Hot Chili makes island hopping feel easy. This brand new catamaran is built for comfort and stability, with a roomy 5.5 meter beam and a cruising speed of 15 knots that helps you reach the good spots on a single day. I like the boat layout too, especially the front sun area for catching rays and the shaded cockpit/saloon for when you want a break.

I also like the practical inclusions: snorkeling gear, a Thai buffet lunch onboard, and a crew that keeps things organized and safety-minded, without turning the day into a rush.

One thing to keep in mind is extra costs can creep in. National park fees, alcohol, and SUP are not included, so your total can be a bit higher if you plan on doing add-ons or using the places that charge entry.

Key points if you want the quick read

• Brand new Hot Chili: modern catamaran setup, designed for day charters around Phuket’s island groups
• Stable comfort: 5.5 meter beam for a smoother ride, plus shade in the back and sun up front
• Faster island access: 15 knots cruising speed means more time at stops than just transit
• Snorkeling-ready day: snorkeling equipment included, and the crew picks solid snorkeling spots based on conditions
• Good onboard food: Thai style buffet lunch, served with soft drinks, iced water, tea, and coffee
• Private group feel: you charter the boat for your group, with a small crew ratio (3 crew for the boat)

Hot Chili catamaran: new build, stable ride, room for everyone

This is the kind of Phuket day trip that feels different from the usual long-tail boat shuffle. You’re on a modern catamaran called Hot Chili, made specifically for island hopping around Phang Nga and Phi Phi. The big practical win is the boat size and shape. With a 5.5 meter beam, it’s designed for stability. That matters when the water gets choppy, because a steadier platform means easier snorkeling and less white-knuckle holding on.

The layout also makes sense for mixed groups. Up front you get a sunbathing area, basically your front-row seat to the horizon. In the back, there’s a shady cockpit and saloon area. It’s not just comfort for comfort’s sake. When the sun is strong in the afternoon, having shade on the same boat lets you stay out longer without feeling cooked.

You also have a dedicated drinks fridge plus comfortable seating throughout the main areas. The boat comes with a full galley, which is part of why food can be prepared onboard rather than hauled in and warmed up. And yes, you still get the basics handled for you, like a welcome drink and a safety briefing before you head out.

Choosing your island day: Phi Phi, Phang Nga, and Racha flow as routes

The tour is built around day charters, and the timing can vary (roughly 4 to 10 hours depending on the plan). You’ll see different island clusters in the schedules, and the best choice is the one that matches your mood for the day.

If you want classic Phi Phi scenery, one common plan starts from the marina area after morning pickup. Another plan focuses on Phang Nga highlights, mixing viewpoints, kayaking, and caves. Then there’s a Racha Yai and Racha Noi option that’s heavily about snorkeling with less time spent on land.

The key thing to know is that weather affects what works best. The boat operator is very explicit that the day needs good weather. On the water, that means route changes and snorkeling choices can be adjusted. The good news is that your day is private, so the crew can steer decisions toward what’s possible, not what a big group schedule forces.

Also, this is a group-only charter. Your party has the boat to itself, which typically makes a difference in how smoothly the day runs. Fewer waits, fewer waves of people on and off, and more flexibility to enjoy the stops at a comfortable pace.

Phi Phi Islands plan: Monkey Beach and Monkey Bay swim time

If you’re aiming for Phi Phi, expect the day to start with hotel pickup around 08:00, then boarding at Chalong Marina. Departure is set for about 09:00, and a full return is around 17:30 for that style of itinerary.

A first stop is Monkey Beach on Ko Phi Phi Don. This is where you get that postcard look at Phi Phi’s shoreline, plus the chance to enjoy the area right away before the crowds build up elsewhere. From there, the plan shifts to Monkey Bay for swimming and snorkeling.

This is where the boat design pays off. With snorkeling gear included, you can go from sitting to floating without hunting for rentals. The catamaran’s stability also helps with the in-and-out rhythm, so you’re not constantly fighting the motion while gearing up.

A practical note: stop timing around Phi Phi often means you’ll want to be ready at the moment the crew calls for it. If you’re the type who always packs slowly, you’ll feel it here. If you travel with kids or anyone who needs extra time to gear up, tell the crew early during the briefing so they can help keep things flowing.

Phang Nga highlights: Ko Panak kayaking and cave time, Ko Hong, James Bond Island

For Phang Nga day plans, the itinerary feels more active. The schedule typically has you board the yacht with a welcome drink and safety briefing, then head toward Ko Panak. You’ll get kayak and cave excursion time here.

That combo is a nice change of pace from just swimming and snorkeling. Kayaking adds a different kind of effort, and caves can be a big visual payoff if conditions cooperate. The key is to treat it like a guided nature segment, not a solo adventure. Follow the crew’s lead, especially with timing and entry points.

Lunch is a real part of the plan here. You’ll get a Thai style buffet lunch onboard, then settle into some downtime to relax after the more active segment. After that, the day often includes a visit to Ko Hong, which is known for its scenic lagoon-style feel, and then a stop for James Bond Island by a boat transfer (the itinerary text indicates a dinghy-style transfer).

This part of the day is ideal if you want a mix:

• water time (kayaking, swimming, snorkeling),
• scenic viewpoints,
• and a mid-day meal that isn’t just a snack.

If your group is mostly into easy lounging, you might prefer the Phi Phi or Racha styles. If you like a day that keeps moving in short bursts, Phang Nga works well.

Racha Yai and Racha Noi: snorkeling-first, weather-based choice

Racha Yai and Racha Noi is the itinerary pick when you want snorkeling to be the main event. Your crew meets you at the marina area and then the day begins with snorkeling on Ko Racha Yai.

What I like here is the way the plan is described as weather-dependent. The crew picks a nice location depending on conditions. That’s not just a polite note. It means you’re more likely to land at a spot with calmer water and better snorkeling access, rather than being forced into whatever location a fixed schedule demands.

Later, you’ll also visit or snorkel around Racha Noi. The overall flow is a good match for people who want fewer land activities and more time in the water.

If you care about getting in multiple snorkeling sessions, prioritize this option. You’ll still have time to relax onboard, but the structure is clearly built around sea time.

One small flag to check: SUP (stand up paddle board) is listed as not included. If your travel style includes paddleboarding, confirm what’s available on your specific departure, so you’re not surprised on the day.

On board: Thai buffet lunch, WiFi, and a crew that runs the day

The onboard experience is the part that turns this from a boat ride into a real day out.

Food is included, and it’s freshly prepared Thai style buffet lunch. Along with lunch, you get soft drinks, iced water, tea, and coffee. For a private charter, that’s a solid baseline. It also means you can spend less time thinking about meal plans and more time enjoying the islands.

The boat also has WiFi onboard. That matters more than you’d think. One of the practical perks of having WiFi is that you might be able to check work messages or do light tasks if your schedule requires it. If you’re planning a work-friendly vacation, you’ll appreciate having signal instead of counting on it.

Crew quality shows up repeatedly in the way people describe the day. Names that come up from crew reports include Flo, Steve, Glenn, Sunee, Milk, and Em, plus a chef named Nui associated with onboard cooking. That kind of consistency suggests you’re not getting a random crew on a random day. You’re getting people who understand the flow of a charter.

Safety is also treated as a priority. Before you set off, you get a safety briefing, and once you’re in the water, the crew keeps the rhythm organized. That’s especially important when you have snorkeling gear in the water and multiple stops.

Price and value for private groups up to 8

The price is listed as $1,629.44 per group, and the private charter is up to 8 people for this rate. There’s an interesting detail in the setup too: the catamaran is sized for up to 14 guests with 3 crew.

So the value depends on your party size and your priorities:

• If you’re traveling as a smaller group of 2 to 6, the per-person cost can feel high, but you’re paying for a private schedule, fewer hassles, and a calmer experience.
• If you can fill the group closer to 8, the value shifts. Then you’re basically paying for a full-boat day with included snorkeling gear and an onboard lunch, instead of piecing together separate tours and rentals.

This is also a boat with a speed advantage. At 15 knots cruising speed, the operator can cover more without exhausting the day on transit time. You’re paying for that time economy, and it shows up in how smoothly the itinerary fits into a single day.

If you’re comparing against shared tours, the honest way to judge value is not price alone. It’s what you gain: privacy, a smaller onboard “crowd,” and control over pacing.

Practical tips before you go (so the day stays smooth)

Here are the things I’d sort out ahead of time, based on how this type of charter runs.

1) Bring swim gear that dries fast

You’ll do swimming and snorkeling, and you’ll bounce between sun and shade. Quick-dry clothing is a small thing that makes a huge comfort difference.

2) Plan around weather decisions

The schedule depends on good weather. That means the crew may adjust locations or stop timing. Pack a light layer for breezy moments, even if you expect hot sun.

3) Don’t assume SUP is included

SUP is explicitly listed as not included. If it matters to you, confirm early so you can decide whether to budget for it or skip it.

4) Budget for national park fees and alcohol

National park fees are not included, and alcohol is not included. If you want beer or cocktails, plan on paying extra.

5) If you want WiFi for work, bring the right mindset

WiFi exists, which is great. Just treat it as helpful, not guaranteed for heavy tasks, and keep your expectations flexible.

6) Book early if you have specific dates

This is booked on average 168 days in advance. If you’re traveling in peak season or you have a tight plan, booking early gives you the best shot at your dates.

Who this private catamaran suits best

This is a strong fit if you want a classic island-hopping day with comfort and structure. It works especially well for:

• couples who want privacy without losing snorkeling time,
• families who need a stable boat and onboard lunch,
• small groups who want a calmer experience than big group tours,
• anyone who values a crew that speaks good English and keeps safety front and center.

It may be less ideal if you want a very low budget day trip or if you only care about one specific island. The itinerary is designed around clusters like Phi Phi, Phang Nga, and Racha, so you’re paying for the mix.

If you’re the type who hates waiting and wants the day to run on your terms, the private setup is a big part of the appeal.

Should you book Hot Chili for Phi Phi and Phang Nga?

Yes, if you want comfort, included snorkeling gear, and an onboard Thai buffet lunch without the usual travel chaos. The 5.5 meter beam stability, the shaded areas for recovery time, and the 15-knot cruising speed all point to a day designed for actually enjoying the islands rather than enduring the boat ride.

Book it if your priority is a private group charter with a crew that runs a safe, organized day and you’re okay handling a few extra costs like national park fees and any add-ons (like alcohol and SUP). If that sounds like your style, this is one of the cleaner ways to do Phi Phi and Phang Nga from Phuket.

FAQ

What’s the maximum group size for this private catamaran charter?

The tour price is listed per group for up to 8 people, and the yacht is described as suitable for up to 14 guests with 3 crew.

How long is the excursion, and what times does it run?

The duration is approximately 4 to 10 hours. One listed Phi Phi schedule has hotel pickup at 08:00, boarding at Chalong Marina at about 09:00, and return around 17:30.

What’s included onboard?

Lunch is included as a freshly prepared Thai style buffet, plus soft drinks, iced water, tea, and coffee. Snorkeling equipment is included, and there is WiFi onboard.

What is not included in the price?

National park fees, alcohol, and SUP (stand up paddle board) are listed as not included.

Where do you meet, and is it a round-trip?

The start meeting point is Phuket Intl Airport, Mai Khao, Phuket 83110, Thailand, and the activity ends back at the meeting point.

Is there free cancellation if weather is bad?

Yes. There is free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts for a full refund. The tour requires good weather, and if it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.