Phi Phi Islands and Khai Islands Snorkeling Tour By Speedboat From Phuket

The Basics of the Phi Phi & Khai Islands Snorkeling Tour

This full-day speedboat adventure from Phuket takes you to some of Thailand’s most famous and beautiful islands, including the world-renowned Maya Bay. For around 8 to 9 hours, you’ll explore Ko Phi Phi Lee, Monkey Beach, Ton Sai Beach, and Khai Island. The tour, priced at $81.59 per person, is noted for its lively stops, vibrant scenery, and friendly guides.

Two things we love about this trip are the variety of stops—from snorkeling at multiple sites to sightseeing Viking Cave—and the included lunch at Ton Sai Beach, which offers a welcome pause amid all the island hopping. Also, the professional guides and well-organized itinerary make this a smooth experience.

A key consideration is that some reviews mention crowded spots like Bamboo Island and the potential for long waiting times before the tour officially begins. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a fast-paced day with plenty of swimming and sightseeing, as well as travelers who value professional guided tours with good food and safety equipment.

If you’re looking for a day packed with stunning vistas, marine life, and the chance to explore multiple islands in one go, this tour can be a fantastic choice.

Key Points

• Well-organized itinerary with multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing
• Includes hotel transfers, lunch, and snorkeling gear for a convenient whole-day experience
• Guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the tour engaging and educational
• Environmental and safety issues are highlighted in some reviews, so awareness is key
• Crowded spots can detract from the serenity, especially at Bamboo Island
• Suitable for families, solo travelers, and those eager to see the highlights of Phuket’s surrounding islands

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting the Day: Early Pickup and Preparation

The tour kicks off at 7:00 am with hotel pickup, a detail that most travelers find convenient, especially if you’re staying in Phuket. Being picked up early allows you to beat some of the crowds and maximize your time on the water. The transportation is generally comfortable, often in air-conditioned mini-buses, and you’ll receive a reminder the night before about your pickup time.

The journey to the marina takes about an hour, during which you can start to get excited for the day ahead. Some reviewers suggest that this waiting period could be better utilized with an earlier pickup or more flexible timing, but most appreciate the smooth start.

The Speedboat and Group Size

Once at the marina, you’ll step onto a speedboat that’s designed to be fast and nimble, allowing you to cover several islands in a single day. The boat generally accommodates around 45 travelers maximum, which helps keep the experience intimate and prevents it from feeling overcrowded.

Reviews mention that the boat isn’t overfull and that there’s plenty of room to relax or move around. The crew—noted for their friendliness and professionalism—are quick to provide life jackets, refreshments, and help during the day.

Stops and Highlights

Ko Phi Phi Lee is the first stop, where you’ll swim and snorkel at a site famous for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Reviewers say they enjoyed snorkeling here, especially when the water was calm and visibility was good.

Next, Monkey Beach offers a chance to observe cheeky monkeys from the boat, and although you don’t step onto the island itself, the view is impressive. Keep in mind that some reviews mention the monkeys being fed by the crew, which is controversial and is something to be aware of environmentally.

Ko Phi Phi Don provides another snorkeling opportunity, and here we loved the fact that the guides often shared insightful information about the marine ecosystem, making the experience both fun and educational.

Ton Sai Beach is where you’ll enjoy a buffet-style lunch with fresh fruits—an appreciated break. Reviewers rave about the quality of the food, feeling it offers great value given the full day of activity.

From there, the tour visits Viking Cave, known for its ancient paintings and bird nests, and Pi Leh Bay for swimming. These stops are praised for their scenic beauty and the chance to cool off in pristine waters.

Maya Bay is arguably the highlight—”the beach from the movie ‘The Beach’.” Travelers love taking photos here, although the crowds can be overwhelming. You’ll have about 30 minutes to soak in the atmosphere, snap pictures, and go for a swim. The scenery is breathtaking—limestone cliffs framing a soft sandy beach.

Khai Island: A Relaxing End

The tour wraps up at Koh Khai Nai, where you can relax on white sands, snorkel, or just enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Many travelers mention the clear waters and abundant marine life here, making it a perfect spot to wind down after a busy day.

Practical Aspects: Food, Equipment, and Environment

The included lunch and fresh fruits are often highlighted as good quality, offering a satisfying break from the fast-paced day. The snorkeling gear and life jackets are available to borrow, which is essential for those new to snorkeling or who want peace of mind.

However, some reviews point out environmental concerns, particularly with crowding at popular spots like Bamboo Island and issues like boats throwing plastic bottles into the sea. While these are not unique to this tour, they remind us to do our part in respecting the environment.

What to Expect from the Guides and Crew

Reviews consistently praise the guides—notably, a guide named Tik and another named Kit—for their knowledge, friendliness, and attentiveness. They often share stories about each site, helping you appreciate the significance of what you’re seeing, which adds a layer of depth to the trip.

Some travelers mention guides who go the extra mile, offering free swimming lessons and ensuring everyone feels comfortable. Others appreciate the fun and lively atmosphere created by the crew, making the long day feel engaging rather than exhausting.

The Downsides and Considerations

While the day is generally well-organized, some reviews point out long waiting times before the tour starts, or the fact that certain stops like Monkey Island are only viewed from the boat. Others cite crowded beaches that detract from the serenity, especially at Bamboo Island.

Environmental concerns also surface—coral damage caused by boats anchoring near reefs and feeding wild animals, which can harm local ecosystems. Travelers keen on eco-friendly tourism should consider these factors.

Is This Tour for You?

This experience suits adventurous travelers eager to see multiple islands in one day, families looking for a safe and guided environment, and snorkelers who want to explore rich marine life. It’s less ideal if you’re seeking quiet, secluded beaches or are sensitive to large crowds.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If your goal is to see iconic sights like Maya Bay and enjoy various snorkeling stops, this trip offers excellent value. The professional guides and included amenities make it convenient and enjoyable, especially if you want a hassle-free day with everything organized for you.

However, if you’re concerned about environmental impacts or prefer a more relaxed pace, you might want to research alternative options that allow more time in fewer locations.

Practical Information and FAQs

• What is the price? About $81.59 per person — a fair price for an all-in-day tour that includes lunch, snorkeling gear, and transfers.
• How long is the tour? Expect around 8 to 9 hours from pickup to return, with most of the day spent on the water.
• Is hotel pickup included? Yes, most packages feature hotel pickup and drop-off.
• What should I bring? Sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a towel are recommended. The tour provides snorkeling gear, but bringing your own mask if you prefer can be a good idea.
• Are children welcome? Yes, they can participate if aged 4-11 years; however, pregnant women and guests with certain health conditions are advised to consult their doctor before booking.
• What about the environment? Be aware that some stops can be crowded, and some practices like feeding monkeys or anchoring near reefs may not align with eco-friendly principles.
• What is the cancellation policy? Full refunds are available if you cancel 24 hours in advance.
• Is it suitable for non-swimmers? Yes, guides offer free swimming lessons for those interested.
• What if the weather is bad? The tour is weather dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Phi Phi and Khai Islands snorkeling tour offers a lively, well-rounded day exploring some of Thailand’s most scenic spots. The combination of stunning beaches, vibrant underwater life, and knowledgeable guides makes it a good pick for travelers who want to pack a lot in a single day without sacrificing comfort.

While some spots can get crowded and environmental concerns are worth noting, most travelers find the trip to be great value for the price and a chance to see iconic Thai landscapes. If you’re looking for a fun-filled, organized adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and snorkeling, this tour is likely to satisfy your curiosity and thirst for adventure.

Choose it if you want a comprehensive day on the water with the convenience of hotel transfers and included meals. Just remember to bring your sunscreen, a good attitude, and an appreciation for the beautiful but fragile environment of Thailand’s islands.

Final Words

For travelers craving a full-day exploration of Phuket’s island jewels, this tour hits most of the marks—stunning scenery, friendly guides, and plenty of opportunities to swim and snorkel. It’s best suited for those who don’t mind a busy schedule, enjoy guided experiences, and want to capture the iconic views that made these islands famous.

If eco-conscious travel is important to you, just keep in mind the concerns raised in some reviews, and consider how you can help preserve these beautiful spots. This adventure offers a lively, memorable taste of Thailand’s island paradise—perfect for those ready to seize the day on the water.