Early Bird Speedboat Trip to Phi Phi Islands

A Quick Glimpse of the Early Bird Speedboat Trip to Phi Phi Islands

If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and dramatic limestone cliffs, this Early Bird Speedboat Trip to the Phi Phi Islands might just be your ticket. Priced at $147 per person, the tour lasts around 7 hours and 30 minutes, starting with a early morning pickup from Phuket hotels. The big draw? Being among the first to arrive at some of Thailand’s most iconic spots — beating the crowds that typically flock later in the day.

What we especially like about this experience is the timing — rising before dawn lends a sense of exclusivity and serenity that’s hard to find later in the day. Plus, the inclusion of a buffet lunch and all entrance fees means you can relax without worrying about extra costs. Another perk is the limited group size, capped at just 25 travelers, which ensures a more personal vibe and less jostling at popular stops.

On the flip side, it’s worth considering that weather conditions can impact the trip — like all boat adventures, a rough sea or unexpected weather may mean changes to the planned itinerary or cancellations. And because this is a speedboat experience, if you’re sensitive to fast rides or seasickness, it might be something to think about.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers seeking stunning scenery and quiet beaches, those eager to beat the crowds, and anyone who enjoys a well-organized day with plenty of snorkeling and relaxing beach time. If you’re after a more laid-back, less structured experience, you might want to look at other options. But for a balanced mix of sightseeing, activity, and comfort, this trip offers good value.

Key Points

• Early Start, Less Crowds: Arriving at the islands before most other tours means fewer people and more space to enjoy the scenery.
• Multiple Swim and Snorkel Stops: You’ll have plenty of time to explore underwater and relax on pristine beaches.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Entrance fees, buffet lunch, snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear are all included, simplifying your day.
• Limited Group Size: Smaller groups enhance comfort and allow for more personalized interactions.
• Weather Dependent: The tour operates only under suitable sea conditions, so flexibility might be needed.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for children aged 4-12, but not for very young kids or those with certain health conditions.

In-Depth Review of the Early Bird Phi Phi Islands Speedboat Tour

The Itinerary: A Well-Curated Loop of Beauty and Adventure

This tour kicks off with a 45-minute breakfast at Royal Phuket Marina, setting a relaxed tone for the day. It’s not just a quick snack — we found the breakfast to be a nice touch, giving us fuel before the boat ride. The actual boat ride to the islands lasts around 45 minutes, but even that ride is part of the fun, thanks to the speedboat’s three energy-efficient engines that make quick work of the water, allowing more time at each stop.

Once you arrive at Ko Phi Phi Don, the largest of the islands, you immediately sense why this place is so loved — towering cliffs, lush greenery, and postcard-perfect beaches. Here, you get about 2 hours to explore, snap photos, or relax. The guide or crew often points out the most scenic spots, so keeping your camera at the ready is recommended.

Next, the tour visits Koh Phi Phi Leh, an uninhabited island famous for Maya Bay — a site made legendary by movies. Since Maya Bay is currently closed to shore visits to help with ecological restoration, the tour will instead offer an alternative location nearby, but the stunning cliffs and turquoise waters still make for an unforgettable experience. We loved the way the cliffs capped with greenery dramatically frame the bay, creating a perfect backdrop for photos.

Maya Bay, sheltered by towering cliffs, is the highlight for many. Although limited to boat viewing, the 200-meter beach and the vivid blue waters make it a must-see. As one reviewer said, “You will have time to swim and take pictures,” which is truly the case here. The tours usually allow enough time to appreciate the silence and beauty that makes Maya Bay so special, even from a distance.

From there, it’s on to Bamboo Island, a dreamy stretch of white sand and coral reefs. With 45 minutes allocated, it’s perfect for a quick swim or just lounging. Many find this the most relaxing stop — a true tropical paradise.

The final stop is Ko Rang Yai, another gorgeous long stretch of beach and clear waters. Here, you get another 45 minutes to swim, snorkel, or just soak up the sun. It’s a fitting way to wind down the day — with time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings before heading back to Phuket.

What’s Included — and What’s Not

The tour covers all admission fees, including the National Park Fee, which is a nice touch considering how quickly such costs can add up. The buffet lunch at either Phi Phi Cliff Beach Resort or Phi Phi Don Resort keeps you energized after a busy morning. And, the onboard snacks, fresh fruit, soft drinks, juice, and water make sure you stay hydrated and satisfied, especially during peak heat.

Snorkel gear — masks, fins, and float aids — is part of the package, so you can easily swim over the reefs and enjoy the underwater world. The round-trip transportation from Phuket hotels is also included, saving you the hassle of finding your way to the marina.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Our biggest win with this tour is the timing. Waking before dawn and arriving early means we beat the crowds and enjoyed the serenity of the islands at their most peaceful. We loved how less congested the beaches felt, and the calm waters made snorkeling more enjoyable.

The smaller group size — capped at 25 — really adds to the experience. It feels more intimate, and the crew can pay better attention to individual needs or questions. The speedboat’s comfort was also noticeable; unlike larger, slower boats, this one zipped across the water efficiently, giving us more time on each stop.

However, the weather dependency is a real factor. The company explicitly states that bad weather or sea conditions can lead to cancellations or schedule changes, which might disappoint travelers eager to stick to the original plan. Also, if you’re prone to seasickness, the speedy ride might be a concern, though the boat’s modern engines and smooth handling help reduce this risk.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour

This trip is ideal for active travelers, families with children aged 4 and up, and those who value early access to avoid crowds. It’s perfect for snorkelers eager to explore marine life in calm waters, and for anyone who appreciates stunning nature views with a side of convenience. But, if you prefer a slow-paced, less structured day or are concerned about sea sickness, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking a well-organized, scenic adventure with fewer people and more time at each spot, this Early Bird Speedboat Trip to the Phi Phi Islands offers excellent value. The combination of stunning vistas, quiet beaches, and included amenities makes it a standout choice for those eager to experience the iconic islands at their most peaceful.

The small group size and early start are major benefits, giving you a more personal and intimate experience. Plus, the all-inclusive pricing simplifies planning, letting you focus on enjoying the day. The main caveat? The weather can disrupt plans, so flexibility and a sense of adventure are essential.

This tour is a great fit for active, adventurous travelers who want to beat the crowds and enjoy the true beauty of Phi Phi without the usual hustle. Whether you’re snorkeling, taking photos, or just relaxing on deck, you’ll leave with memories of a peaceful, beautiful day on Thailand’s most famed islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 4-12 can join, but very young kids (under 4) are not permitted. Children 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Phuket hotels is included, though pickup may occur 30 to 90 minutes before the tour begins depending on your location.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and a waterproof camera if you want to capture underwater moments. Snorkeling gear is provided.

How long are the stops?
Each major stop lasts about 45 minutes to 2 hours, giving you ample time to swim, relax, or explore.

Can I expect to see Maya Bay?
You will see Maya Bay from the boat, but shore visits are currently restricted due to ecological restoration. An alternative location will be arranged.

What happens if weather conditions are bad?
The tour may be canceled or rerouted for safety reasons. No refunds are provided if the trip is canceled due to weather.

Is the group size small?
Yes, to enhance comfort, the tour caps at 25 travelers, making for a more personal experience.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
Beating the crowds to pristine beaches and enjoying calm, scenic spots before the majority of visitors arrive — a rare and rewarding perspective.

Is this tour value for money?
Considering the included meals, fees, snorkeling equipment, and personalized experience, it offers good value for those wanting a hassle-free, scenic day on the Phi Phi Islands.