Early Bird Phi Phi + 4 Islands by Speedboat

Experience the Best of Krabi’s Islands with the Early Bird Phi Phi + 4 Islands Tour

This early morning speedboat adventure takes you to some of the most stunning spots around Krabi — from the world-famous Maya Bay to the picturesque Bamboo Island. For just over $100, you’ll get around 8 to 10 hours of exploring, snorkeling, and relaxing, with the added perk of starting your day early enough to beat the crowds. The tour covers multiple stops, including the iconic Maya Bay, the shimmering Pileh Bay, the lively Loh Da Lum Bay, and the fascinating Viking Cave, ending with plenty of free time on Phi Phi Don.

What we love most about this tour is the personalized early start — it’s a real game-changer. Rising early means fewer people, more peaceful beaches, and prime snorkeling conditions. Plus, the professional guides help you navigate and make the most of each stop. Another highlight is the variety of islands and beaches — each offers a unique view, whether it’s the famous sand dunes of Tup Island or the long sandy beaches of Poda Island. The included lunch on Phi Phi Don means you can refuel without worrying about extra costs, and the transfer service makes the logistics straightforward.

A possible consideration is the early wake-up, which might be a stretch if you’re not a morning person. Also, some of the stops, like Maya Bay and Viking Cave, have admission fees that aren’t included in the tour price, so be prepared for a little extra cash. This tour suits travelers who crave authentic, crowd-free experiences and are eager to see multiple islands in one day without spending a fortune.

If you’re after a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and local flavor, this tour is a great option. It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy snorkeling, scenic beaches, and island hopping. If you appreciate a small-group feel with guided insights, this trip could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Early start for fewer crowds: You’ll beat the tourist rush and enjoy quieter beaches.
• Diverse itinerary: From Maya Bay to Bamboo Island, each stop offers something different.
• Inclusions and extras: Lunch, bottled water, coffee, and snorkeling equipment are included, making it good value.
• Flexible and guided: English-speaking guides enhance the experience with local knowledge.
• Additional costs: Be aware of entrance fees for some sites, payable in cash.
• Group size: Up to 47 travelers, but often feels intimate enough for personal attention.

In-Depth Review of the Early Bird Phi Phi + 4 Islands Tour

Overview of the Experience

From the moment we booked, the promise was clear: start early, explore peacefully, and avoid the crowds that usually pack popular sites like Maya Bay. At around 6:30 am, a comfortable transfer picks you up from your hotel in Krabi or nearby areas. The ride to Nopparat Thara Pier is short and offers a chance to wake up gently while reviewing the day’s plan with your guide.

Once at the pier, you’ll find a friendly atmosphere with coffee and tea to kickstart your day, and a professional guide will give a quick briefing. The vessel is a speedboat, which is perfect for covering multiple locations efficiently while experiencing the thrill of zipping across the water.

Why We Cherished the Early Start

One of the biggest perks is the peaceful environment at each stop. We loved the way the water looked at Maya Bay early in the morning—calmer, clearer, and less crowded. We also appreciated that the tour’s timing allows for more snorkeling and relaxing at each site because you’re not fighting hordes of travelers.

Navigating the Itinerary

Nopparat Thara Pier

Your day begins with pickup from various locations in Krabi, including Ao Nang, Tub Kaek, and others, so planning your hotel pickup is straightforward. After arriving at the pier, you’ll check-in and receive a briefing about the day from your guide, who is usually quite knowledgeable and friendly.

Maya Bay

This is probably the most famous stop, thanks to the film “The Beach”. You’ll get about 45 minutes here for snorkeling and swimming among the coral and colorful fish. However, keep in mind Maya Bay will be closed from August 1 to October 1, 2024, so this part might be replaced with an alternative site during that period. The admission ticket for Maya Bay isn’t included in the price, so you’ll need to budget a little extra cash.

What you’ll love: Early in the morning, the water is incredibly clear, and the beach isn’t crowded. As one reviewer said, “An awesome trip and great crew. First time doing the trip and it is definitely worth doing when visiting Thailand.”

Pileh Bay and Loh Da Lum Bay

Next, the boat takes you to Pileh Lagoon, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, where the water’s turquoise hue is stunning. Here, you can snorkel or simply float and take in the scenery. The admission fee isn’t included, but the view alone makes it worth the visit.

Loh Da Lum Bay offers a similar experience—calm waters, limestone formations, and excellent snorkeling conditions if the tide is low. We appreciated the relaxed pace here, allowing us to truly enjoy the serenity.

Viking Cave and Monkey Beach

The Viking Cave, famed for bird nests and cave paintings, offers a quick stop to admire its history from the boat. You might catch sight of swallows and their nests, which are harvested for swallow’s nest soup. The 30-minute stay allows for some quick photos, but since admission costs extra, you might find it interesting more for the story than the site itself.

Monkey Beach is a fun stop—expect to see wild monkeys and maybe snap a few pictures. Tides affect the timing here, but generally, you’ll get a chance to see the animals in their natural habitat.

Phi Phi Don and the Lunch Break

The boat docks at Phi Phi Don, the main island bustling with activity. Here, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch at a local restaurant, which is a real highlight. The meal is included, offering a break from constant sightseeing, and you can explore the island’s lively streets, shop, or relax on the sandy beach.

Bamboo Island and Chicken Island

Post-lunch, the journey continues to Bamboo Island, famous for its white sandy beaches and clear waters—an ideal spot for swimming or just soaking up the sun.

Finally, the tour visits Chicken Island, known for its horn-shaped rock that resembles a rooster’s head. The sandbank connecting Chicken Island to Tup Island is perfect for walking in the sea, a fun experience for all ages.

The Final Stretch and Return

After a full day of island hopping, you’ll be taken back to the pier around 3:45 pm. The transfer back to your hotel in Krabi ensures a smooth end to a busy, rewarding day.

Authentic Experiences and Practicalities

Throughout the trip, guides are attentive and eager to share insights. We found their tips on snorkeling spots and island life genuinely helpful. The small group size among a maximum of 47 travelers makes the experience feel more personal.

The value for money is evident, considering the included lunch, water, coffee, snorkeling gear, and transfers. Extra costs like national park entrance fees (THB 400 for adults, THB 200 for children) are payable in cash, so plan accordingly.

The Ups and Downs

While the tour offers a fantastic overview of the area, some stops like Maya Bay will require extra cash for entrance fees. The early start might be a challenge for night owls, but it’s a small price to pay for the peaceful beaches and excellent snorkeling conditions. The crowd-free experience is the biggest draw, which many travelers, like Stuart, appreciated: “Great adventure, and the crew was excellent.”

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy snorkeling, scenic beaches, and island hopping without the hassle of organizing transport and logistics. It suits those who value authentic experiences over crowded tourist spots and are willing to wake early for the best conditions. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a well-organized, affordable day on the water will find this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an authentic, peaceful way to explore the Phi Phi Islands and surrounding islets, this tour offers great value with a flexible, guided approach. The early start, combined with the variety of stops, makes it a memorable way to see the natural beauty and diverse landscapes of Krabi’s waters without feeling rushed or crowded.

While some costs are extra, the included amenities, professional guides, and smaller groups make this tour a smart choice for those keen on a genuine island experience. It’s especially recommended for travelers who want the best photos, snorkeling, and beach time without the crowds — early bird truly catches the best views on this trip.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 6:30 am with pickup from your hotel, so be prepared for an early start to maximize the day.

Is pickup included in the price?
Yes, pickup is offered from select locations in Krabi including Ao Nang, Tub Kaek, and others. Additional charges apply for pickups in Krabi Town and Khlong Muang.

How long is the tour?
Expect about 8 to 10 hours, from pickup in the morning to return to your hotel in the late afternoon.

Are all sites included in the price?
The tour price covers transportation, lunch, snorkeling equipment, water, coffee, and guide services. However, some attractions like Maya Bay and Viking Cave require extra entrance fees payable in cash.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, a hat, and cash for optional entrance fees or souvenirs. Towels are not included, but snorkeling equipment and life jackets are provided.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but be mindful of the early start and physical activity involved. The tour is generally suitable for families with children who are comfortable with boat rides and snorkeling.

How big are the groups?
The maximum group size is 47 travelers, but the experience often feels more intimate, especially during quieter stops early in the day.

This tour offers a thoughtful blend of adventure, scenery, and cultural sights, making it a worthwhile choice for anyone eager to experience the true beauty of Krabi’s islands without the crowds.