If you’re in Krabi and dreaming of turquoise waters, hidden caves, and swaying palm trees, a Phi Phi Islands tour might be just what you need. For around $108, you’ll spend about 10 hours exploring some of Thailand’s most iconic spots, with a small group of up to 15 travelers, making it a more intimate experience than some crowded boat tours. The tour includes hotel pickup, lunch, snorkel gear, and visits to famous sites like Maya Bay, where Leonardo DiCaprio filmed The Beach.

What we particularly like about this trip is the chance to escape the crowds and explore at a relaxed pace, especially with expert guides offering hints and tips to make the most of each stop. Plus, the scenic Thai lunch at a lookout over Phi Phi Don offers a true taste of local cuisine alongside incredible views. However, a key consideration is that some reviews point out overcrowding and noisy beaches, which can spoil the experience if you’re seeking tranquility.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a full day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and island hopping, particularly those who appreciate guided insights and value the chance to explore less crowded spots. If you’re okay with sharing the experience with other travelers and don’t mind some hustle and bustle, this trip offers a solid balance of adventure and comfort.

Key Points

Small-group experience with a maximum of 15 travelers offers a more personal experience.
Includes hotel pickup in Krabi or Ao Nang, simplifying logistics.
Visit iconic filming locations like Maya Bay and intriguing caves such as Viking Cave.
Snorkeling gear is included, so you can explore the reefs without extra costs.
A scenic Thai lunch with views over Phi Phi Don adds a memorable local touch.
Some reviews mention overcrowding, so this isn’t the best choice if peaceful beaches are your priority.

What to Expect from the Phi Phi Island Speedboat Tour

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The Itinerary Breakdown

Your day begins early, with hotel pickups around 7:50 AM in Krabi or Ao Nang. These pickups are straightforward, and the group size on land is limited to 15, ensuring you won’t be just one in a sea of strangers. By around 9:00 AM, you’ll set off on your powerful speedboat—a fast way to cover multiple islands and beaches in a single day.

Bamboo Island: A Tropical Welcome

Your first stop is Bamboo Island, famous for its powdery beaches and coral reefs. Spending about 30 minutes here, you can sunbathe, explore the reefs, or simply enjoy the scenery. Travelers who loved this spot mention the beautiful water and beaches, making it a perfect place to relax after the boat ride. It’s free to enter, but be prepared for busy times, as some reviews note overcrowding.

Viking Cave and Loh Samah Bay: Cultural and Colorful Reef Stops

Next, you’ll visit Viking Cave, a site famed for its ancient wall paintings and the swallow nests collected for bird’s nest soup. Although you can’t go inside, it’s a striking sight from the boat. Then, you’ll head to Loh Samah Bay, where colorful fish and coral await snorkelers. With 30 minutes allocated, this spot offers a lively underwater scene and is often highlighted for its vibrant marine life.

Pileh Bay: The Lagoon of Dreams

The next highlight is Pileh Bay in Phi Phi Leh, a stunning lagoon encircled by limestone cliffs. It’s a favorite among travelers for its postcard-perfect scenery. Here, you might feel like you’ve stepped into a photo studio, with calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

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Maya Bay: The Movie Star

Of course, no trip to Phi Phi is complete without a visit to Maya Bay, the famous filming location of The Beach. Although crowded, this spot’s sheer cliffs and white sand have a magnetic appeal. According to reviews, some find it too busy, but most agree it’s worth a quick visit. The guides help you make the most of your time here, so you can snap photos and soak in the scenery.

Monkey Beach: From a Distance

The tour then makes a brief stop at Monkey Beach, mainly for sightseeing from the boat. You won’t get close to the monkeys, but it’s fun to see the island’s furry residents from afar.

Phi Phi Don: Lunch and Shopping

The final stop is Phi Phi Don, the larger island community. Here, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch at a scenic lookout, along with some opportunity for souvenir shopping. The lunch is a highlight, with free soft drinks, fruits, and traditional Thai dishes, providing a well-earned rest before heading back.

Return to Krabi

By around 4:00 PM, you’ll start heading back to Ao Nang, ending your day with memories and photos of a day full of spectacular sights. The small group size and experienced guides help keep things smooth and enjoyable, despite the sometimes hectic schedule.

The Value of This Tour

This trip offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and cultural stops, all packed into a single day. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment means you can explore the reefs without extra costs, and the scenic lunch adds a special local flavor. The small-group setting helps ensure your guide can offer personalized tips and insights, enhancing your experience.

However, some reviews do point out overcrowding—particularly at Maya Bay and certain beaches—which can detract from the peace and tranquility travelers might seek. The noisy engines from boats and trash in the water are concerns raised by some, emphasizing that tourist impact on these fragile environments is still an issue. If you value quiet beaches, you might find this tour a bit hectic, especially during peak times.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

Adventure seekers who want to see multiple islands in one day.
Snorkelers eager to explore coral reefs and marine life.
Travelers wanting guided insights without the hassle of planning each stop.
Those seeking a value-rich experience combining sightseeing, food, and fun.

The Sum Up

This Phi Phi Islands tour by speedboat provides an energetic and well-organized way to see some of Thailand’s most famous island spots in a single day. You’ll appreciate the expert guides, the scenic lunch, and the chance to snorkel amid vibrant reefs. It’s a great option if you’re comfortable sharing the space with other travelers and are okay with some busy spots.

If your priority is peaceful beaches or avoiding large crowds, this might not be the best choice. The overcrowding and noise at some stops are notable, but the overall experience offers enough highlights and authenticity to make it worthwhile, especially for first-timers or those on a tight schedule.

For the price, you’re getting a comprehensive tour that covers the key sights with a good mix of relaxation and activity—perfect for those looking to tick off the must-see spots on the Phi Phi Islands in one go.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered from select hotels in Krabi and Ao Nang, making it a convenient start to your day.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers hotel transfer, lunch, snorkeling equipment, life jackets, an experienced guide, insurance, and the marine park fee.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, from pickup early in the morning to return around 4:00 PM.

Can I snorkel at each stop?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and stops at Loh Samah Bay and Pileh Bay are ideal for exploring marine life.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the long day, boat rides, and crowded stops when traveling with very young children.

Are there any restrictions or special considerations?
The tour is SHA Plus certified, ensuring health protocols are followed. It generally suits most travelers, but be prepared for some busy spots and the potential noise and fumes from boats.

Exploring the Phi Phi Islands by speedboat is a lively, scenic adventure that offers a taste of Thailand’s spectacular marine and island scenery. With careful planning and the right expectations, this tour can be a highlight of your trip to Krabi.