Phuket: Phi Phi, Bamboo & Maiton Speed Catamaran Tour

Experience the Phuket: Phi Phi, Bamboo & Maiton Speed Catamaran Tour

Imagine cruising on a sleek, luxury catamaran across Phuket’s turquoise waters, visiting some of Thailand’s most iconic islands. For around $88 per person, you get roughly 8 hours of island hopping, snorkel stops, water fun, and a tasty Thai buffet. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides—like Mike, who gets rave reviews—you’ll see Bamboo Island’s white sands, snorkel around colorful reefs at Phi Phi Leh, and relax on the famous Maya Bay (seasonally). Plus, you’ll enjoy water slides and paddleboarding at Maiton Island—all with the comfort of a high-speed, well-equipped vessel that makes the journey smooth and stylish.

What sets this tour apart? First, speed and comfort. We loved how the Sweetie catamaran combines the thrill of fast travel with a refined onboard atmosphere—leather seats, sea-view decks, and amenities that make the day feel special without sacrificing practicality. Second, the diverse activities—snorkeling, paddleboarding, floating water slides—offer a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

One thing to keep in mind: the itinerary is weather-dependent. Maya Bay, for example, is seasonal and might be closed during certain times of the year, which could affect the full experience. Also, since the tour can sell out—last month, it had over 20 bookings—you’ll want to book early if you’re set on specific dates.

This tour appeals most to families, couples, or groups of friends who value comfort, good food, and a well-organized schedule packed with fun activities. If you’re looking for a fast-paced, scenic, but relaxed day on the water, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Comfort & Speed: The luxury high-speed catamaran offers a smooth ride and onboard amenities, making long hours at sea more enjoyable.
• Diverse Activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, floating slides, and water games cater to all ages and activity levels.
• Scenic Stops: Bamboo Island’s white sand, Phi Phi Leh’s reefs, and Maya Bay’s legendary beach are the main highlights.
• Quality Food: A Thai buffet lunch plus snacks, fruit, and drinks keep you energized throughout the day.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Mike are praised for their friendliness, professionalism, and added personal touch.
• Flexible & Reliable: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance makes planning easier, and the tour operates in good weather conditions.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

This 8-hour adventure from Phuket is designed to balance comfort, scenery, and activity. Starting at 7 Plus Travel’s Chalong pier, your day begins with a hotel pickup, making logistics one less thing to worry about. The pickup time is scheduled based on your hotel’s location, so be sure to check the email confirmation for the exact details. Once at the pier, you’ll board the luxurious Sweetie catamaran, which boasts leather seating, sea-view decks, and full onboard amenities. Unlike traditional speedboats, this vessel combines the thrill of speed with a more refined, relaxed atmosphere—making it suitable for families, couples, and groups seeking comfort.

Bamboo Island: Early Morning Serenity

Your first stop is Bamboo Island, about 50 minutes from the port. Here, you’ll find white sands and shallow, transparent waters, perfect for relaxing on the beach or swimming. This island’s calm, shallow waters are ideal for a gentle swim or just soaking in the sun. Many travelers have appreciated that the admission is free, and the experience offers a peaceful start to the day. The reviews highlight the beauty of Bamboo Island as a perfect spot for unwinding or taking quick photos.

Phi Phi Leh & the Iconic Maya Bay

By late morning, the boat heads towards Phi Phi Leh, passing Viking Cave along the way. Arriving around 2 p.m., you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don, where you can sample Thai cuisine while soaking up island views. The lunch is described as generous, and reviews mention the delicious food. Afterward, you’ll head out snorkeling—an activity many reviewers praise, with colorful reefs and abundant fish. You might think of this as the highlight for snorkelers, who love the vibrant underwater world.

Then, it’s time for the Maya Bay visit—famous from the movie “The Beach.” Although Maya Bay is seasonally closed from August 1st, at other times, it’s a chance to walk on the sand and take photos of the legendary bay. Reviewers often mention how breathtaking the scenery is, and some appreciate that their guide, like Mike, kept the atmosphere upbeat even during overcast weather.

Maiton Island: Water Fun & Relaxation

The tour continues to Honeymoon Island (Maiton Island) for the afternoon. Here, you’ll find paddleboards, transparent kayaks, and floating water slides, which many travelers consider the best part of the day. The water slide and water platform get high praise for adding a splash of fun, especially for families or groups looking for active ways to enjoy the sea. The second snorkeling session offers a different reef experience, and reviews note how well the crew manages safety and fun.

Return & Refresh

As the day winds down, you’ll head back to Phuket, enjoying snacks and drinks onboard. The smooth ride back offers a chance to unwind, reflect on the day’s adventures, and maybe share photos. The tour wraps up at the pier, with the option to arrange your own transport afterward.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While $88 might seem like a significant spend, the inclusive nature of the tour—hotels transfers, multiple activities, meals, snorkeling gear, and insurance—makes it a good deal. Many reviews point out the excellent organization and helpful guides, making the day feel seamless, especially for those unfamiliar with island-hopping in Thailand. The guided experience ensures you hit the highlights without the stress of planning each stop yourself.

What Reviewers Love Most

• The friendly, enthusiastic guides like Mike who keep the atmosphere lively and ensure everyone feels looked after.
• The variety of activities—snorkeling, water slides, paddleboarding—that suit different tastes and energy levels.
• The delicious Thai buffet lunch and onboard snacks, which are more than just a convenience—they genuinely add to the experience.
• The fast, smooth vessel that takes you farther than traditional slow boats without making you seasick, according to many reviewers.

Possible Drawbacks

Some travelers mention that Maya Bay’s seasonal closure can be disappointing if you’ve set your heart on visiting it, but the other stops more than compensate. Also, the weather can impact the experience; heavy rain or clouds might limit some activities, but guides like Mike do their best to keep spirits high.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for families, couples, or friends who want a comfortable, fun-filled day on the water. It’s especially good if you appreciate good food, scenic stops, and active water fun. The consistent praise for guides like Mike makes it especially appealing for travelers who value knowledgeable, friendly hosts. Conversely, if you’re seeking a very quiet, solitary experience or are on a tight budget, you might prefer other options. But for those wanting a well-organized, enjoyable, and scenic day, this tour delivers.

FAQs

• What is included in the tour price? The price covers hotel transfers, a Thai-style buffet lunch, snorkeling equipment, life jackets, disposable mouthpieces, towels, beach mats, water slide, paddleboards, transparent kayaks, and accident medical insurance.

• Is there a specific start time? Yes, the tour begins at 10:00 am, with pickup arranged based on your hotel location.

• How long do stops at each island last? Bamboo Island is about 50 minutes, the lunch stop around 1 hour 10 minutes, Maya Bay approximately 1 hour, and Maiton Island about 50 minutes.

• Can I cancel the tour? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time.

• What activities are available at Maiton Island? Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and a floating water slide are the main options.

• Is Maya Bay always open? No, Maya Bay is seasonally closed from August 1st, so check before booking.

• Are the water activities suitable for kids? Many reviews mention families with children enjoying the water slides and snorkeling, but always check the specific age and safety requirements.

• What should I bring? Sunscreen, waterproof camera, hat, and swimwear are recommended; towels and snorkeling gear are provided.

• How many people typically go on this tour? The maximum group size is 75, but reviews often mention smaller, more intimate groups.

• Is the tour suitable for pregnant travelers? Some reviews mention caring guides, but pregnant travelers should consult with the tour provider beforehand and consider activities like snorkeling and water slides.

Final Thoughts

The Phuket: Phi Phi, Bamboo & Maiton Speed Catamaran Tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day of island exploration. It combines the thrill of high-speed cruising with the serenity of white sand beaches and vibrant reefs. The professional guides and variety of activities ensure everyone from adventure lovers to relaxation seekers finds something to enjoy. While weather and seasonal closures might affect specific stops, most travelers find the experience to be exceptionally good value in terms of scenery, comfort, and fun.

If you’re after a day of scenic beauty, water-based activities, and excellent food, this tour makes a compelling choice. It’s especially suited for those who want a comfortable, guided experience with friendly hosts and a touch of Thai hospitality. With plenty of positive reviews and a reputation for reliability, it’s a trip worth considering for your Phuket holiday.