Phi Phi Island Tour from Koh LantaSpeedboat, Snorkeling&Maya Bay

Exploring Phi Phi Islands from Koh Lanta by Speedboat: A Practical Guide

If you’re staying in Koh Lanta and craving a day of sun, sea, and stunning scenery, the Phi Phi Island tour offered by Opal Travel Speed Boat is a popular choice. For around $50, you’ll spend roughly 7 to 8 hours hopping between iconic spots like Maya Beach, Monkey Point, Bamboo Island, and Phi Phi Don. The tour includes snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, a buffet lunch, and the convenience of hotel pickup, making it a straightforward day trip that promises plenty of memorable sights.

What we especially like about this tour is the chance to snorkel among vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish, along with the opportunity to see the famous Maya Bay from the beach and boat. The lunch is often highlighted as an authentic and tasty Thai meal, and the multiple stops mean you get a real taste of what the Phi Phi Islands have to offer without overloading your day.

A potential consideration is that the tour doesn’t always visit every advertised stop, such as Monkey Bay, which some travelers found disappointing. Also, the national park fee of 400 Baht for adults is not included in the quoted price, so be prepared for this additional charge if you want to step foot on Maya Bay or other parks.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate good value and are eager to snorkel, explore scenic beaches, and soak up a lively island atmosphere. If you’re looking for a well-organized, budget-friendly day with authentic experiences, this trip could be just right.

Key Points

• Good value for money with multiple stops and activities within a 7-8 hour window.
• Snorkeling in clear waters, with a chance to see sharks and unusual fish, as noted by travelers.
• Multiple scenic spots including Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Bamboo Island, offering diverse experiences.
• Authentic Thai lunch included, often praised for its flavor and quality.
• Limited park access: the national park fee is extra, and some stops like Monkey Bay might be missed.
• Group size is limited to 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience more personal.

A Close Look at the Phi Phi Island Tour from Koh Lanta

Starting Point: Saladan Pier and Pickup Service

The tour begins early, with pickup from your Koh Lanta accommodation, making logistics easier. We loved the convenience of being collected directly from our hotel, saving us the hassle of finding the meeting point. The guide asks for tourist insurance signatures, which is a standard requirement, and then you’ll board a sizable speedboat with up to 20 travelers—plenty of space to relax without feeling crowded.

The Journey to Phi Phi Islands

The boat ride from Saladan Pier takes about 50 minutes, giving you a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and spot the coastline of Koh Lanta shrinking behind you. The vessel is well-equipped with restrooms and clean drinking water, which is a thoughtful touch on a day-long trip.

Maya Bay: The Movie Star of the Tour

Maya Bay is undoubtedly the star attraction—famous from the movie The Beach. Here, visitors can step ashore for about 40 minutes to take photos of the iconic cove’s towering cliffs and sandy beach. Many reviews mention the stunning views, but it’s worth noting that visiting Maya Bay often involves paying a 400 Baht park fee, which is not included in the initial price. Some travelers, such as Ross N, have expressed disappointment that the trip doesn’t always allow for a full experience on Maya Bay, especially if you want to swim or walk on the beach.

Pileh Bay: A Peaceful Getaway

Next, the boat sails to Pileh Bay, a quiet spot surrounded by lush green islands. It’s a brief stop to enjoy the scenery—perfect for photos or a quick swim. While there’s no park fee at this stop, it offers a calm contrast to the busier Maya Beach.

Viking Cave and Snorkeling Fun

One of the tour’s highlights is Viking Cave, where you can see swallow’s nests and snorkel at Viking Bay. The cave and the surrounding waters are often praised for their clarity and marine life. As Lesley B. noted, the snorkeling here can be quite impressive—many colorful fish and even sharks have been spotted. The hour-long stop provides ample time to explore both underwater and on the boat.

Lunch and Exploring Phi Phi Don

The tour includes a buffet lunch at a local restaurant, with dishes like Chicken Mussaman curry, fried vegetables, and seasonal fruits. Many reviews, including Lesley B’s, mention the meal as one of the best parts—authentic and plentiful. After lunch, you’re free to stroll around Phi Phi Don for roughly two hours. It’s a good chance to walk through the island’s shops, soak in the lively atmosphere, or relax on the beach.

Return Journey and Drop-off

The boat leaves Phi Phi Island around 2 p.m., heading back to Saladan Pier for a 50-minute ride. From there, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel or bungalow. The return trip is usually smooth, with some travelers noting the friendly crew’s helpfulness and the overall well-organized nature of the trip.

Authentic Experiences and Tips

Many travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides who help navigate the stops and provide context about the islands. The tour’s emphasis on snorkel gear use and the opportunity to see marine life in clear waters makes it a hit for underwater enthusiasts.

However, some reviews point out inconsistencies, such as missing stops like Monkey Bay. Ryan H. mentioned that weather or scheduling issues could affect the experience, so flexibility is key. Also, be aware that the trip is geared toward those with moderate physical fitness, especially if you plan to swim or walk on uneven beaches.

Value for Money

For just over $50, this tour offers a packed itinerary with plenty of highlights, making it a budget-friendly choice. The inclusion of lunch and snorkeling gear adds to the overall value, though the extra park fee is an unavoidable cost if you want to set foot on Maya Bay.

Who’s It Perfect For?

This trip suits travelers who want a full day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and authentic local food without breaking the bank. It’s great for those who don’t mind a group experience, enjoy marine activities, and value a well-organized schedule. If your priority is visiting every stop, including Monkey Bay, you might want to check if other tours better fit that specific desire.

The Sum Up

The Phi Phi Island tour from Koh Lanta by speedboat offers a lively, reasonably priced way to explore some of Thailand’s most iconic islands and beaches. With a combination of snorkeling, scenic vistas, and authentic Thai cuisine, it provides a well-rounded day that appeals to travelers eager to see the best of Phi Phi without fuss or excessive expense.

You’ll love the chance to snorkel among colorful fish and sharks, and the guide’s friendliness adds a personal touch. The stunning views at Maya Bay and Viking Cave remain unforgettable, especially if you’re a fan of natural beauty and marine life.

However, it’s important to go into this trip with realistic expectations—not every stop might be included, and some travelers have been disappointed by missed attractions. Still, if you’re seeking a practical, fun-filled day suited for active, curious travelers, this tour hits the sweet spot.

In the end, it’s a good choice for those who value authentic experiences, good value, and a sense of adventure. Just be sure to bring your camera, a sense of humor, and a readiness to enjoy one of Thailand’s most beautiful island groups.

FAQ

What is the departure time for this tour?
The tour starts at 9:00 am from Koh Lanta’s Saladan Pier.

Is pickup service included?
Yes, hotel pickup is offered from Koh Lanta, making it easy to start your day without extra hassle.

How long does the boat ride take?
The journey from Saladan Pier to Phi Phi Islands takes about 50 minutes each way.

What is included in the tour price?
The price includes snorkeling equipment, a buffet lunch, restroom facilities on board, and pickup from your hotel.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the national park fee of 400 Baht for adults (200 Baht for children) is payable if you wish to visit Maya Bay or other park areas.

Can I visit Monkey Bay with this tour?
Not necessarily; some reviews mention that Monkey Bay was missed, so check with the operator if this is important to you.

How physically demanding is this tour?
It requires moderate physical fitness, especially for swimming and walking on rocky beaches.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Generally, yes, but keep in mind the park fee and physical activities involved.

What do travelers think of the overall experience?
Reviews are mixed—many praise the snorkeling, views, and value, while some wish certain stops like Monkey Bay were included.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, waterproof camera, and some Baht for park fees or souvenirs.

This tour can be a highlight of your Koh Lanta trip if you’re looking for a lively, scenic, and snorkel-filled day at a reasonable price. Keep your expectations aligned with what’s offered, and you’ll leave with plenty of memories from Thailand’s famed Phi Phi Islands.