Krabi Early Bird Phi Phi Island & 4 Islands Snorkelling Tour

Krabi Early Bird Phi Phi Island & 4 Islands Snorkelling Tour: A Detailed Review

When we think about Krabi and its surrounding islands, the images that often come to mind are those of crystal-clear waters, towering limestone cliffs, and vibrant marine life. This Early Bird Phi Phi Island & 4 Islands Snorkelling Tour offers a chance to see some of this beauty without the usual crowds — at least, that’s the hope. Priced at around $82 per person, with a roughly 8-hour schedule, it includes hotel pickup, snorkelling gear, and a tasty buffet lunch. It’s an attractive choice for travelers wanting a well-organized day with a mix of scenic stops and underwater adventures.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it emphasizes avoiding the afternoon crowds by starting early — a smart move on busy days when the islands can get quite congested later in the day. The inclusion of snorkelling equipment and a buffet lunch makes it a convenient package, especially for those who want to maximize their time in the water and on the beach. We also appreciate the variety of stops, from Poda Island’s sandy beaches to Bamboo Island’s relaxing vibe.

However, one thing to consider is that Maya Bay — the tour’s highlight — is currently closed for restoration, meaning you won’t be able to set foot on the famous beach. Instead, the tour offers photo ops around Maya Bay’s perimeter, which might be a letdown if you were hoping to lounge on its sands. Travelers who are enthusiastic about marine life and scenic views will find this tour offers a good balance, though, especially if they want to avoid the larger crowds that visit in the afternoon.

This trip is best suited for first-time visitors to Krabi who want a structured, all-in-one day of island hopping and snorkelling, but it also appeals to those who value timing to beat the crowds and the comfort of a guided, pre-arranged experience. It’s important to note that the group size is limited to 30 travelers, making it a more intimate experience compared to larger boat tours.

Key Points

• Early Start: Be ready for pickup at 6:30 am, which lets you beat the crowds and enjoy the islands in a quieter setting.
• Variety of Stops: From Poda Island and Chicken Island to Bamboo Island, each location offers different scenery and opportunities for snorkelling, swimming, and photography.
• Snorkelling and Food Included: All snorkelling gear is provided, plus a buffet lunch and seasonal fruits—great value for an all-day adventure.
• Limited Beach Access at Maya Bay: Due to ongoing restoration, you’ll see Maya Bay from afar, not walk on its sands, which may disappoint some.
• Group Size & Timing: With a maximum of 30 travelers, the tour maintains a cozy feel, but timing is tight — you’ll spend around 2 hours exploring Phi Phi Lee and about an hour at Monkey Beach and Bamboo Island.
• Cost & Additional Fees: The THB400 national park fee is not included, so remember to budget for this extra expense.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Start the Day Early at Poda Island:
Your adventure begins with an early pickup, typically around 6:30 am, giving you a chance to enjoy the sunrise and a light breakfast onboard. Around 7:20 am, you’ll arrive at Poda Island, renowned for its white sandy beaches and vibrant underwater life. Here, you’ll have about 45 minutes to snorkel, swim, or simply relax on the sand. Many reviews highlight the beautiful coral reefs and colorful fish that can be seen just off the beach, making it a perfect introduction to your day.

Stop at Thale Waek (Separated Sea):
Next, from 8:10 am to 8:30 am, you’ll visit Talaywaek, a fascinating natural phenomenon where the sea recedes at low tide, revealing a white sand corridor connecting two islands. This spot is often called one of Thailand’s unseen highlights, and it provides a perfect photo backdrop. The calm waters here are ideal for taking in the scenery and snapping memorable shots.

Chicken Island and Its Iconic Rock Formation:
From 8:30 am to 8:45 am, you’ll stop at Chicken Island, famous for its “chicken-shaped” limestone rock. The spot is popular for snorkelling and marine life observation, with many travelers noting the abundance of marine creatures around the reefs.

Phi Phi Islands’ Highlights:
By 8:45 am, you’ll head to Ko Phi Phi Lee, spending roughly 2 hours exploring Maya Bay (from the perimeter), Pileh Lagoon, and Viking Cave. While Maya Bay is closed for restoration, you’ll get a chance to take pictures from the boat or nearby viewpoints. The Pileh Lagoon is described as a jewel of the islands, with turquoise waters surrounded by limestone cliffs — perfect for a quick swim or a photo session.

Lunch in Phi Phi Don:
At around 11 am, the group moves to Phi Phi Don, where a buffet lunch awaits. Many reviews speak positively of the delicious buffet with local flavors, as well as the refreshing soft drinks and seasonal fruits that come with it. This break allows travelers to refuel before heading out for more snorkelling.

Monkey Beach:
Post-lunch, at around noon, you’ll visit Monkey Bay for about 30 minutes. It’s a chance to relax with the playful monkeys, although some mention that accessibility can vary with the tide. It’s a fun, if slightly unpredictable, stop.

Snorkelling around Phi Phi Don & Bamboo Island:
In the early afternoon, approximately 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm, you’ll snorkel around Phi Phi Don, with spectacular coral reefs and tropical marine animals. Many travelers note the diversity of underwater life here makes for memorable snorkelling.

Finally, at around 2:30 pm, you’ll arrive at Bamboo Island, a peaceful spot with white sandy beaches and clear waters. It’s an ideal place to swim, relax, or gather last-minute photos before heading back.

The Experience: What We Loved and What to Consider

What we loved:
– The early morning start means fewer people and more peaceful scenery, making for a more authentic experience.
– The stops at Poda Island and Bamboo Island offer incredible underwater and beach experiences, perfect for swimming and snorkelling enthusiasts.
– The buffet lunch is a highlight, offering a good variety of food, including vegetarian options upon request, with many reviewers citing the food as tasty and satisfying.

What to consider:
– Maya Bay’s closure for restoration is a significant change, meaning visitors won’t get to set foot on the famous beach, only view it from a distance.
– The itinerary is tight, with limited time at each stop, which might not suit travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace.
– Additional national park fees (THB400) are not included, so travelers should budget accordingly.
– The tour’s group size is limited, which helps keep things manageable but still involves a fair bit of moving around.

Who It’s Best For

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors to Krabi who want a comprehensive island experience with snorkeling, scenic photography, and a taste of local flavors. It’s especially suited for those wanting to beat the crowds by starting early and for travelers interested in marine life and nature rather than lounging on beaches all day. The inclusion of hotel pickup adds convenience, making it accessible for most.

However, if your main goal was to walk on Maya Bay’s sands, this trip’s current structure may disappoint, given the beach is closed. It’s also better suited for active, adventurous travelers comfortable with a busy schedule.

Final Thoughts

The Krabi Early Bird Phi Phi Island & 4 Islands Snorkelling Tour delivers a solid, well-organized day among some of Thailand’s most iconic islands. While it might not satisfy those dreaming of lounging on Maya Bay’s sands, it offers stunning views, excellent snorkelling, and a chance to see multiple highlights in one day. The early start helps avoid crowds, and the included meals and gear add to the overall value.

For travelers who enjoy snorkelling and photographing scenic landscapes, this tour offers a lively, engaging experience. It’s a practical choice for families, first-time visitors, or anyone eager to explore the islands efficiently without sacrificing the joy of underwater discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
Pickup generally begins around 6:30 am, giving you a head start before the crowds arrive.

Is snorkeling gear included?
Yes, all snorkelling equipment, including masks and fins, is provided.

How long do we spend on each island?
Most stops range from about 30 minutes to two hours, with the longest being the time around Phi Phi Lee.

Will I get to walk on Maya Bay?
No, Maya Bay is closed for restoration. You’ll see it from the boat and take photos around it.

What’s the lunch like?
A buffet lunch with seasonal fruits and soft drinks; vegetarian options are available if requested.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, the THB400 national park fee is not included and must be paid on site.

How big are the groups?
The maximum number of travelers is 30, keeping the tour relatively intimate.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic stops, underwater fun, and good food at a reasonable price. It’s a smart pick for those seeking early access, smaller crowds, and a snapshot of Krabi’s stunning islands. While Maya Bay’s closure is a drawback, the overall experience remains rewarding for nature lovers and snorkelling fans alike.