Nothing can quite compare to the breathtaking scenery that is the Phi Phi Islands when it comes to island-hopping in Thailand. This group of islands is situated in the Andaman Sea between Phuket and Krabi and is best known for its clear waters, colorful coral reefs, and imposing limestone cliffs. And the best way to explore them? A boat tour of Phi Phi Island.
From adventure to lazy beach days to unforgettable snorkeling, the boat tours to the Phi Phi Islands have it all. This guide will walk you through the most popular options for boat tours, what to expect, how to book them, and why it should be one of your top contenders on your Thailand itinerary.
Phi Phi Islands—Definition
The Phi Phi Islands are a bunch of six islands, which include
Every single one of these islands has something special to offer, from the spectrum of brilliant beaches and lagoons to sheer cliffs and quiet little coves.
There are several ways to explore Phi Phi by boat. Each option offers a different experience depending on your interests, time, and budget.
1. Speedboat Tour to Phi Phi Island
Best for: Time efficiency and visiting multiple islands
Duration: Full-day or half-day tours
Highlights: Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, snorkeling at Loh Samah Bay, Bamboo Island
Speedboat tours are the most popular way to visit the Phi Phi Islands. They’re fast, allowing you to maximise your sightseeing without wasting time in transit.
2. Longtail Boat Tour
Best for: A more traditional and relaxed experience
Duration: Half-day or full-day
Highlights: Local guide, more intimate, scenic cruising
A longtail boat tour is perfect if you want a slower, more immersive trip. Great for couples or small groups looking for a private experience.
3. Luxury Yacht Tour
Best for: Comfort, private groups, and luxury travelers
Duration: Full-day
Highlights: Personalized service, onboard meals, uncrowded stops
Perfect for those who want to enjoy the islands in style, with added services like gourmet meals and sunset views.
4. Ferry Day Tour
Best for: Budget travelers
Duration: Full-day
Highlights: Comfortable ride, basic snorkeling, beach time
Ferries are slower but cost-effective, ideal for families or large groups.
Maya Bay (Phi Phi Leh)
Famous from the movie The Beach, Maya Bay is a magnificent sight to behold. Its gates have been opened for guests for a while now, with ample attention given to protecting the environment. Tours offer only a limited stay on the beach, but the view is simply breathtaking.
Pileh Lago
A hidden lagoon filled with emerald green waters and surrounded by limestone cliffs. Many tours allow you to jump off the boat and swim here. Don't forget to bring your waterproof camera!
Snorkeling at Loh Samah Bay or Hin Klang
These snorkelling places are filled with colourful marine life, coral reefs, and clear water visibility. Snorkel gear is provided on most full-day outings.
Monkey Beach
A tiny beach on Phi Phi Don, where wild monkeys have a free range of enjoyment. However, while it is fun to watch them, it is best to do so from afar.
Bamboo Island
Calm white sandy beach for relaxing and swimming. It is less crowded than Phi Phi Don most of the time and is favoured for lunch breaks.
Hotel pickup & drop-off (from Phuket or Krabi)
National park entrance fees
Life jackets & snorkeling equipment
Lunch (buffet or picnic style)
English-speaking guide
Drinking water & soft drinks
- From Phuket:
Most of the tours to Phi Phi Island are available for booking from Ao Po Pier, Royal Phuket Marina, and Chalong Pier. They usually start generally around 8 am in the morning.
- From Krabi:
Most Krabi tours will either depart from Nopparat Thara Pier or Ao Nang. Otherwise, travellers may be picked up by a longtail boat from Railay Beach.
The best time for Phi Phi Island boat tours is November to April, when the sea is calm and skies are clear. Avoid monsoon season (May to October) if you want smooth boat rides and full visibility while snorkelling.
The tours are mostly booked well in advance, especially during the high season, which is from December to February. It is advisable that one reserve in advance, especially regarding private boats or luxury cruises.
It is best to look for reputable tour operators that can offer a good number of reviews, a licensed guide, and quality safety equipment. A few good platforms include TripAdvisor, Viator, or local travel websites like Pattaya City Tour Co., Ltd.
Not all packages go to the same places, so select according to what you most want to see—snorkelling, sightseeing, or lounging on beaches.
Swimwear
Towel
Sunscreen (reef-safe)
Hat & sunglasses
Waterproof phone case
Flip-flops or water shoes
Power bank for your phone/camera
Cash for drinks or tips
Always wear a life jacket while on the boat.
Respect marine life; don’t touch or step on coral reefs.
Avoid feeding the monkeys.
Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect ocean biodiversity.
Be it single travellers, honeymooning couples, families with children, or groups of friends, Phi Phi Island is beyond doubt a dream destination for tourists.
This is an adventure lover's favourite destination. Adventures include scuba diving and cliff jumping.
At Pattaya City Tour Co. Ltd., we offer handpicked Phi Phi Island tours with:
Licensed, local tour guides
Transparent pricing and no hidden fees
Free cancellation options
Convenient booking via WhatsApp or online form
A Phi Phi Island boat tour is one of the most rewarding experiences in Thailand. From snorkelling in turquoise waters to relaxing on sun-drenched beaches, the islands offer something for every kind of traveller. With plenty of tour options available from both Phuket and Krabi, getting there is easy and hassle-free.
Don’t just dream about paradise—sail into it.