Krabi: Phi Phi Islands Speedboat Tour with Buffet Lunch

Discover the Phi Phi Islands on a Speedboat Tour from Krabi

Imagine cruising across the calm waters of the Andaman Sea on a speedboat, with the warm sun on your face and limestone cliffs towering around you. For around $46 per person, this 7.5-hour tour takes you to some of Thailand’s most iconic sights—Maya Bay, known from the movie The Beach, Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon, and relaxed stops at Bamboo Island. You’ll be guided by friendly, knowledgeable staff who seem to genuinely enjoy showing off their beloved islands.

What we love about this tour is how well-organized it is—timing is smooth and punctual, and the inclusions like snorkel gear, soft drinks, and fresh fruit keep you refreshed. Plus, the buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don is a real highlight, offering a chance to relax and refuel on a beautiful beachside setting.

A small caveat: the schedule can feel a bit rushed, especially at Maya Bay and Bamboo Island. If you prefer to linger leisurely or explore every nook and cranny, this may feel slightly hurried. Also, Maya Bay can be crowded, but that’s part of the appeal—just expect some traffic at the most popular spots.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a full day of scenic highlights and snorkeling without breaking the bank. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy friendly guides, good value, and well-planned itineraries. If you’re looking to tick off the main sights with a comfortable, hassle-free experience, this tour delivers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comfortable speedboat transfers ensure a quick, scenic ride between islands.
• Excellent snorkeling opportunities and friendly gear provided.
• Well-planned itinerary balances popular sights with time to relax.
• Delicious buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don offers variety and convenience.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with interesting insights.
• Crowds can be busy, especially at Maya Bay; early visits help avoid the worst congestion.

The Full Experience: A Deep Dive

The Departure & Pickup Experience

Starting with hotel pickup, the tour includes transportation from several locations around Krabi, including Ao Nang, Krabi Town, and Tubkaek Beach. We appreciated the punctuality—drivers arrived within the scheduled window, and the process was smooth, with friendly staff greeting us. You’ll want to arrive 10-15 minutes early to avoid feeling hurried.

Once on the bus, it’s a brief ride to the pier, where you’ll meet your crew and group. The check-in process is straightforward, and you’re welcomed aboard with a soft drink and seasonal fruits—nice touches that set a friendly tone for the day. The boat itself is noted for being clean and spacious, a comfortable vessel that handles the waves smoothly, easing any worries about seasickness.

The Cruise to the Islands

The 45-minute journey to the Phi Phi Islands whisks you away from the mainland and into a world of towering limestone formations and turquoise waters. Along the way, the guides will brief you, and you might enjoy some fun conversations or light-hearted jokes—this helps pass the time and adds to the friendly atmosphere.

Snorkeling stops are made en route at two less-crowded spots, giving you a chance to see vibrant marine life without the overwhelming crowds. Reviewers praised the quality of snorkeling, with many mentioning the new mouthpieces and helpful guides, making this accessible even for first-timers.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring Loh Samah Bay and Maya Bay

Your first major stop is Loh Samah Bay, a picture-perfect cove with a tiny islet in its center, surrounded by dramatic cliffs. Walking from Loh Samah to Maya Bay is like stepping into a postcard—white sands, clear waters, and the backdrop of the movie The Beach.

In reviews, many mention that Maya Bay is somewhat crowded but still breathtaking. It’s a chance to walk on the sand, wade in the shallow water, and take photos of the stunning scenery. A key point here is the restoration efforts and strict rules—these are important to respect. The guides emphasize conservation, and you’ll see signs about protecting the environment.

Pileh Lagoon and Viking Cave

Next, you’ll visit Pileh Lagoon, a marvel of calm, emerald waters enclosed by towering cliffs. The small beach at the lagoon’s edge is perfect for a quick swim or just soaking up the scenery. Many reviewers find this spot the most beautiful part of the tour, citing its bright waters and dramatic surroundings.

Close by is Viking Cave, famous for the bird nests harvested for soup and traditional Chinese medicine. This is more of a visual stop—no tours inside, but plenty of photo opportunities of the cave’s impressive cliffs and swiftlet nests.

Lunch & Leisure at Phi Phi Don

After a morning of sightseeing, you’ll break for a buffet lunch at a beachside restaurant on Phi Phi Don. The meals are described as varied and tasty, with options for Halal diets. Many reviews praise the generous portions and good quality of the food, which often includes fresh seafood, salads, and pasta.

Post-lunch, you’ll get some free time to snorkel again or simply relax on the beach. The reefs here are renowned for their colorful corals and marine life, making it a favorite stop for snorkelers.

Bamboo Island and Return

The highlight for many is Bamboo Island, a small, heart-shaped patch of white powdery sand and calm waters. Here, you can swim, sunbathe, or walk along the shore, with plenty of room to spread out despite the island’s popularity. Multiple reviews comment on how pristine and peaceful this island is, a perfect spot to unwind after a busy morning.

When the day winds down, the speedboat whisks you back to Krabi, offering one last scenic ride with photos and memories to cherish. The return trip is usually smooth, and the hotel drop-off completes a well-rounded day.

What This Tour Means for You

This experience offers excellent value for money—covering transport, guide service, snorkeling gear, lunch, and entry fees for a competitive price. The small group size or shared group makes it easier to connect and ask questions, adding a personal touch.

The guides are consistently praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and attentiveness—making the day feel safe and engaging. The snorkeling stops are a major highlight, especially for those keen to see Thailand’s vibrant underwater world.

However, be prepared for some crowds at popular spots like Maya Bay and Bamboo Island. If you’re after more secluded experiences, you might feel a little rushed or wish for more time exploring. Also, the schedule is tight—if you prefer unhurried sightseeing, this might not be your ideal trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting an efficient overview of the Phi Phi Islands. If you’re looking for beautiful scenery, snorkeling, and a good mix of relaxation and activity, this tour will hit the mark. It’s also well-suited for travelers on a budget who still want a comprehensive day out with delicious food and friendly guides.

FAQs

What is included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, speedboat transportation, buffet lunch, snorkel gear, soft drinks, seasonal fruits, insurance, and a tour guide.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, you’ll need to pay cash at check-in for the national park entrance fees—400 THB for adults and 200 THB for children. Personal expenses, alcohol, and towels are not included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 2 years old must be accompanied at all times. The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, people with heart problems, or those with recent surgery.

How long do we spend at each stop?
Most stops are around 45 minutes to an hour, enough time for sightseeing, swimming, and photos. Be aware that the schedule can sometimes feel a little rushed, especially at the popular spots.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sunhat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. Towel and alcohol are not provided.

Can I buy additional snacks or souvenirs?
On Bamboo Island and Phi Phi Don, there are vendors, but prices can be high, and options are limited. It’s best to bring some snacks if you’re hungry between stops.

Final Thoughts

This Phi Phi Islands speedboat tour from Krabi strikes a nice balance between adventure, comfort, and value. You’ll get to see Maya Bay’s famous sands, snorkel in vibrant reefs, and relax on a picture-perfect island—all in one day. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience more engaging and enjoyable. The buffet lunch adds a welcome touch of convenience, allowing you to recharge amid stunning scenery.

While it can be busy and somewhat rushed, the overall experience offers a solid blend of highlights and relaxation for travelers eager to explore without the fuss of planning every detail. It’s especially suitable for those who want a well-organized, friendly, and reasonably priced trip with plenty of photo opportunities and underwater fun.

If you’re after the main sights with reliable logistics and good value, this tour will serve you well—and leave you with plenty of memories of Thailand’s enchanting islands.

You can check availability for your dates here: