Krabi: Phi Phi and 4 Islands with Snorkeling by Speed Boat

Krabi: Phi Phi and 4 Islands with Snorkeling by Speed Boat offers a lively, full-day escape to some of Thailand’s most iconic spots. For just around $55, you’ll spend approximately 7 hours exploring crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and pristine beaches. Led by friendly guides like Chim and Sky, this tour is ideal for those who want a packed, efficient day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and beach lounging without breaking the bank.

What we love about this experience is how the itinerary balances popular highlights like Maya Bay with quieter moments at Poda Island, plus the comfort of a speedboat that whisks you quickly between locations. The inclusion of a buffet lunch and snacks is a real plus, making it more than just a day of sightseeing but also a chance to relax and refuel.

A possible consideration is that with such a busy schedule, you might find some spots crowded—especially Maya Bay—so if you prefer quiet, this may not be your perfect day. Also, the national park fee is not included, adding an extra 400 Baht per person.

This tour suits travelers who love adventure, snorkeling, and island-hopping, and who are comfortable with a busy, guided schedule. It’s especially good if you want to see many highlights in one day without the hassle of organizing transport or meals.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines visits to Phi Phi, Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Chicken Island, and Poda Island
• Inclusive Value: Price includes hotel transfers, lunch, snacks, guide, and snorkeling gear
• Active Day: Plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and photo stops
• Guides and Group Size: Friendly guides like Chim and Sky help keep the experience smooth and engaging
• Crowds and Timing: Expect busy spots, especially Maya Bay; early arrivals help beat some crowds
• Additional Fees: Budget for the 400 Baht national park fee and optional equipment like fins

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation
The tour begins with hotel pickup around 7:50-8:00 AM, a crucial step to ensure you make the most of the day. The transportation is by speedboat, which comfortably handles about 20 people, providing a quick and exhilarating way to hop between islands. We appreciate the small-group feel, which makes it easier to connect with guides and fellow travelers. Plus, the speedboat’s speed is perfect for covering large distances efficiently, avoiding the long, slow rides typical of traditional longtail boats.

First Stops: Monkey Beach and Scenic Views
The day kicks off with a 45-minute ride to Monkey Beach, where you can snap some photos and enjoy the view. While the reviews mention that Monkey Beach isn’t as impressive as other spots—some found it “nothing”—it’s mostly a quick photo op and a chance to stretch your legs. Guides often arrive before other travelers, so you might get a moment of solitude here.

Next, a snorkeling stop at the viewpoint gives you about an hour to explore the coral reefs and see vibrant marine life. This is one of the highlights, per reviews, because the snorkel spots are carefully chosen for their clarity and colorful fish. Expect to see a lively underwater scene, which is why many travelers rate this as a favorite part of the day.

Lunch on Phi Phi Don
The tour then moves to Ko Phi Phi Don, where a buffet lunch awaits. This is a nice break and a chance to sample local flavors, often with fresh fruit and Thai dishes. After lunch, you have an hour to explore the local market or relax on the beach, soaking in the lively island atmosphere.

Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon
No trip to Krabi is complete without a visit to Maya Bay, made famous by the movie The Beach. Expect crowds here—reviewers mention the entry can be hectic—yet the scenery remains stunning. Once you step onto the soft sand, it’s easy to see why this beach is so iconic. You’ll spend around 50 minutes here, enough for photos and a quick swim.

Following Maya Bay, you’ll visit the Pileh Lagoon for about 30 minutes. This smaller, calmer spot offers crystal-clear waters where you can snorkel or simply relax on the boat deck, taking in the dramatic limestone cliffs surrounding you.

Chicken Island and Poda Island
The tour then takes you to Chicken Island for a 45-minute stop. This spot is popular for its limestone rock formation resembling a chicken’s head—it’s a fun photo opportunity and a nice place to dip your toes in the water.

Finally, the group heads to Poda Island, where you’ll have about one hour. This is often cited as a favorite part of the trip—pristine, quiet, and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging on the sand. Snacks and fruits are served, giving you energy for the day’s end.

Return to Krabi
After a full day of exploring, swimming, and sightseeing, the boat heads back, and you’ll be back at your hotel by evening. The schedule can shift slightly based on weather and traffic, but the overall flow is designed to maximize your island-time.

The Authenticity and Value of the Tour

What sets this tour apart is how well it balances must-see highlights with authentic moments. Guides like Chim and Sky are noted for their helpfulness and friendly attitude, making the experience more personal and less rushed. The included amenities—snorkeling gear, snacks, water, and lunch—add value and convenience, especially for a budget price.

The snorkeling spots are carefully selected for their beauty and marine life, making it worthwhile for those eager to see underwater color. The lunch on Phi Phi Don is a highlight for many, offering a taste of local cuisine in a scenic setting, rather than just a packed sandwich.

However, the tour is quite busy, with many popular spots drawing large crowds. Maya Bay, in particular, can be hectic, especially if arriving later in the day. Some reviewers suggest arriving early or being prepared for crowds, but that’s a common challenge at these famous sites.

The national park fee of 400 Baht is an added cost, not included in the ticket, so budget accordingly. Also, because of the schedule’s tight nature, it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a fast-paced, packed itinerary rather than those seeking quiet, leisurely days.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This trip is excellent for active travelers who want to see a variety of islands and landscapes in one day. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy snorkeling, photo opportunities, and island scenery without the hassle of planning transportation or meals. If you value guide expertise and a well-organized schedule, you’ll appreciate the friendly guides and the smooth logistics.

It’s less ideal for travelers looking for serenity or lengthy beach lounging, as the schedule is quite full—crowds and busy stops are part of the experience. Those with mobility issues should note the speedboat rides and the need to stay on the boat at certain stops for safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is included in the tour price?
  The tour fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by speedboat, a guide, life jackets, snorkeling masks and fins (if requested), snacks, fruits, water, insurance, and a buffet lunch.

• What additional costs should I expect?
  You’ll need to pay a 400 Baht national park fee, which is not included. Optional equipment like fins may also be purchased if lost or for extra comfort.

• What should I bring?
  Pack essentials such as sunglasses, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, cash, and a waterproof bag to keep valuables dry.

• Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
  The tour is generally suitable for those comfortable in water and able to sit on a boat for several hours. Children over the age of six are usually fine, but always check with the operator about specific age restrictions.

• Are meals included?
  Yes, a buffet lunch is served on Phi Phi Don, along with snacks and fruits during the day.

• How crowded are the stops?
  Particularly at Maya Bay, expect many travelers, especially later in the day. Arriving early can help avoid the largest crowds.

• Can I snorkel at all stops?
  Yes, snorkel gear is provided, and the stops are selected for their marine life. However, some reviewers note that the last snorkeling spot was quite busy.

• What if I want to cancel?
  You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

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Final Thoughts

This Krabi island-hopping tour packs a lot into a single day, making it an excellent choice for travelers eager to see key highlights without the hassle of individual bookings. The friendly guides, combined with well-chosen stops like Maya Bay and Poda Island, offer a mix of iconic scenery and relaxed beach time. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, lunch, and snacks makes it good value, especially considering how many sites you visit.

It’s best suited for energetic, curious travelers who don’t mind a busy day and some crowds. If you’re looking for a well-organized, fun-filled adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and underwater fun, this tour delivers. Just remember to arrive early, budget extra for the park fee, and embrace the lively, bustling atmosphere of these world-class islands.

This tour offers a lively, value-packed way to experience the best of Krabi’s islands with knowledgeable guides and plenty of natural beauty. It’s perfect for those who want an active, memorable day out on the water.