Phi Phi Island Day Trip by Premium Catamaran

Experience the Stunning Phi Phi Islands by Premium Catamaran

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, towering limestone cliffs, and picture-perfect beaches, a day trip to the Phi Phi Islands might just be your ideal escape. This 7-hour tour from Phuket, offered by R.M. Tour and Travels, takes you aboard a luxurious 4-engine power-catamaran—designed for comfort and stability—so you can relax and enjoy these famed islands without the usual hustle of crowded speedboats. At around $150 per person, this experience offers a good balance of value and scenery, especially if you appreciate a slightly more upscale, comfortable ride.

What we love about this trip is its thoughtfully curated itinerary. First, you get to stand on Maya Bay, the famously beautiful cove made legendary by the film The Beach. The setting is undeniably stunning, with towering cliffs framing the bay, and the clear waters inviting for a quick dip. Second, the lunch and swimming stop at Ko Phi Phi Don adds a nice touch—giving you time to relax, savor a buffet, and explore a bit on your own. The highlight, however, might be the stop at Pileh Bay, where the emerald-green waters and limestone formations create perfect snorkeling conditions.

A potential drawback? The tour runs from noon, which might feel a bit late for those eager to start their day early, and the timeline is tightly packed—so if you prefer a slower pace or more time at each stop, this might not be your best fit. Plus, it’s a group tour with a maximum of 50 travelers, which means some may find it a bit crowded during peak times.

This tour suits travelers who want a comfortable, well-organized day on the water, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, beach time, and exploring. It’s especially good for those looking for a balance between adventure and relaxation, and who don’t mind the fixed schedule.

Key Points

• Comfortable Ride: The use of a power-catamaran provides a stable and smooth experience, ideal for those prone to seasickness or who want a quieter ride.
• Iconic Stops: Visit Maya Bay, Pileh Bay, and Ko Phi Phi Don, with time for snorkeling, swimming, and a buffet lunch.
• All-Inclusive Feel: The admission tickets for the beaches and lagoon are included, making the day more hassle-free.
• Group Size: A maximum of 50 travelers ensures a lively but manageable group.
• Timing: The tour starts at 12:00 pm, perfect for a leisurely morning but may limit early risers.
• Weather Dependent: Good weather is a must; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Detailed Review of the Phi Phi Island Day Trip by Premium Catamaran

The Journey Begins: Comfort and Ease on the Water

Starting in Phuket, the tour company offers pickup options, which makes the whole experience more convenient and stress-free. The four-engine power-catamaran is a highlight in itself—designed for stability and comfort, it’s a significant upgrade from more traditional, smaller boats. We appreciated how roomy and smooth the ride was, especially given the sometimes choppy seas. This means you’re less likely to feel seasick or uncomfortable during the trip, a common concern on open water adventures.

The boat’s stability and modern amenities make it a relaxing environment, with plenty of space to lounge, chat, or snap photos of the coastline as you glide past Phuket and towards the islands.

Maya Bay: The Star of the Show

No trip would be complete without a stop at Maya Bay, the most iconic destination on the tour. Famous globally thanks to Leonardo DiCaprio and the movie The Beach, Maya Bay is a stunning cove surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. The clear, shallow waters and soft sandy beach are picture-perfect, and the admission fee is included in your ticket.

We loved the way the tour allows about an hour to explore—plenty of time to take photos, wade in the water, or just soak in the scenery. Many reviews highlight how breathtaking Maya Bay is, and we agree—it’s the type of place that lives up to its reputation, especially with the limited number of visitors allowed at a time, ensuring it doesn’t feel overwhelmed.

Ko Phi Phi Don: Lunch and Leisure

Next, the boat drops anchor at Ko Phi Phi Don, the larger inhabited island of the group. Here, you’re treated to a buffet lunch, which is included in the price. The setting is relaxed, and you get some downtime to swim, sunbathe, or stroll on the beach. The free admission to the island’s beaches makes this a flexible stop, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

One review mentions, “The buffet lunch was surprisingly good, with a variety of local and international dishes, and we appreciated the free time to relax.” This balance of structured and free time makes the stop versatile, whether you want to indulge in more swimming or just enjoy the scenery.

Pileh Bay: Snorkeling and Natural Beauty

The highlight for many is the stop at Pileh Lagoon on Koh Phi Phi Leh. This natural lagoon is a dreamy spot where waters are more green than blue, surrounded by limestone cliffs rising from the sea. The tranquil setting is perfect for snorkeling—many travelers find the coral reefs here among the best in Southern Thailand.

The lagoon’s calm waters and abundant marine life make it a favorite, and you can expect about an hour here to swim and explore underwater. Reviews often mention the vivid coral reefs and variety of fish, making it a must-visit for snorkeling fans.

Limestone Cave and Bird Nests

One unique feature of this tour includes a visit to a limestone cave with wall paintings and a site where traditional bird nests are harvested for Chinese soup. While brief, this cultural touchpoint adds a bit of local flavor and insight into traditional practices, making the trip more than just beach hopping.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour’s schedule begins at 12:00 pm, which is convenient if you prefer a relaxed morning or are already exploring Phuket. Since the tour is about 7 hours, expect to return around 7 pm, depending on conditions.

The group size capped at 50 travelers balances a lively atmosphere with manageable crowds. The operator, R.M. Tour and Travels, ensures confirmation at booking and emphasizes good weather—canceled tours are fully refundable or rescheduled, which offers peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers seeking a comfortable, well-organized day on the water with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, relaxing, and sightseeing. It suits those who value stability and comfort over speed and don’t mind a fixed schedule. It’s perfect for mid-range budgets that appreciate good value—especially with the included admissions and buffet lunch.

This experience is less suitable for travelers who want more flexibility, early start times, or longer durations at each stop. Also, if you’re looking for an adventure with a small group or a more personalized experience, the maximum 50 travelers might feel a bit crowded.

Final Words

This Phi Phi Island Day Trip by Premium Catamaran offers a balanced mix of stunning scenery, comfortable transportation, and well-organized stops. Expect to spend your day immersed in some of Thailand’s most iconic natural sights, with the convenience of a smooth ride and all-inclusive stops.

The stops at Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Ko Phi Phi Don are thoughtfully chosen to showcase the best of the islands’ natural beauty and offer plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing. The comfort of the catamaran and the well-planned itinerary make this a worthwhile choice for those seeking a worry-free, scenic day on the water.

If you’re after stunning views combined with good value, and enjoy the idea of exploring without the hassle of multiple bookings or complicated logistics, this tour could be your perfect day trip from Phuket. Just remember to bring your camera, reef-safe sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation on a power-catamaran, admission tickets for Maya Bay and other stops, and a buffet lunch at Ko Phi Phi Don.

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 12:00 pm, which gives you a relaxed morning before heading out.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours.

Is there a pickup service?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it easier to get started without the hassle of organizing your own transport.

What are the main attractions?
Key stops include Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Ko Phi Phi Don—each offering unique scenery, swimming, and snorkeling.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Absolutely. The waters around Phi Phi Islands are known for abundant coral reefs and marine life, and snorkeling is encouraged at Pileh Bay.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a full refund or a different date.

How crowded does it get?
With a maximum of 50 travelers, it’s lively but still manageable, especially compared to larger boat tours.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but you might want to consider the sea conditions and your child’s comfort level.

How should I prepare for the day?
Bring sun protection, swimsuits, towels, and snorkeling gear if you have your own. The tour provides the rest.

This detailed, balanced review should help you decide whether this Phi Phi Island by Premium Catamaran tour fits your travel style. Expect a memorable day immersed in Thailand’s most famous islands, with plenty of comfort and natural beauty to enjoy.