Phi Phi 7 Islands Full-Day Tour From Phi Phi by Longtail Boat

Imagine spending a full day exploring some of Thailand’s most iconic islands, cruising through crystal-clear waters on a traditional longtail boat. If you’re looking for an adventure packed with scenic beaches, underwater marvels, and memorable sunsets, the Phi Phi 7 Islands tour might be just what you need. This tour offers a taste of everything — from lively snorkeling spots and pristine sands to hidden caves and bioluminescent plankton after sunset.

We’ve looked closely at the experiences shared by travelers and the details available from the tour provider. What stands out? The chance to see Maya Bay—famous from The Beach—and the opportunity for multiple snorkeling sessions. The value for money is also noteworthy, considering the extensive itinerary and included meals. But, as with any busy tour, there are some hiccups, like delays and crowds, that are worth noting.

If you enjoy connecting with nature, cultural spots, and don’t mind a long day on the water, this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s particularly suited for travelers keen to see many different parts of the Phi Phi Islands in one go, especially those eager to snorkel and take in breathtaking scenery without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering all the main islands and beaches around Phi Phi.
• Multiple snorkeling stops with opportunities to see fish, sharks, and luminous plankton.
• Affordable price point, offering good overall value compared to private tours.
• Beautiful sunset and bioluminescent plankton experiences after dark.
• Long day on a traditional longtail boat, which can be tiring but offers authentic charm.
• Mixed reviews on guides and timing, so flexibility and patience help.

Contents

• Key Points
• An In-Depth Look at the Tour
• Introduction to the Experience
• Why We Like It
• One Consideration
• The Itinerary Breakdown
• Monkey Beach
• Bamboo Island
• Viking Cave
• Pi Leh Lagoon and Loh Samah Bay
• Maya Bay
• Shark Point
• Sunset and Plankton Swim
• Practical Details and What to Expect
• Transportation and Group Size
• Timing and Pacing
• Meals and Snacks
• Costs and Additional Fees
• Accessibility and Suitability
• What Recent Travelers Say
• Highlights from reviews include:
• Final Thoughts: Is It for You?
• FAQ
• Our Top Picks in Krabi
• More Boat Tours & Cruises in Krabi
• More Tours in Krabi
• More Tour Reviews in Krabi
• Not for you? Here's more things to do in Krabi we have recnetly reviewed

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Introduction to the Experience

This full-day tour from Phi Phi promises an all-encompassing visit to the most famous islands and beaches, with plenty of time for snorkeling, photos, and relaxing on sandy shores. Priced at around $28, it strikes a good balance between affordability and comprehensive sightseeing. The tour features land and sea adventures, meaning you’ll experience the islands both from the water and on land, with stops at highly photogenic spots like Maya Bay, Bamboo Island, and Pi Leh Lagoon.

The tour is operated by Oh-Hoo, a travel company with a decent number of bookings and generally positive reviews. The experience typically lasts about 9 hours, starting early in the morning and finishing in the early evening, which makes it a full but rewarding day.

Why We Like It

Two features in particular make this tour attractive. First, the multiple snorkeling sessions—including the chance to see exotic fish, sharks, and even bioluminescent plankton after sunset—are major highlights. Travelers consistently praise the opportunity to snorkel up to three times at different spots, broadening your underwater experience.

Second, the cultural and scenic variety keeps the day interesting. From the mischievous monkeys at Monkey Beach to the fame of Maya Bay, and the towering limestone cliffs of Pi Leh Lagoon, there’s plenty to see and photograph. Plus, the included lunch and fresh fruit snacks keep everyone energized for a long day on the water.

One Consideration

A possible drawback is the length and pacing of the tour. Several reviews mention delays, sometimes starting 30-60 minutes late, which can reduce time at some stops. Also, because it’s a long-tail boat, seating can become uncomfortable after hours of bouncing over waves, and some travelers found the day a bit too long, especially if the weather turns or the crowds are heavy.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Monkey Beach

The tour kicks off at Monkey Beach, where playful macaques entertain visitors on the white sands. This stop isn’t just for photos; it’s a chance to see wild monkeys in their natural habitat. However, some reviews note that the presence of monkeys can vary, and in some cases, visitors might find fewer animals than expected. Still, the lively atmosphere and the chance to see these cheeky creatures up close make it worth a quick stop.

Bamboo Island

Next is Bamboo Island, known for its stunning, emerald-green waters and soft, powdery sands. Here, you’ll have ample time to snorkel in calm, clear waters. Many reviews rave about the beautiful scenery and the chance to relax under the sun. One traveler mentioned that the time spent there could be extended because it’s such a favorite, and some wished for a bit more time to really soak in the scenery.

Viking Cave

This is a quick stop where you can admire ancient cave paintings and observe swift nests collected by local fishermen. While you won’t get a detailed tour of the cave, it’s a noteworthy cultural sight. Many travelers find the view of the cave from the boat quite impressive, adding a hint of history and local livelihood to the day.

Pi Leh Lagoon and Loh Samah Bay

These stops showcase towering limestone cliffs and serene waters. The lagoon especially offers a magical setting for snorkeling and photos. One reviewer praised the breathtaking scenery, noting the cliffs are like something out of a movie. Snorkelers here often encounter varieties of fish and coral, making it a highlight for marine life enthusiasts.

Maya Bay

The star of the tour, Maya Bay, gained worldwide fame from the film The Beach. It’s a stunning stretch of white sand with steep cliffs on all sides. Due to its popularity, it can get crowded, but many appreciate the chance to see the iconic scenery firsthand. Some reviews, however, mention that during low tide, the bay may be less impressive and that access can be limited or crowded, depending on the time of day.

Shark Point

Here, you might see black-tipped reef sharks—a real thrill for snorkelers. The tour allows you to view these sharks safely in their natural environment. Multiple travelers appreciated this close encounter with marine life, though some noted the sharks can be shy or hard to spot.

Sunset and Plankton Swim

One of the tour’s most unique features is the sunset cruise and the bioluminescent plankton experience after dark. Many reviewers describe this as magical, with glowing specks of light dancing in the water when you swim with them. However, some mention that visibility of plankton can vary based on weather and tide conditions. Still, it’s a memorable way to end the day.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

You’ll travel aboard a traditional longtail boat, which adds an authentic touch but can be less comfortable than modern speedboats. The group size tends to be around 30 travelers, which balances social interaction with manageable crowds. The start point is at Marlin Statue in Ao Nang, with some reviews mentioning the chaos or delays at the meeting point, so arriving early or on time is advisable.

Timing and Pacing

The 9-hour tour begins at 9:30 am (although some reviews mention it starting later), and the day is packed from start to finish. The itinerary involves long periods of cruising between stops, with snorkeling and exploring at each island. Be prepared for a long day in the sun—sunblock, hats, and water are essential.

Meals and Snacks

The tour provides lunch, typically a simple rice dish, along with fruit, bottled water, and snacks. Some reviews suggest bringing extra snacks or beverages if you want to stay energized or extend your time at certain stops.

Costs and Additional Fees

The national park fee (400 THB per adult, 200 THB per child) is not included and must be paid on arrival at the park entry. Budget accordingly. The overall cost of around $28 makes this an affordable option when factoring in the included meals and multiple snorkeling spots.

Accessibility and Suitability

The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with pregnancy, high blood pressure, heart issues, or bone problems are advised to avoid it. Also, be prepared for bumpy rides and some crowded areas. If you prefer a more relaxed, less busy experience, this might not be the best fit.

What Recent Travelers Say

Many reviewers highlight the professionalism of guides and the beauty of the scenery. One said, “The tour was amazing! We saw wonderful beaches and did snorkeling three times,” reflecting the overall positive impression of variety and value.

Others, however, mention delays and crowded spots, with some feeling that the guides could be more informative. The plankton experience received mixed reviews—some found it spectacular, others felt it was underwhelming or hard to see clearly.

Highlights from reviews include:

• The excellent snorkeling at multiple spots.
• The breathtaking views especially at Maya Bay and Bamboo Island.
• The fun guides who keep the mood lively.
• The long, sun-drenched day which can be tiring but rewarding.
• The value for money, given the extensive itinerary and included meals.

Final Thoughts: Is It for You?

This tour offers a solid introduction to the beauty of the Phi Phi Islands, especially if you’re keen on snorkeling, scenic beaches, and a full-day adventure on the water. It’s a great choice for budget-conscious travelers wanting to see many highlights without paying for private excursions. The vibrant marine life, stunning landscapes, and iconic Maya Bay make it worth considering if you’re willing to handle a busy day with some delays.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace, or are sensitive to crowds and delays, you might want to explore other options or consider private tours. Remember, the experience is heavily weather- and tide-dependent, especially for the plankton viewing, so flexibility is key.

This tour truly delivers value, with plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, and enjoying nature. It’s best suited for active travelers who love the outdoors, are comfortable on boats, and want a comprehensive snapshot of the Phi Phi Islands in one go.

FAQ

Will I see sharks on this tour?
Yes, at Shark Point, you might see black-tipped reef sharks. It’s a safe and exciting viewing experience for snorkelers.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a simple lunch of rice, along with fruit and bottled water, is provided. Some reviews suggest bringing extra snacks for the day.

What’s the best time to see plankton?
The bioluminescent plankton is best viewed after sunset, typically when it’s dark enough. Visibility can vary based on weather and tide conditions.

Are the guides helpful and informative?
Reviews are mixed. Some travelers praise the guides for their humor and friendliness, while others feel they could provide more information about the sites.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting around 9:30 am and ending in the early evening. Expect a full day of activity.

What about delays?
Some reviews mention starting late or delays in the schedule, so patience and flexibility are helpful.

Is this suitable for children or pregnant women?
Pregnant women and those with certain health issues are advised not to join. Check your health condition before booking.

Do I need to pay extra for park entry?
Yes, the national park fee (400 THB per adult) is payable at the park entrance and is not included in the ticket price.

In essence, this tour offers a lively, scenic, and affordable way to explore the famed Phi Phi Islands, with enough variety to keep most travelers engaged. Just pack your sense of adventure, a good attitude about crowds, and perhaps some extra snacks, and you’re set for a memorable day on Thailand’s jewel of the Andaman Sea.