Phi Phi: One Day trip by Long Tail Boat (7 island)

If you’re dreaming of exploring the famed Phi Phi Islands, this one-day longtail boat tour offers a chance to see many of its highlights in just 8 hours. Starting from Krabi Province, the tour visits Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon, Maya Bay, Shark Point, Bamboo Island, and more, all for around $35 per person. It’s a mix of sightseeing, swimming, snorkeling, and a bit of relaxing on some of the world’s most famous beaches.

What I really like about this trip is the chance to see multiple islands and beaches without the hassle of planning — the itinerary takes you to some of the most iconic spots in a single day, which is ideal if you’re short on time. Plus, the scenic views from the boat and the chance to snorkel in vibrant underwater settings make it a good value experience. The fresh fruit, water, and lunch included add to the overall convenience.

A potential drawback, however, is that the experience can be quite fast-paced, and if you’re hoping for a more relaxed or in-depth visit, this might feel rushed. Some reviews note issues with guidance and communication, especially since the boat driver may not speak much English, leading to some confusion about timing and locations. This tour suits travelers who are eager to tick off multiple sights in one day rather than seeking a leisurely, guided exploration.

If you’re comfortable with a more adventurous, slightly informal boat trip, and want a cost-effective way to see the highlights of Phi Phi, this tour could be a good fit. It’s especially suitable for those who don’t mind a bit of unpredictability and are prepared for a day packed with activity.

Key Points

• Multiple island stops allow quick access to famous spots like Maya Bay and Bamboo Island.
• Snorkeling and swimming are included at key locations like Shark Point and Pileh Lagoon.
• Cost-effective at around $35, covering transportation, lunch, and snorkeling gear.
• Weather and sea conditions can affect the itinerary, especially visits to Maya Bay during August and September.
• Limited guidance and communication might make some travelers feel unsure about timing or locations.
• Good for travelers who want a packed, scenic day without the need for in-depth guided commentary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting at the McDonald’s on PP Island, the tour kicks off early, setting the tone for a full day packed with iconic sights. This meeting point is convenient for most travelers staying in Krabi or nearby resorts. From there, the boat drifts through crystal-clear waters, with the first stop at Monkey Beach, where playful monkeys roam freely. Spending about 15-30 minutes here, you get a chance to relax on the sandy shore and enjoy watching the monkeys in their natural habitat.

Next, the boat heads to the Viking Cave, famous for its mysterious paintings and bird nests. Although sightseeing here doesn’t involve long stops, it adds a sense of adventure and curiosity about the island’s history — or at least the stories we’ve heard. The 15-30-minute stay is enough for quick photos and a sense of the cave’s allure.

From there, the trip moves to Pileh Lagoon, likely the most visually striking part of the tour. The turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs make for a postcard scene. Here, snorkeling for about 40 minutes allows you to see vibrant marine life and coral formations. The lagoon’s calm waters are perfect for swimming and relaxing.

The itinerary then takes us to Loh Samah Bay, a quiet spot from which you can walk to Maya Bay, the world-famous beach made famous by the film “The Beach.” You’ll get about an hour here, which, for many, is enough to sunbathe on the white sands and snap some photos of the iconic scenery.

A highlight for many is snorkeling at Shark Point, where blacktip reef sharks swim near the surface. Despite the name, these sharks aren’t dangerous, and many visitors find it a thrilling experience to swim alongside them. It’s an authentic chance to encounter marine life in its natural setting.

The day continues with a visit to Bamboo Island, a tiny, tranquil paradise perfect for swimming and relaxing. Here, you’ll have some free time to enjoy the beaches and snorkel in calm, vibrant waters.

As the day winds down, the tour culminates with a sunset viewing and an opportunity to swim with bioluminescent plankton, which lights up the water with every movement. Many travelers find this to be a surreal ending to a busy day.

Adjustments During August & September

Because Maya Bay is closed for natural restoration in August and September, the tour adapts by offering sightseeing at the front of Maya Bay and a relaxing stop at Loh Moo Dee Beach instead. This adjustment shows flexibility in the tour, but also highlights how weather and conservation efforts can influence what you see.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price includes essentials: snorkeling gear, life jackets, fresh fruit, water, and lunch. This makes it easy to stay energized and comfortable without extra costs. However, you’re responsible for the 400 Baht national park fee, payable in cash at the entrance, which covers Maya Bay and Bamboo Island.

Transport-wise, the longtail boat offers an authentic Thai experience, but it’s worth noting that the group size can vary and the boat’s comfort level might not match that of speedboats or larger tour boats. The driver, who may not speak much English, is responsible for navigation and safety, which can lead to some confusion — as one reviewer lamented about being left at snorkeling sites without explanation.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Pros and Cons

Pros include the chance to see a variety of sites in one day, the affordability, and the opportunity to snorkel in beautiful, less crowded locations. The scenic views from the boat are often breathtaking, with many moments perfect for photos.

Cons involve the lack of guided commentary and the fast pace of the trip. Some travelers have expressed frustration over poor communication — not knowing how much time they have at each stop or what to expect. The possibility of boat breakdowns or delays, as mentioned in some reviews, adds a layer of unpredictability.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits adventurous travelers who are eager to tick off multiple iconic sights in a single day without overpaying. It’s ideal for those who don’t mind a bit of chaos and are comfortable with basic guidance. If your priority is relaxation and detailed explanations, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

The Phi Phi longtail boat tour offers a cost-effective and scenic way to see many of the Phi Phi Islands’ most famous spots in just a day. The stunning vistas, vibrant snorkeling spots, and the chance to relax on picture-perfect beaches make it worth considering, especially if you’re limited on time.

However, the lack of detailed guiding and some logistical issues mean it’s best for travelers who are comfortable with a more informal, active day. If you’re after a more guided or luxurious experience, you might prefer to spend a bit more on a speedboat or private tour.

In short, this tour provides a snapshot of the natural beauty and adventure that makes the Phi Phi Islands so popular — perfect for those eager to see the highlights without breaking the bank.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, starting and ending at McDonald’s on PP Island, with specific start times depending on availability.

What is included?
You get snorkeling gear, life jackets, fresh fruit, water, and lunch. The park entrance fee of 400 Baht is extra and paid in cash.

Can I visit Maya Bay during the tour?
Yes, but during August and September, Maya Bay is closed for restoration, so the tour adjusts with sightseeing instead of extended beach time.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a towel, and sunscreen to stay comfortable. It’s also helpful to carry cash for the park fee.

Is there guide commentary?
Not much — the boat driver may not speak English, so the experience is quite self-guided with minimal explanations.

Is this tour suitable for families or kids?
It can be, but consider the pace and safety aspects. The boat ride can be bumpy, and some stops involve swimming or snorkeling.

How busy is the tour?
Group sizes vary, and during peak season, it can feel crowded at popular spots like Maya Bay, but snorkeling spots tend to be less crowded.

You can check availability for your dates here: