Phi Phi: Full-Day Tour w/ Maya Bay, Lunch, Sunset & Plankton

Explore Koh Phi Phi’s Highlights with a Full-Day Speedboat Tour
This full-day adventure in Koh Phi Phi takes you to some of Thailand’s most iconic spots for a fraction of the cost—around $64 per person. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll hop aboard a guided speedboat and visit famous Maya Bay, snorkel among vibrant fish, discover hidden beaches like Bamboo Island, watch a stunning sunset, and end your day swimming with bioluminescent plankton in the dark.

What we really like about this tour is the balance between popular sights and lesser-known gems. The longer duration allows you to spend ample time at each stop—more relaxing than rushing from spot to spot. Plus, the inclusion of lunch, fruit, water, and snorkel gear adds great value—and convenience.

The only thing to consider is that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to plan your transportation to Koh Phi Phi itself. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic beauty, underwater exploration, and lively boat rides. If you love the idea of spending a full day exploring island nooks and crannies with an enthusiastic crew, this tour is a solid choice.

Key Points

Comprehensive experience: Visit all major highlights and hidden spots around Koh Phi Phi.
Longer and more relaxed: More time at each location compared to shorter tours.
Value-packed: Includes lunch, snacks, snorkel gear, and park fees.
Expert guidance: Knowledgeable tour guides who make the experience engaging.
Authentic adventure: Snorkeling, wildlife, and bioluminescent plankton for an immersive experience.
Considerations: No hotel transfers; weather can impact the schedule; Maya Bay may be crowded.

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The Complete Experience of the Koh Phi Phi Full-Day Tour

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Starting Out: What’s Included and How It Works

This tour is designed to give you a comprehensive day on the water, covering both the well-known and the hidden corners of the Phi Phi Islands. You’ll join a guided speedboat that comfortably seats up to 40 people, making it lively yet still intimate enough to enjoy personal interactions. The day begins around 9:30 to 9:50 AM at the meeting point in front of McDonald’s in Koh Phi Phi, so arrive early to ensure a relaxed start.

Once aboard, you’ll swiftly head to your first highlight: Maya Bay. Known from the movie “The Beach,” it’s an image that sticks with many travelers. While the bay is famous, the tour offers a full hour here, giving you enough time to soak in the scenery, take photos, and understand the environmental conservation efforts in place. Several reviews note that Maya Bay can become crowded; it’s a common issue in high season, but the tour’s longer stay helps you beat the rush somewhat.

Snorkeling in an Underwater Paradise

Next, you’ll snorkel at some of the best spots around Phi Phi. The tour provides snorkel masks and life jackets, and the reviews consistently highlight the quality of the snorkeling gear. Expect to see colorful fish, coral reefs, and perhaps even baby sharks or moray eels, as some travelers have reported. One reviewer, Dimitar, mentioned they’d love to have fins for better swimming, which is a thoughtful tip if you’re serious about snorkeling.

The boat crew not only takes you to these underwater spots but often swims with you—guiding and pointing out marine life, creating a more immersive experience. This makes snorkeling more than just a quick dip; it’s a chance to truly appreciate the underwater world.

Pileh Lagoon and Monkey Bay

From there, your itinerary includes a visit to Pileh Lagoon, a peaceful and striking spot where the turquoise waters are perfect for a cooling dip. The cove-like canyon carved into the island is a sight that many reviews rave about. When you swim here, you’ll understand why it’s considered one of the most picturesque parts of the islands.

A brief stop at Monkey Bay offers a chance to watch the crab-eating macaques in their natural habitat. Several reviewers mention encountering monkeys and finding this stop charming, although some note the experience can be a bit rushed. Still, it’s a fun, lighthearted break from the boat ride.

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Bamboo Island and the Lunch Break

Midday, the tour takes you to Bamboo Island, a tiny paradise with white sand beaches and clear waters. It’s a perfect spot to kick back, swim, and enjoy a delicious buffet lunch. The food, which includes fruits and drinks, is praised by many travelers as more than adequate, providing energy for the afternoon activities.

Bamboo Island is also an excellent place to snorkel further, exploring reefs with a more relaxed atmosphere away from the crowds. Several reviews highlight the peacefulness and beauty of this island, making it clear that it’s a highlight of the trip.

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Viking Cave and Scenic Highlights

While boats aren’t allowed inside Viking Cave—a major attraction for its ancient paintings—you’ll stop nearby for photos. The whole journey around Phi Phi offers spectacular views of towering cliffs, private coves, and stunning coastline, perfect for picture-taking and enjoying the scenery.

Sunset and Bioluminescent Plankton

As the day winds down, the tour returns to the water for a sunset cruise, an experience that many reviewers say is the perfect way to end a day at sea. The colors are often described as unforgettable, with the sky lighting up over the islands.

Finally, when darkness falls, you’ll have the chance to swim with bioluminescent plankton. As you move your arms and legs, tiny lights flicker in the water, creating a magical, glowing effect. Several reviews rave about this activity, calling it “magical” and “ unforgettable.” It’s a rare chance to see this natural phenomenon, and it leaves many travelers with memories that last long after the tour ends.

What’s Included and What to Know Before You Go

Included in the tour are the full-day speedboat ride, tour guide, park fee of 400 Baht, snorkel masks and life jackets, lunch, fruit, water, fridge, 1-hour visit to Maya Bay, bioluminescent plankton swim, and a visit to Bamboo Island.

Not included are hotel pickup and drop-off, which means you’ll need to arrange your transport to Koh Phi Phi. The tour’s flexible reservation policy allows you to book now and pay later, with the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What to bring includes sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, snacks, and sunscreen—essential for comfort and protection during a full day outdoors.

Note about Maya Bay: it closes every year in August and September for preservation, so if your visit falls during these months, the tour will spend more time at other spots. Weather can affect the schedule, with rain possible during the monsoon season, but the tour guarantees to run when conditions are safe.

Authentic Experiences That Make This Tour Stand Out

Based on reviews, the guides, especially Coco Loco, are a highlight—fun, enthusiastic, and full of local knowledge. Travelers consistently mention how guides swim alongside them, explaining each site, and making the experience more engaging. Many say that their crew was helpful, friendly, and funny, which turns a day of sightseeing into a memorable adventure.

The combination of snorkeling, wildlife, and scenic beauty creates a well-rounded experience. The visit to Monkey Bay, the photo-worthy Viking Cave, and the serene Bamboo Island give a taste of both nature and local charm. The sunset and bioluminescent plankton add a magical finish, making the long day feel worthwhile.

Travelers also appreciate the value for money — for just $64, you get a full day of activities, transportation, food, and all the gear needed. The reviews frequently mention how well-organized and smooth the trip is, with many praising the timing and logistics.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a full day on the water exploring multiple islands and natural attractions. It suits snorkelers and wildlife lovers, as well as those seeking memorable experiences like swimming with plankton. If you’re comfortable with boat rides and appreciate a guided, well-organized trip, you’ll find this tour a good fit.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness, have mobility issues, or need hotel transfers, this might not be the best option. Kids over 3 are welcome, but some reviews suggest the day might be a bit long for very young children or those with back or mobility concerns.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For a balanced, immersive experience of Koh Phi Phi’s most iconic spots, this full-day speedboat tour offers excellent value. The combination of popular sights like Maya Bay, hidden gems like Bamboo Island, and extraordinary moments such as swimming with bioluminescent plankton makes it a well-rounded choice.

The enthusiastic guides and delicious lunch are added bonuses, making the day both fun and comfortable. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and a bit of adventure in a lively group setting. The tour’s flexibility, quality gear, and carefully crafted itinerary earn it high praise—many reviewers call it a highlight of their trip.

If you’re looking for an active, authentic day exploring the best of Koh Phi Phi from the water, this tour is a smart pick. Just remember to bring sun protection, snacks, and your sense of adventure—you’re in for a memorable day.

FAQs about the Phi Phi Full-Day Speedboat Tour

Is hotel pickup or drop-off included?
No, this tour does not include hotel transfers. You need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point in front of McDonald’s Koh Phi Phi.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, snacks, and sunscreen. The tour provides water, fruit, and snorkel gear, but it’s good to have your personal essentials.

Can I snorkel without fins?
Yes, snorkel masks and life jackets are provided. Some travelers have mentioned they wish fins were included for better swimming, but you can still enjoy snorkeling with the gear provided.

What about the timing of Maya Bay?
The tour dedicates one hour to Maya Bay, but note that it closes annually in August and September for preservation. During these months, the tour spends more time exploring other spots.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children over 3 years old can join, but the activity might be long for very young kids or those with back or mobility issues. Pregnant women and people prone to seasickness are advised against participating.

How flexible is the schedule?
The schedule may vary based on weather and sea conditions. Rain is common in Southern Thailand, especially during the monsoon season, but the tour generally proceeds when it’s safe.

What is the group size?
Up to 40 people can be accommodated on the speedboat, making it a lively but manageable group.

What makes this tour a good value?
For around $64, you receive a full day of organized activities, multiple island visits, snorkeling gear, lunch, park fees, and guided commentary—offering a lot for the price.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering some peace of mind when booking ahead.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The group atmosphere tends to be friendly, and many reviews mention how guides and crew make everyone feel welcome, no matter if you’re traveling alone or with friends.

In summary, this full-day Koh Phi Phi speedboat tour offers a rich, engaging experience combining stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and memorable activities like snorkeling and swimming with plankton. While it requires some planning around transportation and weather, most travelers find it well worth the price—and a highlight of their trip to Thailand.