cruise around it and see its beauty from the boat.

What’s included in the price?
Speedboat transportation, a guide, national park fees, snorkeling masks, life jackets, fruits, and soft drinks.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, as snorkeling gear and life jackets are provided. If you’re nervous about swimming, let your guide know and they’ll support you.

Are there opportunities for photos?
Absolutely. The stops offer plenty of picturesque scenery, and guides are often praised for helping guests take good shots.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours typically go ahead rain or shine, but severe weather could lead to cancellations or changes. Check the forecast and communicate with your provider if concerned.

This experience offers a well-balanced mix of wildlife, scenery, and fun, backed by positive reviews and a focus on safety and value. Whether you’re a wildlife lover or just want to enjoy some of Thailand’s best island views, it’s a trip that promises memorable moments—especially if you’re eager to see sharks, turtles, and glowing plankton in their element.

You can check availability for your dates here: