Private Phi Phi and Bamboo Islands Snorkeling Tour by Speedboat

Speedboats have a way of making the day feel faster. This private Phi Phi and Bamboo Islands tour mixes big-name sights with real time in the water.

What I like most is the mix of snorkeling with included gear plus a plan built around multiple island stops, not just drive-by photos. You also get round-trip hotel transfers in an air-conditioned minivan, so your day starts calmer than most Phuket day trips.

The other big win for you is flexibility: it’s a private group, and the pace stays friendly even when there are other boats around. I also like that the itinerary includes chances for viewpoints, swimming, and even paddleboarding at one of the lagoons.

One consideration: you’ll need to budget for the national park fees (paid to the guide on check-in), and because it’s a speedboat, you should expect a bumpy ride even if seasickness doesn’t hit everyone.

Key things I’d plan around before you go

• Two real snorkeling moments plus time to rinse off and reset between stops
• Private speedboat comfort with an English-speaking guide who can adjust to your group
• Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon are both on the route, with limited time that keeps you moving
• Monkey Beach and Viking Cave add variety beyond the classic swim spots
• Bamboo Island is your big sand-and-palm payoff, with time to walk and relax

Private Phi Phi by speedboat: what the day feels like

This tour is built for people who want the classic Phi Phi day without the hassle of figuring out boats, meeting times, or logistics. From Phuket, you head out on a private speedboat day that includes snorkeling gear and two snorkel stops, plus long enough breaks at key locations to actually enjoy the water and scenery.

The day is also “structured but not rigid.” You’ll have set stops, but it’s private for your group, so your guide can manage timing and keep things smoother when tides, wind, or crowds affect the schedule. That matters on Phi Phi days, where everything is weather- and sea-condition dependent.

Price-wise, it’s quoted per group up to 12, which changes how you should think about value. If you’re traveling as a family, a couple of friends, or a small group, it can feel like a smart splurge compared to paying separately for less flexible shared tours.

From your hotel to Royal Phuket Marina, and why timing matters

Your tour starts at Royal Phuket Marina (with the meeting point at Amazing Canoeing – Royal Phuket Marina Meeting Point). You begin the day with pickup in an air-conditioned minivan, which is a comfort win in Phuket traffic and heat.

The timing is approximate and can shift based on tide and local weather. That’s normal for island hopping, but it’s worth remembering if you’re pairing this with anything on the same day—especially flights or night tours back on the mainland.

Once you’re at the marina, everything moves into “day-trip mode.” You’ll be checked in, your guide handles the day, and you settle in before the speedboat portion begins. The tour uses English-speaking guidance, which is genuinely helpful when you need quick clarity about where to go and when to get back on the boat.

Snorkeling gear and the two stops you’ll actually remember

This is a snorkeling-forward trip: snorkeling equipment is included, and you have two snorkel stops. You also get paddleboarding equipment use, which adds another way to enjoy the water beyond just floating and watching fish.

At Ko Phi Phi Lee (Phi Phi Leh), you get a good chunk of time on the water with expansive cliffs and bay views. Then the itinerary brings you to Pileh Lagoon (Ko Phi Phi Le), where you can swim and paddleboard. For many people, this is the “I’m on vacation” stop—less about racing and more about being surrounded by limestone formations while you’re in the water.

Then there’s Viking Cave. Even if you’re not doing the cave itself, the area is known for underwater viewing opportunities, and you’ll have time set aside for snorkeling there as well. The time blocks are short enough to keep the day moving, but long enough that snorkeling doesn’t feel like an afterthought.

Practical tip: bring a quick-dry towel and keep your phone in a waterproof pouch. Even if you’re a strong swimmer, speedboat spray and splash happen.

Maya Bay and Loh Sameh Bay viewpoints: iconic sights with real limits

Phi Phi days come with expectations, and Maya Bay is one of the big ones. You’ll have a scheduled stop there (about 40 minutes), giving you a chance to see the famous cove and take in photos without turning the day into a long, exhausting queue situation.

The itinerary is also set up for viewpoint time, including the kind of scenery associated with Loh Sameh Bay. You’re not just visiting one photogenic spot—you’re moving through a day of changing coastlines and cliff scenery, which is where the speedboat format earns its keep.

That said, the biggest truth is simple: you can’t spend half a day at every famous place. The schedule keeps you moving so you can experience multiple highlights in one outing. If you want one location for a slow, lingering hour, this isn’t that kind of tour—it’s a “see a lot, enjoy it, keep going” plan.

Viking Cave and the rhythm of a day that stays fun

Viking Cave isn’t just a scenic boat ride. You’ll have time to explore the area and then get a chance at snorkeling. It gives the day rhythm: scenery, a short look-around moment, then back into the water.

What I like about having stops like this is that the day doesn’t become repetitive. You get different water textures and different ways of experiencing the same general region—boat cruising, cliff bays, and lagoon-like swimming areas.

One detail worth knowing: timings are approximate and can shift for tide and weather. So don’t build a tight schedule around your hotel dinner later that night unless you’ve got buffer time.

Monkey Beach with macaques: how to enjoy it (and stay safe)

Monkey Beach is on the route, with a short stop (about 20 minutes). This is one of those moments where the scenery is part of it, but the attention goes to the monkeys.

Here’s how I’d approach it: treat macaques like wildlife, not pets. Keep a respectful distance, don’t try to grab photos too close, and keep your hands away from snacks or open bags.

It’s also a stop that’s likely to feel quick on purpose. The guide will want everyone back together on time so the boat doesn’t wait too long. The good news is that you get enough time to see what the area is about without losing the rest of your day.

Lunch near Phi Phi Don, then Bamboo Island’s sand-and-palm payoff

The day includes a break connected to Phi Phi Don, with time to enjoy lunch at beach-side restaurants or walk there. Your tour information notes that lunch and snacks are served, but the pricing details also list lunch under not included—so I’d treat food as something you’ll likely pay attention to on the day of travel and confirm what’s covered with your guide.

After that, you’ll head to Bamboo Island (about 1 hour 10 minutes). This is the beach relax portion: walking through natural surroundings, then settling into the white sand and palm-lined coastline. It’s also a place where you can watch for animals and enjoy those classic island seascapes without feeling like you’re constantly racing to the next spot.

If you’re the type who wants at least one “slow down” moment, Bamboo Island is where it happens. The stop length gives you time to hang out, take photos, and actually enjoy the beach rather than just stepping onto sand for a quick look.

Guides and group vibe: the human factor matters here

A lot of Phi Phi tours feel the same on paper. What separates a great day from an average one is how the guide manages the group, timing, and small issues.

In the reviews tied to this experience, guides like Tony are singled out for making the day feel special even when speedboat days bring their own chaos. One review highlights how Tony and the crew adapted to a group’s tastes, and even turned the boat around when a hat flew off mid-trip. That’s the kind of practical problem-solving that keeps your day from turning into annoyance.

Other guides mentioned include Jib and Jip, and the theme is consistent: good care, smooth handling, and keeping the experience fun rather than stressful. Even when people are seasickness-prone, the guidance and timing help things go smoothly for the group.

One more reality check: even on a private tour, you won’t be alone on Phi Phi waters. The difference is that your guide can help keep the experience enjoyable when you encounter boats and crowds.

Price and value: $1,386.10 per group up to 12

At $1,386.10 per group (up to 12), this tour isn’t cheap on a per-person basis if you’re traveling solo. But that’s not how it’s meant to be used. The value makes sense if you split across a group—think families, friend groups, or a small party.

What you’re getting for the group price:

• Private speedboat outing with multiple Phi Phi highlights
• Hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned minivan in Phuket Province
• Snorkeling equipment use and also paddleboarding use
• English-speaking guide and travel insurance
• Refreshments on-board

Then there are the costs you’ll need to plan for separately:

• National park fees: 400 THB per adult and 200 THB per child, paid to the guide on check-in
• Lunch may be inconsistent depending on what your package includes, so verify directly
• Alcohol is available for sale at Royal Phuket Marina
• Fins rental is listed as 200 THB at Royal Phuket Marina

For many people, the biggest “value” factor is not just the sites—it’s the convenience. A private day with pickup, gear, and an organized route often feels easier than trying to build your own Phi Phi day from scratch.

What to bring for 7 to 8 hours at sea

This is a long-ish day—about 7 to 8 hours—with lots of time outdoors. I’d pack with comfort and water time in mind:

• Sunscreen and a hat you don’t mind getting splashed
• Waterproof phone pouch (or a dry bag)
• Swimsuit plus a quick-dry layer you can put on afterward
• A towel (helpful if you don’t want to dry off with whatever you find)
• Any seasickness needs you personally use, since it’s a speedboat and bumpy ride expectations are real

Also check about fins. The tour includes snorkeling equipment use, but fins can be rented for 200 THB if you want them.

Should you book this private Phi Phi and Bamboo tour?

I’d book it if you want a one-day Phi Phi experience that mixes snorkeling, viewpoints, and a proper beach break—and you’d rather pay for convenience than manage your own transport and timing. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling with a group that can share the per-group cost.

I’d skip or rethink if:

• You dislike speedboats and want the calmest possible ride
• You need a very long, slow visit at one single site (this is a multi-stop plan)
• You’re strict about lunch being definitely included—because the info you have includes lunch in one part of the details but lists lunch as not included in another part

FAQ

What’s included in the Phi Phi and Bamboo Islands snorkeling tour?

The tour includes a speedboat cruise, hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned minivan in Phuket Province, snorkeling equipment use, paddle boarding use, an English-speaking guide, local taxes, refreshments on-board, and travel insurance.

How much are the national park fees?

National park fees are 400 THB per adult and 200 THB per child, and you must pay them to your guide upon check-in.

Does the tour include snorkeling stops and gear?

Yes. Snorkeling gear is included, and the itinerary includes two snorkel stops (including areas like Pileh Lagoon and Viking Cave).

Is lunch included?

Your information includes lunch and snacks being served free of charge, but it also lists lunch under not included. I’d confirm what’s covered when you book, so you know what to expect on the day.

Where does the tour start and what time does it begin?

It starts at the Amazing Canoeing – Royal Phuket Marina meeting point in Phuket, with a start time of 9:30 am. The activity ends back at the meeting point.

How long is the tour?

The total duration is about 7 to 8 hours, and exact timings are approximate and can change due to tide and local weather.