Escape to Phi Phi Islands: Ferry with Lunch

Exploring the Phi Phi Islands by Ferry with Lunch: A Practical and Authentic Guide

Our review of the “Escape to Phi Phi Islands: Ferry with Lunch” offers travelers a straightforward look at what this popular day trip provides. This tour is designed for those who want to see some of Thailand’s most famous islands without breaking the bank or spending too much time in transit. The journey promises a mix of scenic sailing, snorkeling, and relaxing beach time, all wrapped up with a buffet lunch—a package that’s appealing for many travelers seeking a balance of adventure and comfort.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are the stunning views during the cruise and the friendly, knowledgeable guides who seem to make the experience more genuine. The itinerary offers a good mix of sightseeing and leisure, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a straightforward day out in paradise. However, a notable consideration is the timing of the meal and limited time at some stops, which could feel rushed for those wanting to linger longer or explore more independently.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value value for money and are happy with a well-organized, group experience. If you’re after a relaxed, practical way to tick the Phi Phi Islands off your bucket list, this trip hits many of the right notes. But if you’re craving a more exclusive, less crowded experience or a more flexible schedule, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Affordable Price Point: At just over $51 per person, this tour offers good value considering the included activities and transportation.
• Seaside Snorkeling and Beach Time: The snorkel gear, beach stops, and sunbathing opportunities are highlights that give you a taste of island life.
• Efficient Itinerary: The schedule allows for a quick but comprehensive visit, packed into roughly 7-8 hours.
• Guided Experience: In-person, licensed guides help make the trip informative and engaging.
• Hygiene and Facilities: Some reviews mention issues, particularly at the lunch buffet and toilets, which is worth considering.
• Timing Constraints: The short stops mean you’ll see the main sights but may not have ample time to explore each location fully.

Contents

• Key Points
• An In-Depth Look at the Tour
• Start with Convenience: Pickup and Transfer
• The Scenic Cruise: Rassada Pier to Phi Phi
• Phi Phi Ley: Iconic Sightseeing and Caves
• Long Beach: Relaxation and Beach Time
• Lunch and Free Time
• Return Journey and Reflection
• Authentic Experiences and Practical Considerations
• Reviews and Real Feedback
• The Sum Up: Who Will Get the Most Out of This Tour?
• FAQ
• Our Top Picks in Phuket
• More Lunch Experiences in Phuket
• More Tour Reviews in Phuket
• Not for you? Here's more things to do in Phuket we have recnetly reviewed

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Start with Convenience: Pickup and Transfer

The tour kicks off early at 7:00 am with a hotel pickup or meeting point transfer from Rassada Pier. The convenience of roundtrip transportation saves you hassle and makes the day easier to manage—especially if you’re unfamiliar with local transport options. The transfer is included in the price, but it’s wise to confirm your pickup zone beforehand.

The Scenic Cruise: Rassada Pier to Phi Phi

Departing around 8:30 am aboard a Royal Jet Cruiser, you’ll enjoy a roughly one-hour cruise filled with refreshments and an excellent opportunity to soak in the sea breeze and panoramic views. The boat is equipped with a licensed guide and life jackets for safety, making the journey both comfortable and secure. This part of the trip sets a relaxing tone, with plenty of photo opportunities as you pass by striking islands and cliffs.

Phi Phi Ley: Iconic Sightseeing and Caves

Around 10:30 am, the boat arrives at Phi Phi Ley, where you’ll cruise past well-known sites like Viking Cave, Pi-Le Cove, Loh Samah Bay, and Maya Bay. The latter gained fame from the Leonardo DiCaprio movie “The Beach,” though Maya Bay has been closed from August 2023 to September 2024 for environmental restoration. Still, passing by these famous sites provides ample opportunity for photos and to appreciate the dramatic scenery.

Several reviews mention that the sightseeing on board is a highlight, with the guides providing commentary that adds context. The scenic cruise is definitely a major plus, especially if you love striking landscapes and a good dose of ocean air.

Long Beach: Relaxation and Beach Time

At 11:15 am, the group arrives at Long Beach on Phi Phi Don Island, where you have about an hour to swim, sunbathe, or simply relax on the sand. The beach is described as beautiful and perfect for unwinding, with shallow waters ideal for swimming. One review emphasizes that swimming from the beach is a favorite part of the trip, and you might find this the most authentic island experience of the day.

Lunch and Free Time

The buffet lunch at Long Beach is served at 12:30 pm. The included meal is a significant value proposition, offering a buffet with local flavors and a chance to rest after the morning’s activities. Guests then have approximately 45 minutes to enjoy their meal and relax. Some travelers report that the organization of the meal could be improved, noting the chaotic atmosphere at the buffet. Nonetheless, many appreciate the chance to enjoy a local-style meal with fresh fruits, coffee, and bottled water included.

Return Journey and Reflection

Around 2:15 pm, it’s time to leave the island, with a transfer back to the Royal Jet Cruiser at 2:30 pm. The cruise back to Phuket takes about two hours, allowing travelers to unwind, chat, or capture the last photos of the trip. The tour wraps up around 4:30 pm back at the pier, with transport arranged to return you to your hotel.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Considerations

While the scenery and guides are praised, some reviews highlight areas for improvement, especially regarding hygiene and organization. The buffet lunch, for example, has been described as chaotic, with concerns about cleanliness and hygiene. This might be a deal-breaker for some, so if you have specific dietary needs or are particular about food hygiene, it’s worth considering.

The timing of the stops means you won’t spend hours on each island, but rather get a quick snapshot. For some travelers, this is ideal—especially if you’re pressed for time or prefer seeing the highlights without extensive wandering. Others may find the limited free time at each stop restricts a more immersive experience.

The tour’s group size can be up to 80 travelers, making it a lively but potentially crowded experience. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and the mention of friendly, licensed guides suggest you’ll get a safe, guided experience with some opportunities to explore under the water.

Reviews and Real Feedback

The tour’s overall rating sits comfortably at 4.2 out of 5, with many appreciating the value for money and stunning views. One reviewer, for instance, shared that their “facilities were very good” and the staff “excellent,” despite some disturbances from loud passengers. Conversely, another reviewer rated it a 1 star, citing poor hygiene, over-crowded buffet, and a feeling of being misled about the quality of the experience.

This diversity indicates that while many find this tour to be a cost-effective way to see the Phi Phi Islands, others might encounter frustrations related to organization or environment. It’s a reminder that group tours can vary in quality depending on the day and the group dynamic.

The Sum Up: Who Will Get the Most Out of This Tour?

This ferry trip to the Phi Phi Islands offers great value for those who want a well-organized, scenic day with snorkeling and beach time included. Its affordable price makes it attractive for budget-conscious travelers eager to tick the islands off their list without splurging on exclusive experiences. The friendly guides and stunning views are definite highlights, creating memorable moments amid the chaos of a busy group tour.

However, if you’re someone who values privacy, luxury, or extensive exploration, this might not be the right choice. The short stops and organized chaos of the buffet could leave more discerning travelers wanting more personalized or relaxed options. For families or those new to group tours, the professional guides and included equipment make this a safe, straightforward choice.

In summary, if you’re seeking a fun, cost-effective day with plenty of photo opportunities and a taste of island life, this tour offers solid value. Just be prepared for some hustle and bustle, and keep expectations aligned with a typical group experience—those looking for a more exclusive or long-lasting connection with the islands might want to look elsewhere.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from your hotel or the designated meeting point is included, but it’s best to confirm your zone beforehand.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, from pickup in the morning to return in the late afternoon.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is included, served at Long Beach after the morning sightseeing. However, some reviews suggest it can be chaotic.

What snorkeling equipment is provided?
Use of snorkeling gear is included, so you’ll be able to explore the underwater scenery during the beach stop.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, there is a National Park fee of THB 400 per adult or THB 200 per child, payable on the day of the tour.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options can be arranged—just specify your needs when booking.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but keep in mind that some reviews mention loud passengers and crowded conditions.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 80 travelers, which means it can get quite lively.

What parts of the itinerary are most praised?
Guests commonly praise the scenic cruise and guide commentary, as well as the opportunity to swim and relax on Long Beach.

Is there enough time to explore each stop?
While the stops are brief—about an hour at each—most travelers find it enough to see the main sights and enjoy some leisure.

In the end, this tour is a solid choice for anyone wanting an affordable, guided day trip with plenty of photo ops and snorkeling. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy a lively group atmosphere and are comfortable with a busy schedule. If you’re looking for more privacy or longer exploration, consider other options, but for straightforward island fun, this trip offers genuine value.