Phi Phi Islands Snorkeling Tour By Phi Phi Cruiser From Phuket

Experience the Phi Phi Islands Snorkeling Tour by Phi Phi Cruiser from Phuket

Imagine cruising across the Andaman Sea on a purpose-built boat, with the sea breeze in your hair and the promise of tropical adventure ahead. For just around $58, you get a full day of exploring some of Thailand’s most iconic spots—Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Pileh Lagoon—with plenty of time for snorkeling, relaxing, and soaking up the scenery. The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, making it a manageable full-day escape from the hustle and bustle of Phuket.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances relaxation and adventure. The comfortable ferry provides a smooth, scenic ride with onboard soft drinks, snacks, and fruits, making it easy to stay refreshed without extra hassle. Also, the opportunity to snorkel at Coral Bay and the surrounding spots means you get a close-up look at vibrant marine life—a real highlight.

However, one consideration is that the tour can be quite lengthy and involves a lot of sitting, which might not suit those with limited patience or mobility. Also, travelers should remember the additional national park fee (400 THB) payable upon entry—something to budget for beforehand.

All in all, this tour appeals most to first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive, relaxed introduction to the Phi Phi Islands, especially if they appreciate scenic boat rides, snorkeling, and quick island visits without the need for speedboats or strenuous activities.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines sightseeing, snorkeling, and leisure time on the islands.
• Comfortable Transport: Ferry ride offers a relaxing way to see the scenery.
• All-Inclusive: Includes snorkeling gear, lunch, soft drinks, and transport.
• Authentic Views: Highlights include Maya Bay and Viking Cave, with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Cost-Effective: Excellent value for a full-day excursion with diverse activities.
• Considerations: Longer duration and additional park fees may influence your planning.

An In-Depth Look at the Phi Phi Islands Snorkeling Tour

When you sign up for the Phi Phi Islands Snorkeling Tour from Phuket, you’re choosing a laid-back way to enjoy some of the most stunning sights in the Andaman Sea. The tour, priced at about $58 per person, is operated by Oh-Hoo, with a meeting point at Rassada Pier, and includes pickup from key Phuket locations like Patong, Kata, and Karon. The start time of 7:00 am means an early rise, but it also means you’ll maximize your time on the water.

The Boat and Journey

The purpose-built Phi Phi Cruiser is designed with passenger comfort in mind. The ferry is spacious, with air-conditioned lounges for those seeking relief from the tropical sun and deck space for sunbathing and taking in the scenery. We loved the relaxing atmosphere onboard, with snacks, drinks, and fruits available, making the long boat ride enjoyable rather than exhausting.

The ferry ride itself is a highlight for many, offering views of the coastline, distant islands, and the vast expanse of the sea. As one reviewer noted, “It is a long day, but the ferry is comfortable, clean, with a good selection of drinks and snacks,” which adds to the overall value.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour’s itinerary is well-paced, with three main stops:

1. Ko Phi Phi Le: Snorkeling and Photos (1 hour)

This is the star attraction and the first stop, where you’ll get the chance to swim and snorkel around Coral Bay, famous for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. The admission to the park is included, and this stop is perfect for snorkeling gear provided on board. You’ll want your waterproof camera ready to capture the stunning limestone cliffs and turquoise waters.

Our favorite part here is the opportunity to meet the sea life face-to-face—the colorful fish and coral reefs make snorkeling at Coral Bay a memorable experience. The stop also offers a chance to take photos at the iconic Maya Bay, made famous by the film “The Beach”. One guest remarked, “We loved the way the scenery looked so pristine, and it was almost surreal to see it in person.”

2. Viking Cave: Sightseeing (30 minutes)

Next, the boat glides past Viking Cave, a site known for its ancient wall paintings and swallow nests, which are harvested commercially in some parts of Thailand. Although the cave itself isn’t accessible, the 30-minute stop offers a great photo opportunity and a chance to learn a little about its history.

One reviewer appreciated this stop, saying, “The Viking Cave is a quick but interesting stop where you can take photos and enjoy the view,” making it a good short break during the day.

3. Ko Phi Phi Don: Lunch and Free Time (2 hours)

The largest of the Phi Phi Islands, Ko Phi Phi Don offers a more authentic Thai island atmosphere. Here, you’ll enjoy a lunch included in the tour, giving you a taste of local flavors, along with freetime to explore the surroundings.

You might choose to wander the streets, browse small shops, or relax on the beach. This stop offers a good balance of activity and downtime, and many appreciate the opportunity to stretch their legs and explore at their own pace. One guest commented, “Two hours felt just right to enjoy lunch and walk around without feeling rushed.”

Snorkeling and Marine Life

The snorkeling gear provided—masks, snorkels, and life jackets—are of good quality and plentiful. Multiple reviews praise the ease of use and access to good snorkel equipment. Snorkeling here is a highlight, with vibrant fish, coral formations, and clear waters making it worthwhile.

Facilities and Comfort

The onboard amenities include air-conditioned lounges for those seeking shade and sun deck space for sunbathers. The friendly English-speaking guides are ecotourism-minded and eager to share insights about the islands and marine environment, enhancing the experience.

Cost and Value

At $58, this tour offers great value, especially considering it includes transport, lunch, snorkeling gear, park fees, and a well-organized itinerary. The additional park fee of 400 THB (roughly $12-$13) is standard and payable on-site, so budget accordingly.

A Few Considerations

While many reviews are positive, some travelers have expressed disappointment or frustration, mainly related to miscommunication or last-minute cancellations. One reviewer even mentioned that they were asked to pay the hotel transport fee the night before, which was an unexpected extra. It’s always wise to be aware of extra costs and confirm your details before departure.

Also, keep in mind that the tour can be quite lengthy, requiring patience and stamina, especially if you’re not a fan of sitting still for many hours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors to Phuket and the Phi Phi Islands who want a comprehensive yet relaxed introduction. It suits travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, snorkeling, and short island explorations without the need for speedboats or intense physical activities. If you’re traveling with family, especially children between ages 4-12, this can be a comfortable, engaging option—as long as the children meet height and health restrictions.

It’s less suitable for those seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or private, tailored experiences. Also, if you’re pregnant or have heart or bone conditions, you should heed the safety recommendations.

Final Thoughts

This Phi Phi Islands Snorkeling Tour offers a well-organized, budget-friendly way to explore some of Thailand’s most gorgeous spots with minimal fuss. The scenic ferry ride, snorkeling at Coral Bay, and quick visits to Maya Bay and Viking Cave make it a versatile choice for those wanting a taste of island life without the commitment of longer or more strenuous tours.

While it’s not perfect—small issues like last-minute fees or the long duration—many travelers find the value, comfort, and scenery outweigh these minor drawbacks. It is particularly suited to first-time visitors or families looking for a safe and enjoyable day on the water.

If your goal is to get a broad overview of the Phi Phi Islands, enjoy some snorkeling, and relax on a comfortable boat, this tour should meet your expectations. Just be prepared for a full day, some early mornings, and the little extra cost at the gate.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes round-trip transfer from Phuket, a ferry ride to the islands, snorkeling gear, lunch, soft drinks, snacks, seasonal fruits, and park fees.

How long is the tour?
Expect around 8 to 9 hours from pickup to return, making it a full-day adventure with a mix of activities and free time.

Are snorkeling masks and equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks, snorkels, and life jackets are included and available for use during snorkeling stops.

What are the main attractions visited?
The key sites include Maya Bay, famous for the film “The Beach”, Viking Cave, and Pileh Lagoon. You’ll also have time to explore Ko Phi Phi Don for lunch and sightseeing.

Is there an additional fee I should be aware of?
Yes. A national park fee of 400 THB per adult (about $12-$13) is payable upon entry, so plan to carry some cash.

What is the capacity of the tour group?
The tour accommodates up to 100 travelers, which keeps the experience lively but not overly crowded.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 4-12 years can participate, provided they meet height requirements and are comfortable with snorkeling and boat rides.

In essence, if you’re after a comfortable, scenic, and reasonably priced day on the water exploring the Phi Phi Islands, this tour checks many boxes. It’s a balanced mix of natural beauty, snorkeling fun, and island culture, all delivered in a friendly, relaxed manner.