Phi Phi Island Hopping Day Trip by Speed Boat from Phuket

If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters, towering cliffs, and picture-perfect beaches, a trip to the Phi Phi Islands from Phuket is hard to beat. This 7.5-hour speedboat tour, priced at $106.85 per person, whisks you from your Phuket hotel into a world of stunning scenery, lively marine life, and unforgettable sights. Guided by friendly professionals, you’ll hop between six islands and bays, each with its own unique charm, snorkel among vibrant fish and reef sharks, and enjoy a delicious buffet lunch with a view.

What we love most about this tour is how smoothly it runs — with hotel transfers included, there’s no fuss getting to and from the boat. Plus, the variety of stops, from the famous Maya Bay to the secluded Bamboo Island, offers a well-rounded experience without feeling rushed. The chance to snorkel in Pi Leh Bay and see black tip reef sharks circling over Maya Bay is a real highlight, especially for nature lovers.

However, a consideration is the long travel time—about an hour each way from Phuket — which might be tiring for some. The tour’s timing also depends on weather conditions, especially for visiting Maya Bay, which closes in August and September for conservation. Still, for those eager to see Thailand’s most iconic islands in a single day, this trip offers excellent value and authentic scenery.

If you’re someone who enjoys adventure, snorkeling, and breathtaking views, this tour is a great choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a full-day excursion that balances sightseeing, marine activity, and local flavors—all in a single, well-organized package.

Key Points

• All-inclusive comfort: Hotel transfers make getting to the boat hassle-free.
• Diverse stops: Multiple islands and bays, including Maya Bay, Loh Samah Bay, and Bamboo Island.
• Snorkeling opportunities: Vibrant marine life and the chance to see reef sharks.
• Local cultural insight: Short stop at Viking Cave, known for swiftlet nests.
• Tasty lunch: Buffet with a view on Koh Phi Phi Don, adding a relaxing break.
• Weather dependency: Maya Bay may be closed during August and September.

A Deep Dive into the Phi Phi Island Hopping Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins early, with hotel pickups arranged by the tour provider, Trip Store Krabi. You’ll be driven comfortably to Phuket Boat Lagoon, where you’ll meet your crew after a brief COVID-19 screening and safety briefing. This initial setup not only keeps the process straightforward but also ensures you’re prepared for the day ahead, especially with the inclusion of life jackets and snorkeling gear.

The entire trip from Phuket and back spans about 10 hours, with the tour itself lasting approximately 7.5 hours. This means that while you’ll spend a significant part of your day on the water, the experience is thoughtfully paced to include enough downtime at each stop. The group size is capped at 30 travelers, maintaining a friendly environment and allowing for more personalized attention from guides.

The Islands and Bay Stops

Ko Phi Phi Le is the first highlight. This uninhabited island offers the classic view that made the islands famous—towering cliffs, shimmering waters, and the lagoon of Maya Bay. Here, you’ll have about 15 minutes to soak in the scenery and possibly spot the black tip reef sharks that glide gracefully over the shallow coral reef. One reviewer, Nick, commented that “the boat was of good quality and the organization was first rate,” making the experience smooth and enjoyable.

Next, you’ll visit Loh Samah Bay for about 30 minutes. The calm waters here are perfect for a quick swim among colorful corals and tropical fish. Many travelers find this spot ideal for snorkeling, with some noting that the waters are cool and inviting.

Pi Leh Bay is another snorkel hotspot, with excellent visibility at the entrance. The towering cliffs surrounding the bay make it one of the most scenic spots, and the shallow waters offer the chance to see a variety of marine creatures.

The tour then cruises to Viking Cave, a quick stop where swiftlet birds’ nests are harvested—an intriguing peek into local industry. This short visit adds a touch of cultural insight amid the natural beauty.

Lunch with a View

After the island hopping, you’ll arrive at Tonsai Village on Koh Phi Phi Don. The buffet lunch at Phi Phi Harbour View Hotel is served with a backdrop of bustling local life and stunning scenery. The large Ton Sai banyan tree is a quick walk away, offering a peaceful spot to digest the morning’s adventure.

Afternoon Highlights: Bamboo Island and Beyond

In the afternoon, you’ll visit Bamboo Island, located about 5 km off the northern tip of Koh Phi Phi Don. Known for its outstanding coral reef, Hin Klang, this spot resembles swimming in an aquarium. The hour and ten minutes here is enough to relax on powdery white sands and snorkel among vibrant fish and coral.

If weather conditions aren’t ideal, the alternative is Koh Rang Yai, a quieter island just off Phuket’s east coast, which offers similar tranquility and marine scenery.

Authentic Experiences and Practicalities

Throughout the day, the guides provide snorkeling equipment, drinks, and fresh fruits—simple touches that enhance comfort and enjoyment. The professional English-speaking guides are attentive, sharing insights and ensuring safety. These details foster a relaxed environment, where you can focus on the stunning surroundings without worry.

The Value Factor

Considering the $106.85 price tag, this tour includes hotel transfers, lunch, snorkeling gear, and insurance, making it a good deal for a full day of exploring. The extra costs—such as entrance fees to the national park—are not included, but these are minor compared to the overall experience.

The Downsides

The main consideration is the long travel time from Phuket, which can be tiring, especially if you’re not accustomed to early mornings or boat rides. The trip’s timing also depends on weather conditions—poor weather could affect the visit to Maya Bay, which is an important highlight for many.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is particularly suited for adventure seekers, marine life enthusiasts, and those who want to tick off the iconic Maya Bay and its surroundings in just one day. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with a full day on the water and enjoy snorkeling and beach hopping. Families, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate organized, well-paced excursions will find it offers excellent value and memorable sights.

The Sum Up

For anyone eager to see Thailand’s most famous islands without the hassle of planning multiple trips, this Phi Phi Island tour offers a practical, scenic, and lively experience. The combination of stunning natural beauty, snorkeling opportunities, and a well-organized schedule makes it a compelling choice for travelers wanting a full day of tropical adventure.

While the lengthy boat rides might challenge some, the chance to swim alongside colorful marine life, stand beneath towering cliffs, and relax over a buffet lunch makes this trip well worth considering. It’s best suited for those who value authentic scenery and convenience over sheer luxury, ensuring you get a genuine taste of Thailand’s famed islands.

FAQ

How long is the entire trip from Phuket and back?
The full day, including pickup, travel, and return, is about 10 hours. The tour itself lasts approximately 7.5 hours on the water.

What is included in the tour price?
The price includes hotel round-trip transfer, snorkeling equipment, life jackets, drinks, fruits, a buffet lunch, and basic accident insurance.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, entrance fees to the Hat Noppharat Thara – Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park are not included and are payable separately. Tips are also not included.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Yes, with snorkeling equipment and life jackets provided, non-swimmers can still enjoy the water. Kids should be comfortable on a boat for hours.

What happens if the weather is bad?
In case of poor weather, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled. Maya Bay may be closed in August and September, per conservation regulations.

How many people typically join the tour?
The group size is limited to 30 travelers, keeping things manageable and more personalized.

Can I customize the stops?
The itinerary is fixed, but the guides often provide insights about each location, and you can choose to participate or relax as you prefer.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a hat, swimwear, towel, and a waterproof camera if you want photos of the underwater scenery.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The group size and guided nature make it a friendly option for solo adventurers seeking camaraderie and shared experiences.

This Phi Phi Island hopping tour offers a wonderful balance of adventure, relaxation, and scenery—a true highlight for anyone wanting to experience Thailand’s iconic islands with ease and authenticity.