Full Day Phi Phi Islands Tour By Royal Jet Cruiser From Phuket

Imagine cruising across sparkling waters, the wind gently tousling your hair, and catching glimpses of famous sights like Maya Bay and Viking Cave along the way. This full-day tour, costing around $52.30 per person, offers a balanced mix of comfort, adventure, and natural beauty. The journey lasts about 8 to 9 hours, and with options for standard, first, and premium classes, you can choose a level of luxury that suits your style.

What we love about this tour is the comfortable ride aboard the Royal Jet Cruiser, which provides a smooth, air-conditioned experience—especially appreciated on warm tropical days. The onboard narration helps you understand the significance of sights like Pi-Le Cove and Loh Samah Bay, adding depth to the visual feast. Plus, the free snorkeling gear makes it easy to get into the water and see vibrant fish and coral without extra fuss or cost.

However, potential travelers should consider that some reviews mention issues with organization and guides—not uncommon in busy tours. Also, the additional cost for the national park fee (THB 400/adult) isn’t included in the initial price, so budgeting for that is wise. This tour suits those who appreciate a relaxed pace, scenic views, and a touch of luxury, especially if you’re willing to overlook minor organizational hiccups.

If you’re after a well-rounded day trip with lots of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and soak up stunning views, this tour could be just right. It’s especially fitting for travelers who want to enjoy the Philippine Islands’ beauty without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Comfortable cruise experience with options for different classes.
• Includes snorkeling gear and a buffet lunch onboard.
• Highlights scenic spots like Maya Bay and Viking Cave.
• Group size limited to around 100 travelers, balancing intimacy and social vibe.
• National park fee is extra, so budget accordingly.
• The tour has mixed reviews: some praising the views and food, others noting organizational issues.

The Experience in Detail

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transfer

The tour kicks off bright and early, with hotel pickups between 7:00 and 7:15 am. We appreciated the convenience of the shared van transfer, which takes you from your hotel in Phuket to Rassada Pier. The ride lasts about an hour, and although a review mentioned drivers asking for extra payment (which was refunded), many found the pickup punctual and smooth. Just be aware that seatbelts may not work on all vans, so safety-conscious travelers should remain cautious.

The Cruise: Comfort and Sightseeing

Once aboard the Royal Jet Cruiser, you’ll notice it’s a newly built vessel, offering a luxurious and cool environment. The cruise’s air conditioning and ample deck space make it easy to relax. The onboard narration helps you identify landmarks such as Viking Cave and Pi-Le Cove, giving a richer understanding of the scenery.

The tour makes several stops for sightseeing on the water, with free access to snorkel gear. We loved the way the guides explained the significance of each spot—especially Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach”. The photos of the bay are stunning, but keep in mind, you will only see it from the boat unless you venture ashore.

Snorkeling and Beach Time

One of the best parts of this trip is the opportunity to snorkel in the vibrant waters. Many reviews mentioned a short 10-minute snorkel at Phi Phi, which was enough for a quick peek at the tropical fish and coral beds. The availability of free masks and snorkels is great for travelers who want to try this without extra expense.

The stops at Viking Cave and Lo Samah Bay offer more scenic views and chances to paddle around or wade into the water. Some travelers found the snorkeling experience limited but still enjoyable. If your main goal is relaxing on pristine sands or exploring underwater, this tour provides a solid enough window to do so.

Lunch and Free Time on Phi Phi Don

After about 1.5 hours of cruising and sightseeing, everyone lands on Phi Phi Don Island for a buffet lunch. We found that the lunch was generally praised for being hearty and well-prepared, with a seafood dish among the options. You’ll have around three hours to explore, swim, sunbathe, or grab additional photos. Several reviews mentioned that the sightseeing was somewhat limited, but the free time allows you to soak up the island’s lively atmosphere or relax on its stunning beaches.

The Return Journey

The cruise back to Phuket offers more sightseeing, with the opportunity to see Maya Bay and Viking Cave from a different perspective. The round-trip ferry is included, and the whole experience wraps up around 4 to 5 pm, making for a full but enjoyable day.

What the Reviews Say

• Several travelers appreciated the timely pickup and comfortable first-class seating.
• Many found the food on board to be satisfying, with good quality buffet meals.
• The snorkeling was a highlight for some, though others felt the sightseeing options were somewhat limited.
• Some reviews pointed out organizational issues—like the driver asking for extra payment, but refunds were handled smoothly.
• One traveler mentioned poorly maintained seatbelts in the van, so safety is a small consideration.
• The guides’ narration was generally well-received, adding value with informative insights.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance—the tour is usually booked about 20 days ahead, and spots fill quickly.
• Be prepared for an early start, but know that the day is well-structured with plenty of time on the islands.
• Budget for the THB 400 national park fee if taking the premium class, as it’s not included in the initial price.
• If snorkeling is a priority, bring your own gear if you prefer a snug fit or extra hygiene.
• Dress for comfort, and bring sun protection—hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essentials.
• For those who dislike organizational hiccups, consider the premium class with dedicated lounge and possibly smoother service.
• Travelers with pregnancy, high blood pressure, or heart issues should consult their doctor before joining.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic day with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. It’s ideal for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a comfortable way to see the Phi Phi Islands without the stress of planning individual transfers. If you’re after stunning views and a good buffet lunch, you’ll likely find this experience satisfying.

However, if you’re seeking a more active or in-depth exploration of the islands, you might find the sightseeing somewhat limited, especially if your expectation is to explore every bay on foot or underwater for hours.

The Sum Up

The Full Day Phi Phi Islands Tour by Royal Jet Cruiser offers a solid value for those wanting to experience iconic sights like Maya Bay and Viking Cave in comfort. The luxury cruise, combined with snorkeling gear and a buffet lunch, makes for a convenient and enjoyable day—especially if you prefer a less strenuous, more relaxed style of sightseeing.

While the organization might occasionally be patchy, the overall experience delivers good views, friendly guides, and enough free time to soak up the sun on some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a hassle-free way to tick the Phi Phi Islands off their bucket list, with the right mix of comfort and scenic adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers shared van pickup from your hotel in Phuket, usually between 7:00 and 7:15 am.

How long is the boat ride from Phuket to Phi Phi?
The cruise lasts about 1.5 hours in a comfortable, newly built vessel.

What sightseeing spots will I see from the boat?
You’ll glide past Viking Cave, Pi-Le Cove, Loh Samah Bay, Maya Bay, and Monkey Beach, with onboard narration explaining their significance.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, free masks and snorkels are available to all participants.

What is included in the meal?
A buffet lunch with a seafood dish is served on board or on the island, along with refreshments like tea, coffee, and soft drinks.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the national park entrance fee (THB 400 per adult) must be paid in cash if opting for the premium class, but it’s not included in the initial price.

Can I explore the island after the boat lands?
Yes, you get about three hours of free time to explore Phi Phi Don, swim, or relax on the beach.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a hat, swimsuit, towel, and possibly your own snorkeling gear if you prefer.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 4-11 under 120 cm may participate, but check with the operator about specific safety recommendations, especially for pregnant women or those with health concerns.

This tour balances scenic beauty, comfort, and a taste of adventure, making it a good choice for many travelers. Whether you’re after iconic views, underwater encounters, or simply a relaxing day on tropical sands, the Phi Phi Islands Tour by Royal Jet Cruiser can deliver—just keep expectations realistic, especially regarding organization and sightseeing depth.