Early Bird Phi Phi 4 Islands by Speedboat 2 Trips in 1 Day

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

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that hits all the highlights of Krabi’s famous islands, the Early Bird Phi Phi 4 Islands by Speedboat tour is an appealing choice. Priced at around $80 per person, this 10-hour excursion takes you through iconic spots like Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Monkey Beach, with the added bonus of avoiding the crowds by leaving early in the morning. Led by friendly guides, you’ll enjoy snorkeling, relaxing on pristine beaches, and tasting a delicious Thai buffet—all packed into one action-packed day.

What we love most about this tour is its early start, which means you beat most of the other visitors, giving you a more intimate experience at the key sights. The well-organized itinerary ensures you get plenty of time at each location, from swimming in the clear waters to exploring dramatic limestone cliffs. Plus, the included lunch and snorkeling gear add great value, making it easier to relax without worrying about extra costs.

One thing to keep in mind is that this trip involves a fair amount of physical activity, including swimming and walking on sandbars, so it’s best suited for travelers with moderate fitness levels. Also, since the tour begins early—around 7 am—the early wake-up call might be a challenge for some. However, if you’re an adventurous soul who wants to make the most of your time in Krabi, this is a fantastic way to do it.

This tour is ideal for those seeking a balance of adventure and relaxation, particularly travelers eager to see the most famous islands without the usual crowds, and who appreciate good food, knowledgeable guides, and a day full of varied activities.

Key Points

• Early departure means fewer crowds and more peaceful sights.
• Snorkeling at multiple locations offers excellent underwater views and marine life encounters.
• Buffet lunch at Phi Phi Don provides a satisfying break amidst the island-hopping.
• Visit iconic spots like Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Monkey Beach for memorable photo opportunities.
• Comfortable speedboat with professional guides ensures a smooth, safe experience.
• Includes snorkeling equipment and hotel transfers, adding convenience and value.

A Deep Dive into the Phi Phi 4 Islands Speedboat Tour

The Journey Begins: From Krabi to the Islands

As soon as we read about the early start—around 7 am—we knew this tour was designed for those who want to maximize their day. The trip begins with a hotel pickup in Krabi, which is a plus since it saves the hassle of navigating public transportation early in the morning. From there, the journey takes you to Nopparat Thara Pier for check-in, where a light breakfast box awaits, fueling you for the day ahead.

The boat itself is a speedy vessel with up to 40 seats, allowing for a comfortable ride through the calm waters. We appreciated the professional guidance from the crew, who kept us informed and entertained as we headed towards Railay Beach for a quick pick-up. This short stopover helps gather the group and adds a bit of scenic view before the main island stops.

Island Highlights: A Well-Structured Itinerary

Phi Phi Leh and Loh Samah Bay

The first major stop is Phi Phi Leh, the smaller island famous for its dramatic cliffs and the filming location of movies like “The Beach.” Here, the focus is on snorkeling and swimming at Loh Samah Bay, where the coral reefs and tropical fish are plentiful. The reviews highlight how well-organized the snorkeling experience is—”We enjoyed exploring the vibrant tropical reefs with guidance from the crew,” said one traveler. The crystal-clear waters make it easy to spot marine life, which usually delights first-time snorkelers.

Maya Bay

Next, you visit Maya Bay, arguably the most famous spot on the tour. The 200-meter-long white-sand beach, framed by towering limestone cliffs, is truly postcard-worthy. Visitors often mention how beautiful and serene it is, especially early in the morning before the crowds arrive. One reviewer noted, “The beach was nearly empty when we arrived, making it feel like a private paradise.” Keep in mind, access might be limited at times during peak season, but arriving early improves your chances of experiencing it without the throngs.

Pileh Bay and Snorkeling on Phi Phi Leh

After Maya Bay, the boat heads to Pileh Lagoon, a stunning canyon-like inlet surrounded by cliffs. The turquoise waters are perfect for photographs and soaking in the scenery. Optional longtail boat rides are available for an extra fee, which some travelers found worthwhile for exploring quieter coves. The calm waters here lend themselves well to snorkeling or just floating along and appreciating the scenery.

Monkey Beach and Viking Cave

On the eastern side of Phi Phi Leh, you can see the monkeys at Monkey Beach—a highlight for many, especially kids or animal lovers. The wall paintings and bird nests inside Viking Cave offer a glimpse into local traditions and wildlife. Several reviews praised the guides for sharing interesting stories about these locations, making the stops more engaging.

Lunch and Leisure Time on Koh Phi Phi Don

After a busy morning, the tour takes you to Ton Sai Pier for a buffet lunch at Phi Phi Arida restaurant. The quality of the food — including vegetarian options if ordered beforehand — is well-rated. Travelers mention the delicious local flavors and the generous portions, which help recharge after the morning’s activities.

Post-lunch, you have about 50 minutes to explore or relax on Koh Phi Phi Don, the larger inhabited island. Many enjoy wandering through the bustling streets or just relaxing on the beach.

Afternoon Island Hopping: Bamboo Island, Chicken Island, and Poda Island

The afternoon is reserved for more secluded spots. First up is Bamboo Island, often called Koh Mai Phai, which boasts a heart-shaped beach and white sands. The reviewers appreciated the tranquility here—a perfect place to swim, sunbathe, or just soak up the scenery.

Next, you’ll visit Chicken Island—named for its rocky head resembling a chicken—and then walk on the sandbar at Thale Waek, connecting Koh Kai, Koh Tup, and Koh Mor. During low tide, these sandbars offer fun photo opportunities and a chance to step between islands on foot. Many found this part of the tour delightfully picturesque and a fun way to experience the nature of the islands up close.

Finally, the day wraps up at Koh Poda, a pristine beach with gentle waves, perfect for unwinding and swimming. The last stop is usually the most relaxing, giving you some time to reflect on the day’s adventures.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The transportation—a speedboat—ensures quick travel between islands, maximizing your time on each location. The group size is capped at 40, striking a good balance between intimacy and social vibe. The snorkeling gear and life jackets are included, so you don’t need to bring your own unless you prefer.

The tour duration—about 10 hours—may sound long, but it flies by thanks to the variety of activities. The early start is a major advantage, so you avoid the large crowds and get to enjoy the sites in a more peaceful setting. Keep in mind, this trip involves some physical activity—swimming, walking, and standing for periods—so moderate fitness is recommended.

The cost of THB400 for adult national park entry and THB200 for children is not included, but these fees are standard and payable on site.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

Two reviews give a real sense of what to expect. One traveler praises the “great value for the tour” and the “delicious lunch”, emphasizing how the mix of exploration, snorkeling, and relaxation creates a memorable experience. They also mentioned their good fortune with fewer people, which is a common theme for early-morning tours.

Another reviewer highlights the attentive guides and the quality of food and cold water provided, making the day more comfortable and enjoyable. Both reviews reinforce that knowledgeable guides and well-organized logistics are key to a smooth experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect if you’re someone who values efficient sightseeing—covering all the major highlights without rushing or spending extra on extras. It suits adventurers eager to snorkel in coral reefs and explore iconic beaches, and families wanting a safe, guided experience with options for relaxation. The early start and packed schedule are beneficial for those eager to make the most of their time in Krabi.

However, travelers with limited mobility or those pregnant should consider the physical demands. Also, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to explore beyond the set itinerary, this tour might feel a bit rushed.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For around $80, this tour offers excellent value—covering multiple islands, including top sights like Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon, with snorkeling gear and a buffet included. The early start helps you dodge crowds and enjoy the islands in a more relaxed, less congested manner. The professional guides, comfortable boat, and well-planned itinerary combine for a fun, well-organized day.

If you’re after a full, active day of island hopping with lots of photo opportunities, swimming, and tasty local food, this tour hits the spot. It’s especially good for travelers wanting to see the most famous spots without the crowds, and who don’t mind starting early.

For those who prefer a more laid-back pace or have specific accessibility needs, consider whether the physical aspects of this tour suit you. But overall, this is a solid choice for adventure lovers and first-time visitors to Krabi eager to experience its best islands.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:00 am, with hotel pickups starting earlier, around 6:00 am, depending on your location.

How long is the trip?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, including transfers, island stops, and lunch.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch at Phi Phi Arida restaurant is included, along with seasonal fruits and snacks, depending on availability.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and waterproof camera if you like. Snorkeling equipment and life jackets are provided.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children should be comfortable with walking, swimming, and early mornings. The tour involves some physical activity.

Are there any extra charges?
Yes, the THB400 adult national park fee and THB200 child fee are payable on-site if applicable. Optional longtail boat rides at Pileh Lagoon cost extra.

Can I cancel?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, allowing a full refund.

Is there a maximum number of travelers?
Yes, the tour caps at 40 travelers, ensuring a good group size for comfort and interaction.

Overall, the Early Bird Phi Phi 4 Islands by Speedboat tour offers an action-packed, well-organized day designed to maximize your island experiences in Krabi. It’s a smart choice for those wanting an authentic, scenic, and lively day on Thailand’s stunning waters.