Phi Phi Islands Speedboat Day Trip from Phuket with Lunch

Imagine zooming across the azure waters of the Andaman Sea on a speedboat, visiting iconic islands like Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, and Bamboo Island—all packed into a full-day tour for around $47 per person. This trip, usually lasting between 9 to 12 hours, offers a mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxing on tropical beaches, with hotel pickup, lunch, and snorkeling gear included.

What we really like about this experience? First, the seamless organization makes it easy to relax and enjoy the day without worrying about logistics. Second, the stunning scenery—crystal-clear waters, towering limestone cliffs, and vibrant coral reefs—truly deserves the hype.

A possible consideration? The speedboat rides can be quite bumpy, especially if the sea is rough, so this might not be ideal if you’re sensitive to motion sickness or prefer a smooth journey.

If you love adventure-filled days, enjoy snorkeling, and want to see some of Thailand’s most famous islands with a lively crew, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. It suits travelers who don’t mind crowds and busy sights but want the full experience with a good balance of fun and comfort.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Covering several top spots in the Phi Phi archipelago, including Maya Bay and Bamboo Island.
• All-inclusive value: Lunch, snorkeling equipment, soft drinks, and hotel transfers are included, making it hassle-free.
• Expert crew: Friendly, knowledgeable guides and staff who prioritize guest safety and fun.
• Flexible stops: You’ll visit multiple islands, with some options for snorkeling and relaxing depending on your interests.
• Crowd factor: Maya Bay and popular sites can feel very busy, often crowded with other boats and visitors.
• Sea conditions matter: Speedboat rides can get rough, so prepare if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer smooth rides.

The Logistics and What’s Included

This tour from Phuket costs around $46.65, which in our view is quite a fair price considering everything included. The experience kicks off with hotel pickup, making the start smooth and convenient—no need to hunt down meeting points or haul your luggage. Expect a transfer to Rassada Pier where you’ll meet the crew, check in, and receive a colorful bracelet that keeps the group organized.

Once on board the speedboat, you’ll enjoy light refreshments like tea, coffee, and cookies while the captain shares a brief safety talk. The crew, often praised for being friendly and attentive, will help you with snorkel gear and safety instructions. The boat itself typically carries up to 60 travelers, making it lively but still manageable for a full day of sightseeing.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

Maya Bay – The Movie Star

Your first big stop is Maya Bay, famous for the film “The Beach” starring Leonardo DiCaprio. Here, the main allure is the spectacular curving beach backed by limestone cliffs. Reviewers say: “Maya Bay is beautiful, but it feels like a cattle herd when everyone arrives”. Be prepared for crowds, especially if your visit coincides with peak times, because this spot draws thousands of travelers for good reason.

If Maya Bay is closed from August 1 to October 1, the plan is to visit other nearby sites instead. When open, you might be able to rent a long-tail boat to get closer to the beach or snorkel in the surrounding waters.

Pileh Lagoon – A Serene Swim

Next, you’ll cruise over to Phi Phi Leh for a calm, emerald lagoon where you can snorkel in clear waters surrounded by dramatic cliffs. Many reviews mention how peaceful and beautiful this spot is, with one saying: “Swimming in Pileh Lagoon felt like floating in a giant, natural pool”. You might also see birds at Viking Cave or spot some monkeys at Monkey Beach—though landings are typically not allowed at Viking Cave and Monkey Beach is just viewed from the boat.

Lunch on Phi Phi Don

Around midday, you’ll stop on Phi Phi Don for a buffet lunch. The food is described as decent and plentiful, with some reviewers calling it a good value. Expect a mix of Thai dishes and Western options like spaghetti Bolognese. The lunch break usually lasts about an hour, giving you time to relax, refuel, and enjoy the stunning island scenery.

Snorkeling and Island Hopping

Post-lunch, you’ll snorkel near Phi Phi Don, observing a variety of fish species in vibrant coral reefs. Then, depending on the tour option, you might visit Bamboo Island or Khai Nok Island for more snorkeling or simply relaxing on the beach. Reviewers note that Bamboo Island is perfect for swimming and unwinding, with some saying: “Swimming and snorkeling here was a highlight”.

The Speedboat Ride: Bumpy but Fast

Speedboats are the backbone of these tours, allowing quick access to multiple spots in one day. The rides are often described as bumpy, especially if sea conditions are rough. One reviewer mentioned: “The boat zigzagged over waves, and we ended up with back pain after the trip”. However, others appreciate the adrenaline rush and the time saved compared to slower, larger boats.

If you’re prone to seasickness, you might want to take medication beforehand, as several reviews mention the ride can be uncomfortable for sensitive travelers. The boat crew generally does a good job of maintaining safety, although sea conditions are beyond operator control.

The Crowds and Conservation

Maya Bay and some other sites have crowd restrictions due to environmental protection measures. This means limited landings or viewing from the boat for certain locations. Many reviews comment on how crowds impact the experience—from feeling like a herd at Maya Bay to the crowded waters near popular islands.

These restrictions are meant to protect the fragile environment, but they do mean you’ll need patience if you hoped for secluded beaches. Still, many travelers find the scenery breathtaking enough to overlook the crowds, especially when snorkeling among colorful fish or relaxing on a pristine beach.

The Practicalities

• The tour lasts about 9 to 12 hours, with pickup times starting early in the morning.
• The price includes snorkeling gear, life jackets, insurance, lunch, drinks, and hotel transfers—a good value for a full day of sightseeing.
• You’ll pay a mandatory national park fee of 400 THB per adult (about $12), payable at the start.
• The group size tops out at 60 travelers, keeping it lively but manageable.
• Expect some optional extras, like photos or private longtail boat rides, available for additional fees.

Considerations

• The speedboat rides can be rough and may cause seasickness or discomfort, especially on choppy days.
• The itinerary may vary slightly depending on weather and park regulations, sometimes changing the order of stops.
• The crowd factor at Maya Bay and other sites is unavoidable during peak season but can be mitigated by visiting early or late in the day.

Reviews: The Good, the Bad, and the Honest

Feedback from travelers covers a broad spectrum. Many praise the friendly guides, spectacular scenery, and good organization. One reviewer sums it up: “Everything was smooth from pickup to drop-off, and the crew made sure everyone was comfortable”.

Others highlight bumpy rides or crowds, with some feeling the day was rushed or overcrowded. For example, a reviewer shared: “The speedboat was overbooked and cramped, and the ride made us sore for days”. Still, even critics agree that the sights are worth it, if you’re prepared for a lively, busy day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventure lovers who want to see the highlights of the Phi Phi archipelago without fuss. Perfect if you’re OK with crowds and bumpy rides, and eager to snorkel among vibrant fish and coral. It’s especially suited for families, solo travelers, or group travelers looking for a well-organized, value-packed day.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace, with longer time at each site or private options, this might not be your best fit. But for those who want a fast-paced, fun-filled day exploring some of Thailand’s most famous scenery, this tour hits the mark.

This Phi Phi Islands speedboat day trip offers a comprehensive, energetic experience full of iconic sights, snorkeling, and island hopping. The all-inclusive price means you can relax knowing lunch, gear, and transfers are taken care of, helping you focus on the fun. The friendly guides and staff ensure you’re well looked after, even if the boat ride can be bumpy.

While the crowds at Maya Bay and other popular spots may detract from the feeling of paradise, the stunning scenery and vibrant coral reefs more than compensate. It’s a great option for travelers who want a full, lively day of sightseeing and aquatic adventure with good value.

If you’re after a well-organized, activity-packed day and don’t mind sharing the scenery with other travelers, this trip can be a highlight of your trip to Phuket. Just be prepared for a day that’s busy, sometimes bumpy, but always memorable.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts roughly between 9 and 12 hours, including pickup, transfers, and sightseeing.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers hotel pickup, snorkeling gear, insurance, lunch, soft drinks, fruits, and access to all the island stops listed in the itinerary.

Do I need to pay any additional fees?
Yes, there is a mandatory national park fee of 400 THB per adult payable at the start of the trip. Optional extras like photos or private longtail rides are available for an additional charge.

How rough is the boat ride?
Speedboat rides can be quite bumpy, especially if the sea is choppy. Seasickness tablets are provided, and travelers prone to motion sickness should prepare accordingly.

Can I expect crowds at the islands?
Yes, especially at Maya Bay and popular snorkeling spots. The park regulations sometimes limit landings, but the sights tend to be crowded during peak season.

Is this trip suitable for families or solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews highlight how friendly and accommodating the crew is, making it a good choice for families, solo travelers, and groups who enjoy lively, organized tours.

This trip delivers a lively, scenic, and well-organized day that captures the essence of the Phi Phi Islands. Perfect for those eager to see the highlights, enjoy some snorkeling, and experience the vibrant Thai island life—all at a reasonable price.