Experience the Beauty of Phi Phi Islands with a Full-Day Ferry Tour

Imagine setting out early from Phuket, crossing the Andaman Sea on an express ferry, eager to explore some of Thailand’s most iconic spots. For $58.19 per person, this 8-hour adventure takes you to Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and various beaches where snorkeling and swimming are the main attractions. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, it’s designed to be hassle-free, giving you more time to enjoy the incredible scenery.

What we love most about this tour is its blend of comfort and activity. The choice of seating—whether standard, first-class with a bit more space, or a premium speedboat—caters to different preferences and budgets. And the lunch, a tasty Thai buffet, provides enough energy to fuel your day of exploration. Plus, the snorkeling gear included means you can dive into the colorful underwater world without extra fuss.

However, keep in mind that the ferry ride—about 90 minutes each way—might not be the best for everyone, especially those prone to seasickness or with limited stamina. Also, some travelers noted that the seats in first class don’t recline as much as expected. But overall, this tour offers excellent value, especially for those who want a straightforward, well-organized day on the water.

If you’re looking for a full-day, guided experience with a good mix of sightseeing, swimming, and local Thai cuisine, this tour is a solid choice. It suits active travelers, families, or anyone eager to tick off the must-see spots of the Phi Phi archipelago without the hassle of organizing transportation themselves.

Key Points

Includes round-trip transfers from Phuket, making it convenient for travelers staying in key areas like Patong or Karon.
Visit Maya Bay, famous for its stunning beaches and clear waters, perfect for photo ops and snorkeling.
Multiple seating options allow for personalized comfort; premium speedboats cover more ground quickly.
Snorkeling gear is provided, and snorkeling is done off longtail boats or speedboats depending on your seat class.
Lunch is included, offering a variety of Thai dishes to enjoy during your island stops.
Weather-dependent: The exact docking locations and activities may change due to sea conditions or tides.

An In-Depth Look at the Phi Phi Islands Tour

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Booking and Availability

This tour is popular, typically booked about 40 days in advance, which shows how much travelers value the experience. Its price point of $58.19 makes it a competitive option, especially considering hotel transfers, lunch, and snorkeling gear are all included. For many, this represents good value compared to arranging separate transportation, meals, and activities.

The Comfort and Convenience of Travel

The hotel pickup is a major perk, saving you the hassle of finding your way to the pier. The tour offers shared van transfers from Phuket Town, Patong, Kata, and Karon Beach — with a small surcharge for locations outside these areas. Expect to be ready 15 minutes before the scheduled 8:30 am departure, giving you a stress-free start.

The Ferry Ride

The trip from Phuket to the islands takes approximately 90 minutes. The standard seats are comfortable enough for most, but if you opt for first-class, you’ll enjoy a more spacious seat—though some reviews pointed out they don’t recline as much as hoped. The premium option involves a speedboat, allowing you to cover more ground and visit additional spots faster.

One reviewer shared, “Well worth the extra money just for the air conditioning,” highlighting how comfort can enhance your day. The ferry ride offers scenic views of the sea, but it might be a longer journey for those sensitive to motion or seasickness.

The Itinerary: From Land to Underwater Marvels

Maya Bay is the star of the show, with its silky white sand and exceptionally clear water. It’s a photographer’s paradise, offering sweeping vistas of towering cliffs and colorful coral reefs. The bay’s unique shape, sheltered by cliffs on three sides, makes it feel like a secluded paradise, perfect for snorkeling.

Viking Cave is a quick stop but well worth it. It’s famous for its ancient paintings depicting Scandinavian-style boats, adding a dash of curiosity. The cave’s location at the bottom of a limestone cliff makes it a dramatic sight, and many find it fascinating to see the local bird nests and caves that are often used for bird’s nest soup harvesting.

Ko Phi Phi Don, the largest island in the archipelago, is where most of the resorts and restaurants are located. The landscape is mostly limestone, and the island’s main settlement is lively but still manageable in size. Travelers typically spend about two hours here, giving ample time to explore, shop, or relax.

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Snorkeling and Underwater Experiences

Snorkeling is a major part of the tour, with equipment provided. Depending on your seating class, snorkeling is done via longtail boats or speedboats. The coral reefs and various colorful fish make for memorable underwater sights. One guest noted, “Snorkeling over the reefs was fantastic,” and many appreciate the opportunity to see marine life close up.

The snorkel gear is straightforward, and guides are usually attentive, helping with equipment and safety. The water clarity at Maya Bay is often praised, making it an ideal spot for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike.

Lunch and Refreshments

The buffet lunch is a highlight for many. It includes a variety of Thai dishes and snacks, providing enough fuel for the day’s activities. Several reviews mentioned the quality of the food, describing it as superb and a good value considering it’s included in the price.

Onboard refreshments like tea, coffee, and snacks keep you energized between stops. Travelers have commented on the generous portions and the variety of choices available.

The Group Size and Atmosphere

This tour can accommodate up to 450 travelers, which might seem large at first glance. However, the tour is well-organized, and the group setting adds a social element. The guides and crew are described as knowledgeable and attentive, making sure everyone stays safe and informed.

Weather and Sea Conditions: Flexibility and Changes

Sea conditions dictate some aspects of the trip. If the weather is rough or tides are high, the tour might adjust the docking spots or choose alternative snorkeling locations. The company emphasizes that changes for safety are standard, and no refunds are issued if schedules shift due to weather.

Cost and Value

For $58.19, the tour offers a comprehensive experience—covering transportation, meals, guided commentary, snorkeling gear, and multiple island stops. Many reviews highlight the good value for money, especially when you consider the effort saved in planning and organizing.

Some travelers noted that upgrades to first class or premium are available but must be purchased before boarding, which allows for a more comfortable journey. The national park fee of 400-baht per adult or 200-baht per child is an additional cost for those in standard or first class, a typical charge for visiting protected areas.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures and don’t mind a longer boat ride. Families with children 11 and younger, or those with health concerns, should consider the sea conditions and overall physical exertion. The well-organized itinerary and good food appeal to those who want a hassle-free day with a mix of sightseeing and swimming.

The Sum Up

This Phi Phi Islands tour offers a balanced mix of comfort, adventure, and cultural sights at a reasonable price. It’s ideal for travelers seeking an immersive day with snorkeling, stunning scenery, and Thai cuisine without the fuss of self-planning. The hotel transfers save time, while the choice of seating options allows for a customized experience.

The inclusion of lunch and snorkeling gear makes it a practical choice for those wanting to make the most of their day. The guided commentary and well-organized itinerary ensure you won’t miss the highlights, even in a large group. While the boat ride might not be suitable for everyone, most agree that the breathtaking views and underwater sights make it worthwhile.

This tour is a solid pick for anyone wanting a straightforward, fun-filled day exploring the stunning Phi Phi Islands. Whether you’re snapping photos at Maya Bay or floating over coral reefs, you’re sure to leave with memorable stories—and maybe a little sunburn.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers shared van transfer from Phuket Town, Patong, Kata, or Karon Beach, with a small surcharge for other areas.

How long is the ferry ride? The journey from Phuket to the islands takes about 90 minutes each way, depending on sea conditions.

What is included in the price? Your fee covers round-trip transfers, lunch buffet, snorkeling gear, guide, and onboard refreshments.

Can I upgrade my seat? Upgrades to first class or premium speedboat are available but must be arranged before boarding the ferry.

Are there any additional costs? Yes, National Park Fees of 400-baht per adult and 200-baht per child apply if you’re in standard or first-class seats.

Is this tour suitable for children? Children 3 and younger are free, but children 11 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult. Some parts of the tour may not be ideal for very young children or those with health issues.

In summary, whether you’re after iconic beaches, underwater adventures, or simply a day to relax and soak up the views, this Phi Phi Islands tour offers good value and memorable experiences. Just prepare for a busy day and a bit of boat travel—your reward will be the incredible sights of Thailand’s famous archipelago.