Krabi Phi Phi & Bamboo Island One Day Tour By Speed Boat

Krabi Phi Phi & Bamboo Island One Day Tour By Speed Boat is an appealing way to pack a lot of Thailand’s most famous sights into one day. Priced at $52 per person and lasting around 8 hours, this tour whisks you from your hotel in Krabi to some of the most photogenic spots in the Andaman Sea. Expect to visit Bamboo Island’s white sands, snorkel in the vibrant waters of Hin Pae, and glide past Maya Bay’s cinematic backdrop. The tour is run by Northern All Star Co., Ltd., with a well-organized schedule that promises a full day of scenic beauty and relaxation.

What we really appreciate about this trip is how it balances enjoying the natural highlights with manageable logistics. The speedboat makes getting around quicker and more exciting, and the stops are carefully selected to showcase coral reefs, secluded beaches, and famous filming locations. We also like the inclusion of lunch, snorkeling gear, and water, which adds convenience and value for money. The downside? Sometimes weather conditions can disrupt the planned itinerary, as seen in one traveler’s experience. Still, if you’re after a cost-effective, action-packed day exploring the best of Krabi’s islands, this tour hits a lot of marks.

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive taste of the Phi Phi Islands without the hassle of arranging multiple transport modes or multiple tours. It’s ideal for those who appreciate snorkeling, beaches, and iconic film spots, but who are flexible enough to accept that weather might influence the day’s activities. Families with older children, adventure seekers, and first-time visitors looking for a snapshot of the region will find this a good option. Just keep in mind some reviews mention canceled stops due to weather, so patience and a flexible mindset are key.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Value: Price covers hotel transfers, lunch, snorkeling gear, insurance, and guide services.
• Iconic Sights: Stops include Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon, and Bamboo Island, offering a classic Phi Phi experience.
• Snorkeling & Beaches: Plenty of opportunities to swim and snorkel among colorful coral and tropical fish.
• Weather Dependence: The itinerary can change with weather conditions; some reports mention cancellations or shortened visits.
• Limited Time at Key Spots: Some travelers felt they didn’t get enough time at favorites like Bamboo Island or Maya Bay.
• Family Friendly (with reservations): Not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with serious health issues or mobility problems.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Full Breakdown of the Experience

Starting with the Basics
The tour kicks off early around 8:00 am with hotel pickups from Ao Nang, making it convenient for most travelers. The bus then whisks you to the pier where the real adventure begins. This early start means you can beat some of the crowds and get a jump on the day’s sightseeing.

The Speedboat Ride
Traveling by speedboat is a highlight in itself. It’s fast, fun, and offers superb views of the coastline and islands. The boat is equipped with life jackets and snorkeling gear, ensuring safety and ease for those eager to explore underwater. The thrill of zipping across the water is something most travelers appreciate, especially if you’re looking for an active, engaging day.

Bamboo Island – White Sands & Blue Waters
The first major stop is Bamboo Island, famed for its powdery white sand beaches and clear blue seas. It’s perfect for swimming, relaxing, or taking photos of the postcard-perfect scenery. We love how this island offers a relaxed pace and a chance to enjoy the tropical landscape. However, one review pointed out that during rain, the time there felt rushed—only about 45 minutes—so be prepared for variable weather.

Hin Pae & Viking Cave – Snorkeling & Bird’s Nests
Next up are snorkeling stops at Hin Pae, where the coral reefs teem with tropical fish, and Viking Cave, a popular photo stop where birds harvest nests for local delicacies. The Viking Cave’s significance isn’t just in its beauty but also in its role in local industry, making it a fascinating and photogenic spot. The snorkeling equipment is provided, so you can expect to see vibrant marine life if the conditions are right.

Monkey Bay & Phi Phi Don – Wildlife & Lunch
At Monkey Bay, the guide advises staying on the boat to avoid disturbing the monkeys, which is a sensible precaution. Afterward, there’s a buffet lunch at Phi Phi Don, giving you time to unwind, refuel, and enjoy some downtime. Several travelers mention that lunch might seem underwhelming or in a less-than-clean setting—something to keep in mind if you’re particular about food quality.

The Iconic Maya Bay & Pileh Lagoon
Arguably the most famous stop, Maya Bay, shot into global fame by the film “The Beach,” is a must-see. However, be aware that Maya Bay is closed for part of the year (August and September), and access can sometimes be restricted or limited. The nearby Pileh Lagoon offers stunning scenery with limestone cliffs surrounding a tranquil, deep-blue lagoon—perfect for swimming and photos. Some reviews mention that the time spent here can be limited due to weather or crowding.

Final Highlights & Return
The tour wraps up around 4:30 pm with a return to Ao Nang. It’s a long but rewarding day, and the boat ride back offers a chance to reflect on the beautiful sights seen. Keep in mind, the schedule is subject to change based on weather, tidal conditions, and safety considerations.

The Value of the Tour

For $52, this tour offers a solid package of transportation, key sights, snorkeling, and a meal. While the national park entrance fee (400 THB) isn’t included, the price reflects the convenience of door-to-door transfers and guided commentary. You’re paying for efficiency, access to popular spots, and the thrill of the speedboat ride—all in one package.

Some travelers feel that the value is high, especially given the opportunity to see Maya Bay and enjoy the beaches without the hassle of planning it all yourself. Others, however, note that weather can impact the experience—some stops may be canceled or shortened, which diminishes the overall value. Still, the guides are generally praised for their friendliness and professionalism, making the trip more enjoyable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who are comfortable with a full-day outdoor adventure and don’t mind the possibility of weather-related changes. It appeals to those wanting an affordable, all-in-one day in the Phi Phi Islands with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and photos. It’s also good for first-timers eager to hit the highlights without the stress of organizing transportation and tickets themselves.

If you’re traveling with young children, pregnant women, or have medical concerns, remember that some reviews mention restrictions for certain groups, and the tour can be physically demanding with boat rides and walking at stops.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a value-packed experience of some of Thailand’s most iconic islands, beaches, and snorkeling spots. The use of a speedboat means faster transfers and more time at each stop, which many travelers find worthwhile. The inclusion of lunch, snorkeling gear, and hotel transfers makes it a convenient package that’s especially appealing for first-time visitors or those on a budget.

However, the weather can throw a wrench in the plans, as seen in some reviews, and the time at each stop can feel rushed. If you’re flexible and ready for a lively day with plenty of swimming and sightseeing, this tour will likely delight you. For travelers seeking a more leisurely, in-depth experience, or who want to avoid possible weather disruptions, it might be worth exploring other options or considering private tours.

Overall, for stunning views, good value, and the chance to tick off iconic sights in a single day, this Krabi Phi Phi & Bamboo Island tour remains a popular choice. Just remember to stay adaptable and keep your expectations aligned with the realities of weather and group schedules.

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FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel transfers from Ao Nang and, for an additional surcharge, from Krabi Town, Klong Muang, and Tub Keak areas. Be sure to wait in your hotel lobby 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 8 hours, starting around 8:00 am and returning by approximately 4:30 pm.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, sunscreen, and some cash for optional expenses like park entrance fees.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, this trip isn’t suitable for pregnant women, children under 3, people with heart or back problems, wheelchair users, babies under 1 year, or those over 70.

What’s included in the price?
The package covers hotel transfers, insurance, water and seasonal fruits, lunch, snorkeling equipment, a guide, and life jackets.

What about Maya Bay?
Maya Bay is subject to closure during August and September. When open, it’s a highlight, but sometimes visits are limited by weather or government restrictions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.

In the end, this tour offers a fun, scenic, and efficient way to experience the highlights of Krabi’s islands. If you’re prepared for a busy day and potentially variable weather, it’s hard to beat for value and iconic sights.