Small Groups of 20 people – Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands with Lunch

I’ll be honest – when I first saw Maya Bay (yes, the Leonardo DiCaprio beach from “The Beach”), I understood the hype. The contrast between those bright blue waters and white sand is pretty spectacular, even with other tour groups around. But what really made this day special was floating in Pileh Lagoon’s emerald waters, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs that feel like they’re closing in around you. The water is so clear you can see your fins cutting through it, and the silence broken only by gentle waves lapping against the rocks creates this incredibly peaceful moment. Watching the monkeys at Monkey Beach was entertaining too – they really do swim and jump around fearlessly, though they’re clearly used to tourists by now.

V. Marine Tour keeps things well-organized with groups capped at 15 people (despite the tour name mentioning 20). Your day starts with hotel pickup, then a quick safety briefing with light snacks before heading out. The pace feels relaxed – you get a full hour each at Bamboo Island for snorkeling and Maya Bay for photos, plus 30 minutes in Pileh Lagoon. The lunch buffet overlooking the sea mixes Thai dishes with international options, and they provide all snorkeling gear including a waterproof phone case. Your guide explains the significance of Viking Cave where birds build nests for the famous bird’s nest soup. The boat has restrooms onboard, which is definitely appreciated during the 9.5-hour adventure.

Insider Tip: Book this tour for early morning departure if possible – you’ll hit the popular spots before the afternoon rush of day-trippers arrives, making for better photos and a more relaxed experience.

This tour suits most fitness levels since it’s rated as easy, but skip it if you have heart problems, back issues, or you’re pregnant. The 4.8/5 rating from 267 reviews speaks to its consistency. Weather can derail plans during monsoon season, though they offer rescheduling. At $113 from your hotel with everything included except drinks and park fees, it’s solid value for hitting all the iconic Phi Phi spots in one day.

Safety Tip: The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with cardiovascular issues, spinal injuries, or pregnant women – take these warnings seriously as you’ll be in and out of boats and swimming in open water.