The Phi Phi Islands are a magnet for boat lovers and beachcombers alike. With their dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and famous beaches like Maya Bay, it’s no wonder that boat tours are among the top ways to experience these islands. Whether you’re after a quick half-day cruise to see Viking Cave and Monkey Beach or a private longtail adventure to explore at your own pace, Phi Phi’s waters offer plenty of variety. We particularly like the Maya Bay private tour for its flexibility and personalized experience, and the full-day snorkeling trip for its chance to snorkel in colorful reefs and enjoy a sunset swim. These tours highlight how accessible and diverse the options are for anyone who loves to explore by sea.
If you’re considering a boat tour in Phi Phi, you’ll find trips that focus on snorkeling, scenic sightseeing, private explorations, or combining both. The variety ensures there’s something for all—whether you’re a budget traveler, a family, or a romantic couple. Now, let’s examine each of these great options in detail, so you can pick the one that best matches your style and interests.
1. From Phi Phi: Half-Day Longtail Boat Tour with Snorkeling
At number 1 on our list, this half-day longtail boat tour offers a classic way to see the highlights of Koh Phi Phi. For around $23 per person, you get four hours exploring spots like Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, and Pileh Lagoon. This tour is perfect if you’re short on time but still want to experience the island’s stunning scenery and marine life. The boat ride on a traditional longtail vessel adds to the charm, and snorkeling in Pileh Lagoon helps you see vibrant coral and fish.
Many reviews praise the value for money, noting that guides are friendly and the stops are well-paced. Some travelers mention Maya Bay can be crowded and overrated, but it remains a must-see for first-timers. The trip works well for budget travelers and those seeking a quick taste of Phi Phi’s natural beauty. Be sure to bring Baht for the national park fee and water for hydration.
Bottom Line: A straightforward, budget-friendly way to enjoy key sights in a half-day, with snorkeling and scenic stops—ideal for travelers who want a quick, authentic experience.
2. Koh Phi Phi: Maya Bay Private Longtail Boat Tour
For those wanting a more personalized experience, number 2 is the private longtail boat tour that lets you explore Koh Phi Phi at your own pace. With prices around $57 per person, this 3-6 hour trip includes visits to Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Monkey Bay, Viking Cave, and more. The private aspect means you can customize your stops and enjoy a relaxed day without the crowds.
Guests rave about the flexibility; guides are attentive, and the boat is yours for the day. Many mention the chance to see reef sharks and sea turtles, adding an element of wildlife excitement. The scenic scenery and stops like Pileh Lagoon’s limestone cliffs make this tour stand out, especially for travelers who want a quieter, more intimate experience. It’s perfect for small groups or families seeking exclusivity.
Bottom Line: If you value privacy and flexibility, this tour offers an excellent way to enjoy Phi Phi’s highlights comfortably, with the opportunity for snorkeling and wildlife spotting.
3. From Phi Phi: Half Day Longtail Boat Tour to Maya Bay
At number 3, this half-day longtail boat trip is similar to the first but emphasizes discovering the magic of Koh Phi Phi with a focus on iconic sites like Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, and Pileh Lagoon. For only $23, it offers a quick, well-organized 4-hour experience. Guests enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and photographing stunning landscapes, with easy access to the famous Maya Bay.
While some reviews mention Maya Bay can be crowded and somewhat overrated, the tour’s relaxed pace and friendly guides make it worthwhile. It’s ideal for budget travelers and those who want to see the main sights without committing the whole day. Practical and straightforward, this tour provides a solid overview of the island’s highlights with plenty of opportunities to snorkel and relax.
Bottom Line: A cost-effective choice for travelers short on time who want a snapshot of Phi Phi’s top spots, with good snorkeling and scenic photo ops.
4. From Phi Phi: Half-Day Longtail Boat Tour to Maya Bay
Number 4 offers a half-day adventure specifically focusing on Maya Bay and surrounding sites like Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon, and Monkey Beach. Starting from Burger King Koh Phi Phi, this tour takes about four hours and is limited to 20 people for a more personalized feel. It includes visits to Monkey Beach with wild monkeys, the historic Viking Cave, and a swim in Pileh Lagoon.
It’s praised for its well-organized itinerary and small group size. Some reviews highlight the enjoyable boat ride and the chance to see playful monkeys. The main advantage here is the intimate experience, which avoids the large crowds often found at Maya Bay. The tour’s value lies in its focused visits and friendly guides, making it a good fit for travelers who want to avoid tourist congestion but still see all the highlights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a more intimate, small-group experience at top sites like Maya Bay and Viking Cave, with the chance to photograph friendly monkeys.
5. From Phi Phi: Full Day by Longtail Boat with Sunset
Number 5 offers an eight-hour full-day tour for $36, combining sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxation with a spectacular sunset. Starting from Krabi Province, this tour visits Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon, Maya Bay, and Shark Point, ending with a sunset at Phi Phi.
Guests particularly enjoy the variety—seeing bioluminescent plankton at night, snorkeling at Shark Point, and relaxing on Bamboo Island’s soft sands. The sunset view at the end makes this tour stand out, offering a full experience from daytime exploration to evening tranquility. It’s suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive day with both adventure and relaxation.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers who want a full-day adventure with multiple snorkeling stops, wildlife encounters, and a memorable sunset.
6. From Phi Phi: Full Day Snorkeling Trip by Longtail Boat
This full-day snorkeling trip at $39 offers a longer exploration of the islands’ underwater world. It includes snorkeling in Pi Leh Lagoon, Shark Point, and other spots, with a chance to see exotic fish, sharks, and even plankton at sunset. The trip lasts about nine hours, perfect for those who want in-depth marine exploration.
Many reviews highlight the quality of snorkeling, with some noting the crowded nature of popular spots. The highlight is the chance to swim with sharks at Shark Point, an experience many travelers find thrilling. The tour also includes a visit to Bamboo Island for sunbathing and relaxation. It’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy extended underwater adventures.
Bottom Line: A good pick for snorkeling enthusiasts wanting a full day exploring marine life, with some caveats about crowding at popular sites.
$39 per person
7. Phi Phi: Half Day Long Tail Boat to Maya Bay
Less detailed but still appealing, this half-day longtail trip focuses on Maya Bay and other scenic spots. It offers a quick, scenic cruise, perfect for travelers short on time wanting an authentic Thai boat experience.
Bottom Line: A simple, scenic trip for those who want a brief but authentic boat ride and quick access to Maya Bay.
8. From Phi Phi islands: Phi Phi, Maya Area by longtail Boat
This 3-6 hour tour covers the main sights like Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, and Loh Samah Bay. It includes a sandwich and water, making it a convenient option for travelers wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing and comfort. The reviews mention friendly guides and beautiful beaches.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded tour for travelers seeking a straightforward day of sightseeing with some snorkeling and a meal included.
9. Krabi Phi Phi & Bamboo Island One Day Tour By Speed Boat
This full-day speedboat tour from Krabi is ideal for those who want to maximize island time. At $52, it includes swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on Bamboo Island’s beaches, with a quick transfer from Krabi.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers based in Krabi wanting a fast, energetic day trip with snorkeling and beach time.
10. From Phuket: Snorkeling Ferry Cruise to Phi Phi Islands
This ferry cruise from Phuket offers a longer, more relaxed trip at $37. It’s great for those who prefer not to sail on a small boat and want to enjoy panoramic views. It includes stops at Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Pileh Cove, with plenty of snorkeling opportunities.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers based in Phuket seeking a comfortable, scenic way to see Phi Phi’s highlights.
$37 per person
11. From Phi Phi: Maya Bay HalfDay Longtail Boat with Snorkeling
The final tour is similar to the first, focusing on Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and snorkeling. It offers the option to include a sunset experience and glowing plankton, adding a magical touch to your trip.
Bottom Line: A flexible half-day option that combines popular sights with the chance to see bioluminescent plankton—a memorable way to conclude a day in Phi Phi.
$23 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Boat Tour
When selecting the right boat tour in Phi Phi Islands, consider your budget, time, and what you most want to see or do. If you’re short on time but still want to see the main sights, the half-day tours or Maya Bay trips are excellent. For a more personalized experience, the private tour gives you flexibility and privacy. If marine life is your priority, the full-day snorkeling trips offer immersive underwater adventures.
Budget travelers might prefer the basic, group tours, while those seeking exclusivity or specific stops should look at private or full-day options. Book early, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date. Also, check if the tour includes essentials like water, meals, or park fees, so you’re not caught off guard.
Final Thoughts
The wide range of boat tours in Phi Phi means everyone can find something that fits their style and schedule. For a quick overview, the full-day snorkeling trip offers the most comprehensive underwater experience, while the private longtail tour provides quiet, personalized exploration. Budget travelers will appreciate the half-day tours, while those craving a sunset and wildlife encounter might love the full-day with sunset.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance helps ensure your spot on these popular trips. With such variety, you’re bound to find a boat tour that turns your Phi Phi visit into an unforgettable memory—so get ready to set sail.