Phi Phi Island from Phuket by Speedboat (SHA Plus)

REVIEW · PHI PHI ISLANDS TOURS

Phi Phi Island from Phuket by Speedboat (SHA Plus)

3.5 · 10 reviews From $94 Operated by Sunleisure World · Bookable on Viator
Book on Viator →

Phi Phi Island by speedboat is a full-day island hit, built to maximize time on the water. I like that it combines Koh Khai Nai for snorkeling and swimming with Phi Phi Leh and Maya Bay photo stops, so you get classic scenery plus water time in one go. One thing to keep in mind is that the plan can be affected by weather and sea conditions, and the tour notes rain checks instead of refunds if operations are canceled.

I also appreciate the clear value packing. You get round-trip hotel transfer, snorkel equipment (mask and snorkel plus life jacket), and a buffet lunch with soft drinks, fruits, and snacks, plus entrance fees and insurance. The main drawback to expect is crowding risk on a speedboat day, since the water transport cap can run up to 35 people depending on the vessel.

Key details at a glance

Phi Phi Island from Phuket by Speedboat (SHA Plus) - Key details at a glance

  • Early start, long but efficient day with pickup around 07:45 to 08:00 and return around 16:30
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off plus an air-conditioned vehicle for the land portion
  • Snorkeling gear and life jacket included for the Koh Khai Nai stop
  • Buffet lunch and island snacks built into the schedule
  • National park and entrance fees included so you do not need to hunt for ticket costs
  • Weather-driven flexibility is part of the deal, including possible cancellation with rain check

Compare more Phi Phi routes by pier, boat size and Maya Bay timing

Speedboat logistics from Patong, how the day really flows

Phi Phi Island from Phuket by Speedboat (SHA Plus) - Speedboat logistics from Patong, how the day really flows
This is the kind of day trip where the schedule matters. Your day starts early, with pickup around 07:45 to 08:00, then you head to the pier. From there, the fast boat is the point: it’s designed to cut travel time so you can spend your daylight where you actually want it, on the islands.

The itinerary stretches to about 8 to 9 hours, and that time gets stacked with multiple stops. You will see islands in sequence, and you will do short bursts of swimming and snorkeling rather than one long, slow beach day. If you are the type who likes to return home with photos and sand time, it can feel like a win.

One practical bonus: this tour is SHA Plus certified, and it includes insurance. You also get a mobile ticket, which can simplify check-in on busy mornings.

Jungceylon stop and the early snack reset (and possible weather changes)

Phi Phi Island from Phuket by Speedboat (SHA Plus) - Jungceylon stop and the early snack reset (and possible weather changes)
Before you even reach the main island hopping, the plan includes a Jungceylon stop. It is listed as about 30 minutes, and the schedule notes complimentary coffee, tea, juice, and snacks are served around the early departure window.

Why this matters: a quick break before the boat can make the first hour of the day feel less rushed, especially if you are picking up from hotels in Patong and nearby areas. You also get a chance to mentally switch from Phuket city mode to island mode.

The key thing to watch is the tour’s own warning about conditions. The notes say the program may be subject to cancellation due to unfavorable weather and sea conditions, and in that case no refunds are granted, only a rain check. Even if you are hoping for a perfect day, treat this as a “conditions permitting” outing, not a guaranteed photo parade.

Koh Khai Nai: the one-hour snorkeling and fish-finding moment

Your first real island stop is Koh Khai Nai, with departure from the pier around 09:30. You get about one hour on the island, and the focus is straightforward: snorkeling, swimming, pictures with fish, and relaxing on the white beach.

Because snorkeling gear is included (mask and snorkel, plus a life jacket), you can travel light on equipment. You also do not have to budget for park entry at this stop, since the listing says entrance fees to all sites are included.

The “one hour” limit is both the charm and the trade-off. It keeps the day moving, but it also means you’ll want to be efficient: gear up quickly, get in the water, and then decide fast whether you want more swim time or more beach time. If you are hoping for a long, slow snorkeling session, this part may feel brief. If you want a taste of the clear, shallow-water vibe, it hits the mark.

Phi Phi Don and lunch: where the day turns from touring to relaxing

Phi Phi Island from Phuket by Speedboat (SHA Plus) - Phi Phi Don and lunch: where the day turns from touring to relaxing
Next up is Ko Phi Phi Don, where the schedule includes buffet lunch at a top restaurant on the island. After eating, you get a block of free time to relax on the white sandy beach, also listed as about one hour.

This is where the tour’s balance shows. The day is not only about jumping from viewpoint to viewpoint. You actually get a proper meal break, then you get sand time to reset your legs and your mood.

Lunch is not just “something to eat,” either. It is described as buffet style, with soft drink and fruits included, plus earlier snacks in the morning. For many visitors, that can be the difference between enjoying the day and feeling drained by the middle.

There is also a specific mention of Monkey Beach time for photos and water activities. So while Phi Phi Don is about lunch and beach relaxation, you may also get a chance for a classic Phi Phi moment: quick monkey sightings, then back to the water for snorkeling or swimming.

Phi Phi Leh: Maya Bay plus caves and lagoons, with restoration closure noted

Phi Phi Island from Phuket by Speedboat (SHA Plus) - Phi Phi Leh: Maya Bay plus caves and lagoons, with restoration closure noted
After Phi Phi Don, you head to Ko Phi Phi Le. The schedule lists about one hour for the Phi Phi Leh transfer and stop timing, and then it brings you to several famous scenery points.

The day plan includes the world famous Maya Bay, described as featured in The Beach, plus photo opportunities and the chance to swim and snorkel there. It also lists Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon (with swimming time), and Loh Samah Bay for more scenery and photos.

Now for the part you should not ignore: the tour notes that an attraction on Phi Phi Leh is now closed for restoration. That matters because your favorite shot might be tied to an area that can be limited depending on what is closed on your specific day. The best mindset is flexible, not locked to one perfect photo target.

Weather matters here, too. Phi Phi is gorgeous, but conditions can shift fast. When boats run, you get a full lineup of stops, and when conditions worsen, the whole plan can change. Your best strategy is to arrive ready to enjoy whatever is available on the day, not just what you booked on paper.

Group size and comfort on a speedboat day

Phi Phi Island from Phuket by Speedboat (SHA Plus) - Group size and comfort on a speedboat day
Speedboats make the day efficient, but they also shape your comfort. This tour sets a maximum of 35 travelers for water transport, while land transport has a lower cap. Even with that cap, you should expect a tighter feel than a small-group catamaran day.

The reviews you’ll find about this type of Phi Phi speedboat experience commonly point to one stress point: being packed in when you expected a more relaxed ride. If you are sensitive to crowding, you may want to prioritize calm expectations and choose seats thoughtfully when boarding.

Also, the day is long enough that fatigue can sneak up on you. The schedule runs from early morning pickup to a 16:30 return to the pier, then transfer back to your hotel. So even with the “fast time to island” advantage, you still end up spending most of your day on the move.

If your personal goal is maximum photos plus short water breaks, this style of itinerary can work really well. If your goal is comfort first, you might find yourself wishing for more breathing room and fewer quick transitions.

What you get for the price, and why it can be worth it

Phi Phi Island from Phuket by Speedboat (SHA Plus) - What you get for the price, and why it can be worth it
The price is $94.89 per person. On its face, that can feel pricey compared with the most basic boat rentals or cheaper day options. The value here is the bundle: you’re paying for transport, time, and included costs that add up fast if you book separately.

Based on the included items, you get:

  • Round-trip speedboat transfer with the itinerary stops
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • English speaking guide
  • Snorkeling equipment including mask and snorkel, plus a life jacket
  • Buffet lunch
  • Soft drinks and fruits, plus snacks and refreshments
  • Insurance
  • Marine national park fee and entrance fees included

That last line is the sleeper benefit. Entrance fees and national park costs can turn a “cheap” tour into a similar total once you add missing pieces. This one is built to keep your budget predictable.

So is it good value? For most first-time Phi Phi visitors who want a guided one-day snapshot with water time, yes. For people who want a quiet, uncrowded boat experience, the price might not compensate for crowding or a shorter snorkeling window.

Who this tour suits, and who should reconsider

Phi Phi Island from Phuket by Speedboat (SHA Plus) - Who this tour suits, and who should reconsider
I think this is a strong fit if you want:

  • Guided island hopping with multiple classic stops in one day
  • Snorkeling gear included so you do not need to rent
  • A buffet lunch and snacks so you stay fueled through the long day
  • A pace that prioritizes “see a lot” over “slow travel”

It may be a less happy match if:

  • You strongly prefer small groups and lots of personal space
  • You get miserable with a long day that includes multiple quick transitions
  • You care most about one closed or restricted attraction area on Phi Phi Leh, since restoration closures are flagged in the plan

If you’re traveling with kids, it can be workable because the snorkeling gear and life jacket are provided. Still, the boat ride and packed timing may be the deciding factor for family comfort.

FAQ

FAQ

How long is the Phi Phi and Khai speedboat day trip?

The duration is listed as 8 to 9 hours (approx.).

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?

Yes. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with pickup time starting around 07:45 to 08:00.

What snorkeling equipment is included?

You get mask and snorkel, and the listing also includes a life jacket as part of the snorkeling gear.

Is lunch included?

Yes. The tour includes a buffet lunch, plus soft drinks and fruits, and it also lists snacks and refreshments.

Which islands are included in the tour?

The day includes Koh Khai Nai, Ko Phi Phi Don, and Ko Phi Phi Le, with stops that include Maya Bay and other viewpoints such as Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon, and Loh Samah Bay.

What happens if the tour is canceled due to weather or sea conditions?

The schedule notes the program may be subject to cancellation due to unfavorable weather and sea conditions, and in that case no refunds are granted, only a rain check.

Should you book this speedboat day trip?

Book it if you want a classic Phi Phi day with real structure: pickup, guide, included snorkel gear, buffet lunch, and multiple signature photo stops, all packed into one efficient schedule. It is a solid choice when you value planning and included costs over a slower, more spacious day.

Skip it, or at least shop carefully, if you hate crowds or expect a laid-back pace. The speedboat format and the potential for a near-full vessel can make the day feel tight, and the Phi Phi Leh plan includes a note about restoration closure, so your exact dream shot might not be available on every date.

If you can handle “conditions permitting” days and you like your island time active, this one is easy to justify.