Phi Phi: One Day trip by Long Tail Boat (7 island)

Introduction

This review looks at a popular full-day tour of the Phi Phi Islands by traditional longtail boat, a classic way to see some of Thailand’s most beautiful spots. If you’re after a day of sun, snorkeling, and picture-perfect beaches, this trip promises an authentic and scenic adventure.

Two things we really like about this trip are the chance to visit multiple islands in one day—from Monkey Beach to Bamboo Island—and the opportunity to snorkel in several spots, including Shark Point, where you might swim alongside reef sharks. It’s a good way to pack in a lot of natural beauty in just one day.

One potential drawback is that the experience can be somewhat unstructured, especially if the boat driver doesn’t speak much English or if weather conditions change. Plus, the tour’s rating of 3.2 out of 5 suggests not everyone has a smooth or memorable time. Still, if you’re looking for an affordable way to see the highlights of Phi Phi—and don’t mind some unpredictability—this tour could be worth considering.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want an affordable, active day on the water with plenty of snorkeling and island scenery, especially if they’re comfortable with basic boat excursions and are eager for authentic experiences over luxury.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable price point at around $35 per person offers good value for multiple island stops
• Includes snorkeling, fresh fruit, water, and lunch—making it a cost-effective all-in-one day trip
• Multiple scenic stops such as Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon, Maya Bay, Shark Point, and Bamboo Island
• Possible lack of structure and guidance – reviews mention limited communication from the boat driver
• Weather and tide considerations can affect which sites are accessible
• Not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those over certain weight limits, due to safety and boat capacity restrictions

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: McDonald’s at PP Island Krabi

Your day begins at the meeting point, conveniently set at McDonald’s at the pier on PP Island in Krabi. This spot is common for group departures, making it easy to find your way. Expect a brief check-in with the staff and some last-minute arrangements before setting off.

Monkey Beach (15-30 minutes)

The first stop is the famous Monkey Beach, where you’ll get a taste of nature with opportunistic monkeys frolicking on the sands. Spend about half an hour here to watch the playful animals in their natural habitat. The beach is small and pristine, perfect for quick photos and a brief walk. Be cautious with your belongings—monkeys here are known for their curiosity and cheekiness.

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Viking Cave

Next, the boat moves on to the Viking Cave. It’s mostly a sightseeing stop, where you’ll see the cave’s distinctive markings and perhaps some traditional bird nests. The cave’s significance is more visual than interactive, but it adds to the sense of exploring hidden corners of the islands.

Pileh Lagoon (40 minutes)

One of the tour’s highlights is Pileh Lagoon, where the boat anchors for about 40 minutes. The lagoon is famous for its incredibly clear, turquoise water and towering cliffs. Here, you’ll have the chance to snorkel among vibrant marine life or just float and admire the stunning scenery. Expect to see colorful fish and corals, which makes this a favorite for snorkeling enthusiasts.

Loh Samah Bay & Maya Bay (1 hour)

The tour then stops at Loh Samah Bay, which offers a quick walk to the world-renowned Maya Bay. Although the tour may only provide a brief stop—especially during peak times—this is your chance to photograph the iconic white sands and clear waters. You get about an hour here, which is enough to soak in the beauty or take a quick swim.

Important note: During August and September, Maya Bay is closed for natural restoration. The tour then adjusts to a sightseeing stop near Maya Bay without entry, and offers a relaxing hour at Loh Moo Dee Beach instead.

Shark Point (Snorkeling)

Moving on, you’ll visit Shark Point, where you can snorkel alongside blacktip reef sharks in their natural environment. Don’t worry—these sharks are generally harmless, and the experience adds an exciting element to the trip. Expect to spend some time swimming with the marine life here, enjoying the thrill of seeing sharks in the wild.

Bamboo Island

The final major stop is Bamboo Island, a quiet paradise perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The island’s tranquil vibe makes it an ideal spot to unwind after a busy morning of sightseeing. You’ll have a couple of hours here, giving you plenty of time to relax on the beach or explore the surrounding waters.

Sunset and Plankton Swim

As the day winds down, the boat heads to a scenic spot for sunset viewing. The tour concludes with a magical swim among bioluminescent plankton. Watching the water light up with every movement is a surreal and memorable way to end your day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price of $35 per person covers snorkeling gear, life jackets, fresh fruit, water, and lunch—a pretty good value considering the number of stops. The only extra expense is the national park fee of 400 baht, payable in cash once at Maya Bay and Bamboo Island. You pay only once for access to both sites, which helps keep costs manageable.

Not included are activities like the park fee, so travelers should be prepared with cash. The tour does not include a guide per se, as the boat driver is generally responsible for navigation and safety but may have limited English. This means travelers should be comfortable with a somewhat self-directed experience.

Transportation and Group Size

Most tours depart from the designated meeting point at McDonald’s on PP Island, with a typical duration of about 8 hours—though check availability for specific start times. The ride is on a traditional longtail boat, which offers a rustic but authentic Thai island experience.

Group sizes can vary, but since it’s a shared tour, you’ll be in a group of other travelers. The experience is somewhat flexible, but the absence of a detailed guide may mean you’ll need to rely on your own curiosity and preparation.

Reviews and Authentic Perspectives

While the majority of feedback has been mixed, with an average rating of 3.2 out of 5, some reviews highlight key elements that travelers value. Many appreciate the stunning views and snorkel spots, describing the marine life and scenery as truly beautiful.

However, one reviewer expressed frustration about lack of guidance and organization—noting that the boat driver didn’t speak English well and failed to communicate timing or location details. The reviewer also mentioned a stressful experience of having to switch boats mid-sea due to mechanical issues. This underscores the importance of managing expectations if you value a more structured experience.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring essentials like sunglasses, sunscreen, and a towel to stay comfortable during the day.
• Cash should be ready for the national park fee, especially if you plan to visit Maya Bay or Bamboo Island.
• Be prepared for weather changes, as tours can be affected by tides or storms, which may alter the itinerary.
• If you’re concerned about guidance and communication, consider whether you’re comfortable with a more unstructured tour.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip suits travelers looking for an affordable, active day exploring some of the most photogenic islands of Phi Phi. It’s great for snorkelers eager to see marine life, and those who don’t mind a bit of unpredictability.

However, it’s less ideal for travelers seeking a highly guided or luxury experience. If you’re pregnant, have mobility issues, or are sensitive to long boat rides, you might want to look for options with more comfort and structure.

The Sum Up

The Phi Phi longtail boat tour offers a genuine, no-frills way to experience the islands’ natural beauty. With stops at iconic beaches, snorkeling with sharks, and the chance to unwind in bamboo paradise, it provides plenty of memorable moments. The value for money is solid, especially considering the included meals and snorkeling gear.

If you’re comfortable with a less polished, more adventurous experience—and eager to see the islands without a hefty price tag—this tour delivers on scenic views and natural encounters. Just be prepared for some variability in organization and communication, and bring your patience along with your sunscreen.

This trip is best for active travelers, budget-conscious explorers, and those craving an authentic day on the water rather than a pampered tour experience. It’s a good choice if you want a taste of Thailand’s stunning maritime landscapes with the freedom to explore at your own pace.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with start times varying depending on availability.

What is included in the price?
Snorkeling gear, life jackets, fresh fruit, water, and lunch are included.

Is there an additional fee I should prepare for?
Yes, the national park fee of 400 baht must be paid in cash, and it covers entry to Maya Bay and Bamboo Island.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, this tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those over certain weight limits due to safety and boat capacity.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a towel, and extra cash for the park fee.

How organized is the trip?
Reviews suggest it can be somewhat unstructured, with limited guidance from the boat driver. Expect a more independent experience.

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