Phi Phi Islands Exclusive Tour by Speedboat from Koh Yao Yai

Travelers dreaming of crystal-clear waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and pristine beaches might find the Phi Phi Islands to be a highlight of Thailand’s landscape. We’ve looked into a popular full-day tour that promises a small-group experience with plenty of snorkeling and sightseeing — notably, the Phi Phi Islands Exclusive Tour by Speedboat from Koh Yao Yai.

What draws many to this trip is its reputation for intimate group sizes and skilled guides, which often translate into a more relaxed and personalized adventure. We love that it offers snorkeling at Koh Bida Nok, where you might spot black tip reef sharks — a rare treat. Plus, the chance to walk on Maya Beach, famous for the movie “The Beach,” is a strong selling point.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves additional costs like the national park fee and optional hotel pickup.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a well-organized, flexible day on the water with a focus on wildlife and scenery.

Key Points

• Small group size guarantees personal attention and a more relaxed pace
• Snorkeling gear included makes exploring marine life hassle-free
• Flexible itinerary adapts to weather and group preferences
• Highlights like Maya Beach and Viking Cave provide iconic photo opportunities
• Excellent reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and stunning views
• Additional costs like park fees and optional pickup should be budgeted in

Setting the Scene: Who Is This Tour For?

If you’re a traveler who appreciates authentic experiences over crowded tourist spots, this trip offers a chance to see the Phi Phi Islands without the usual crowds. It’s ideal for those who love snorkeling, scenic boat rides, and discovering uninhabited beaches. The tour’s max of 14 travelers ensures a more intimate setting, perfect for families, couples, or small groups of friends.

It’s especially appealing if you want to avoid the hectic schedules of larger tours, preferring instead a tailored, friendly approach led by knowledgeable guides. Price-wise, at around $109 per person, it’s a good value for a full-day, all-included experience that emphasizes quality over quantity.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Morning Pickup and Departure

The tour begins at 9:00 am from the meeting point at Elixir Divers on Koh Yao Yai. If you opt for hotel pickup (not included), it’s a small fee — generally 100-400 THB per person. This early start allows plenty of time to explore the islands without feeling rushed.

Cruising to the Islands

Traveling aboard a brand-new, comfortable speedboat, your journey is part of the adventure. With a maximum of 14 travelers, the boat is spacious enough for comfort while maintaining a cozy group feel. The guide’s professionalism and knowledge shine through, making the water cruise both enjoyable and informative.

Maya Beach: Movie Set and Scenic Wonder

The first major stop is Maya Beach, the legendary stretch of sand made famous by the movie “The Beach.” Here, you’ll have the chance to snap photos, walk along the soft white sands, or simply relax with a scenic backdrop of towering cliffs. Some reviews mention that this is a highlight for photography lovers, and the beach is relatively uncrowded thanks to the small group size.

Snorkeling at Koh Bida Nok and Viking Cave

Next, the focus shifts to marine exploration, with snorkeling gear provided for free. The reef at Koh Bida Nok is renowned for its black tip reef sharks — a rare sight that guides often join the water to help spot and observe these creatures safely. One review enthusiastically states, “Igor was very attentive to our desire to prioritize snorkeling and even joined us in the water to help us find the sharks and other interesting wildlife.”

Near Viking Cave, you might cruise past or stop briefly for snorkelers. This spot is famous for its cave paintings and bird nests, but it’s the marine life that keeps visitors coming back.

Bamboo Island and Wang Long Bay

The trip continues with a visit to Bamboo Island, where you can dip your feet in crystal-clear waters and enjoy some downtime. The island’s soft sand and tranquil setting make it a perfect spot for relaxing or light swimming.

Wang Long Bay provides a scenic, narrow inlet lined with cliffs and playful monkeys hanging off the rocks, offering a bit of wildlife watching. Reviews mention wild monkeys and white sand beaches here, making it another photo-worthy moment.

Lunch and Scenic Views

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy a lunchbox on board, accompanied by drinks and scenic vistas of Pileh Bay, a beautiful emerald-colored bay where you can swim or simply admire the view. The combination of fresh fruit, water, and a scenic setting makes the meal a relaxing pause rather than a hurried affair.

Return and Reflection

The tour wraps up around 3 pm, and you’ll be returned to the starting point. Those who want to extend their trip with a visit to a nearby island or other activities can easily plan ahead.

The Guides and Transportation

The tour is led by Elixir Divers, known for their professionalism and attention to detail. Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who are eager to show you the best spots and help you spot wildlife.

The speedboat itself is described as new and comfortable, with amenities like a restroom onboard, making the full-day outing more convenient and less tiring compared to larger, crowded boats.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of about $109 covers most essentials: snorkeling gear, beverages, and lunch, plus the comfort of the boat and the guidance. The main additional costs are the national park fee (400 THB for adults, 200 THB for children), payable in cash, and optional hotel pickup.

While towels aren’t included, travelers note that the boat has restroom facilities and plenty of fresh water and fruits.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Praise

Multiple reviews mention the guides’ professionalism, with one saying, “Igor and his team worked showing us all around the islands and managing to avoid most of the crowds so we could even relax on the beaches.” The emphasis on personalized attention and customized itineraries is clear.

Travelers also appreciate the ability to snorkel in locations with abundant marine life, with some reviewers noting they even saw turtles and sharks. The small group size and flexible itinerary allow for a more relaxed experience, contrasting with larger tours that often feel rushed or crowded.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour offers a well-paced, intimate day among some of Thailand’s most iconic islands and beaches. If you value personalized service, beautiful scenery, and snorkeling with wildlife, it’s a great choice. The cost is reasonable considering the inclusions, and the small group size ensures a more relaxed atmosphere.

It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups who want a flexible and friendly guide to help them explore. If you’re looking for large crowds or a super-structured itinerary, this might not be the best fit. But if your goal is authentic, scenic, and lively with plenty of wildlife sightings, this tour ticks those boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup is not included but can be added for around 100-400 THB per person. The tour starts at the Elixir Divers meeting point on Koh Yao Yai.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire trip lasts about 6 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending in the early afternoon.

Are snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkel gear is included and ready for use at each snorkeling stop.

What are the main attractions?
You’ll visit Maya Beach, snorkel at Koh Bida Nok, cruise Wang Long Bay, and relax on Bamboo Island. The tour also passes Viking Cave.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, the national park fee (400 THB adults, 200 THB children) must be paid cash on site. Optional hotel pickup also costs extra.

Is this family-friendly?
Absolutely, reviews mention that the tour is suitable for all ages and can be tailored for families with young children or even babies, with some guides offering private pickups.

Final Advice

For travelers wanting a small-group adventure with a focus on marine wildlife, scenic beauty, and authentic beaches, this Phi Phi Islands tour from Koh Yao Yai offers a solid value. Expect a friendly guide, stunning views, and a relaxed pace perfect for soaking in one of Thailand’s most beautiful regions. Just remember to factor in the park fee and optional extras when budgeting. Pack your sense of adventure, your snorkeling gear (if you have your own), and prepare for a memorable day out on the water.