Phi Phi looks different at speed. This full-day private charter gives you your own speedboat and a route built around the islands and snorkeling spots around Ko Phi Phi. You get a day that feels like you’re driving the schedule, not waiting in a crowd.

I especially like the way this trip stacks the best water moments in one run: snorkeling time at major reefs and bays, plus lagoon swimming when conditions allow. The lunch stop on a sandy island also breaks up the day in a way that keeps things relaxed.

One thing to factor in: you’re on a fast boat, and the plan depends on good weather. If seas are rough, the itinerary can change or the tour may cancel, and the day may not feel great if you’re prone to motion sickness.

Key Highlights at a Glance

• Private speedboat for flexibility so you’re not stuck behind slower boats
• Shark Point snorkeling with blacktip sharks mentioned on the route
• Lunch on Bamboo Island sand with seasonal fresh fruits
• Viking Cave stop including the famous wall painting and bird-nest soup connection
• Pi Leh Lagoon swim with turquoise water inside jagged limestone cliffs
• Maya Bay from the boat with sunset timing for photos and views

Why This Private Phi Phi Charter Feels Like the Smart Way to Island-Hop

Ko Phi Phi is famous for its scenery, but it’s also famous for crowding. A private speedboat changes your whole day. Instead of spending your time inching between ports and joining the same fixed pattern as everyone else, you get a route designed to hit the highlights efficiently—and the day still ends with a proper ocean-sunset return.

The big win is control. Even if you don’t change the itinerary dramatically, you can keep a better rhythm. You’ll spend more time where you want it—snorkeling, swimming, photos—then move on without long waiting gaps.

And the human side matters. This tour is run by Anda Krabi Seatour, with an English live guide plus a driver and captain/crew. In the feedback I reviewed, people singled out Nancy (English guide) and the captain/crew as friendly and helpful. When you’re out on open water, that’s not just nice—it helps you feel comfortable asking questions about what you’re seeing and how to handle the gear.

Meet-Up at Laemtong Pier and How the 6-Hour Day Sets You Up

The tour runs about 6 hours, so it’s built for a full, concentrated day rather than a slow cruise. Your start point is at the pier area by Saii Phi Phi Island Village—specifically, you should be ready in front of Saii Phi Phi Island Village at Laemtong Pier. There’s also mention of an alternate start/drop-off option at Koh Phi Phi Hospital, so double-check your exact selection when you book.

Because this is a private charter, you’ll avoid the feeling of being herded. Still, plan to arrive early enough to get sorted—life vest fitted, snorkel gear checked, and sunscreen on—so you’re not scrambling after the boat pulls away.

English is covered by the live guide. That matters on a day like this, because some stops are more than scenery. You’re moving between snorkeling areas, uninhabited islands, and limestone landmarks. A guide helps you connect what you’re seeing with what’s happening there.

Snorkeling Sequence: Shark Point, Hin Klang, and Loh Samah Bay

Snorkeling is the core of the day, and the route is designed like a sequence of different water habitats.

Shark Point and Runtee Bay (early water time)

You head out first to Shark Point and Runtee Bay and snorkel in blue water with marine life, including blacktip sharks. That early timing is smart. The morning usually feels calmer, and you’re fresh before the full day of movement and sunshine.

One practical note: your comfort depends on your swimming confidence and comfort in open water. The tour provides snorkel masks and life vests, but if you’re nervous in the water, use the first stop to get your breathing and buoyancy dialed in before you push further.

Hin Klang (after Bamboo and Mosquito)

After lunch and more island time, you snorkel again at Hin Klang. This break-up helps prevent the classic problem of doing too much snorkeling too fast. You’re less likely to feel worn out by the time you reach the bigger reef areas later.

Loh Samah Bay (large coral reef)

Loh Samah Bay is described as a major coral reef stop, with colorful fish and a large reef system. This is where the snorkeling can feel the most rewarding. The day is also arranged so you reach it after you’ve had time to recharge on land.

A heads-up on closures: Maya and Lohsamah bays were listed as closed from August 1 to September 30, 2022. Maya Bay is also currently closed off to tourists for coral propagation, but you can see the bay from outside the bay area. Translation for you: when a stop is closed, you may still get the view, but you might not be able to do the exact same in-bay experience.

Bamboo Island and Mosquito Island: Uninhabited Beach Time Done Right

This charter doesn’t treat beaches as a quick photo stop. It gives you actual sand time, which makes the snorkeling-heavy day feel balanced.

Bamboo Island lunch on powdery white sand

Bamboo Island is the day’s land reset. You get time to sunbathe, plus lunch served with seasonal fresh fruits. The meal is included, and it’s done right on the beach, not back at a dock or a restaurant.

That matters because it saves time and keeps you in the scenery. You’re basically turning a normal lunch break into a mini beach intermission.

Mosquito Island and uninhabited island calm

After lunch, the route moves to Mosquito Island, also described as uninhabited. This is where you can slow down again before the next snorkeling segment at Hin Klang and then onward to the Phi Phi landmarks.

If you love quiet beaches and want a break from the busy vibe that Phi Phi can have, these uninhabited-island blocks are often the part people remember most.

Monkey Beach, Nui Bay, and Viking Cave: More Than Just Views

Once you’ve gotten your water time, you shift to landmarks on the Phi Phi side. These stops are about variety: beaches, limestone features, and cultural-natural details.

Nui Bay and Monkey Beach

You return to Phi Phi Don Island area for Nui Bay and the famous Monkey Beach. Even if you’re not planning to spend long time on land, it’s a chance to see the famous shapes and coastlines up close. Just go in expecting it to be a busy landmark area compared with the uninhabited islands.

Viking Cave and the bird-nest connection

Then comes Viking Cave. The route mentions a mysterious wall painting that resembles a long Viking boat. You’ll also hear that bird’s nests are collected there for medicinal soup.

That’s one of those “only on this island chain” details that turns a random cave stop into a story. It also explains why some areas are protected and why access and timing can matter. When you’re looking at limestone cliffs and caves in Thailand, it’s not just geology—it’s a living ecosystem and a place with human use tied to local traditions.

If you’re the type who likes to connect the dots, this stop is a good one for paying attention to your guide’s explanation.

Pi Leh Lagoon and the Limestone-Cliff Swim Moment

Pi Leh Lagoon is described as a turquoise lagoon enclosed by imposing jagged limestone cliffs, and the tour includes time to take a dip in the water. This is a highlight type stop: the scenery looks like something you’d see in a travel photo, but the real value is that you get a chance to be in it.

Practical tip: lagoons can be clear and shallow-looking, but that doesn’t always mean “safe to wander.” Use your life vest and follow the guide’s cues. If water feels cooler or you’re not sure where to enter, wait until you see what others do, then copy the simplest safe method.

This is also a great section for photos from the right angles—especially with the cliffs framing the water—while still leaving time for the next snorkeling stop.

Loh Samah Bay, Maya Bay Views, and the Sunset Return to Phi Phi

By the time you reach Loh Samah Bay, you’re back to the reef rhythm: water clarity, fish spotting, and coral shapes. After that snorkeling, the schedule shifts toward the famous end-of-day scenery.

Maya Bay from the boat

Maya Bay is made famous by the movie The Beach. Here’s the practical catch: Maya Bay is currently closed off to tourists for coral propagation, so you’re not doing a typical in-bay landing experience. You’ll still marvel at the scenery from your speedboat, and you can still get the iconic view angles without being inside the restricted area.

Sunset timing for the finish

The tour is built to return with a spectacular sunset over the ocean. Ending with sunset is a smart use of a short 6-hour day. It gives you a “wrap-up moment” that you don’t need to chase on your own later.

If you care about photos, ask where you can stand for the best light. On a speedboat, the best side can change with wind direction and speed, so a small adjustment helps a lot.

Price, What You Actually Get, and the National Park Fee Reality

The listed price is $521 per group up to 2. That’s not cheap in absolute terms, but it’s often fair when you compare it to what “private” really means here: your own speedboat, your own captain/crew time, plus lunch and snorkeling gear.

Here’s what’s included:

• Private speedboat and driver
• Lunch and seasonal fresh fruits
• Life vests and snorkel mask
• Accident insurance
• Drinking water

What’s not included:

• National Park fees (available as an add-on, but also noted as collected randomly by officials)
• Hotel pickup/drop-off
• Dinner
• Sea Guide

The national park fee detail is important for budgeting. Even if you select an add-on, the info also says park officials collect fees randomly. That’s a signal to bring cash and stay calm if you see unexpected charges tied to access points.

The included items are the value lever. Snorkel mask, life vest, lunch, and basic safety coverage are all part of the package. That reduces the annoying add-ons that can sneak up on you with island tours.

Who This Charter Suits Best (and Who Should Skip)

This is a strong fit if you want:

• A near-private experience focused on water time and photos
• Snorkeling on major Phi Phi reef and bay stops
• A day that balances sea and land with Bamboo Island lunch and lagoon swimming

You should think twice if you:

• Are prone to seasickness (speedboat + open water movement is part of the deal)
• Are pregnant (listed as not suitable)
• Need mobility-friendly access (listed as not suitable for people with mobility impairments)

Also note what you’re not allowed to bring: drones are not allowed.

If you’re a strong swimmer and you’re comfortable with the idea of snorkeling multiple times in a day, this type of charter is one of the fastest, most efficient ways to experience Ko Phi Phi without feeling stuck.

Practical Tips So You Get the Best Day Possible

Small preparations make a big difference on a speedboat day:

• Bring sun hat, swimwear, and sunscreen (you’ll be out in strong light)
• Bring cash for national park fees
• Use the life vest early to avoid delays later
• If you’re nervous about snorkeling, start slow at the first snorkeling stop so you build confidence before the reef areas

On the logistics side, this is weather-dependent. The itinerary can change if conditions are dangerous. If you’re booking as part of a tight itinerary, keep a flexible buffer day in mind when you can.

Quick Verdict: Should You Book This Private Full-Day Speedboat Charter?

If you want a Phi Phi day that feels organized, flexible, and built around the best marine spots, I think this is a very sensible choice. The strongest value is the combination of private speedboat access plus included snorkeling gear, lunch on the sand, and the sunset finish.

It’s also a good pick when you care about snorkeling variety—Shark Point, reef time at Loh Samah Bay, plus another snorkeling segment after the beach islands. The one caution is motion and weather: if you’re sensitive to waves, or if the sea state is rough, this kind of tour can shift quickly.

If you’d like, tell me your travel month and whether you’re a confident swimmer. I can help you judge whether the timing and snorkeling intensity match your comfort level.

FAQ

Where is the meet-up point for this tour?

You meet in front of Saii Phi Phi Island Village at Laemtong Pier. Koh Phi Phi Hospital is also listed as another starting option, depending on what you choose.

How long is the private charter?

The duration is 6 hours.

What snorkeling and safety gear is included?

You get snorkel and mask gear and life vests.

What meals are included?

Lunch is included, along with seasonal fresh fruits. Drinking water is also included.

Are national park fees included in the price?

No. National Park fees are not included unless you select the add-on, and fees may be collected randomly by officials.

Will you stop at Maya Bay?

You’ll go to Maya Bay and view the scenery from the boat. The information notes Maya Bay is closed off to tourists for coral propagation, so you may not be able to enter the bay area.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?

It is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or people prone to seasickness. Drones are also not allowed.

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