Discover the best of the Phi Phi Islands with Explera DMC’s premium day trip.

This speedboat tour whisks you from Phuket to the famous Phi Phi archipelago in about 6 to 8 hours, making it a perfect choice for travelers eager to see iconic sights without the hassle of overnight stays. For $88.48 per person, you’ll visit Maya Bay (famous from “The Beach”), paddle over Pileh Lagoon, explore the Viking Cave, relax at Monkey Beach, enjoy a hearty buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don, and snorkel at some of the best spots in the area. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, which makes the logistics much easier — no need to worry about transportation once you’re on board.

Two standout features of this trip are the comprehensive itinerary packed with diverse sights and the all-inclusive nature — snorkeling gear, snacks, lunch, and park fees. We also appreciate the smooth group size (20-35 people), which strikes a good balance between intimacy and social fun.

However, one point to consider is that the tour doesn’t always go exactly as planned — reviews mention that some stops may be skipped or shortened, and the transportation from hotel to port wasn’t always included, leading to some small reimbursements.

This tour suits travelers who want a full day of island-hopping with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and relax in stunning surroundings. It’s especially good if you prefer a guided, all-in-one experience that doesn’t require extra planning or logistics. But if you’re after a highly flexible or exclusive experience, you might find it a bit structured.

Key Points

Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Phuket, simplifying logistics.
Visit multiple highlights in one day, including Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach.
All essentials included: snorkeling gear, snacks, buffet lunch, park fees.
Group size of 20-35 offers a balance of social vibe and comfort.
Some reviews mention that the tour route might not follow the plan precisely.
Not a good fit if you’re seeking a private, exclusive experience or flexibility.

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An in-depth look at the Premium Phi Phi Islands tour by Explera DMC

What’s Included and How It Works

This tour offers a comprehensive package that covers just about everything you need for a day of island fun. For the $88.48 fee, you get hotel pickup in Phuket, a speedboat ride around the islands, snorkeling equipment, a buffet lunch featuring Thai cuisine, snacks, and park entrance fees. It’s designed for convenience, with professional guides and accident insurance included, ensuring a safe and smooth experience.

The tour starts early — pickup is at 7:30 am — giving you a full day to explore. The group size (typically 20-35 people) fosters a lively atmosphere without feeling overcrowded. The boat is equipped with restrooms and onboard refreshments, making the ride comfortable.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

Start in Phuket Town

The adventure begins with a minibus pickup from your Phuket accommodation. Once at the pier, you meet your guide, check-in, and receive your color-coded bracelet that identifies your group. Expect some welcome tea, coffee, and cookies — a small touch to start the day comfortably.

Maya Bay

The star attraction, Maya Bay, is where the famous movie “The Beach” was filmed. You’ll spend about an hour here, taking in the stunning white sand beach and crystal-clear waters. However, it’s worth noting that from August 1 to October 1, 2023, Maya Bay is closed for landings — so if you’re visiting during this time, you might only see it from the boat.

Pileh Lagoon and Viking Cave

Next, you’ll cruise to Ko Phi Phi Lee, where Pileh Lagoon awaits. Here, you can swim in calm, emerald waters surrounded by towering cliffs — a truly postcard-perfect scene. Plus, there’s an option to rent a long-tail boat if you want to explore further or get closer to the cliffs.

Just a short stop at the Viking Cave offers a quick sightseeing opportunity. You’ll see the cave’s famous ancient wall paintings and bird nests, which are harvested for bird’s nest soup.

Monkey Beach

After Viking Cave, you’ll visit Monkey Beach. It’s a fun stop, but some reviews warn that the number of monkeys can be overwhelming, and feeding or getting too close isn’t advised. You’ll only have about 10 minutes here, so it’s more about quick photos than a long stay.

Lunch on Phi Phi Don

Around midday, the tour brings you to Ko Phi Phi Don for a buffet lunch. The food includes delicious Thai dishes, and many travelers appreciate the quality and variety. One reviewer even mentioned the “delicious food” as a highlight. You’ll have about an hour to eat, relax, and enjoy the lively island atmosphere.

Snorkeling at Phi Phi Lee

Post-lunch, the boat heads back to Phi Phi Lee, where you’ll snorkel at one of the top locations. Expect to see a variety of colorful fish and underwater life, thanks to the snorkeling equipment provided.

Khai Nok Island (Optional)

Depending on the tour option you select, you might visit Khai Nok Island, a small, peaceful spot perfect for relaxing or more snorkeling. It’s described as the “pearl of the Andaman Sea,” and many find it a great way to unwind.

Authentic and Practical Insights from Travelers

Some reviews highlight mixed experiences. For example, one traveler, Carmine, pointed out that the route wasn’t always respected and that transport from Phuket to the port wasn’t included, resulting in some out-of-pocket expenses.

Another reviewer, Ardit, felt that the “premium” label was misleading, as most stops didn’t allow swimming and the buffet was the same for all boats, making the “premium” aspect seem more like a marketing ploy. They suggested that perhaps focusing on just one island might give a more relaxed experience.

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What’s the Real Value?

For the price, you get a well-rounded experience with all the major sights, convenient hotel transfers, and lunch included. The snorkeling gear and park fees also add value, especially since many similar tours charge extra for these.

However, some travelers felt that the route could be more flexible and that the quality of the experience varies depending on the day and guide. The group size is manageable but can still feel a bit crowded during peak times.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is perfect if you’re looking for an action-packed day with professional guidance and all logistics handled. It works well for those who want a guided overview of the Phi Phi Islands without spending extra time organizing transport, meals, or snorkeling gear. It’s especially suitable if you’re not picky about every stop being exactly as planned and are okay with some shared experiences.

But, if your priority is a private or customized experience, or if you prioritize flexibility over a fixed itinerary, you might want to explore other options.

Final thoughts: Who will love this trip?

Travelers who enjoy a full day of diverse activities — from spotting wildlife to swimming in emerald lagoons — will find this trip a great value. The lunch and snorkeling gear make it convenient, and the stunning scenery of Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon is hard to beat. The hotel pickup adds a practical touch, saving you time and hassle.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or a private tour experience, some of the reviews suggest that this package might feel a bit rushed or crowded. It’s ideal for adventure seekers who want to tick multiple sights off their list in one day, but less so for those seeking quiet, in-depth exploration.

This tour offers a solid introduction to the Phi Phi Islands, balancing value with excitement — just be aware of the potential for route changes and the “mass-tourism” vibe. Still, when it’s clear, sunny, and smooth sailing, it’s a trip you’ll likely remember fondly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from all accommodations in Phuket.

What time does the tour start?
Pickup begins at 7:30 am, so be ready early to make the most of the day.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch featuring Thai cuisine is included, along with snacks and bottled water.

What should I bring for snorkeling?
Snorkeling equipment, including life jackets, fins, masks, and new mouthpieces, are provided. It’s good idea to bring your own waterproof camera if you want to capture underwater moments.

Can I swim at Maya Bay or other stops?
Maya Bay is generally a swimming stop when open, but landings are often restricted during certain times. Other stops like Pileh Lagoon and Khai Nok Island are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the group size and boat ride if you have very young children. Check with the supplier for specific age restrictions.

Are drinks alcohol included?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included. You can bring your own if you wish.

What happens if the weather turns bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final words

The Premium Phi Phi Islands tour by Explera DMC offers a well-organized, value-packed day filled with picture-perfect scenery, snorkeling, and cultural sights. It’s a smart choice for those who want to see the highlights without the fuss of extra planning, especially if you enjoy guided group travel. Be prepared for some variability in the route and a busy schedule, but in good weather, it’s a memorable way to experience the stunning Andaman Sea. Ideal for adventure lovers and first-time visitors eager to tick off the must-see sights of the Phi Phi Islands.