Your own speed boat makes Phi Phi feel personal. This full-day private tour hits the big Phi Phi icons like Bamboo Island, Pi Leh Lagoon, and Maya Bay with a picnic break on the way. It’s a classic island-hopping day, but the private format lets the crew pace things around your group.

I especially like the combination of your own captain and crew plus included snorkeling basics (mask and life jackets). And I like that you get a beach picnic and real downtime in Tonsai Bay on Phi Phi Don, instead of a rush-athon. One major consideration: Maya Bay and Lohsamah Bay close in August and September, so you’ll want alternate dates if you’re traveling then.

Key things that make this Phi Phi speed boat day work

• Private speed boat with captain and crew: you’re not waiting on other groups or stuck with a fixed pace.
• Snorkel-ready from the start: snorkel mask included, plus life jackets for comfort and safety.
• Beach picnic at Tonsai Bay: a proper lunch break with time to wander and take photos.
• The route covers the greatest hits: Bamboo Island, Viking Cave, Pi Leh Lagoon, Loh Samah Bay, and Maya Bay.
• Crowd management is built in: the crew can shift time so you spend more minutes where it feels calm.
• Seasonal closures matter: Maya Bay and Lohsamah Bay are closed August and September.

Why a private Phi Phi speed boat from Krabi is worth the money

Phi Phi is popular for a reason, but it can also feel like a stampede. Paying for a private speed boat is what turns the day from crowded and hurried into focused and flexible. For a group size up to 2, the price feels steep on paper, but you’re getting a whole boat, captain, and crew—not just a seat on a shared ride.

You also get meaningful inclusions that reduce add-on costs: bottled water, soft drinks, snorkeling mask and life jackets, and a picnic set. Accident insurance is included too, which is the kind of detail you appreciate after you’re already out on the water. The national park fees are not included, but that’s normal for this area and easy to plan for.

If you’re traveling as a couple, this is a strong value when you want maximum time in the water and less time tied to other schedules. If you’re a family with kids, it can also help because the crew can slow down where needed—especially for loading, unloading, and snorkeling changes.

Getting from Krabi to the boat: pickup and the 7-hour day

This tour runs about 7 hours total, and your day starts with pickup from one of these areas: Pak Nam, Nong Thale, or Ao Nang. You’ll head toward Nopparat Thara Pier before boarding your private speed boat.

You’ll also have a choice of drop-off locations at the end: Ao Nang, Pak Nam, or Nong Thale. That matters if you don’t want to spend your last hour backtracking across Krabi. Because the day is water-based, you’ll want to plan for sun, boats, and a bit of motion even if the sea is calm.

One practical tip: bring your items in a way you can access quickly—especially swimwear and sunscreen. Once you’re on the route, the best moments come fast (snorkeling windows, photo light, and those short calm stretches where the water turns glassy).

Bamboo Island: white sand, clear water, and easy snorkeling time

Your first major stop is Bamboo Island, where you’re set up for the classic Phi Phi experience: white sand, clear water, and reef life close enough to enjoy without a complicated setup. The included snorkel and mask are a big deal here because it turns Bamboo into a true swim-and-snorkel stop, not just a photo stop.

What I’d plan to do: spend the early part of the stop doing one of two things—either snorkel at a comfortable pace or find a sandy edge for a slow relax. If you’re traveling with anyone who’s not confident in open water, Bamboo is still useful because you can keep it shallow and simple.

This is also one of the best places to reset your energy early in the day. If you get seasick, you’ll feel it more when you start skipping meals and hydration. Start strong: water first, then sunscreen, then decide how much snorkeling you want to do.

Tonsai Bay on Phi Phi Don: beach picnic, wandering time, and a viewpoint payoff

After Bamboo, you’ll head to Tonsai Bay on Phi Phi Don, where the tour builds in a real pause. Lunch is a beach picnic, and you also get a chunk of time to explore the area at your own pace.

Two things to love about this part: first, you’re on land long enough to stretch and eat without juggling boat timing. Second, you can add optional time walking around and, if you want the views, head up to the viewpoint for panorama-style photos.

This stop can feel busy, mainly because Tonsai Bay is a hub. The upside of doing it on a private tour is that you can spend your time how you like—quick stroll, viewpoint, or just sitting by the water while the crew handles the logistics.

Viking Cave and Pi Leh Lagoon: birds’ nests and emerald swimming

Next up is a cruise to Viking Cave, known for its birds’ nests. You’re not going there to hike or explore like a standard cave visit; you’re seeing it from the water, and it’s more about the scenery and the unique wildlife connection than “touring” a landmark.

Then you’ll move to Pi Leh Lagoon, one of the stops people remember because of its deep emerald color. This is the moment where your photos usually look like you hired a photographer. The lagoon is also a good swimming stop, so you can cool down after earlier beach and snorkeling time.

If you want the best experience here, keep your expectations simple: swim, take a few calm photos, and don’t rush the water. The crew’s job is to get you to the next stop, but your job is to actually enjoy the time you’re in this one.

Loh Samah Bay: coral reefs in clear, shallow water

Loh Samah Bay is described as one of Phi Phi’s best snorkeling areas, especially because you’re in clearer, shallower water with colorful coral. This is ideal if you want reef views without needing technical skills or a long swim.

If you’re an amateur swimmer, the combination of shallow water and a private boat helps. You can spend time getting comfortable, adjust your breathing, and move at your own pace rather than feeling rushed by a larger group’s schedule.

One caution: conditions can change through the day. Even if the bay looks calm, always snorkel with your life jacket on (provided) and stay close to where the crew can see you easily. It’s not about fear; it’s about control.

Maya Bay and The Beach fame: iconic views with crowd-smart pacing

Finally, you cruise around Maya Bay, the one made famous by The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio. Even if you don’t care about the film, Maya Bay’s shape and water setting are the reason it became a global name.

The catch is crowds. Maya Bay is often packed, and this tour’s advantage is that the crew can manage the pace. In real-life scenarios, some stops can get hectic, so having a private boat helps you spend more time in less busy water and less time stuck in crowded zones.

Important seasonal note: Maya Bay and Lohsamah Bay close in August and September, so if your dates fall in that window, you should expect the itinerary to change or consider another trip.

Snorkeling, safety, and how the crew handles the unexpected

This tour isn’t just “here’s a boat.” You get snorkel and mask plus life jackets, and the captain and crew are part of what makes the day smooth.

Safety-wise, accident insurance is included. And you’ll notice why that matters when you see examples of real crew follow-through. One account described a stingray encounter, and the tour team handled it with aftercare. I can’t promise every incident happens on your day, but I like that the tour package takes safety seriously beyond just handing out gear.

Also pay attention to sea conditions. If the water gets choppy, it’s not fun, but a skilled captain can make it far less stressful. In one case, the day started with cloudy skies and choppy water, yet the captain still led the group to a great lagoon for snorkeling later.

What to bring, and the one big rule about drones

Bring sun hat, swimwear, and sunscreen. That’s the simple list, but it’s a big deal because you’ll spend most of the day outdoors under strong sun, often with water and reflection.

You should also plan for the fact that the day can include multiple water moments: snorkeling, swimming, and beach time. A quick-dry bag or waterproof pouch can help if you don’t want your phone and camera getting sprayed.

The main rule: drones are not allowed. So if you’re thinking of filming from above, you’ll need to rely on handheld shots instead.

Who this private Phi Phi speed boat tour is best for

This tour is listed as not suitable for pregnant women and people with mobility impairments. That makes sense for the boat boarding style and the water-focused nature of the day.

Where it shines is for groups who want structure without feeling trapped: couples, families with children, and multi-generational groups. The reviews emphasize that the crew can be patient and attentive, including on-and-off boat help for elderly guests. If you’re traveling with a 73-year-old parent, or with little kids who need extra time, the private format helps you move at a pace that feels manageable.

It also tends to work well for first-time snorkelers. When your crew can guide you to the right calmer spots and manage time flexibly, snorkeling feels less like a test and more like a fun activity.

Price and value: what $598 gets you (and what it doesn’t)

The price is $598 per group up to 2, which means the real question isn’t the dollar amount—it’s what you’re buying with that spend. You’re paying for a private speed boat, a captain and crew, and a package that includes water, soft drinks, snorkeling mask, life jackets, and a picnic set.

What’s not included is the national park entry fee: 400 Baht per adult and 200 Baht per child aged 3 to 11. That’s the one predictable extra cost you should plan for, and it’s worth budgeting so you’re not surprised on the dock.

My take on the value: if you want to spend your day in the water, not in lines, and you care about comfort (especially with kids or older family members), the private format can be worth it quickly. If you just want the cheapest way to see Phi Phi, a shared group tour will likely cost less, but you trade away control over timing and crowd pressure.

Should you book this Phi Phi private speed boat tour?

I’d book this if you want a private Phi Phi day with real snorkeling time, beach downtime, and the option to have the crew adjust when a stop gets crowded. The included gear and picnic make it feel complete, not like you’re paying for transportation only.

Skip it (or be ready for changes) if your dates are August or September, since Maya Bay and Lohsamah Bay are closed. And if anyone in your group has mobility needs or is pregnant, this format likely won’t fit well.

If you’re aiming for the classic Phi Phi highlights—Bamboo, Pi Leh Lagoon, Loh Samah, and Maya Bay—while keeping the day comfortable and paced, this is one of the smarter ways to do it.

FAQ

How long is the Phi Phi Islands full-day private speed boat tour?

The duration is listed as 7 hours.

Where are pickup locations in Krabi?

Pickup options include Pak Nam, Nong Thale, and Ao Nang.

Where can I be dropped off after the tour?

Drop-off options include Ao Nang, Pak Nam, and Nong Thale.

Is snorkeling gear included?

Yes. Snorkel and mask are included, along with life jackets.

Is the national park fee included in the price?

No. The national park entry fee is not included: 400 Baht per adult and 200 Baht per child (age 3–11).

Are drones allowed on this tour?

No. Drones are not allowed.

Are Maya Bay and Lohsamah Bay open year-round?

No. Maya Bay and Lohsamah Bay are closed in August and September.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant travelers or people with mobility impairments?

No. It’s listed as not suitable for pregnant women and not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

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