All-in Phi Phi, Maiton, MayaBay, Khai, Bamboo islands Tour

Travelers craving a full day of stunning scenery, snorkeling, and island hopping will find this tour from Phuket to be a captivating choice. For about $72.40 per person, you’ll spend 8 to 10 hours exploring some of Thailand’s most iconic spots, including Phi Phi Islands, Maya Bay, Khai Island, Bamboo Island, and even a glimpse of Maiton Private Island. This tour offers hotel transfers, a buffet lunch, snorkeling gear, and national park fees included, making it a well-rounded package.

What we particularly love about this trip is the variety of stops, from the picture-perfect Maya Bay with its famous cliffs and clear water, to the lively Khai Island, known for crystal waters and white sand—perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The local guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience more personal. Also, the all-inclusive aspect means you won’t need to worry about extra costs on the day.

A potential consideration is the length and pace of the day. Some reviews mention rough seas or crowded boats, which might impact your comfort, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a more relaxed pace. If you’re looking for a luxury, private experience, this might not be the best fit. However, for those eager to see many sights on a budget, this tour delivers impressive value.

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers, families wanting a full day of activity, and anyone interested in appreciating the natural beauty of the Phi Phi Islands and surrounding spots. If you’re ready to snorkel, bask in the sun, and enjoy some Thai hospitality, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering major islands and scenic spots
• All-inclusive price with lunch, transfers, and park fees
• Great value, especially considering the variety of locations visited
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights
• Snorkeling gear and life jackets provided, making water activities accessible
• Consider weather and sea conditions, as they can affect the day’s flow

A Deep Dive into the Experience

What to Expect on the Day

Starting early from your Phuket hotel—with free hotel transfers if you’re in Patong, Karon, Kata, Chalong, Phuket Town, or Kathu—you’re whisked to the pier. The briefing by your guide sets the tone, covering what’s to come and sharing some tips to enjoy your day. The vessel is a speedboat, which zips across the water and, as some reviews note, can be a bit bumpy—so if seasickness is a concern, anti-vomiting pills are recommended.

Monkey Beach and Maya Bay — Highlights and Cautions

Your first stop is Monkey Beach, a place where you can see macaque monkeys in their natural habitat. While many travelers find this fun and a chance for some adorable photos, it’s vital to avoid physical contact as monkeys can be unpredictable and sometimes jump into boats. Expect about 30 minutes here, giving you a quick but memorable wildlife encounter.

Next comes Maya Bay—the star of the show. High cliffs surround a 200-meter beach with soft white sand and vibrant coral reefs beneath the surface. This spot gained worldwide fame after filming “The Beach” in 1999, and it’s easy to see why. The bay is only open for sightseeing, not swimming or lounging, to protect its fragile ecosystem—the government restricts access to preserve its beauty. Still, many find just taking photos here worthwhile, and it’s a chance to see exotic fish in the clear water.

Phi Phi Don and Viking Cave

You’ll have a buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don, the main island, which offers halal, vegetarian, and western options alongside fresh tropical fruits. Many reviewers say the meal is quite good, especially considering it’s included in the price. After lunch, your guide might point out the Viking Cave, famous for its rock paintings of boats resembling Scandinavian ships. Though you can’t enter, the sight of the limestone cliff and the cave itself add to the island’s allure.

Unique Geological Sights and Snorkeling

The tour continues with a stop at Lok Samah Bay, for sightseeing of its remarkable greenish waters and formations. Then, at Koh Khai Nai, you’ll find a tiny island with white sand and shallow waters—perfect for snorkeling and relaxing. Many reviewers describe it as a paradise worth visiting.

Next comes Pileh Bay, a spectacular emerald lagoon surrounded by limestone cliffs—an ideal spot for snorkeling and swimming. The calm waters and beautiful scenery make it a favorite among visitors.

Optional Premium Stops: Bamboo and Maiton Islands

For an extra $72.40, the premium tour includes visits to Bamboo Island and Maiton Private Island. Bamboo Island is celebrated for its pristine white sand beaches and coral reefs, ideal for snorkeling in crowded but still beautiful surroundings. Many reviews praise the crystal-clear waters here as one of the best snorkeling spots.

Maiton Island, a private island, offers a snorkeling stop where you might see dolphins and a variety of marine life. Visitors can’t walk on the beach but can enjoy snorkeling with colorful fish and dolphin sightings, which are often highlighted as a unique highlight.

End of the Day and Return to Phuket

Around 5:00 pm, the boat heads back to Phuket, and your air-conditioned transfer takes you back to your hotel. Many reviews emphasize the friendly guides and smooth logistics that make this full-day trip feel effortless, even after a busy day on the water.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Perspectives

The reviews reflect a mostly positive experience, with many praising the friendly guides like Mint and Jenny for their knowledge and attentiveness. Several mention the good value, especially given the lunch, snorkel gear, and park fees included. The scenery is universally appreciated, with comments about the beauty of Maya Bay and Khai Island.

Some reviews point out the long boat rides and rough seas, suggesting that weather conditions can impact your comfort. A few travelers noted that time at each stop was sometimes limited and that the boat can get crowded—some describing the boat as cramped with up to 40 passengers.

One reviewer summed it up: “Big boat, yes, but the crew was amazing and the snorkeling gear was good quality.” Others felt the itinerary could be more flexible but still appreciated the overall experience.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring essentials like swimming suits, sun lotion, sunglasses, hat, and a small towel.
• Seasickness can be an issue; anti-vomiting pills are recommended.
• The tour operates in most weather conditions, but adverse weather can lead to cancellations or route changes.
• Valuables like jewelry or laptops are best left behind, as boat space is tight.
• If you’re pregnant or over 65, check with the provider, as the tour may not be suitable.
• Hotel transfers are included in select areas; others may incur an extra fee.

The Sum Up

This all-in Phi Phi and surrounding islands tour offers an excellent chance to see some of Thailand’s most iconic sights without breaking the bank. The combination of scenic stops, snorkeling, and cultural highlights like Viking Cave makes it perfect for adventurous families, couples, or solo travelers eager to pack a lot into one day.

While the boat rides can be rough and space is limited, most find the guides friendly and knowledgeable, and the scenery breathtaking. The lunch, park fees, and snorkel equipment are all included, providing solid value. If you want a full day of sun, sea, and spectacular views, this trip checks all the boxes.

It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy snorkeling, wildlife spotting, and photo opportunities. If your main goal is luxury, privacy, or leisurely pace, you might prefer a more tailored experience. But for budget-conscious travelers eager to see the best of Phuket’s islands, this tour offers a great balance of adventure, scenic beauty, and local flavor.

FAQ

Is hotel transfer included?
Yes, for guests staying in Patong, Karon, Kata, Chalong, Phuket Town, and Kathu, transfers are free. Other locations may require an extra fee.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimming suit, sun lotion, sunglasses, hat, a small towel, and a good mood. Seasickness tablets are also recommended.

Are vegetarian and halal options available for lunch?
Yes, the buffet lunch includes halal, vegetarian, and western food options, along with fresh tropical fruits.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, from pickup to return.

What are the main attractions?
Highlights include Maya Bay, Phi Phi Don, Khai Island, Bamboo Island, Pileh Bay, Viking Cave, Lok Samah Bay, and Maiton Private Island (premium option).

Can I snorkel at all stops?
Snorkeling gear is provided, and many stops are ideal for snorkeling, particularly Bamboo Island, Khai Island, and Maiton Island.

Is food provided?
Yes, a buffet lunch and snacks are included, with beverages and fruits available throughout the day.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 40 travelers per boat, which can feel crowded for some, especially on the longer rides.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours operate in most weather conditions, but if safety is compromised, the trip may be postponed or canceled with a full refund or rescheduling.

Is this suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It’s best for most ages, but pregnant women or those over 65 should consult with the provider. People with back or spine issues might want to reconsider due to the boat ride.

This tour provides a solid, enjoyable way to experience the natural beauty of the Phi Phi Islands and nearby gems. Whether you’re after fantastic snorkeling, breathtaking views, or simply a day in the sun, it’s a trip that will leave you with plenty of memorable moments—and some great photos.