Phi Phi & Khai Islands: Private Speedboat Snorkeling Tour

Summary

Private boat to Maya Bay, lagoon swims and Monkey Beach

You’ll zip by private speedboat from Phuket to Maya Bay’s famous cove before swimming in Pileh Lagoon’s green water and watching monkeys at Monkey Beach. Lunch is included on Phi Phi Don, then there’s time to relax or snorkel off Khai Island before heading back—expect laughter, salt spray, and some moments you’ll replay later.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is how the sea spray tasted—kind of salty but clean—when our speedboat cut across the water from Royal Phuket Marina. It was early but not quiet; the engines hummed and our guide, Nok, handed out cold towels that smelled faintly like lemongrass. She laughed when I tried to say “Phi Phi” the Thai way (honestly, I still don’t think I got it right). The main keyword here is private Phi Phi and Khai Islands snorkeling tour—because having that boat just for us felt different, less rushed somehow.

Maya Bay was crowded in my head from all those movie scenes but in real life, it’s more about light—sun bouncing off limestone cliffs so bright you squint. Nok pointed out where they filmed “The Beach,” which made us all pause for a second. Swimming in Pileh Lagoon after that was like being inside an emerald bowl. The water’s so clear you see your own feet waving below. At Viking Cave, we didn’t go inside but got close enough to spot those weird bird nest racks; Nok explained how locals harvest them for soup (I’m still not sure if I’d try it).

Monkey Beach was next—a mess of macaques darting around, stealing fruit from someone’s bag (not mine this time). Lunch at Phi Phi Don was simple but good: grilled fish with chili sauce and sticky rice. There’s something about eating with sand between your toes that makes food taste better, you know? By the time we reached Khai Island, I just wanted to float for a while and listen to the waves slap against the hull. We ended up lying on towels under patchy shade, half talking, half dozing off.

I keep thinking about that slow drift back toward Phuket as the sun started dipping—not dramatic or anything, just soft gold over water and a bit of windburn on my cheeks. It’s funny what sticks with you after a day like this.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private speedboat tour to Phi Phi and Khai

• Hotel pick-up and transfer to marina
• Speedboat journey to Phi Phi Leh
• Visit Maya Beach for sightseeing
• Swim and snorkel at Pileh Lagoon
• Explore Viking Cave and snorkel reef
• Visit Monkey Beach for photos
• Lunch at Phi Phi Don beach restaurant
• Relax and swim at Khai Island
• Return to Royal Phuket Marina
• Transfer back to Phuket hotel

Top questions

How long does the private Phi Phi & Khai Islands snorkeling tour last?

The tour typically lasts a full day including hotel transfers from Phuket.

Is lunch included during the speedboat tour?

Yes, lunch at a beach-side restaurant on Phi Phi Don is included.

Are hotel pickups available for this tour?

Yes, round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off within Phuket province are provided.

What activities are offered at Pileh Lagoon?

You can swim, paddleboard, or simply enjoy the scenery at Pileh Lagoon.

Can you enter Viking Cave during the tour?

No entry inside Viking Cave; you view it from the boat and learn about its history.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, use of snorkeling gear is included in your tour package.

Are there any health restrictions for this tour?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

What wildlife can be seen on Monkey Beach?

You’ll see wild macaque monkeys living freely along Monkey Beach.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip hotel pickup by air-conditioned minivan in Phuket province, all speedboat travel between islands with an English-speaking local guide like Nok leading the way, use of snorkeling gear and paddleboards if you want them, a simple lunch on Phi Phi Don (think grilled fish and rice), plus refreshments and travel insurance so you can just enjoy every salty breeze without worrying about logistics.