Phi Phi: Avoid The Crowds Speedboat to Maya Bay at Sunrise

If you’re dreaming of seeing Maya Bay in its most pristine state and avoiding the crush of travelers, this speedboat tour from Koh Phi Phi might just be your best bet. Priced at around $53 per person, it offers a half- or full-day adventure that takes you to the most iconic spots—Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Monkey Bay, and Bamboo Island—all with the added bonus of beating the crowds by arriving at sunrise.

We loved the chance to be the first in line at Maya Bay, a place famous for its appearance in the Leonardo DiCaprio film “The Beach”, and to snorkel with harmless blacktip reef sharks in clear waters. The early start means a peaceful atmosphere and fewer people, which is perfect for photography and truly appreciating the natural beauty.

A couple of considerations: the meeting point is early—6:00 AM in front of McDonald’s at Tonsai Pier—and you’ll need your own transport to Koh Phi Phi, as the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup. Also, since the schedule depends on weather and sea conditions, times might shift slightly. But if you’re eager to see Thailand’s stunning islands away from the crowds, this tour offers a fantastic value.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate authentic, scenic spots and are comfortable with an early start and boat rides. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family (over age 3, as it’s not suitable for very young children), you’ll find this tour rewarding for its combination of stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and well-organized itinerary.

Key Points

• Beat the crowds by arriving early, especially at Maya Bay.
• Snorkel with harmless sharks and vibrant marine life.
• Visit iconic spots like Pileh Lagoon, Monkey Bay, and Bamboo Island.
• Well-organized tour with knowledgeable guides, ensuring safety and fun.
• All-inclusive experience with food, drinks, and snorkeling gear.
• Weather-dependent schedule means slight changes can occur.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Phi Phi Sunrise Speedboat Tour

If you’re after a unique experience that combines natural beauty, the thrill of boat rides, and avoiding the tourist mobs, this tour checks many boxes.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The trip kicks off at 6:00 AM, with a light breakfast of Thai donuts, tea, or coffee at the meeting point in front of McDonald’s near Tonsai Pier. While the early start might sound daunting, the payoff is worth it. You’re on a speedboat, designed for both comfort and speed, which whisks you out across the Gulf of Thailand toward the first highlight, Maya Bay.

Maya Bay is the crown jewel of this tour. Thanks to the early hour, you’ll be the first group allowed to land as the bay opens at 7:00 AM. Reviews emphasize how surreal it is to stand on this world-famous beach with minimal visitors, unlike the crowded scenes seen later in the day. As one traveler put it, “It was well worth the earlier get-up to be one of the first people on Maya Bay. The views alone are worth the effort.”

Next, you’ll head to Pileh Lagoon, a true gem with its turquoise waters and dramatic canyon walls. Here, you’ll have time to swim and relax — a perfect chance to cool off and take in the scenery. The quiet waters make it an ideal spot for photography and reflection.

Monkey Bay offers a chance to see crab-eating macaque monkeys in their natural habitat. The guide expertly navigates the boat near the monkeys, giving you a chance for photos without disturbing the wildlife, while ensuring safety. As one reviewer noted, “Our guide was experienced, got us close enough to the monkeys while staying safe, and we loved feeding them fruits.”

After Monkey Bay, the tour continues to snorkel in clear waters teeming with colorful fish and even harmless reef sharks. Several reviews mention snorkeling as a highlight, with one traveler describing how “we saw beautiful fish and baby reef sharks swimming close by.” The gear is provided, and the waters are so transparent that you’ll feel like you’re floating in an aquarium.

A stop at Viking Cave provides the perfect photo opportunity of the cliffs and cave, although visitors can’t go inside. The story about this cave is mysterious—it’s used for harvesting swallow bird nests, but little else is known about its history.

For those opting for the full-day experience, the tour proceeds to Bamboo Island. Here, you’ll enjoy lunch and have plenty of time to swim and relax in the tranquil surroundings. Many reviews praise Bamboo Island as a “magical” and “paradise-like” escape, especially when visited early before larger crowds arrive.

The Value of Early Arrival and Small Groups

The main appeal of this tour lies in the opportunity to visit Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Bamboo Island without the crowds—something that’s impossible with the larger, later tours. As multiple reviews mention, being the first boat on the scene means less noise, fewer people, and better photos. One traveler summed it up: “The views were worth it alone, and doing it without the crowds was just unreal.”

With a maximum of 40 people on the boat, the experience remains intimate and flexible. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making it easier to relax and enjoy.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is priced at $53 per person, it offers excellent value considering the inclusions: park fees, snorkeling gear, breakfast, and optional lunch. The full-day option adds a few hours and Bamboo Island, which many find worth the extra cost.

However, you should plan your transport to Koh Phi Phi separately, as this tour does not include hotel pickup. Arriving early is essential, especially if you want to catch the sunrise and the first glimpse of Maya Bay.

The schedule is weather-dependent; rough seas or storms can cause delays or cancellations. The company’s policy is clear—if conditions are unsafe, the tour is canceled, but in good weather, you’re assured a fantastic day.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is particularly well-suited for adventurous travelers who want to see the most popular spots with the benefit of avoiding the crowds. It’s a great choice for photographers, snorkelers, and those who want a more authentic experience in iconic locations.

Those with limited mobility or seasickness should consider whether the early boat rides and swimming are suitable. Families with children over 3 are generally okay, but always check with the provider regarding specific needs.

Final Thoughts

This sunrise speedboat tour of the Phi Phi Islands offers a rare chance to see Maya Bay in its most untouched state. It provides stunning views, excellent snorkeling, and the thrill of being first at some of Thailand’s most famous spots. The small group size, well-organized schedule, and professional guides ensure a smooth, memorable experience.

If you value authentic natural beauty over crowds, and enjoy early mornings on the water, this tour truly stands out. It’s perfect for travelers who want to capture incredible photos, explore marine life, and enjoy peaceful beaches before others arrive.

For those looking for a well-paced, inclusive adventure that highlights the best of Phi Phi with a focus on quality, safety, and intimate moments, this tour is a fantastic choice.

FAQ

Is transportation to Koh Phi Phi included?
No, you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the pier. An overnight stay on Phi Phi is recommended due to the early start and limited transfer options.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, towel, snacks, and sunscreen. Also, consider extra water or drinks, especially if you plan to stay all day.

Can I go snorkeling if I don’t have experience?
Yes, snorkeling masks and gear are provided, and the waters are clear, making it suitable even for beginners. The guides are experienced and helpful.

Will I be able to visit Maya Bay?
Yes, you will arrive at 7:00 AM when Maya Bay opens, making you one of the first visitors, avoiding the large crowds.

What is the full-day option?
It adds a visit to Bamboo Island, giving you more time to swim, relax, and enjoy a provided lunch in a peaceful setting.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, children over 3 years old can participate, but check with the provider if you have very young children or specific needs.

In all, this tour offers a memorable way to see Thailand’s iconic islands while sidestepping the crowds—perfect for those eager to enjoy natural beauty with a touch of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: