Koh Phi Phi: One Day Tour by Longtail Boat with Sunset

Koh Phi Phi: One Day Tour by Longtail Boat with Sunset

Location: Krabi Province, Thailand
Price: $34 per person
Duration: Around 8 hours
Tour Provider: Tropisca Travel

When you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and stunning beaches, this Koh Phi Phi tour hits all those marks. For about $34, you’ll spend roughly 8 hours hopping between some of the most iconic spots in the archipelago, guided by a knowledgeable crew who love sharing their piece of paradise.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its well-curated itinerary—including Maya Bay, famous from “The Beach,” and the tranquil Pi Leh Lagoon—offering both photo-worthy scenery and a chance to relax. Another highlight is the snorkeling at Shark Point, giving you the thrill of seeing blacktip reef sharks in their natural habitat, a rare experience for many travelers.

However, a word of caution: the timing at each stop can sometimes be a bit tight, especially if weather or sea conditions shift unpredictably. And since the tour doesn’t include hotel transfers, you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point at McDonald’s in Tonsai Bay. Still, for those who love a full day of adventure with a good dose of authentic Thai island scenery, this tour offers strong value.

This experience suits travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxing, with the bonus of limited group size (max 15) for a more personalized feel. If you’re a fan of scenic boat rides, stunning beaches, and vibrant marine life, you’ll find this tour quite rewarding.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Highlights like Maya Bay and Pi Leh Lagoon offer picture-perfect views.
• Snorkeling opportunities: Shark Point and other stops provide a chance to see marine life up close.
• Shorter stops with focus: Each location is visited with enough time to explore without feeling rushed.
• Group size: Limited to 15 people for a more intimate experience.
• Value for money: The included gear, lunch, and water make this a straightforward, affordable day.
• Weather considerations: Tours run rain or shine unless conditions are unsafe, so flexibility is key.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Koh Phi Phi Day Tour

If you’re setting your sights on Koh Phi Phi, this tour offers an excellent way to see the island’s highlights without the hassle of planning each stop yourself. Starting from the meeting point at McDonald’s in Tonsai Bay, you’ll hop onto a traditional longtail boat—a quintessential Thai experience—and spend the day exploring some of the most photogenic spots in the area.

The Itinerary: What Do You Actually Do?

Stop 1: Monkey Beach
Your day begins with a visit to Monkey Beach, where you’ll have around 40 minutes to observe the playful primates and soak in the coastal scenery. It’s a lively spot, and you might even get some amusing photos of monkeys munching on fruit or lounging near the shoreline.

Stop 2: Viking Cave
Next, you’ll stop at Viking Cave, famed for its ancient wall drawings and historical significance. While here, you’ll have about 30 minutes to snorkel and explore the cave walls, which tell stories from long ago—plus, it’s a great spot to glimpse some sea birds nesting above.

Stop 3: Pileh Lagoon
This pristine lagoon is one of the tour’s highlights. With about 45 minutes to snorkel, you can expect vibrant marine life, clear waters, and towering limestone cliffs. We loved the way the water here feels like a natural swimming pool, calm and inviting.

Stop 4: Loh Samah Bay
This hop-on hop-off stop offers a chance to explore coral reefs and colorful fish. It’s a quieter spot, perfect for leisurely snorkeling or just floating and appreciating the serene environment.

Stop 5: Maya Bay
Of course, no trip to Koh Phi Phi is complete without a visit to Maya Bay—famous from the film “The Beach.” You’ll have about an hour here, giving you plenty of time for photos, swimming, or just marveling at the dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters. Be aware that there’s no guided explanation—just your own explorations.

Stop 6: Shark Point
For those who want a bit of an adrenaline rush, Shark Point provides the chance to snorkel safely with blacktip reef sharks. The experience is guided, and the sharks are harmless, making it a favorite among animal lovers who want a taste of marine wildlife.

Stop 7: Bamboo Island
The last main stop is Bamboo Island, with a full hour of free time. The soft white sands and calm waters are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or just relaxing after a busy morning.

Sunset and Return
As the day winds down, you’ll enjoy the sunset over the Andaman Sea, capturing those spectacular colors in the sky. The boat ride back is scenic, giving you a final chance to soak in the views before returning to Tonsai Bay.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included:
– Guided boat tour with local crew
– Snorkeling equipment, life jackets, and water gear
– Lunch box and fresh fruits
– Drinking water and snacks

Not included:
– National Park entry fee (400 Baht), which you’ll need to pay separately
– Hotel transfers, which means you need to make your own way to the meeting point
– Any additional drinks or souvenirs

Since the tour doesn’t include a hotel pickup, staying nearby or planning to arrive at the meeting point early makes sense. Also, keep in mind the entry fee for the park—a small but necessary expense to access the protected areas.

What Do the Reviews Say?

Feedback from past travelers is generally positive but with some honest notes. One traveler commented that the scenery is incredible and the food good, although they found the timing at stops a bit tight and felt the guides were not very talkative or explanatory. They also mentioned that the return trip was less pleasant because the driver wanted to finish quickly, leaving them soaked and a bit uncomfortable.

Another reviewer simply remarked that the landscapes are very pretty, emphasizing the visual appeal of the islands and beaches. Overall, most agree that you’ll love the beautiful views and relaxed atmosphere—perfect for those who want to see the highlights without a lot of fuss.

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Practical Tips for Your Tour

• Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a towel, and beachwear—the tropical sun can be strong, especially during midday.
• Arrive early at the meeting point to ensure a smooth start, especially during busy seasons.
• Be prepared for tight schedules at each stop—if you’re eager to linger, communicate this in advance or consider an alternative private tour.
• Since the weather can change quickly, check the forecast, but rest assured the tour proceeds unless sea conditions are unsafe.
• Remember, you’ll need to organize your own transport to Koh Phi Phi and stay overnight if you want to explore more.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers eager to tick off the must-see sights of Koh Phi Phi—like Maya Bay, Shark Point, and Bamboo Island—while enjoying a relaxed, guided experience—this tour offers solid value. The limited group size makes it feel more personal than big-scale cruises, and the snorkeling gear, lunch, and water are included, saving you additional costs.

The tour’s focus on stunning landscapes and marine life makes it ideal for nature lovers and those wanting a photo-rich day. If you’re after a relaxing day with some adventure and don’t mind the weather-dependent nature of boat trips, this experience will serve you well.

However, if you prefer more detailed explanations or private, flexible timings, this might not be the perfect fit. Also, travelers who dislike long boat rides or tight schedules may want to consider other options.

Overall, it’s a great way to see the best of Koh Phi Phi on a budget, especially if you want to combine scenery, marine life, and island beaches all in one day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or babies?
This tour is not recommended for babies under 1 year, and pregnant women should consult with their doctor before joining.

How long is each stop?
Each location is visited with a set time—such as 40 minutes at Monkey Beach and 1 hour at Bamboo Island—though actual times may vary slightly.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear to enjoy the day comfortably.

Are meals included?
Yes, a lunch box and fruits are provided as part of the tour.

Will I see marine life at Shark Point?
Yes, guided snorkeling at Shark Point is arranged for a chance to see harmless blacktip reef sharks.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
The tour runs in most weather conditions unless sea safety is a concern. Tours may be canceled if conditions are unsafe, with options to reschedule or get a refund.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead guarantees your spot, especially during peak seasons. You can reserve now and pay later, with full cancellations allowed up to 24 hours in advance.

This Koh Phi Phi tour offers a well-rounded day of scenic views, marine adventure, and relaxing beaches—perfect for those wanting a taste of paradise without overextending their budget or schedule. Just remember to pack light, arrive prepared, and enjoy the natural beauty that makes Koh Phi Phi so unforgettable.

You can check availability for your dates here: