The Phi Phi Islands are limestone cliffs, clear bays and reefs southeast of Phuket, and the island group is the most popular boat excursion from the island. Many operators offer almost identical itineraries at very different prices, so the useful question is not which tour is best but which format fits your priorities. This guide explains the three main formats, what to compare, and how to decide. For the wider picture, see the Phuket hub and the Koh Phi Phi hub.
The three formats
| Format | Typical group size | Pace | Typical price (approx., as of 2026) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shared speedboat | 20-40 people | Fast; more stops and earlier arrival | THB 1,800-3,500 per person | Travellers who want more time at stops and shorter transit |
| Shared big boat or catamaran | 50-150 people | Slower and steadier; lunch on board | THB 1,500-2,800 per person | Budget, families wanting a steadier ride |
| Private speedboat or longtail | Your group only | You and the captain set the schedule | THB 12,000-30,000+ per boat | Small groups wanting flexibility |
Prices are broad approximations. They change by season, boat size and what is included, so check the operator's own page for the current figure.
What a typical itinerary includes
The exact order differs, but most Phi Phi day trips combine several of these stops.
- Maya Bay: the famous bay on Phi Leh, featured in a well-known film. Access rules have changed since the bay was reopened after its closure for coral recovery. As of 2026, visitors normally arrive at a pier on the far side and walk to the beach, and swimming in the bay is not allowed. The bay also closes for part of the year, typically in the monsoon months, so check the official dates.
- Pileh Lagoon and Viking Cave: scenic lagoon and cave stops, subject to access rules.
- Loh Samah Bay and Bida Nok: snorkelling spots.
- Monkey Beach: often included; do not feed the monkeys.
- Koh Phi Phi Don (Tonsai or Loh Dalum): lunch and free time.
- Bamboo Island or Khai Island: beach time on some itineraries.
Speedboat vs big boat: the real differences
Time on the water. A speedboat covers the route much faster, which often means you arrive before the larger boats and have a quieter first stop. A big boat is slower, so you spend more of the day in transit.
Comfort. Speedboats can be bumpy in rough seas, so people prone to motion sickness or with back problems may prefer a bigger vessel. Big boats have more deck space, a toilet and shade, but can feel crowded.
Group size. Smaller groups mean less queuing at snorkel spots and more flexible stops. Larger groups are cheaper but may have less personalised guidance.
Safety equipment. Compare life jackets, safety briefings, communication equipment and whether the operator carries insurance. These are more important than price.
Weather. Speedboat tours are more likely to be cancelled or rerouted in rough seas. If you travel in the green season, treat the plan as flexible. See Best time to visit Phuket.
What to check before booking
- Is the national park fee included? Marine park entry is often not included in the headline price, and foreign adults typically pay a fee per person. As of 2026, check the current amount with the Department of National Parks and the operator.
- Is hotel pick-up included and from where? Distant areas may meet at a pier, or a surcharge may apply.
- Which stops are on the itinerary? Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon are not always included, and the order can change.
- How long will you actually spend at each stop? Ask for approximate times.
- What is included? Lunch, fruit, drinks, snorkel gear, fins, towels and guide.
- Cancellation and weather policy. Look for a refund or reschedule if the operator cancels for weather.
- Departure pier and time. Chalong, Rassada and some Phuket piers are used. Check the meeting time and how far it is from your hotel.
- Group size and boat type. Ask the operator or read the listing details.
- Safety. Look for life jackets for all, a briefing, and a licensed operator.
Compare the total cost per person, not the headline price. A cheaper tour that charges separately for the park fee, snorkel gear and transfer may cost the same as one that includes them.
Ferry or tour?
If you want to stay overnight on Phi Phi, the public ferry from Rassada Pier is a cheaper way to get there than a tour boat. The crossing typically takes about two hours, and timetables and fares vary by season and operator. Check the operator's website and confirm the schedule close to your travel date. A ferry is not a substitute for a boat tour if you want to see Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon and the snorkel spots, since you need a boat to visit them.
Decision guide
- Short on time and want the most stops: a shared speedboat.
- Budget-focused or travelling with young children: a big boat, if you don't mind the slower pace.
- Small group, special occasion or want control of the schedule: a private charter.
- Prone to seasickness: consider the largest boat available or choose a calmer month.
- Staying a night or more on Phi Phi: take the ferry and explore by longtail from the island.
What to bring
- Reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses; the sun is strong even when cloudy.
- Swimwear, a quick-dry towel and a change of clothes.
- A waterproof bag or phone case.
- Motion sickness tablets if needed.
- Cash in Thai baht for park fees and small purchases.
- A snorkel and mask if you prefer your own; rental gear is usually available.
Responsible visiting
The reefs in this area were damaged by heavy tourism, and parts of Maya Bay were closed for years to recover. Do not stand on coral, do not touch marine life, do not feed fish or monkeys, and take your rubbish with you. Choose an operator that follows park rules and respects visitor limits.
If the sea is rough, boat tours may be cancelled or modified. Do not pressure an operator to sail in unsafe conditions. Check the weather and follow the crew's instructions. In an emergency, call 1669 for medical help, or the Tourist Police on 1155.
Where to go next
After your Phi Phi trip, consider a Phang Nga Bay tour for limestone karsts and sea caves, or plan your wider itinerary with the Phuket 3-day plan. If you want to base yourself on the islands, see the Koh Phi Phi hub and Krabi.
FAQ
How long is a Phi Phi day trip from Phuket?
Most are 8 to 10 hours including hotel transfers. The boat ride itself is roughly an hour by speedboat and longer by big boat or ferry.
Is a speedboat or a big boat better?
A speedboat gives more stops and shorter transit but a bumpier ride. A big boat is steadier and usually cheaper but slower. Choose by comfort and time rather than by one being better overall.
Can I swim in Maya Bay?
As of 2026, swimming in Maya Bay itself has been restricted to protect the reef, and visitors walk on the beach from a designated pier. Rules and closure dates change, so check the official source.
Are park fees included?
Often not. Check the listing to see whether the national park fee is included or payable on arrival.
Is it worth going in the monsoon season?
It can be, but seas are rougher and cancellations are more likely. Pick a flexible booking and have a backup plan.
Should I do a private tour?
Only if the budget works for your group and you want control over stops. For solo travellers and couples, shared tours are usually more economical.
Official sources and further reading
Prices, schedules and entry rules change. Figures here are approximate as of 2026; always confirm on the official or operator page before you book. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
