PHUKET: Phi Phi Island by Luxury Cruise”Exc. Gold Class VIP”Lunch

A Relaxing Day on the Phi Phi Islands with a Touch of Luxury

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and world-famous beaches, a trip to the Phi Phi Islands from Phuket is hard to beat. This particular luxury cruise offers a VIP experience complete with comfortable transport, a buffet lunch, and snorkeling opportunities. Priced at around $85 per person, it’s a full day adventure lasting about 8 hours—perfect if you want to explore without rushing.

What we especially like about this tour is how it combines scenic beauty with personalized comfort. The private zone for Gold Seat adds a sense of exclusivity, and the presence of friendly, knowledgeable guides means you’ll always have someone to ask about the sights. Plus, the buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don Island is a real bonus, giving you a chance to refuel amid stunning surroundings.

One consideration worth noting is that Maya Bay, the iconic filming location, is a reserved coral area, which means cruise boats aren’t permitted to go directly onto Maya Beach. If seeing the famous bay up close is your priority, you might feel slightly disappointed, but there’s still plenty to enjoy around the islands. This tour is perfect for those who value comfort, guided sightseeing, and snorkeling over getting to the very edge of every famous spot.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of scenic cruising, light adventure, and relaxation in a well-organized setting. If you’re traveling with a small group or prefer a more exclusive, VIP cruise experience, this tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• Comfort and exclusivity are central to this cruise, especially with the VIP Gold Seat option.
• The itinerary covers major sights like Phi Phi Ley, Monkey Beach, and Viking Cave.
• Snorkeling gear is included, making it easy to explore the vibrant marine life.
• The buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don Island is a highlight, offering a variety of Thai dishes.
• Be aware that Maya Bay is a protected area—boats cannot go directly onto the beach.
• The group size is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Detailed Review: What to Expect from the Phi Phi Luxury Cruise

Starting Your Day: Convenient Pickup and Light Breakfast

Your day begins early, with pickup from your hotel between 7:00 and 7:30 am. The ride to the pier is smooth, and you’ll get to enjoy a light breakfast, coffee, and tea before boarding. This small touch helps set a relaxed tone for the day. The check-in at the private pier around 8 am feels exclusive, and the small group size (up to 12) helps keep the experience intimate and attentive.

The Journey to the Islands: Scenic Cruising

Departing from Phuket at approximately 8:45 am, the luxury boat is well-equipped, and the Golden Seat VIP zone feels like a step above standard tours. The sea views are spectacular, with plenty of space to relax and take in the scenery. One traveler noted that the cruise on the golden seat was very nice, highlighting the comfort and visual appeal of this part of the experience.

The boat ride lasts roughly 1.5 hours to reach the Phi Phi Islands, a comfortable duration that keeps the trip enjoyable without fatigue. During this time, the onboard crew offers refreshments such as tea, coffee, and soft drinks, making sure you stay refreshed.

First Stop: Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint

After arriving at Tonsai Pier, you’ll get a chance to see the famous Phi Phi Viewpoint. While some tours skip this, it’s a great way to get a panoramic view of the islands’ dramatic cliffs and beaches. Whether you hike up or just snap photos from below, it’s an introductory highlight that sets the tone for the day.

Exploring the Islands: Sightseeing and Snorkeling

The main sightseeing takes place on Phi Phi Ley, with stops at Maya Bay, Loh Samah Bay, Pith Cove, and the Viking Cave. You’ll see the famous Maya Bay from the boat, but due to environmental restrictions, cruise ships aren’t allowed to land or go into the bay itself. A review mentioned that timing wasn’t perfectly kept and the boarding process was slow, which may reflect the busy nature of these popular routes. Still, the views of Maya Bay from the water are breathtaking.

The Viking Cave is another fascinating stop, where you can observe the bird’s nests harvesting industry—a reminder of the islands’ delicate ecological balance.

The highlight for many is the snorkeling at Monkey Beach, which is included with masks and life jackets. The reviews note that snorkel gear was included gratis, giving you a chance to see the vibrant marine life close up. Be prepared for the marine park fee of 400 THB per adult if you wish to snorkel, which isn’t included in the tour price.

Lunch on Phi Phi Don

At around 12:30 pm, the group heads to Phi Phi Don Island for a buffet lunch. It’s a good chance to relax on the beach and enjoy some Thai cuisine amid stunning scenery. The included lunch is a real value add, allowing you to sample local flavors without extra cost.

Afternoon: Relaxing or Exploring on Your Own

Post-lunch, the day is flexible. Some travelers choose to relax or wander around Phi Phi Don, while others prefer to stay on the boat and take in the views. The private zone on the boat offers a comfortable space for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the scenery in peace.

Return Journey and Final Remarks

The boat departs around 4 pm, heading back to Phuket. The return trip offers ample opportunity to reflect on the day’s sights and relax after a full day of adventure. The experience concludes back at the starting point, with the option to arrange further transportation.

Why This Tour Can be a Great Choice

This luxury cruise is well-suited for those who value comfort, guided sightseeing, and a small group experience. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, a buffet lunch, and the VIP section make it attractive for travelers wanting a special day without the hassle of organizing the logistics themselves.

The knowledgeable guides and personalized service received positive feedback, emphasizing the value of having friendly, informative staff guiding your trip. The small group size also enhances the feeling of intimacy and allows for more flexibility in the itinerary.

Things to Keep in Mind

While the tour offers many highlights, some travelers noted issues with timing and boarding, which can be frustrating during peak times. The special restrictions on Maya Bay mean you won’t experience the actual beach, but the water-based views are still impressive. The marine park fee is an additional cost if snorkeling is your priority.

This tour is best for those who prioritize luxury, comfort, and guided exploration over getting into every iconic location. It’s ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, enjoyable day with a dash of exclusivity.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a comfortable, guided trip with a touch of luxury and VIP treatment, this cruise hits the mark. The small group size and friendly guides make for an intimate experience, and the snorkeling and lunch included provide great value for the price. It’s a perfect choice for first-timers who want to see the major sights without sacrificing comfort.

For those who love scenic water views, casual exploration, and a touch of exclusivity, this tour offers a balanced and enjoyable way to experience the Phi Phi Islands.

However, if your primary goal is to land on Maya Bay or visit every famous site up close, you might want to consider other options that focus more on beach access and sightseeing flexibility.

FAQ

What is the starting time of the tour?
The tour begins with pickup around 7:00 am, with check-in at the pier at 8:00 am.

Is transportation from my hotel included?
Yes, pickup from your hotel is offered, making the start of your day convenient.

How long is the boat ride to the islands?
It takes approximately 1.5 hours to reach Phi Phi Islands from Phuket.

What amenities are provided on board?
You’ll find tea, coffee, soft drinks, and snorkeling gear (mask and snorkel, life jackets) included in the tour.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don Island is part of the package.

Are there any extra fees I should be aware of?
Yes, there is a national park fee of 400 THB per adult (200 THB for children) if you choose to snorkel. This fee is paid on-site.

Will I see Maya Bay?
You will see it from the water, but boats are not allowed to land or go directly onto Maya Beach due to environmental restrictions.

How many people are in the tour group?
The tour is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

To sum it up, this luxury cruise offers a balanced mix of scenic cruising, snorkelling, and relaxation for those seeking comfort and guided insights. Its thoughtful amenities and small-group atmosphere make it a worthwhile pick for travelers wanting a memorable day on the beautiful Phi Phi Islands.