Phuket Phi Phi Island and Khai Island Snorkeling Tour with Lunch

Experience the Best of Phuket’s Marine Wonders with the Phi Phi and Khai Islands Snorkeling Tour

This 7-hour adventure starts early, with hotel pickups around Phuket’s popular areas like Patong, Kata, and Karon. For $88.05 per person, you’ll get a well-paced day exploring some of Thailand’s most stunning islands—Phi Phi Islands and Khai Islands—with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, relax, and enjoy authentic Thai cuisine. The tour is run by PINK DUGONG, a reputable company with a focus on safe, guided excursions, and it includes all the essentials: snorkel gear, paddleboards, insurance, and a hearty lunch.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is how it balances spectacular scenery with informative guides and a relaxed pace. The stops at Maya Bay and Loh Samah Bay promise postcard-perfect views, while the snorkeling near Viking Cave and Monkey Beach offers chances to see colorful fish and even a baby black fin shark, as some reviews mention. Plus, the visit to Khai Nok Island caps off the day with white sand beaches and swimming in crystal waters—ideal for unwinding.

One thing to keep in mind is the timing and group size: with a maximum of 30 travelers, it feels intimate enough, but the schedule can be tight, especially if you wish to linger longer at certain spots. Also, Maya Bay is closed from August 1 to September 30, 2023, so you might find the itinerary adjusted if you’re traveling during those months. Still, the overall experience is flexible enough to suit adventurous travelers who want a solid overview of the area’s highlights.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy snorkeling, scenic boat rides, and authentic Thai meals in a well-organized group. If you’re looking for a straightforward, fun-filled day with a blend of adventure and relaxation, it’s hard to find a better value for the price. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned swimmer, you’ll find plenty to love here—especially if you’re keen to see Thailand’s famous islands without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Key Points

• Beautiful Islands: Visit Phi Phi Islands with stunning views, white sand beaches, and clear waters perfect for photos and swimming.
• Snorkeling & Water Fun: Snorkel near Viking Cave and Monkey Beach—some reviews praise the presence of sharks and vibrant coral.
• Authentic Thai Lunch: Enjoy a delicious meal at Chao Koh Restaurant overlooking Tonsai Bay, a real highlight for food lovers.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides help you get the most out of each stop, sharing insights about the area’s natural beauty.
• Flexible & Convenient: Hotel pickup, all necessary gear included, and a short, manageable day for most travelers.
• Limited Crowds: With a cap of 30 travelers, you’ll enjoy a more personal experience compared to larger tours.

A Deep Dive Into the Tour Experience

Starting early in the morning, the pickup service around Phuket makes the day convenient. This is especially handy if you’re staying in popular areas like Patong or Kata, as you’re whisked off to Sangrat Pier with minimal fuss. The quick snack and coffee break while waiting for the boat launch help stave off the morning hunger—something small but appreciated when you’re about to spend hours on the water.

Visiting Ko Phi Phi Le

The first major stop is the famous Maya Bay and Loh Samah Bay. These spots are what dreams are made of—crystal waters, towering limestone cliffs, and fine white sand beaches. Here, you have about two and a half hours to relax, explore, swim, or paddleboard. The guide’s insights about the islands’ geography and history add context, making the scenery even more meaningful. As one reviewer noted, “We loved the way the guide shared local stories and made the experience more engaging.”

Viking Cave and Snorkeling

Next up is visiting the Viking Cave, a natural marvel with its ancient paintings and secluded location. The snorkeling here, led by experienced guides, promises vibrant coral reefs and an array of tropical fish. One guest shared, “The snorkeling stop was great. I saw a baby black fin shark. The fish and coral were beautiful.” This can be a highlight for those eager to see marine life up close. The cave itself is photo-worthy, and your guide will point out features that you might otherwise miss.

Lunch on Ko Phi Phi Don

A true highlight is the lunch break at Chao Koh Restaurant overlooking Tonsai Bay. The menu is a mix of Thai flavors, and the setting offers scenic views of boats bobbing in the harbor. It’s wholesome, satisfying, and provides a good rest before the afternoon activities. With a generous 75-minute window, you have time to soak in the scenery and enjoy your meal without feeling rushed.

Monkey Beach & Khai Nok Island

Post-lunch, the tour visits Monkey Beach. Here, you can take photos with monkeys in their natural habitat—something particularly amusing, as some travelers note seeing monkeys walk freely on the white sands. Snorkeling and swimming continue here, giving you more chances to observe marine life and enjoy the warm, inviting water.

Finally, the day winds down at Khai Nok Island, known for its pristine beaches and calm waters, ideal for relaxing in the late afternoon sun. The shallow waters and coral reefs make it a safe, fun spot for swimming and snorkeling. As one reviewer said, “It’s perfect for unwinding after a busy morning of sightseeing.”

Returning to Phuket

By 5:00 PM, the boat departs Khai Island, and you’re back at the pier in Phuket, tired but happy. The transfer back to your hotel is a smooth end to a packed day of island exploration.

Additional Practical Details

The tour includes seasonal fruits, soft drinks, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, life jackets, and accident insurance—all of which enhance value and safety. The national park fee for foreigners (400 Baht) and the free entry for children under 3 are clear costs to keep in mind.

While the tour is quite comprehensive, some travelers mention wanting more snorkeling time, especially given how beautiful the reefs are. Fins aren’t included, so if you’re serious about snorkeling, bringing your own fins might be a good idea. Towels aren’t provided, so pack one if you want to dry off comfortably.

Flexibility and Cancellations

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before, which adds some peace of mind. Weather can impact the experience, but the company will offer alternative dates or refunds if needed.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip caters well to travelers looking for a well-organized day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and beach relaxation. It’s ideal for those who want a taste of the famous Phi Phi Islands without complicated logistics. Families, couples, and solo travelers will appreciate the manageable pace and guided commentary. If you’re excited about marine life, stunning vistas, and authentic Thai food, this tour hits most of those marks beautifully.

Final Thoughts

For anyone visiting Phuket, this snorkeling tour to Phi Phi and Khai Islands offers a balanced mix of nature, adventure, and culture—all within a convenient, well-priced package. The chance to see vibrant coral reefs, playful monkeys, and iconic beaches makes it a memorable choice for travelers eager to experience Thailand’s island magic firsthand.

Overall, you’ll love the professional guides, stunning views, and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere. It’s a good option for those who want to spend a day outdoors, exploring some of the best spots Phuket has to offer, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and just soak up the scenery.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with hotel pickups around 7:15 to 8:20 AM, with the main activity starting at the pier at 9:30 AM.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup services are available around Patong, Kata, Karon, Chalong, and Phuket Town, making the start of your day hassle-free.

How long is the snorkeling time?
Snorkeling occurs at several stops, including Viking Cave and Monkey Beach, with the last stop at Khai Nok Island. While specific durations aren’t detailed, these stops typically include snorkeling and swimming for a significant part of the day.

Are meals included?
Yes, a Thai lunch is provided at Chao Koh Restaurant, and seasonal fruits and soft drinks are included throughout the day.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather conditions are a factor, but the operator offers full refunds or alternative dates if the tour needs to be canceled due to poor weather.

How many people are in each group?
The tour caps at 30 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience compared to larger group excursions.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Snorkeling equipment is provided, but if you prefer fins or other gear, bringing your own might improve your experience.

In essence, this tour is a solid choice for those wanting to see the highlights of Phuket’s marine environment with comfort and ease. It delivers excellent value and the chance to make wonderful memories—beachside, underwater, and in between.