Krabi to Phuket: A Review of a Private Longtail Boat Trip with a Phi Phi Stop

If you are trying to decide on getting from Krabi to Phuket, Thailand, then taking a private longtail boat trip that swings through the famous Phi Phi Islands might just be something you want to consider. A trip like this turns what might otherwise be just travel from one location to another, into what I feel is a full day adventure. Let’s take a good look at exactly what you might expect, and help you figure out if this kind of transfer is for you. It is not for everyone.

What to Consider When Choosing a Longtail Boat Transfer

First of all, comfort. Are you alright sacrificing a bit of ease for the sake of the views and that sense of freedom that you only feel on the water? Longtail boats, while definitely super charming and Instagram-worthy, usually are not kitted out with plush seating. It’s more likely you’ll be sitting on padded benches, perhaps, for what could turn into a pretty lengthy stretch of time. And, if you are someone who absolutely has to have constant air conditioning, keep in mind that you are going to feel the sea breeze, plain and simple. Also, so you know, the ride might get kind of bumpy depending on how cooperative the sea happens to be that day, so people with back issues might have to think about this trip more. However, to be fair, you could end up on a jam-packed ferry that is full of other tourists; in comparison, the longtail does sound a bit better, is that right?

And then there is the question of time. Going by longtail, Phi Phi and then to Phuket is almost assuredly going to eat up a good chunk of your day, even compared to the regular ferry. However, what you trade in terms of the hands on clock you are going to get back in a very personalized experience. Those ferries tend to run on pretty strict schedules. With a private longtail, very, very naturally, you are more empowered to dictate where you want to linger a bit longer, and which spots maybe aren’t holding your attention as much. Do you know what I mean? What that will mean in practice is more opportunities to take pictures without feeling rushed, and a generally calmer feeling. That’s definitely worth considering, I feel. Oh, by the way, for this particular route, I tend to suggest beginning very, very early. Sunlight really will be your friend for pictures of the gorgeous sea, as well as your best bet against weather that starts to get a bit testy later in the day. Is that okay?

Privacy also figures into this decision. Regular ferries will move many people at one time, that’s a given. A private longtail, as you might have already assumed, allows you the luxury of traveling with just your family or maybe a small group of your buddies. Basically, that’s more elbow room, and certainly gives you more of a chance to relax and enjoy some peace as you go island hopping, I believe. That can really be important if you are using this vacation as a chance to recharge from a fairly demanding life. If, that is, you would be okay without mingling much with your fellow travelers, so maybe something to be aware of.

Making the Most of Your Phi Phi Pit Stop

So, a chance to discover Phi Phi is something you might be counting on. I would advise you and your driver to align yourselves on exactly what spots interest you. For example, Maya Bay (made world famous by the motion picture “The Beach”) will almost certainly appear in a lot of people’s plans, yet keep in mind that it can be very, very busy, particularly at peak hours during the day. So you might ask your driver about times when the crowds generally seem to be more manageable, you see? Or, instead, you can prioritize certain lesser-known beaches and coves, because Phi Phi actually offers an abundance of spots to unwind, quite frankly.

For folks who love snorkeling or diving, you are in luck: Phi Phi is straight up brimming with first-rate sites. Your longtail driver should be knowledgeable about spots with very clear water and fascinating marine life. He should, actually! Though equipment might not be included in every package, ask in advance whether you are required to bring your own or can expect it to be provided. Either way, don’t forget your underwater camera!

That time that you spend on Phi Phi will be yours, so take advantage of the island setting. Grab a delicious meal right on the beach. Stroll around the main island, picking up keepsakes at the little stores. Really take some time to relish the sights, sounds, and tastes, actually. But do watch your time so you can get back to your longtail for the rest of that trip over to Phuket. The goal, after all, will probably be for you to get there at a sensible time. To get there without any extra, or unnecessary complications, really.

What To Watch Out for and What To Ask

Specifically spell out the whole trip with the tour operator prior to handing over any kind of payment. Insist on crystal clarity regarding what’s covered in the cost, and, as well, what exactly is not. It sounds really obvious, yet be super-certain to check on what the plan of action is in case weather conditions get pretty bad, pretty quickly. Get some insights on how experienced the driver is, and if the boat possesses essential safety gear, too it’s almost quite basic. I would certainly consider that peace of mind could be well worth the effort to check.

Bring sunscreen. Have plenty of water handy. Oh, and toss in a hat and maybe some sunglasses, as well. Very important for what could easily become a day out in the tropical glare. Keep seasickness medication nearby if you happen to be susceptible to motion-induced queasiness. That can save the day. And be sure you let someone know about your itinerary, including when they can reasonably expect that you get to Phuket. That will enable someone to raise the alarm in the unlikely instance of a hiccup along the way. Actually, that applies to virtually any trip, does it not?

Negotiating for the price is more or less the norm throughout Thailand, and a longtail trip just for you guys is most certainly no exception. Go ahead and shop around just a little, and also do not feel awkward about trying to negotiate for a more satisfactory price. How much flexibility the tour operator has usually is affected by variables like how long the season has been, and perhaps even the time of week!

So, Is a Private Longtail Trip From Krabi to Phuket for You?

The final judgement. If you are someone who actually values the chance to add some adventure in between Point A and Point B, and, if you are okay with trading absolute comfort for a more personalized experience, then doing a longtail boat from Krabi, to Phi Phi, and finally to Phuket could really create memories that linger for a good long while after the tan lines start to fade. However, yet, if you’re strapped for time, you’re watching every penny, or someone in your group genuinely demands total comfort without any compromise, a standard ferry transfer actually will prove the better solution. Weigh what I have said here and that should probably take you where you need to be!

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