Phi Phi Island: Maya bay Sunset & Plankton by Speedboat

Imagine slicing through crystal-clear waters on a fast, agile speedboat, your eyes glued to the spectacular scenery of Thailand’s most iconic islands. This tour, priced at $54 per person, takes you around the stunning Phi Phi Islands for about five hours, with stops at famous spots like Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, and more. Led by a knowledgeable guide who keeps things lively and informative, this trip offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and unforgettable moments at sunset and under the glow of bioluminescent plankton.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines adventure with authentic encounters — from playful monkeys at Monkey Beach to the mystical glow of plankton at night. The small group size (limited to 25) also ensures you won’t feel like just another face in a crowd. Plus, the inclusive nature of the tour, with snorkeling gear, water, and fruits, adds real value without hidden costs.

One thing to keep in mind is that weather conditions can influence the schedule — especially during the monsoon season from May to December. While the tour generally proceeds in rain, safety always comes first, and cancellations are possible if conditions are unsafe. This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and snorkeling, and who want to experience the natural beauty of the islands without the crowds.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Enjoy breathtaking scenery at Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and during sunset.
• Snorkeling & Marine Life: Discover vibrant underwater worlds at Pileh Lagoon and Shark Point.
• Authentic Encounters: Meet wild monkeys and explore Viking Cave’s ancient drawings.
• Bioluminescent Plankton: Experience a surreal glow in the water at night.
• Small Group: Limited to 25 people for a more personal experience.
• All-Inclusive: Snorkeling gear, water, fruits, and park fees included for peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Phi Phi Sunset & Plankton Speedboat Tour

Setting Out from Koh Phi Phi

Our journey begins in front of McDonald’s in Tonsai Bay, a convenient and recognizable meeting spot. The departure times are 1:30 PM or 2:30 PM, giving you flexibility depending on your day’s plans. The short 30-minute boat ride whisks you away from the bustling pier into the tranquil waters of the islands. From the start, the boat’s speed ensures you’re off to a quick start, and the small group size means we quickly became friends with our guide, who shared local insights and a few humorous anecdotes.

Monkey Beach: Playful Encounters

Our first stop, Monkey Beach, is an excellent introduction to the island’s lively wildlife. The playful monkeys seem accustomed to visitors, and we loved watching them dart through trees or lounge lazily on the beach. It’s about 30 minutes here, enough time for photos and a quick chat about the importance of respecting these fascinating animals. Several travelers mentioned how fun it was to see the monkeys in their natural habitat, but also to be cautious about their boldness.

Viking Cave: History in Limestone

Next, we headed to Viking Cave, famous for its ancient paintings and historical significance. As our guide explained, this limestone cavern is more than just a pretty sight; it’s an important archaeological site. We appreciated the 30-minute stop here, giving us time to look at the detailed drawings and learn about the cave’s legendary connection to ancient seafarers. The cave’s high walls and the quiet ambiance made it a contemplative spot, with many of us snapping photos of the cave’s textured surface.

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Snorkeling at Shark Point

Afterward, we voyaged to Shark Point, where snorkelers are often lucky enough to see blacktip reef sharks gliding through the water. Our guide emphasized safety, guiding us to snorkel with confidence. The 30-minute session here was thrilling — vibrant fish darted around us, and the clarity of the water made it easy to appreciate the rich marine life. Several guests remarked that snorkeling at Shark Point was a highlight, especially the chance to see sharks in their natural setting without feeling threatened.

Pileh Lagoon: A Picture-Perfect Spot

We then sailed to Pileh Lagoon, a highlight for many travelers. The lagoon’s turquoise waters are a natural postcard backdrop, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and taking photos. The 30-minute stop allowed us to relax in the calm surroundings, marvel at the towering cliffs, and enjoy the marine biodiversity. We loved how peaceful it was — a true escape into nature. Travelers often comment on how this stop feels like stepping into a different world, a moment of serenity amid the adventure.

Loh Samah Bay & Maya Bay: The Iconic Beach

The journey continues to Loh Samah Bay, a convenient hop-on stop before reaching Maya Bay — the star of the show. The bay’s calm waters and lush surroundings set the scene for the hour we spent on Maya Bay itself. The soft sands and clear waters make it an ideal place to relax, swim, or simply soak in the views. Many visitors noted that Maya Bay’s beauty lives up to the photos, though some mentioned it can get crowded during peak times. Our guide encouraged us to take advantage of the quiet moments early or late in the day.

Sunset Over Phi Phi Islands

As the afternoon waned, we moved to a spot to witness a spectacular sunset. The sky turned hues of orange and pink, with the silhouettes of islands adding to the scene. The gentle rocking of the boat combined with the natural beauty made this moment particularly memorable. Several guests described it as “a perfect end to a busy day,” and others appreciated how the tour allowed time to appreciate the serenity of the setting.

Snorkeling with Bioluminescent Plankton

The finale was snorkeling in the dark, where glowing plankton created a surreal experience. As we floated in the water, tiny lights shimmered around us, giving the illusion of being underwater stars. This activity, lasting about 10 minutes, is guaranteed to be a standout memory. One reviewer described it as “something magical, like swimming in a galaxy,” and many found it a gentle, enchanting way to end the tour.

Returning to Koh Phi Phi

After the glow of the plankton, we cruised back to the meeting point, allowing everyone to reflect on the day’s highlights. The boat’s comfortable seating and the chance to review photos or simply enjoy the scenery made the journey back relaxing.

Practical Considerations & Tips

This tour offers fantastic value, especially given the inclusiveness of snorkeling equipment, water, fruits, and park fees. The 5-hour duration strikes a good balance, offering plenty of sights without feeling rushed. While the group size is capped at 25, this creates a more personal experience, allowing your guide to engage with everyone and provide tailored insights.

Keep in mind the weather in southern Thailand can influence your plans — rain can occur, especially in the monsoon season. Tours generally proceed safely in rain, but if sea conditions are unsafe, cancellations are possible. It’s wise to check the weather forecast and be prepared for quick changes, particularly if you visit during the rainy months.

You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Koh Phi Phi, and an overnight stay on the island is recommended because of limited transfer options. This adds to the adventure — you get to experience the vibrant island life after the tour.

What to Bring

• Sunglasses and sun hat to combat the tropical sun
• Swimwear and a towel for snorkeling and swimming
• Sunscreen (reef-safe preferred)
• Swimming cap for sun protection
• Optional: a waterproof camera or phone case to capture the sights

Not Allowed

• Pets or alcohol
• Drugs (for safety and legal reasons)
• Pregnant women, babies under 1 year, or people with back problems should consider their suitability carefully

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This speedboat trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural sights. If you’re drawn to iconic beaches like Maya Bay but want to skip the crowds, this tour offers a more intimate, authentic experience. Snorkelers and marine life lovers will appreciate the chance to see sharks and vibrant fish in clear waters. The sunset and plankton activities add a touch of magic that makes the day memorable.

While it’s not perfect for those seeking a relaxed, slow-paced experience or luxury comforts, it offers excellent value for active explorers eager to tick off multiple highlights in just one afternoon. The small-group format and inclusive amenities make it a good choice for those wanting a balanced, well-organized adventure.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, starting around 1:30 PM or 2:30 PM, depending on your chosen schedule.

What locations will I visit?
You’ll see Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, Shark Point, Pileh Lagoon, Loh Samah Bay, Maya Bay, and enjoy the sunset and plankton snorkeling.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, along with life jackets, water, and fruits.

Are park fees included?
The national park entry ticket (400 Baht) is included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a swimming cap for sun protection.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this suitable for children?
While the tour is quite active, it’s not recommended for babies under 1 year or pregnant women. Children should be comfortable with water activities.

What if the weather looks bad?
Tours proceed in rain unless sea conditions are unsafe. If the weather is dangerous, the tour may be canceled with options to reschedule or get a full refund.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, you need to arrange your own transportation to Koh Phi Phi, and an overnight stay is recommended.

This tour offers an exciting way to experience the captivating scenery of the Phi Phi Islands, blending adventure, beauty, and a touch of magic. Whether you’re after iconic beaches, marine encounters, or sunset serenity, it’s a well-rounded option for active travelers seeking authentic moments in Thailand.

You can check availability for your dates here: