Phi Phi Maya Bay & Bamboo Islands Snorkeling Tours

Experience the Beauty of Phuket’s Islands with the Phi Phi Maya Bay & Bamboo Islands Snorkeling Tour

If you’re short on time but eager to see some of Thailand’s most iconic island scenery, this 9-hour snorkeling adventure from Phuket offers a fantastic way to pack in the highlights. For just around $117 per person, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and whisked away by speedboat through crystal-clear waters to visit Maiton Island, Phi Phi Islands, and Khai Nai Island. Along the way, you’ll snorkel at Ko Phi Phi Ley, relax at Maya Bay, enjoy a buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don, feed wild monkeys, and even spot dolphins if you’re lucky.

What we particularly like about this tour is the access to exclusive spots like Maiton Island, where the number of visitors is limited—giving you a more intimate experience—and the professional, English-speaking guide, who makes sure you don’t miss a thing. The all-inclusive lunch and unlimited drinks keep you refreshed and energized throughout the day, making it a great value considering the number of sights covered.

One thing to keep in mind is that the speedboat ride can be quite rough and bumpy, especially for those sensitive to motion. If you have a tendency to get seasick, packing some medication might be wise. Otherwise, this adventure is best suited for those who enjoy a lively, fast-paced day on the water and cherish authentic island encounters.

This tour works well for travelers who want a full dose of Thailand’s maritime beauty with the convenience of hotel pickup and a small group setting, ensuring a personalized experience without feeling crowded. It’s particularly suited for active travelers who love snorkeling, scenic views, and a bit of adventure.

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: Limited guests at Maiton Island make for a more peaceful experience.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the tour with local insights.
• All-Inclusive: Buffet lunch and drinks keep you comfortable all day.
• Varied Stops: Multiple islands offer snorkeling, lounging, and wildlife encounters.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics.
• Rough Seas: The speedboat ride may be bumpy for some, so prepare accordingly.

Full Review of the Phi Phi Maya Bay & Bamboo Islands Snorkeling Tour

How the Day Unfolds

The tour begins early, with pickup from your Phuket hotel around 7:30 a.m., ensuring you beat the crowds and get on the water before the heat intensifies. Once at Royal Phuket Marina, the check-in process is smooth, and you’re offered coffee, tea, or a quick breakfast before boarding your speedboat. The vessel is typically shared with a small group—no more than 25 travelers—making for a more intimate experience, which many reviewers appreciate.

Visiting Ko Phi Phi Ley: The Snorkeling Paradise

Your first major stop is Ko Phi Phi Ley, the island made famous by the movie “The Beach.” Here, the snorkeling opportunities are fantastic, with vibrant coral reefs and schools of colorful fish. You’ll have about two hours to explore underwater, which is plenty of time to see the marine life and take photos of the dramatic limestone cliffs. According to Camille W, “the different islands and places you got to see with this tour was well worth it,” and she also mentions the rough ride but enjoyed the overall experience.

Lunch on Phi Phi Don: A Chance to Rest and Refuel

Next, you visit Ko Phi Phi Don, the main island of the archipelago, for lunch. The buffet spread is simple but plentiful, with a variety of Thai dishes and fresh fruits. The free two hours give you a chance to stretch your legs, feed wild monkeys that sometimes gather near the beaches, or explore a bit on your own, depending on your interests. The guide ensures everyone is back on time, and the food quality generally receives positive remarks.

Bamboo Island: Snorkeling and Relaxation

After lunch, the boat heads to Bamboo Island, known for its pristine sands and vibrant coral reefs. Here, you’ll spend about an hour snorkeling in relatively calm waters, making it ideal for those less experienced. Many travelers enjoy this stop as a quiet retreat, away from the busier spots. The island’s natural beauty makes it perfect for a quick swim or simply lounging on the soft white sands.

Maya Bay: The Iconic Beach

The final stop is Maya Bay, where the famous film “The Beach” was shot. It’s now open to travelers and has reopened with safety measures in place. Here, you’ll have an hour to snorkel in the bay’s clear waters and relax on the beach. The scenery is truly breathtaking, with towering cliffs framing the bay. This is often the highlight for visitors, who appreciate the chance to see such a famous location.

Wildlife Encounters and Sunset Views

Beyond snorkeling, many guides include dolphin sightings if conditions are right, adding a magical touch to the trip. As the day winds down, the boat heads back toward Phuket, often catching a spectacular sunset over the Andaman Sea. The return trip is a bit bumpy but offers stunning views and a chance to reflect on a day filled with natural wonders.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s cost covers national park fees, a buffet lunch, professional guiding, hotel pickup and drop-off, and drinks—a good package considering the logistics of island-hopping. You’ll have access to snorkeling gear and the comfort of a small, well-coordinated group.

Extras like souvenir photos or DVDs are available for purchase but aren’t included in the base price. This allows you to decide if you want to remember your trip without feeling pressured.

Transportation and Timing

The speedboat makes the ride exciting but potentially rough, especially if the sea is choppy. Travelers sensitive to motion sickness should come prepared. The tour starts early and ends around 4 p.m., giving you plenty of time to relax afterward or explore Phuket further.

Group Size and Guides

With a maximum of 25 travelers, this tour strikes a good balance between social interaction and personal space. The professional, English-speaking guide is highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience more engaging and informative.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

Camille W’s review captures the essence perfectly: “This tour was a lot of fun, it was rough riding the speed boat all day long though. The different islands and places you got to see with this tour was well worth it.” She highlights the adventure aspect and the value of seeing multiple islands in one day.

Another traveler might appreciate the small group setting and the well-organized itinerary that maximizes time at each location. The snorkeling at Maya Bay and Bamboo Island consistently draws praise for the vibrant marine life and clear waters.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for active travelers eager to explore multiple islands without the hassle of planning individual trips. It suits those who enjoy snorkeling, scenic beaches, and wildlife encounters like feeding monkeys or dolphin spotting. If you’re comfortable with boat rides, especially the speedboat’s rough waters, you’ll love the thrill and the variety of sights.

It’s also a good choice if you prefer a guided tour to navigate logistics and maximize sightseeing, all while staying at a reasonable price. Families with older children and teenagers generally find this suitable, but very young children may find the boat ride too bumpy.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Phi Phi Maya Bay & Bamboo Islands snorkeling tour offers a well-rounded day of island hopping, snorkeling, and sightseeing, wrapped in the convenience of hotel transport and guided commentary. The small group size and expert guides make it a more personal experience, especially appreciated by those who value authentic, natural environments.

The value for money is quite good, considering the number of stops, the inclusion of lunch and drinks, and the access to renowned locations like Maya Bay. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights but also enjoy some wildlife and underwater adventures.

While the speedboat ride may be rough for some, the overall experience is enriching, memorable, and visually stunning. If you’re seeking a full day of adventure with expert guidance and scenic beauty, this tour ticks many boxes.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:30 a.m. with hotel pickup, allowing you to start your day early and avoid the afternoon crowds.

How long is the boat ride?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, the boat rides between islands are typically part of the approximately 9-hour tour, with some rough sections, especially during the return.

What is included in the price?
The price covers national park fees, buffet lunch, professional guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and unlimited drinks and tea/coffee.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Very young children might find the speedboat ride challenging.

Can I buy souvenirs or photos?
Yes, souvenir photos and DVDs are available for purchase but are not included in the tour price.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, making it easy for you to enjoy underwater exploration without bringing your own.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, waterproof camera, and a light towel. It’s also wise to have some cash for souvenirs or extras.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While snorkeling is a highlight, non-swimmers can still enjoy sunbathing, relaxing on beaches, or feeding monkeys, but participation in snorkeling is encouraged to get the full experience.

What about the weather?
The tour is weather-dependent; rough seas could lead to a bumpy ride. Check the forecast and be prepared for possible delays or changes.

To sum it up, this tour offers an excellent mix of adventure, relaxation, and sightseeing, all wrapped into a single day. It’s especially suited for those who want to see Thailand’s famed islands without a lot of hassle, value guided insight, and don’t mind a lively boat ride. Whether you’re a snorkeler, wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking stunning scenery, this trip provides a well-rounded, memorable experience.