Phi Phi Islands by Boat from Phuket
The Phi Phi Islands are arguably the most recognisable island tourist destination in the entire Thailand region. As such, given the significant tourist numbers that Phi Phi handles, its bay, beaches and reefs are subjected to immense strain that leaves them incredibly fragile.
A thoughtfully designed Phi Phi Islands day trip from Phuket lets you enjoy all that the destination has to offer while keeping your environmental impact to a minimum. It’s all thanks to the design of the Simba Sea Trips tour where guests traverse the waters in a small, friendly group, leaving Phuket early and reaching the main destinations in the absence of major crowds.
This is a Phi Phi boat tour that places a priority on comfort. Trusting the knowledge of expert local crews so that you can spend more time embracing the stunning locations and less time stuck in queues.
The Phi Phi Islands consist of a group of six islands that sit within the Andaman Sea between the Krabi and Phuket coastlines. Unquestionably, the majority of tourists who travel to this destination set their sights on the 2 most prominent of these islands, Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh, and there is little wonder why. Phi Phi Don is the only island within the archipelago that is inhabitable, and contains local villages and tourist accommodation. Phi Phi Leh, on the other hand, contains two of the most highly desirable tourism attractions in the whole of Thailand, Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon.
Most of the Phi Phi Islands are situated within a national park which is a primary reason why the coral reefs, and limestone cliffs are so well preserved and protected.
Why Visit the Phi Phi Islands
The Phi Phi Islands combine towering cliffs with white, sandy beaches and crystal clear water. While it takes a little time to journey to the Phi Phi Islands, the ease in traveling from incredible location to incredible location once you arrive is a prime reason for its popularity. In a single day you can tick a lot of boxes, from swimming in sheltered lagoons, snorkeling over coral reefs, and getting up close and personal to eye-opening limestone cliffs. Everything in the Phi Phi Islands feels intimately close and connected. Short trips between each incredible bay means very little transit time and results in more time to relax and indulge in the experience. The only locally populated island, Phi Phi Don, provides an authentic village vibe, whilst the smaller islands provide a calmer, quieter, more natural ambience. The Phi Phi Islands have also experienced a tremendous shift in sustainability in the past 20 years since the unfortunate events of the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami. Phi Phi was hit hard during this catastrophic event and has since been rebuilt with greater efforts made to ensure the safety of its residents and guests, not to mention placing a greater emphasis on sustainable tourism. Placing your trust in responsible boat tour operators is the primary way that visitors can help the local Thai Government to keep the Phi Phi Islands as beautiful as it currently is for future generations to enjoy for many years to come.
Highlights at a Glance
There is no shortage of highlights within the Phi Phi Islands. Some of the most memorable are:
Maya Bay
Always a spectacular location yet it didn’t appear on the radar for most tourists until the release of Hollywood movie, the Beach. An Instagram worthy view if ever there was one with a white sandy beach, and sparkling blue waters surrounded by soaring cliffs, Maya Bay is now carefully managed to protect from the damage of overtourism.
Pileh Lagoon
The incredible Pileh Lagoon in Phuket is a stunning inlet found in close proximity to Maya Bay. The Lagoon stretches in length to approximately 600 metres from entrance to end and its clear waters make it an ideal snorkeling spot. With a narrow entrance point for boats, coupled with the tall limestone cliffs that surround the lagoon, it feels like you have stumbled upon a hidden gem.
Bamboo Island
A less common destination for most tours, Bamboo Island is a common highlight for those fortunate enough to have it featured in their itinerary. Measuring just 0.27 km², the island is easily accessible, yet just far enough from the main trails that it still feels hidden away. While the island itself is a sanctuary well worth a visit, the surrounding waters is what really makes it an unmissable stop.
Viking Cave
One of the most notable sites in the Phi Phi Islands is the Viking Cave. It is a very striking cave situated at the base of stunning limestone cliffs, known for traditional bird’s nest harvesting and rock markings. While the cave itself is not open to the public, tour boats slow to the entrance so that guests have the opportunity to glance inside and take photos.
Monkey Beach
Unsurprisingly, the star attractions of Monkey Beach are.. The monkeys. In addition to the 150m long shoreline with powdery white sands, and emerald waters, visitors are also greeted with many Macaques who forage along the shore. To preserve their home, tours generally don’t dock here, instead observing the monkeys in their natural habitat from offshore.
The Simba Sea Trips Difference
While most tours follow a similar route, and include stops at Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon and other previously mentioned main attractions, how you experience Phi Phi can feel very different depending on which operator you travel with. Simba Sea Trips breaks the mould by ensuring that tour groups are kept small, departs from Phuket earlier, and operates a tour that is more relaxed, spacious and personal for couples, friend groups and families who value quality over crowds.
Smallest group sizes
With an average group size of around 14-16 guests, and capped at approximately 18 adults, there is room to move, stretch out, and enjoy the view in comfort.
Early departures to beat the other arrivals
By departing at the crack of dawn, Simba tours reach the highest density attraction such as Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon in the absence of most boats, and to work within time slot restrictions instead of against them.
An Expert, Safety Conscious and Helpful Crew
Staff have been carefully selected and offer a wealth of experience of the Phi Phi Islands destination. All crew members are English-speaking and ensure that the safety of our traveling party is of the highest priority.
No hidden costs / all-inclusive pricing
Hotel transfers, light breakfast, snacks and soft drinks, snorkel gear, national park fees, accident insurance, are all typically included, so there are no surprises on the day.
What to Expect on a Simba Phi Phi Tour
Typical Day Schedule
Exact timings can change with the season, tides, and park regulations, but here's a typical day.
Around 05:00
Hotel pickup from your Phuket accommodation and transfer to the marina.
By 05:40
Check in at Simba’s base at SOHO Pool Club at Boat Lagoon Marina, with a light breakfast, tea and coffee, and a full safety and itinerary briefing.
06:00 to 07:15
Speedboat journey out across the Andaman Sea towards Phi Phi, usually with a sunrise photo stop along the way.
Early morning
Arrival at Maya Bay during a quiet time window, with time to walk on the sand, take photos, and enjoy the scenery under softer light.
Remainder of the morning
Cruise to Pileh Lagoon for a swim, followed by one or two snorkel stops at reefs chosen by the crew according to that day’s sea conditions.
Late morning to early afternoon
More swimming or beach time around Bamboo Island or a similarly sheltered spot, plus refreshments on board.
Early afternoon
Return run to Phuket and a relaxed buffet-style lunch at SOHO Pool Club.
By mid-afternoon
Transfer back to your hotel, usually arriving around 15:00, with the rest of the afternoon free to yourselves.
Boats, Safety, and Comfort
Simba operates modern speedboats that are designed not only for speed but for comfort too. Guests are greeted with padded seating, open front seating and shaded areas in addition to space to store bags and camera gear in order to keep it dry. Drinks and snacks are provided on board throughout the day. Key facts about the onboard experience:
Small group feel
With around 14 guests on average and a maximum of approximately 18 adults, our boats never feel overcrowded.
Experienced Crews
Every tour is equipped with a professional captain and an English-speaking guide who stays with you throughout the day.
Safety, comfort, and logistics handled for you
Organised tours remove the stress of arranging separate hotel transfers, national park tickets, and timings between islands.
Snorkeling and kayaking experiences
Because Simba’s crews are on the water every day, they know which reefs typically offer the best visibility and calmest water on a given morning.
Local insight and storytelling
Guides add context with stories about Viking Cave, conservation efforts at Maya Bay, and everyday life in the islands.
Practical Information for Travelers
Best Time to Visit
The Phi Phi Islands can be visited year round, but conditions vary depending on whether you visit in the High or Low season.
- High season (roughly November to April)
Peak tourist season. Generally tourists are greeted with calmer seas, more sunshine, and clearer visibility, making it the most popular time for island hopping, snorkeling, and sunrise trips. - Low season (roughly May to October)
Smaller tourist numbers. Expect a mix of sunny days and showers, plus livelier seas at times. Tours often still run when conditions are safe, but itineraries may be tweaked or, on some days, cancelled or rescheduled for the safety of guests.
Most essentially during the low season, Simba keeps a close eye on forecasts and will adjust routes or make weather calls when necessary, with clear communication around any changes.
Getting to the Phi Phi Islands
The Phi Phi Islands are positioned around 40 to 45 kilometres from both Phuket and Krabi, so every visit requires a boat journey.
The majority of day trippers join dedicated speedboat tours. These boats cut travel time significantly, especially compared to ferries and longboats. They also bundle hotel transfers and national park fees into one booking, and allow you to visit several bays and snorkel spots in a single day.
From Phi Phi Don itself, travellers can also hire traditional longtail boats to reach nearby bays and beaches. Access to sensitive areas such as Maya Bay is regulated, so it is often simpler to visit through established tour operators that hold the necessary permits and follow the latest rules.
Staying Overnight vs Visiting on a Day Trip
While most will choose to experience the Phi Phi Islands either as part of a long day trip from Phuket or Krabi, visitors with a more flexible schedule often opt for an overnight stay on Phi Phi Don. There are benefits to both options.
- Day trip
A popular choice if you prefer to keep your base in Phuket or Krabi, if you want to see the main attractions in a single day, enjoy the convenience of having all logistics handled for you and have limited time on your travels. Early-start speedboat tours are ideal if you value quieter conditions and less crowds at the main tourist stops. - Overnight stay
Staying on Phi Phi Don provides you with a different experience offering slow mornings, the option to hike to sunset viewpoints, and to also enjoy evenings on the beach once the majority of day boats have returned to the mainland. Most accommodation is clustered around Ton Sai and Loh Dalum bays, ranging from simple bungalows to more refined hotels.
Whichever option you choose, remember that Phi Phi is a small, busy island group. Supporting hotels and tour operators that minimise single-use plastics, manage waste responsibly, and respect national park rules helps keep the destination enjoyable for future visitors.
Who Do Phi Phi Island Tours Suit The Most
While the destination is a favourite of thousands, The benefits do differ depending on the type of person participating in a tour. In general, though, the most beneficial is a Phi Phi Island tour by speedboat as it affords ample time to see the key attractions that the vast majority of visitors appreciate the most.
- Couples and friends
Joining a Phi Phi island tour that caps its guests at under 20 offers a premium small group experience with ample space to spread out and relax on the boat and plenty of time and space when offboarding at each stop. - Families with children
Well suited to families with children old enough to handle an early start and a speedboat ride. With life jackets in multiple sizes, floating aids, and responsible guides overseeing all water activities, parents can feel more at ease.
Photographers and early risers
Speedboat tours to the Phi Phi Islands are ideal for anyone seeking sunrise photo ops, quieter beaches amidst calmer seas. An early departure with early-bird boat operators essentially means you will enjoy the scenery while many other boats are embarking from the mainland.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
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