Early Bird Phi Phi Islands Tour From Phi Phi by Speedboat

A morning adventure to the Phi Phi Islands by speedboat offers a fantastic way to beat the crowds and see some of Thailand’s most iconic spots. Starting early from Phi Phi, this tour takes you to Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Monkey Bay, Bamboo Island, and more, all packed into around 7 to 8 hours. For just over $64, you get a chance to explore multiple islands and snorkel in crystal-clear waters with the convenience of round-trip transport from your hotel.

What we love about this tour is how it helps you avoid the tourist rush by starting at 6:30 am — getting you to the most popular sites before the crowds arrive. Plus, being part of a group keeps costs reasonable while still allowing for comfort and shared experiences. The tour’s focus on authentic sights, like the limestone cliffs of Pi Leh Bay and the famous Viking Cave, makes it a compelling choice for those eager to see the best of Phi Phi without stress or hassle.

One potential consideration is the size of the boat and the pace of the itinerary. Some reviews mention that the boat can feel crowded and that the schedule at certain stops, like Bamboo Island, might be a bit rushed. If you’re someone who prefers a quieter, more leisurely experience, or has mobility issues, that’s worth keeping in mind. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a full day’s adventure packed with highlights, in a group setting that’s budget-friendly.

If you’re looking for an early start, fantastic photo opportunities, and a chance to snorkel in some of the clearest waters, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly ideal for those who enjoy a structured day with multiple stops, and who don’t mind sharing the experience with others. Families, active travelers, or anyone keen to see Phi Phi’s highlights in a single day will find this trip well worth considering.

Key Points

• Early start helps beat crowds and the heat, allowing for better photos and a more relaxed experience.
• Multiple island stops provide a well-rounded view of Phi Phi’s highlights, from famous bays to secluded snorkeling spots.
• Group tour format offers good value, but may feel crowded according to some reviews.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience by providing insights into notable sites like Viking Cave.
• Snorkeling opportunities in crystal-clear waters, with colorful fish and coral reefs.
• Potential for rushed stops, especially at Bamboo Island and Monkey Beach, depending on sea conditions and group size.

The Experience in Detail

Setting Off at Dawn

We start the day early, with hotel pickup around 6:30 am in Phi Phi. This timing is a real advantage — it means arriving at key locations before the majority of travelers. The boat trip itself is a lively ride, often with a group of up to 25 travelers, making it lively but manageable. Knowing that we’re on a speedboat rather than a large ferry means we get to zip between islands quickly and comfortably, cutting down on travel time and jetting us straight into the scenery.

First Stop: Maya Bay

Arriving at Maya Bay in the early morning is a highlight. Even if the bay was closed for swimming during some reviews, the chance to see its famous cove from the boat and take photos is a great start. The sunrise view from the horizon adds a magical touch. The 30-minute stop includes admission tickets, so you don’t need to worry about extra costs — a plus for budget-conscious travelers.

Viking Cave and Pi Leh Bay

A highlight for many is the Viking Cave, where we get a quick look at the nesting swift birds and learn about their nests’ high value. The cave’s impressive limestone formations make it a photo-worthy stop, and a guide like the enthusiastic “Batman,” as some reviews mention, can make it more engaging.

Next, we head to Pi Leh Bay, where we enjoy snorkeling in clear waters teeming with tropical fish. Spending about an hour here, you can float over coral reefs and see the vibrant underwater life. The surrounding limestone cliffs and lagoon are breathtaking, with some reviews noting this as a “spectacular” sight.

Bamboo Island and Snorkeling

After that, it’s time for Bamboo Island, known for its white sandy beaches and coral reefs. Many travelers appreciate the opportunity to relax, swim, or snorkel in peaceful surroundings. The included lunch is a simple, yet satisfying meal — some reviews mention it being modest compared to other tours, but sufficient for refueling after a busy morning.

Monkey Beach and Nui Beach

A quick stop at Monkey Beach offers fun photo ops with the playful primates. Be aware, some reviews point out that the monkeys aren’t always as lively as you’d hope, or that the beach can be crowded. Then it’s on to Nui Beach, where you can unwind, swim, and enjoy the scenery at your own pace for about an hour.

Snorkeling at Shark Point

For those into underwater life, snorkeling at Shark Point promises the chance to see blacktip reef sharks hunting smaller fish in the coral reefs. The 30-minute visit is short but offers a good chance to see these sharks safely. The guide’s enthusiasm here makes a difference, especially since some reviews praise staff for their engaging nature.

End of the Day

The tour wraps up by returning to the meeting point around 2:30 pm or 3 pm, giving you the rest of your day free. The natural beauty combined with the well-organized schedule makes this a memorable day trip.

What Travelers Say

Authentic reviews shed light on what to expect. Many praise the knowledgeable guides and the early start, noting how it allows you to avoid the crowds and take better photos. Rhoda called it an “excellent tour,” appreciating the chance to see the islands before they’re flooded with visitors.

On the flip side, some travelers mention the boat feeling crowded or that the schedule was a bit rushed at some stops. Jess felt that there was “not much info provided” and that “more just shuttling you around.” Others found certain stops, like Bamboo Island, to be overly long or rushed, depending on sea conditions and group size.

A few reviews also highlight the disappointing lunch, which some compare unfavorably to other tours offering buffet meals. But most agree that the stunning scenery and snorkeling opportunities outweigh these minor inconveniences.

Transportation and Group Size

You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Phi Phi, making the start seamless. The tour uses a speedboat, which is ideal for covering multiple sites quickly and comfortably. The maximum group size of 25 travelers keeps things lively but not overwhelming, allowing for social interaction and shared experiences.

Duration and Pacing

While the full itinerary lasts around 7 to 8 hours, the actual sightseeing time is split among several stops, each lasting from 30 minutes to an hour. This pace offers plenty of time to explore, snorkel, and relax, but some might find certain segments a little rushed, particularly if weather conditions aren’t ideal.

Value for Money

At approximately $64 per person, the tour strikes a good balance between cost and experience. The inclusion of round-trip transport, all admission fees, and snorkeling gear (if provided) makes it a straightforward choice. For travelers wanting a comprehensive, early start tour with minimal fuss, this offers solid value.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for active travelers eager to see multiple sites in a single day, especially if you prefer early mornings to avoid the crowds. It suits families, adventurers, and snorkeling enthusiasts who want to maximize their island time. If you’re comfortable sharing a boat with others and don’t mind a busy schedule, you’ll likely enjoy the variety of sights packed into this trip.

However, if you prefer more leisurely exploration or less crowded experiences, you might find some stops rushed or the boat feeling crowded, especially during peak seasons. Likewise, if you have health concerns or mobility issues, some stops with rough sea conditions may be less suitable.

Final Thoughts

This Early Bird Phi Phi Islands Tour from Phi Phi by speedboat offers a well-organized, value-packed day of island hopping that gets you to the highlights before the crowds arrive. Its combination of snorkeling, sightseeing, and stunning scenery makes it an excellent choice for those who want to pack a lot into a single day.

The knowledgeable guides, breathtaking views, and the chance to snorkel over vibrant reefs are definite pluses. While the boat can feel busy and the schedule a little tight at times, the overall experience of witnessing Phi Phi’s natural beauty early in the morning is hard to beat.

If you’re looking to make the most of your limited time, enjoy authentic island vistas, and prefer an active, group setting, this tour checks all the boxes. Just be prepared for some hustle, and bring your camera and enthusiasm.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 6:30 am, with hotel pickup in Phi Phi.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, including travel and sightseeing stops.

What locations are visited during the tour?
Stops include Maya Bay, Loh Samah Bay, Pi Leh Bay, Viking Cave, Bamboo Island, Monkey Beach, Nui Beach, and Shark Point.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, snorkeling is available at Pi Leh Bay and Shark Point, with the chance to see tropical fish and reef sharks.

How many people are on the tour?
The maximum group size is 25 travelers, making it lively but not overcrowded.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, waterproof camera, and possibly a snack or drink for longer stops.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 4-11 are eligible for child tickets, but consider sea conditions and the pace.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time.

To sum it up, for travelers who want to experience the Phi Phi Islands in a single day with an early start, this tour is a strong choice. It balances sightseeing, snorkeling, and scenic views, all delivered with knowledgeable guides and good value. Just remember to pack your sense of adventure and a camera — you won’t want to miss these unforgettable moments.