From Phi Phi: Private Full-Day Speed Boat Charter

Six hours, many islands, one private boat. This Phi Phi charter packs Shark Point, Bamboo Island, Maya Bay, Pi Leh Lagoon, and several snorkeling sites into a flexible day on the Andaman Sea. I like the freedom of a private speedboat and the chance to pause at the spots that suit you best. I also like that lunch, fruit, water, snorkeling gear, and life vests are included. The main catch is the price: $521 for up to two people is good value for a private outing, but steep if you are traveling alone.

This is an active day, not a gentle cruise. You will climb aboard, swim several times, walk on sandy islands, and spend long stretches in the open sea. Weather can change the route, and Maya Bay may be viewed only from outside when access restrictions apply. One highly positive account names guide Nancy, along with a helpful captain and crew, so ask whether she is available when you book.

Key points at a glance

• Private charter for up to two: You get your own boat rather than sharing the day with a large tour group.
• A packed Phi Phi route: Shark Point, Runtee Bay, Bamboo Island, Mosquito Island, Hin Klang, Nui Bay, Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, Pi Leh Lagoon, Loh Samah Bay, and Maya Bay are all included in the planned route.
• Strong snorkeling focus: Shark Point may offer blacktip shark sightings, while Loh Samah Bay and Hin Klang bring coral and tropical fish.
• Lunch on Bamboo Island: A simple beach meal with seasonal fruit is included, with time to rest on the white sand.
• Maya Bay from the water: You can see the famous setting connected with The Beach, though entry restrictions can affect the visit.
• Sunset finish: The return to Phi Phi includes an ocean sunset, weather and timing permitting.

What this private Phi Phi charter is really like

The appeal here is control. A private speedboat lets you see a long list of Phi Phi sights without being tied to the pace of a large shared group. You can ask to spend more time snorkeling, linger at a beach, or move on when a stop feels crowded or less interesting.

That flexibility matters because this is an ambitious six-hour program. You are not simply heading to one beach and back. The route crosses several islands and bays, with multiple swims and photo stops along the way. The speedboat makes that possible, but the day can feel full.

The boat departs from the area near Phi Phi Hospital, with Saii Phi Phi Island Village at Laemtong Pier also listed as a starting point. The instructions specifically say to be ready in front of Saii Phi Phi Island Village at Laemtong Pier, so confirm the exact meeting place before departure. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

The listed rate is $521 per group of up to two people. For a couple or two friends, that works out to about $260.50 each before any National Park fee add-on. That is not a budget excursion, but a private boat, driver, lunch, fruit, equipment, and a tailored route make it easier to justify than a basic point-to-point transfer.

Shark Point and Runtee Bay: an early test of the sea

The first water stops are Shark Point and Runtee Bay. The plan is to snorkel in clear water and look for marine life, including blacktip sharks at Shark Point.

That possibility is exciting, but it should be treated as a possibility, not a promise. Wildlife sightings depend on conditions, visibility, and luck. The real value of this opening stop is that it gets you into the water early and sets the tone for a day built around swimming rather than sightseeing from the deck.

You will receive a mask, snorkel, life vest, and drinking water. Bring your own mask if you need a very particular fit, but the included kit covers the basic needs of most participants. Wear swimwear from the start. There is no reason to save changing for later.

Runtee Bay adds another place to see the coast from water level. The limestone surroundings and sheltered-feeling bays are part of Phi Phi’s appeal, but the speedboat ride can be bumpy. Anyone prone to seasickness should think carefully before booking.

Bamboo Island: the day’s best beach break

Bamboo Island is the main pause in the middle of the outing. It is uninhabited, known for wild bamboo, and lined with powdery white sand. After the first snorkeling sessions, you can stretch out, sunbathe, and eat lunch on the beach.

This is one of the strongest parts of the plan because it gives you a proper break. Six hours of swimming and boat travel can wear you down, so a beach stop is more than a photo opportunity. It lets you dry off, eat, and reset before the afternoon route.

Lunch and seasonal fresh fruit are included. The supplied details do not specify the exact menu, so do not book this expecting a restaurant-style meal. Think of it as a practical beach lunch that keeps the schedule moving.

Bamboo Island may be the easiest place to appreciate the private format. If you want quiet time on the sand, you can ask the crew how long the stop allows. At the same time, island conditions and other boats can affect how peaceful it feels. The word private applies to your boat, not to the entire beach.

Mosquito Island and Hin Klang: two more water stops

After lunch, the boat heads toward Mosquito Island, another uninhabited island. The route then continues to Hin Klang, described as another strong snorkeling location.

This portion suits people who would rather spend time in the water than collect quick snapshots. You get another chance to look for coral and fish, and the repeated stops let you compare different underwater settings. The quality of each swim will depend on the sea, sunlight, and visibility on the day.

There is a practical limit to this kind of schedule. If you are not a confident swimmer, several water entries in one day may feel tiring. Life vests are provided, but the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, pregnant women, or people prone to seasickness.

Bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and cash. The sun can be strong even when the wind on the boat feels cooling. Cash is especially useful because National Park fees are not included unless you select the add-on.

Nui Bay, Monkey Beach, and Viking Cave

The boat returns toward Phi Phi Don Island for Nui Bay and Monkey Beach. Monkey Beach is famous for its resident monkeys, but you should remember that wildlife is not a scheduled performance. Follow the crew’s instructions and avoid treating the animals as photo props.

Nui Bay offers another coastal view and a chance to see the dramatic rock formations that make Phi Phi memorable. These stops are shorter in spirit than Bamboo Island. They work best as part of the wider route rather than as places where you expect a long, quiet visit.

Viking Cave adds a curious cultural and natural detail. A wall painting resembles a large Viking boat, giving the cave its name. The cave is also associated with the collection of bird’s nests used in medicinal soup.

The route description presents Viking Cave as a discovery from the boat, not a walk into a fully open visitor site. Do not assume you will be able to explore inside. Even from the water, the cave gives the trip something different from beaches and snorkeling.

Pi Leh Lagoon: Phi Phi’s most dramatic water stop

Pi Leh Lagoon is enclosed by tall, jagged limestone cliffs and filled with striking turquoise water. The enclosed setting gives it a different mood from the open beaches and reefs earlier in the day.

The plan allows time for a swim, though the exact length depends on conditions and the day’s timing. The water can look especially bright when the sun reaches the lagoon, making this a prime photo stop. I would keep your phone protected in a waterproof pouch, since the best view may come from the water rather than the boat.

Pi Leh Lagoon is also a good example of why a private charter can be useful. You can ask the crew about the safest place to enter and whether it is better to swim or stay aboard if the lagoon is busy. The boat’s driver controls the practical side, while the English-speaking guide, if assigned, can help explain the sights.

Loh Samah Bay and Maya Bay: famous scenery with limits

Loh Samah Bay is planned as another snorkeling stop, with a large coral reef and tropical fish. For anyone choosing this charter mainly for underwater time, this may be one of the most valuable stops on the route.

Do not expect every reef to look the same. Coral conditions, water clarity, and marine life vary. Still, the combination of Loh Samah Bay, Hin Klang, Runtee Bay, and Shark Point gives you several chances to find good water rather than depending on one location.

Maya Bay is the headline stop for many people. Its fame grew after the film The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, and the surrounding cliffs and beach remain a major Phi Phi sight.

The important detail is access. The supplied information says Maya Bay is currently closed to tourists for coral propagation, with views available from outside the bay area. It also notes a seasonal closure for Maya and Loh Samah bays from August 1 through September 30, 2022. That date is old, so check the current access rules before booking. The boat can still provide an impressive view, but you should not assume a beach landing or swim inside Maya Bay.

Sunset on the return to Phi Phi

The final stretch returns to the original meeting point, with the possibility of watching the sun set over the sea. Sunset timing depends on the starting time, weather, and how long the earlier stops take.

This ending gives the day a pleasant finish, but it should not be treated as guaranteed. A packed route, sea conditions, or restricted access can alter the timing. The best approach is to enjoy it if the schedule lines up, rather than judging the charter by one final photograph.

The drop-off points are listed as Koh Phi Phi Hospital and Saii Phi Phi Island Village. Confirm which one applies to your booking, especially if you are staying away from the Laemtong Pier area.

What is included, and what will cost extra

The package includes the private speedboat, driver, lunch, seasonal fruit, life vests, snorkeling equipment, drinking water, and accident insurance. That removes several small expenses that can add up during a day on the water.

National Park fees are not included unless you select the add-on. The information also says park officials collect fees randomly, but protected islands and snorkeling areas may require payment. Carry cash and ask at booking whether the fee is being added in advance.

A sea guide is not included. English is listed as the tour language, but the package separates the driver from the guide service. If you want explanations about the geology, wildlife, or Viking Cave, confirm whether an English-speaking guide is assigned and whether an additional fee applies.

Dinner is not included. The six-hour format normally covers the daytime route and beach lunch, so plan your evening meal separately.

Who should book this, and who should skip it?

I would recommend this charter to two people who want a full Phi Phi day without sharing a boat with a large group. It is especially suitable if you value snorkeling, want to see several famous sites, and like having some say over the pace.

It also suits couples looking for a scenic day with a sunset finish. The private setting gives you more room for conversation and photographs than a packed group boat.

I would be more cautious if you dislike fast boats, get seasick, or want a slow beach day. The route is busy, and there are many water stops. People with mobility impairments and pregnant women are specifically advised not to join.

The small-group information is slightly inconsistent: the charter is priced for up to two people, while the activity details refer to a small group limited to one participant. Treat the private charter wording as the key point, but confirm the exact passenger setup before payment.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure, and you can reserve now and pay later. The itinerary depends on safe weather. If conditions are poor, the route may change or the trip may be canceled.

Should you book the Phi Phi private speedboat?

Book it if you want the biggest selection of Phi Phi sights in six hours and are willing to pay for privacy. The combination of multiple snorkeling sites, Bamboo Island, Pi Leh Lagoon, Maya Bay views, included lunch, and an attentive crew gives the day strong value for two people.

Skip it if your priority is a cheap outing, a guaranteed Maya Bay landing, or a relaxed schedule with little time in the water. Before booking, confirm the meeting point, current Maya Bay rules, National Park fees, and whether a sea guide is included.

The strongest reason to choose this trip is simple: you get a private boat and a route that covers nearly every major Phi Phi highlight. The strongest reason to hesitate is just as clear: six hours is a lot of activity, and the price makes most sense when shared by two people.

FAQ

Where does the Phi Phi speedboat tour start?

The listed starting options are Koh Phi Phi Hospital and Saii Phi Phi Island Village. The meeting instructions say to be ready in front of Saii Phi Phi Island Village at Laemtong Pier, so confirm the exact point before departure.

Where does the tour end?

The listed drop-off options are Koh Phi Phi Hospital and Saii Phi Phi Island Village. The activity ends back at the meeting point.

How long is the private speedboat charter?

The charter lasts six hours. Starting times depend on availability.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch and seasonal fresh fruit are included. Dinner is not included.

Are snorkeling equipment and life vests provided?

Yes. The package includes a snorkel, mask, life vest, and drinking water.

Are National Park fees included?

No, not automatically. You must select the add-on if you want the fee included. Carry cash because park officials may collect fees at protected islands and snorkeling sites.

Can you enter Maya Bay?

Access can change. The supplied information says Maya Bay was closed to tourists for coral propagation, with views available from outside the bay area. Check the current rules before departure.

Is the tour suitable for people prone to seasickness?

No. The activity is specifically listed as unsuitable for people prone to seasickness. It is also not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments.