Phi Phi Islands is a snorkeler’s paradise. With crystal-clear waters, colorful reefs, and wildlife like turtles and reef sharks, it’s easy to see why this area ranks among Thailand’s top underwater attractions. For those seeking a quick but memorable experience, the From Phi Phi: Half-Day Longtail Boat Tour with Snorkeling offers an authentic, relaxed outing that lets you explore Koh Phi Phi’s highlights without overloading your schedule. On the other hand, if you want a full day packed with multiple stops, including chances to see sharks and bioluminescent plankton, the Full Day Snorkeling Trip by Longtail Boat might be more your speed.
Whether you’re after a budget-friendly half-day, an adventurous speedboat ride, or a leisurely full-day exploration, Phi Phi’s snorkeling tours cater to all tastes. Here, we’ll walk you through the six best options, highlighting what makes each one special and how to decide which suits your travel style.
1. From Phi Phi: Half-Day Longtail Boat Tour with Snorkeling
At number one, this half-day longtail boat tour is perfect if you’re short on time but still want a taste of Phi Phi’s underwater world. The tour lasts about four hours and includes stops at iconic locations like Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, and Pileh Lagoon. The boat is a classic longtail, providing an authentic Thai island experience—more comfortable and scenic than a speedboat if you prefer a gentle ride.
The real draw is snorkeling in Pileh Lagoon, renowned for its clear waters and colorful marine life. Reviewers mention that the tour is well-organized and offers enough time at each site to enjoy swimming and photos. One traveler noted, “The snorkeling was great, and everything ran smoothly,” though some found Maya Bay a bit crowded and overrated. The trip costs around $23 per person, making it a great value, especially since it includes visits to multiple sites with stunning scenery.
Bottom Line: A relaxed, budget-friendly introduction to Phi Phi’s highlights—ideal if you’re light on time and want the local experience aboard a traditional boat.
2. Ko Phi Phi Don: Speedboat Day Trip with Shark Snorkeling
For those craving speed and adventure, the Speedboat Day Trip with Shark Snorkeling is a top pick. This five-hour tour whisks you around Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, and Viking Cave, with the chance to spot black tip reef sharks and turtles at the Shark Point stop. The speedboat makes quick work of the distance and lets you cover multiple locations in a short time.
What sets this trip apart is its focus on wildlife, especially sharks, and the lively atmosphere created by the fast-paced itinerary. The tour includes plenty of fresh fruits and drinks, adding comfort during the busy day. Guests consistently praise the guide Adam, calling him “a great host,” and note that the stops are “fun and unique,” with excellent snorkeling spots. The $46 price reflects the speed and scope, plus the chance to see sharks in their natural environment.
Bottom Line: Best for thrill-seekers and wildlife lovers who want to maximize island stops, especially if snorkeling with sharks and turtles excites you.
3. From Phi Phi: Full Day Snorkeling Trip by Longtail Boat
Looking for a comprehensive exploration? The Full Day Snorkeling Trip offers a nine-hour journey through Phi Phi’s top spots, blending snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on the beach. It’s the longest tour on our list, giving you an in-depth experience of Pi Leh Lagoon, Shark Point, Maya Bay, and Bamboo Island.
This tour stands out because it includes snorkeling with sharks at Shark Point, visits to Bamboo Island for sunbathing, and a sunset swim with bioluminescent plankton. Reviewers say the tour is “well-organized” and “allows enough time at each stop,” though some mention the crowds. The price is around $39, which might seem steep but includes a variety of activities and a full day of exploring.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a thorough, full-day adventure with multiple snorkeling opportunities and scenic breaks.
$39 per person
4. From Phi Phi: Full Day Longtail Tour Maya Bay & Snorkeling
This full-day longtail tour offers a mix of relaxation and sightseeing. It includes stops at Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon, Loh Samah Bay, and Maya Bay, with options for snorkeling and swimming. The tour emphasizes the natural beauty of Koh Phi Phi, with visits to Maya Bay and Bamboo Island.
What makes it notable is the focus on less crowded spots like Loh Samah Bay and the opportunity to see shark and marine life at Shark Point. It’s priced at $36, offering good value considering the number of stops and activities. Reviewers highlight the “unforgettable sunset view” and the “great experience” on the boat, though some mention weather-related challenges.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those who want an all-day exploration with a balance of snorkeling, sightseeing, and relaxing on the beach.
5. From Phuket: Snorkeling Ferry Cruise to Phi Phi Islands
Travelers staying in Phuket will enjoy the Snorkeling Ferry Cruise, a 10-hour trip that combines scenic ferry rides and snorkeling stops. It passes Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Loh Samah Bay, and Phi Phi Don, offering a more relaxed pace and the chance to enjoy the marine environment without rushing.
This tour is best suited for travelers who prefer traveling by ferry and want to see the main sights without the need for a speedboat. It’s slightly shorter on snorkeling time but provides a good overview, especially for those traveling from Phuket. The reviews note good organization and solid value at $37, but some wish for more time in the water.
Bottom Line: A good choice for those based in Phuket who want a scenic, less intense way to see Phi Phi’s highlights.
$37 per person
6. From Phi Phi: Maya Bay HalfDay Longtail Boat with Snorkeling
Rounding out our list, this half-day longtail tour is perfect if Maya Bay is your must-see. Starting from McDonald’s on Koh Phi Phi, it visits Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, and Loh Samah Bay before reaching Maya Bay, where you can relax on the pristine sands and swim in the turquoise waters.
It’s the shortest tour on the list at around four hours, making it ideal for travelers with limited time. The tour features snorkeling with glowing plankton in the late afternoon, a magical experience. Tour reviews praise the personalized size limit (up to 15 people) for more intimacy and flexibility. The price is $23, making it a very affordable option for seeing the iconic Maya Bay and other key sites.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a quick, focused trip that includes snorkeling with plankton and a more intimate experience.
$23 per person
How to Choose the Right Snorkeling Tour in Phi Phi Islands
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and what kind of experience excites you most. If you’re short on time but want a genuine local feel, the Half-Day Longtail Boat Tour offers a memorable taste of Phi Phi’s highlights. For full immersion, the Full Day Snorkeling Trip provides comprehensive exploration with multiple snorkeling spots, including shark encounters. Budget travelers might prefer the Maya Bay HalfDay Tour, which combines affordability with a focus on the iconic Maya Bay.
If wildlife and speed appeal, the Speedboat Day Trip offers a faster pace and chances to see sharks and turtles. And for those in Phuket, the ferry cruise provides an easy, scenic route with a relaxed vibe. Remember to check availability and book early, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on these popular tours.
Summing Up: Which Tour Fits Your Travel Style?
Phi Phi Islands offers a variety of snorkeling experiences suited to different travelers. If you’re after a quick, authentic adventure, the Half-Day Longtail Tour is hard to beat. For those wanting to explore more in a single day, the Full Day Snorkeling Trip is a solid choice. Adventure seekers will love the Speedboat Shark Tour, while budget travelers can opt for the Maya Bay half-day.
No matter your preference, booking early and choosing the experience that matches your interests will ensure you get the most out of your time in these stunning waters. Whether you want to snorkel with sharks, relax on Bamboo Island, or photograph Viking Cave, Phi Phi’s tours deliver unforgettable underwater moments.
Happy snorkeling, and don’t forget your waterproof camera!