Phi Phi: 7 Island Day Tour by Longtail Boat

Phi Phi: 7 Island Day Tour by Longtail Boat — a practical, detailed look at what you can expect

If you’re heading to Krabi Province and want a day packed with iconic sights like Maya Bay, Shark Point, and Bamboo Island, this 7 Island Tour offers a fantastic way to see the highlights. For $35 per person and about nine hours, you’ll hop aboard a traditional longtail boat, exploring Koh Phi Phi’s most famous spots with a small group limited to 15 travelers. The tour kicks off around 10:30 AM from a convenient meeting point at McDonald’s in Koh Phi Phi, making it easy to coordinate if you’re already on the island.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances relaxation and adventure. Exploring tranquil lagoons like Pi Leh Lagoon and Pileh Lagoon allows for peaceful swimming, while stops at Maya Bay and Shark Point give you plenty of chances to snorkel and photograph stunning scenery. Plus, with a guide providing insights in English, you’re more likely to learn about the areas’ natural and cultural significance.

One thing to keep in mind is that the boat can be quite full, and some travelers have mentioned waiting at certain spots longer than expected. The packed lunch provided is quite simple—just toast with margarine and some fruit—so bringing extra snacks might be a good idea if you’re hungry. This tour is best suited for those comfortable with boat travel and looking for a comprehensive, budget-friendly day of island-hopping and snorkeling. If you’re eager to see most of the key sites in one go, this tour aligns well with your travel goals.

Key Points

• Affordable and full-day tour covering major Phi Phi highlights
• Small group size for a more personalized experience
• Includes snorkeling gear, lunch, and water, making it convenient
• Visit iconic spots like Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Bamboo Island
• Weather-dependent, with some reviews noting longer waits or delays
• Best suited for travelers interested in seeing many sites efficiently

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Phi Phi 7 Island Tour

If you’re looking to make the most of your limited time on Koh Phi Phi, this tour offers an efficient way to see much of what the island chain is famous for. Over roughly nine hours, you’ll visit eight main stops—from Monkey Beach to Bamboo Island—each offering unique sights, swimming opportunities, and photo ops. The tour is operated by Tropisca Travel and is generally well-priced at $35, which is quite a bargain considering the amount of ground you’ll cover.

Starting Point and Departure

The tour begins at McDonald’s in Tonsai Bay—a familiar landmark—making it easy to find. Travelers are advised to meet the staff 20 minutes early. The departure time of 10:30 AM means you’ll avoid the early morning rush, but be prepared for a long day. The group size is limited to 15, ensuring a more intimate experience compared to larger, crowded boats.

What to Expect During the Day

The itinerary is structured to maximize your time at each location. You’ll start with Monkey Beach, where you may spot playful monkeys and enjoy the coastal views. However, some reviews note that guides often just observe from a distance rather than allowing close encounters, which is worth keeping in mind if animal interactions are a priority.

Next, you’ll visit Viking Cave, famous for ancient drawings and known for its historical significance. Here, you’ll get a brief stop, often around 15 minutes, which is enough to appreciate the cave’s mysterious allure.

The tour then moves to Pileh Lagoon, a serene spot for swimming and snorkeling amid striking limestone cliffs. Expect around 30 minutes here, which should be enough to relax and dip into the clear waters. Loh Samah Bay is a hop-on, hop-off stop that offers more opportunities for snorkeling and exploring coral reefs, with time for photos and quiet contemplation.

Maya Bay is the highlight—this world-famous beach from the movie The Beach. You’ll get about an hour to walk along the powdery sands, take photos, or just soak in the scenery. It’s a popular spot, so expect some crowds, but the natural beauty remains breathtaking.

The next stop, Shark Point, deserves special mention. Here, snorkelers can enjoy seeing blacktip reef sharks in safe, guided conditions—an experience that many find memorable.

Bamboo Island wraps up the day with free time on pristine sands and turquoise waters. Many reviews praise this as a perfect spot for unwinding after a busy morning of sightseeing, and the 45-minute stop is just enough to relax without feeling rushed.

The Practicalities and Tour Logistics

Included in the tour is a guide, snorkel equipment, life jackets, bottled water, fruits, and a simple lunch box—an uncomplicated meal of toast, rice, and pineapple. The $400 THB National Park fee applies at Maya Bay and Bamboo Island, payable in cash, so prepare accordingly. The fee covers entry to all the area’s parks, but note that it’s only paid once per day.

Timing can vary depending on weather and sea conditions. The tour runs rain or shine, provided safety is assured, but it is worth noting that southern Thailand’s weather from May to December can be unpredictable. If weather is unsafe, the tour might be canceled, or there could be delays, as some reviews suggest.

Group size of 15 people offers a more personal experience, but it also means that you’ll want to arrive early and be prepared for some crowding, especially at popular sites like Maya Bay.

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The Experience from the Traveler Perspective

Many travelers appreciate the value of this tour, especially given the price point. As one reviewer noted, the stops were well-paced and included enough time at each location, which is often a concern with full-day tours. However, some did feel that the boat was very full, which could impact comfort, especially on hot days.

The lunch is basic but sufficient for a day of activity, and snacks or extra drinks are advisable if you want more than the provided water and fruits. The guides are generally friendly, but some reviews mention that their English was limited, which could make cultural or ecological explanations less engaging.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If your goal is to see many of Phi Phi’s must-visit spots in one day on a budget, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suitable if you’re comfortable with group boat trips, don’t mind some crowding, and are eager to snorkel and photograph stunning scenery. It’s less ideal for those seeking a luxurious experience or wanting more personalized attention.

Final Thoughts

This longtail boat tour offers a balanced mix of popular sights, snorkeling, and beach time that just about captures the essence of Koh Phi Phi. For only $35, it delivers a full day packed with iconic landscapes, vibrant marine life, and the chance to relax on powdery sands—if you’re prepared for the crowds and simple lunch.

While some travelers note the boat can be crowded and that guides may not speak perfect English, most agree that the stunning views and snorkel opportunities make it worthwhile. It’s a great pick for travelers eager to check off the top sights without breaking the bank, especially if you’re staying on Koh Phi Phi and want a hassle-free way to see the highlights.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour involves boat travel and some swimming, so it’s best for children who are comfortable with water and boat rides. Keep in mind the group size can be crowded, and safety should be a priority.

What should I bring?
You’ll want to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, a change of clothes, and water shoes for rocky or sandy beaches. Extra snacks or drinks beyond what’s provided can also be helpful.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or babies under 1 year, mainly due to the physical nature of boat rides and walking on uneven terrain.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 9 hours, starting around 10:30 AM and returning to the meeting point in the late afternoon, with flexibility depending on weather and sea conditions.

Do I need to pay the national park fee?
Yes, the 400 THB fee is paid in cash at Maya Bay or Bamboo Island, covering all parks in the area for the day.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some peace of mind if your plans change.

In essence, this tour offers a great value for those wanting to pack as much as possible into a single day of island discovery. It’s perfect for travelers looking for adventure, stunning scenery, and a taste of marine life—all without a hefty price tag. Prepare for some crowds, pack extra snacks if you like, and get ready for a memorable day on Koh Phi Phi’s most famous islands.

You can check availability for your dates here: