Phi Phi & James Bond Islands: Private Boat Tour, Snorkeling & Kayak

Summary

Swim Maya Bay snorkel Phi Phi lunch on the beach then James Bond Island adventure

You’ll jump into Maya Bay’s clear waters, snorkel around Phi Phi’s reefs, share lunch overlooking turquoise sea, then kayak through Phang Nga’s hidden caves before stepping onto James Bond Island—all with local guides who know every shortcut and story. It’s not rushed; you get time to float, taste Thai food, and watch the sun slip behind limestone cliffs.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I saw was the color—water so clear it almost looked fake, like someone had turned the saturation way up. We’d just stepped off at Maya Bay and our guide, Lek, handed me a mask. He grinned and said, “You’ll see more fish than people here.” Not sure if that’s always true, but that morning it felt possible. The sand squeaked under my feet. There was a breeze carrying something salty and sweet—maybe sunscreen mixed with sea air? Anyway, I tried to picture DiCaprio running around but mostly I just floated for a bit, staring up at those cliffs.

Pileh Lagoon came next. The boat slowed right down and Lek pointed out how the water changed from turquoise to this deep blue-green where the coral started. We jumped in—cooler than I expected—and just drifted for a while. Someone (I think her name was May?) showed us a tiny cave tucked behind some rocks; she laughed when I banged my knee climbing out. Not my most graceful moment. Lunch on Phi Phi Don wasn’t fancy but honestly, sitting there with spicy noodles and looking out over all that blue… that sticks with me more than any big meal back home.

The ride into Phang Nga Bay got quieter—everyone sort of spaced out watching those limestone islands slide by. At James Bond Island, there were a few other boats but it didn’t feel crowded. Our guide told us about the movie (I haven’t actually seen it) and pointed out some spots where locals sell shells or coconuts. We took the canoes through these mangrove tunnels—felt like being inside a green cathedral with all the echoes and birds overhead. My arms are still sore from paddling even though they said we could just sit back and let them do it… but I wanted to try.

On Koh Rang Yai at the end, we ate fruit on the sand while everything went gold with sunset light. Someone played music quietly from their phone; nobody talked much, which kind of said everything. The whole day felt long in a good way—I still think about that first swim at Maya Bay sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Phi Phi and Phang Nga Bay

• Arrive and check in with briefing
• Visit Maya Bay for snorkeling
• Explore Pileh Lagoon and caves
• View Viking Cave from boat
• Lunch and swim at Phi Phi Don
• Travel to Phang Nga Bay
• Visit James Bond Island
• Canoe through Phang Nga Bay Hongs
• Relax on Koh Rang Yai beach
• Cruise back to pier

Top questions

How long is the private boat tour from Phuket to Phi Phi & James Bond Islands?

The tour lasts one full day including stops at Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Phi Phi Don for lunch, Phang Nga Bay kayaking, James Bond Island visit, and Koh Rang Yai beach.

Is snorkeling equipment included on this tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included in your tour price.

Does this day trip include lunch?

Yes, you’ll have lunch at a local restaurant on Phi Phi Don overlooking the bay.

Are national park fees included in the price?

No, national park fees are not included; you pay these in cash directly to your guide on the day.

Is hotel pickup provided for this private boat tour?

The tour includes private transportation but check with your operator if hotel pickup is arranged or if you meet at their office.

Can children or infants join this boat trip?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed and specialized infant seats are available.

Will we have time to swim during the tour?

Yes—you’ll swim at Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and can take another dip after lunch on Phi Phi Don or at Koh Rang Yai beach.

Are drinks or snacks provided during the trip?

Bottled water, soda/pop, snacks and fresh fruit are included throughout your day.

What’s included

Your day includes private speedboat transportation between Phuket and all stops; use of snorkeling equipment; bottled water; soft drinks; snacks; fresh fruit breaks; canoeing guided by local staff in Phang Nga Bay (included); plus a casual Thai lunch overlooking the bay on Phi Phi Don before returning via Koh Rang Yai as sunset falls across the water.