Phi Phi & Maiton Islands: Speed Catamaran, Lunch & Snorkel

Summary

Speed catamaran to phi phi islands with clear kayaks lunch and sunset

You’ll feel the rush of open water on a speed catamaran to Phi Phi and Maiton Islands, relax on Bamboo Island’s white sands, enjoy grilled fish lunch overlooking turquoise seas, drift by limestone cliffs in a long tail boat at Pileh Lagoon, snorkel near Viking Cave, and maybe catch dolphins at sunset—all with plenty of space and good company.

What’s the experience like?

Grabbing a cold bottle of water from the cooler, I found myself grinning at how roomy the seats were on this speed catamaran—nobody’s knees jammed up, just space and that salty wind. Our guide, Nok, handed out snacks with a quick joke about “Thai potato chips being better at sea,” which honestly might be true. The first stop was Bamboo Island, where the sand felt almost powdery under my feet. I could hear someone playing soft Thai pop from a speaker further down the beach—kind of mixed with the sound of waves and laughter from a group trying to take a jumping photo (they never quite got it right).

Lunch on Phi Phi Don surprised me. I expected something basic but ended up with grilled fish that tasted smoky and fresh—plus that view over turquoise water. There was time to wander through little shops; one lady sold these woven bracelets and smiled when I tried to ask her price in Thai (I probably butchered it). After that, we hopped onto a long tail boat for Pileh Lagoon. The way those limestone cliffs just shoot up around you—it’s hard not to stare. Nok pointed out Viking Cave as we drifted past; he said locals used to collect bird nests there for soup. I’d never heard of that before.

Maya Bay came next—yeah, the one from “The Beach.” It was quieter than I imagined (maybe because they limit tourists now), and the sand was so white it almost hurt my eyes. Some people just lay back in silence for a while. Then snorkeling near Viking Cave: warm water, flashes of yellow fish everywhere. I tried paddle boarding but mostly just spun in slow circles—still fun though. On the way back toward Maithon Island, everyone got quiet watching the sun drop behind the horizon. Someone thought they saw dolphins but maybe it was wishful thinking—I’m still not sure.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Phi Phi and Maiton Islands Tour

• Arrive at Bamboo Island beach
• Snorkel and kayak in clear water
• Visit Maya Bay white sand beach
• Long tail boat sightseeing at Pileh Lagoon
• Buffet lunch and shopping on Phi Phi Don
• Enjoy sunset at Maiton Island

Top questions

How long is the full-day Phi Phi & Maiton islands tour?

The tour lasts a full day with multiple stops including Bamboo Island, Phi Phi Don for lunch, Pileh Lagoon by long tail boat, Maya Bay, snorkeling near Viking Cave, and sunset at Maithon Island.

Is lunch included on this speed catamaran tour?

Yes, buffet lunch is included on Phi Phi Don island as part of your day trip.

Are snorkeling equipment and kayaks provided?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment as well as clear kayaks and paddle boards are included in your booking.

Does this tour include visiting Maya Bay?

The tour includes Maya Bay except during August and September when it is closed for nature restoration by authorities.

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?

No specific mention of hotel pickup; public transportation options are available nearby for reaching departure point.

Are drinks provided during the trip?

Soda/pop and bottled water are provided throughout the day.

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap; not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal/cardiovascular issues.

What makes this speed catamaran different from other boats?

This catamaran is designed for only 52 people instead of 70-80 like most boats—so there’s more space and comfort onboard.

What’s included

Your day includes all landing fees and facility charges, bottled water and soft drinks throughout the journey, snacks onboard, buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don overlooking the bay, use of snorkeling gear plus clear kayaks and paddle boards, sightseeing by traditional long tail boat at Pileh Lagoon—and plenty of room to stretch out on the speed catamaran before returning at sunset.