Phi Phi Islands and Maya Bay Tour by Speedboat from Krabi

Experience the Beauty of Thailand’s Phi Phi Islands by Speedboat

Imagine gliding across the shimmering Andaman Sea in a sleek speedboat, the wind tousling your hair as you head toward some of Thailand’s most famous tropical destinations. This full-day tour from Krabi, priced at around $70 per person, takes you on a lively adventure to Maya Bay, Loh Samah Bay, Pileh Bay, Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, and Bamboo Island. The tour lasts about eight hours, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun in some truly picture-perfect spots.

What we love about this trip is how it combines the excitement of a speedboat ride with the chance to explore multiple islands and beaches that are famous for their natural beauty. The delicious Thai lunch is a bonus, giving you a chance to refuel before more island hopping. Plus, the hotel pickup and drop-off make it easy to start your day without stress.

A potential consideration? The tour can get quite busy, with up to 35 travelers. If you’re seeking a more intimate experience or quiet beaches, this might feel a bit crowded at times. Still, for most, the lively atmosphere and the variety of stops make it well worth the price.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to see the iconic sights of the Phi Phi Islands without spending a fortune. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy snorkeling, photography, and exploring multiple locations in one day — all with a friendly guide leading the way.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, Bamboo Island, and more.
• All-in-one experience with snorkel gear, lunch, and hotel transfers included.
• Ideal for adventure lovers who want to swim, snorkel, and visit multiple islands in one day.
• Perfect for first-timers eager to see the highlights of the Phi Phi Islands with a knowledgeable guide.
• Crowd potential — tour groups can be sizable, making it lively but not private.
• Great value for the price, especially with meals and equipment included.

Exploring the Phi Phi Islands by Speedboat: A Detailed Review

The Starting Point: Krabi and the Convenient Pickup

Your day begins with a hotel pickup from areas like Ao Nang, Klong Muang, or Krabi Town, typically between 8:00 and 8:30 am. The transfer to the speedboat pier is just about 10 minutes, a hassle-free start that sets the tone for a smooth day. Many travelers appreciate not having to navigate their way to the boat, allowing you to relax from the moment you wake.

The Speedboat Journey: Fast-paced and Exciting

Once onboard, the speedboat whips across the Andaman Sea, offering a sense of adventure and a chance to admire the coastline from a different perspective. The boat ride itself is a highlight, especially if you enjoy the thrill of speeding through open water — just hold onto your hat!

Maya Bay: Shooting Location for “The Beach”

Our first major stop is Maya Bay, famous for its role in the Leonardo Di Caprio film “The Beach”. The bay is framed by towering cliffs that seem to rise directly from the sea, creating a natural amphitheater. The beach boasts silky white sand and colorful coral reefs, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Reviewers like Firas highlight how much they loved the helpful guide Eve, who made sure everyone got good photos and felt comfortable. The one-hour visit allows enough time to relax on the beach or explore underwater with snorkel gear.

Loh Samah Bay: A Tropical Gem with Limestone Walls

Next, you visit Loh Samah Bay, a protected cove surrounded by limestone cliffs. This area is especially appealing because it escaped much of the damage from the 2004 tsunami, so the scenery remains pristine. Lukas notes how the viewings and commentary from guides made this part memorable. It’s a peaceful spot to swim and take photos of the dramatic limestone formations.

Pileh Bay: The Lagoon of Crystal Waters

Pileh Bay is often cited as a highlight of the trip. Its crystal-clear waters and surrounding cliffs create a serene, postcard-perfect scene. The separated lagoon offers a calm place to relax, swim, or snorkel. Many visitors find themselves captivated by the vivid blue hues and the sense of tranquility.

Monkey Beach: Up Close with Curious Monkeys

A fun and lively part of the tour is Monkey Beach, home to a colony of semi-tame monkeys. As reviewers like Lukas describe, the monkeys are not shy and will eagerly climb onto your legs in search of bananas. It’s a chance to see wildlife up close, but always keep your valuables secure — these monkeys are clever!

Viking Cave: Mysterious and Artistic

On the eastern side of Phi Phi Ley, Viking Cave offers a glimpse into its famous wall paintings. Though the name suggests Viking pirates, there’s no proof they ever visited; the name is more about the boat-shaped paintings inside. The one-hour stop is enough to snap some photos and marvel at the artwork, adding a touch of intrigue to your day.

Bamboo Island: Relaxing and Snorkeling Paradise

The last major stop is Bamboo Island, a flat, lush island with a long white sand beach. It’s quieter and less rocky than the other spots, making it a perfect place for snorkeling just 50 meters off the beach. The short 30-minute visit allows you to unwind, swim, and take in the views before heading back.

Lunch and the Return Journey

A highlight of the tour is the Thai lunch provided, giving you a taste of local flavors after a morning of activity. Many reviews, including Firas’, praise the quality of the food as well as the attentive service. After lunch, your guide accompanies you back to the pier for the transfer to your hotel, completing a well-rounded day.

Practicalities and What to Expect

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 35 travelers, the tour maintains a lively atmosphere, perfect for socializing or making new friends. The guides are generally praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, with Firas mentioning how Eve went out of her way to assist and take pictures.

Timing and Duration

The schedule is quite tight, with each stop allocated about 30 minutes to 1 hour. This allows you to see many sights but leaves little time for extended lounging. If you’re a slow spender or want more time to relax, keep this in mind.

What to Bring and Wear

The tour recommends bringing swimwear, sunblock, sunglasses, a beach towel, slippers, and a camera. Since the stops involve swimming and snorkeling, quick-drying clothes and waterproof cases are helpful. The long hours and outdoor exposure mean sunscreen and hats are essential.

Cost and Value

At $70, the tour offers great value considering the lunch, equipment, and transfers included. Entry fees for the national parks are not included, but these are typical for such tours. The convenience of door-to-door pickup and the chance to see major sights in one day add to the overall value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for first-time visitors to Krabi who want an overview of the area’s most famous sites. It’s also well-suited for families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy adventure, snorkeling, and photography. If you’re seeking a more intimate experience or quiet beaches, you might find the group size a bit busy, but most will appreciate the variety of stops and the lively atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

The Phi Phi Islands and Maya Bay Tour by Speedboat offers a dynamic and colorful way to experience some of Thailand’s most iconic beaches and islands. The knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery combine to create a memorable day that balances adventure, relaxation, and cultural intrigue.

While it’s a full-on day with a packed schedule, it provides excellent value for the price. Expect lively group dynamics, stunning vistas, and plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and capture vacation memories.

If you’re after a fun, active day on the water that hits the highlights of the Phi Phi Islands, this tour is a solid choice. Just prepare for a bustling, energetic experience — and come ready to enjoy some of Thailand’s most photogenic spots.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a speedboat ride, lunch, and snorkeling equipment.

How long is the tour?
It lasts roughly 8 hours, from pickup in the morning to return in the afternoon.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, national park entry fees are not included, so be prepared for that expense.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
Mostly yes, but consider your children’s comfort with boat rides and outdoor activities.

Can I snorkel at each stop?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and most stops like Bamboo Island are great for snorkeling.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunblock, sunglasses, a towel, slippers, and a camera.

How crowded is the tour?
With up to 35 travelers, it’s lively but not overly crowded — ideal for social travelers.

What is the best part of the tour?
Many rave about Maya Bay and Pileh Bay for their stunning beauty and calm waters.

Is it worth the price?
Definitely, considering the meals, equipment, transfers, and multiple island stops.

What if the weather turns bad?
The tour is weather dependent. If canceled, you’ll get a full refund or a chance to reschedule.

This full-day Phi Phi Islands tour offers a well-rounded, exciting way to explore some of Thailand’s most photogenic spots. Whether you’re after snorkeling, beach lounging, or just capturing memories, it’s a trip that balances adventure and relaxation — perfect for making the most of your time in Krabi.