Private Phi Phi and Bamboo Islands Snorkeling Tour by Speedboat

Maya Bay, on your schedule. This private Phi Phi and Bamboo Islands tour is built for people who want flexibility, plus a full day of cliffs, lagoons, and snorkeling with provided gear. I also like the simple, organized flow from pickup at Royal Phuket Marina to two snorkel stops, a paddleboarding chance, and a lunch stop on Phi Phi Don. Guides like Tony, Jib, and Jip come up in the feedback for keeping the day fun and moving.

The one thing to keep in mind is that a speedboat day can feel bumpy, especially if you’re sensitive to motion. They do what they can with timing, but the ride style stays the same.

Key points before you go

• Private means your group sets the pace: you’re not sharing a boat with strangers.
• Snorkeling gear is included, and the day is structured around two snorkel opportunities.
• Round-trip Phuket hotel transfers are part of the deal, using an air-conditioned minivan.
• Paddleboarding is included during the lagoon time.
• National park fees are extra and must be paid to your guide on check-in.

Royal Phuket Marina pickup: what “private” really feels like

Your day starts with a hotel pickup in an air-conditioned minivan, then a transfer to Royal Phuket Marina. The meet point is Amazing Canoeing at the marina (Royal Phuket Marina Meeting Point, Thepkasattri Road, Ko Kaeo area), with a start time of 9:30 am.

Once you’re at the pier, the private format matters more than it sounds. You’re not stuck with the chaos of waiting for large mixed groups, and your guide can adjust the timing to your comfort level. In practical terms, that often means fewer moments where you feel rushed or out of sync with the rest of the day.

And yes, it’s a speedboat day. You’re trading long, slow transit for more time in the water and on the islands, but the tradeoff is motion. If you’re the kind of person who gets queasy on boats, pack your usual anti-motion supplies and plan to sit where you feel most stable.

Speedboat time to Phi Phi Lee: the big cliffs arrive early

After leaving the marina, you head toward Ko Phi Phi Lee, also associated with Phi Phi Leh. This is the classic approach: dramatic limestone cliffs, wide bays, and that wow-this-is-why-we-came feeling that hits before you even start snorkeling.

This stop is relatively short, about an hour, which is exactly what you want for viewpoints. The goal isn’t a long hangout; it’s to get the views quickly, take photos while the light is decent, and then move on before the crowds consolidate.

One reason this itinerary works is it strings the iconic spots together in a way that keeps the day from feeling like a checklist you sprint through. You’ll still see plenty of people out there, because Phi Phi is popular, but a good guide helps you navigate the busiest moments and keep your group comfortable.

Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon: snorkeling setup without the “whole day in one place” problem

Maya Bay is one of those places that people talk about forever. Here, you get a dedicated window (around 40 minutes), which is just enough for a quick look at the cove and then to decide how long you want to linger along the shore area before moving back to the main plan.

Right after that, the schedule heads to Ko Phi Phi Le and the lagoon area often referred to as Pileh Lagoon, with another roughly 40-minute stop. This is where you get more time to enjoy calm water and the lagoon vibe, and it’s also a key segment for your in-water time.

Two big values of this design for you:

• You don’t burn the whole day waiting. The tour gives you short, focused blocks at the most famous locations.
• The snorkeling isn’t one random time slot. The day includes snorkeling gear and is built around two snorkeling opportunities, so you can expect actual time in the water rather than just “maybe if conditions allow.”

Also, remember that the lagoon stop includes paddleboarding use as part of what’s included. If you’re comfortable on a board, this is a fun way to see the lagoon without only relying on snorkeling time.

Viking Cave and Monkey Beach: quick stops with real variety

Next up is Viking Cave, with a scenic cruise portion and about 40 minutes total at that stop. The highlight here is the cave area with wall paintings and the fact that it’s tied to birds that nest there. Even if you don’t go “deep” into the cave itself, it’s still a memorable change of pace from beaches and open water.

Then comes Monkey Beach (about 20 minutes). This is a straightforward sightseeing hit, but it’s also one of those moments that can genuinely feel like you’re in the middle of a living ecosystem. Expect macaques in the area, and keep your distance and follow your guide’s instructions. The biggest mistake you can make here is forgetting you’re in their space while trying to get the best photo.

These two stops work because they prevent the day from feeling like only two modes: ride and snorkel. You get cave views and a wildlife-style moment, then you transition toward lunch and your longer island time.

Phi Phi Don lunch: your break with options

Lunch happens around the Phi Phi Don area, with a stop of roughly 1 hour 10 minutes. The tour description notes a lunch at beach-side restaurants overlooking Phi Phi Don, and it’s also mentioned you can walk there.

Here’s the one detail you should sanity-check when you book: the overall description includes lunch and snacks, but the “not included” section lists lunch. That mismatch usually means either (a) lunch is provided in some format but not always, or (b) you may be expected to purchase lunch depending on the final package. I’d treat this as a confirm-now moment so you don’t get surprised when you’re hungry.

If lunch isn’t fully covered, the good news is the area is set up for exactly this kind of stop. You’re not stuck hunting for something that isn’t there, and you’ll have enough time to eat without feeling like you’ll miss the next boat departure.

Bamboo Island: the calm reset at the end

Bamboo Island is your later-day island break, with about 1 hour 10 minutes. This is where the trip tends to feel more relaxed: a white sand beach lined with palm trees and plenty of room to slow down between activities.

Because you’re leaving earlier, then stacking viewpoint stops, and then getting back into the rhythm of the boat, this is the part that often feels like your reward. It’s not just about photos, either. It’s also the chance to refuel after snorkeling and cave-and-walk segments.

This stop is especially good if you like a mix of:

• a low-key beach moment
• a chance to swim casually
• a bit of time to just be out there without racing the clock

If you’re the kind of traveler who gets restless when a tour drags, you’ll probably appreciate that this segment is long enough to matter.

Price and value: private for up to 12, plus fees to budget

The price is $1,386.10 per group (up to 12 people). That’s a private tour, which is why the price is high compared to shared boats. Where it becomes more reasonable is how you split the cost across your group size.

For a quick reality check: if you fill all 12 spots, the base works out to about $115 per person before any extras. If you have fewer people, the per-person number rises fast, so this tour shines most when you’re traveling as a group.

Then budget for the added national park fees: 400 THB per adult and 200 THB per child, paid to your guide upon check-in. Also note fins aren’t included; fin rental is listed at 200 THB at Royal Phuket Marina.

So is it good value? For the right group, yes. You’re getting hotel transfers, a speedboat day with snorkeling gear, a paddleboarding inclusion, an English-speaking guide, onboard refreshments, and travel insurance. The extra fees are normal for park-area islands, but they’re still something you should plan for so the final cost doesn’t surprise you.

Practical tips that make the day easier

Bring what you’ll actually use

You’ll have snorkeling gear included, but some people still prefer their own mask or anti-fog drops. Fins can be rented for 200 THB if you need them.

For comfort, pack a light dry bag or a zip pouch for your phone. With a speedboat day, you’ll feel better when you can keep essentials protected during movement and stops.

Motion and timing: plan for a bumpy ride

You’re on a speedboat, so expect a bouncy feeling even when the route is well planned. One of the standout pieces of feedback is that a hat-incident was handled quickly by the crew, and that the team kept things smooth even when the day had a bit of chaos. That’s a sign you’re in hands that pay attention to your group, even when weather or small mishaps happen.

If you’re motion-sensitive, don’t wait until you’re already on the water to think about it.

Crowds are part of the deal, so use the guide

Phi Phi is popular, and you’ll see other boats. What matters is how your stops are timed and how your guide manages the flow. In the feedback, the guides are praised for adapting to group needs and keeping the day enjoyable even when crowds are present.

Who should book this private Phi Phi and Bamboo Islands tour

This is a strong fit if you want:

• a private speedboat day rather than a shared group scramble
• hotel pickup and drop-off, so you don’t waste vacation time on logistics
• snorkeling plus a lagoon moment with paddleboarding
• a structured itinerary that hits the headline islands without turning into an all-day slog in one spot

It may not be the best match if you’re extremely motion-sensitive and hate speedboat rides, or if you only want one slow beach with long downtime. This itinerary is active by design.

Final call: should you book it?

I’d book this tour if you’re traveling with a group that can fill enough seats to make the private cost feel fair. The combination of round-trip transfers, included snorkeling gear, paddleboarding, and a stop at both Phi Phi and Bamboo makes the day feel efficient without being rushed.

If you’re deciding between options, the two things I’d confirm first are: how the lunch is handled for your specific booking and whether you’re comfortable with a bumpy speedboat. If those are a yes for you, this is the kind of Phi Phi day that leaves you with photos, swimming time, and a guide who actually seems to manage the chaos.

FAQ

What time does the tour start, and where do I meet?

The tour starts at 9:30 am. You meet at the Royal Phuket Marina meeting point at Amazing Canoeing, 63/402, Unit No. MC4-01, Thepkasattri Road, Ko Kaeo, Phuket 83000.

Is this tour private?

Yes. It’s a private tour/activity, and only your group participates. The group size is up to 12.

How long is the tour?

The duration is about 7 to 8 hours.

What’s included for snorkeling and water activities?

Snorkeling gear is included, and the tour includes two snorkeling stops. Paddleboarding is also included, along with snorkeling equipment use.

Do I need to pay national park fees?

Yes. National park fees are not included: 400 THB per adult and 200 THB per child, and you must pay them to your guide upon check-in.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?

Yes. Round-trip transfers from and to your hotel are included, using an air-conditioned minivan in Phuket Province.

Is lunch included?

The tour summary highlights lunch and snacks as free of charge, but the listing also states lunch is not included. You should confirm what your exact booking includes before you go.

Are fins included?

No. Fins to rent are listed at 200 THB at Royal Phuket Marina.

What if weather conditions are poor?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What’s the cancellation window?

You can cancel for a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time. Free cancellation is available.