Phi Phi Island Sunset & Plankton Tour Review: Is it Worth It?

Dreaming of turquoise water, postcard beaches, and an experience you won’t soon forget? Maybe the Phi Phi Island Maya Bay Sunset Plankton Tour by Speedboat has already caught your attention, it’s pretty easy to find. That said, before you book, you’re probably wondering if it lives up to the hype. Well, I recently took this very trip and I want to share my honest thoughts. Was it a worthwhile adventure, or could my baht have been better spent elsewhere? Keep reading, so you too can get the scoop.

Setting Sail: What to Expect on the Speedboat

So, the first thing you need to be aware of: “speedboat” definitely says something about how things are going to go down. Basically, expect a brisk ride, a bit of bouncing, and some serious wind in your hair. Typically, tours will pick you up straight from your hotel, after which you will be whisked away to the pier. After a short briefing (listen carefully, they’ve got useful things to say), everyone piles onto the speedboat. This bit, it’s almost certainly going to be crowded, by the way. Space, it tends to be somewhat limited, but the upside is you are out on the open water nice and quick. Speaking of water, seeing that electric blue sea speeding towards the boat can’t possibly be replicated. And in any event, it’s always worth remembering your seasickness pills if you are prone to motion sickness.

As the boat pulls away from the shore, keep watch for the views. Thailand’s coasts, they’re beautiful. It might also be worth thinking about where you want to sit on the boat: up front means getting wet, and the back it usually means a bumpier ride. So, depending on your needs, it is something to consider. Another very crucial thing, try to strike up conversation with your fellow travelers, you will most likely be stuck together for hours!

Maya Bay: A Quick Stop in Paradise

Maya Bay! You probably know this stretch of shoreline from the movie “The Beach”. Though its beauty remains, time is of the essence as tours typically spend very little time here. But hey, the reason why is pretty reasonable; it helps manage over tourism, after all. It is almost too sure, that seeing the crystal-clear water and powder sand with your own eyes, that it feels surreal, kind of like a dream. Since you’ll be battling crowds to some extent, then you’ll have to be very quick with the selfies!

As I was saying, appreciate the views but keep in mind how fleeting this stop usually is. Maybe, just maybe, a quick dip in the water, but this stopover’s beauty lies more in the viewing. In short, take lots of photos, soak it all in, and just breathe that dreamy air, it feels worth the visit. Basically, it does kind of make you understand why it’s so famous!

Sunset Views: Painting the Sky

Right so, as golden hour approaches, the speedboat finds a tranquil spot to watch the sun dip below the horizon, and you do need to see this for yourself. Picture it: the sky ablaze with tones of orange, pink, and purple. That, it paints quite the picture, and everything around feels still, including you. In a way, being on the water actually makes it that much more captivating, you know? This really is what postcards are created from; trust me, there isn’t anything else quite like a Phi Phi sunset.

Now then, most tours provide snacks and drinks to help everyone enjoy this scenic part of the trip just that little bit more, too. Sipping on a cold drink as you observe one of nature’s masterpieces, that, is really what vacations are all about. Just remember your camera, as it would be a tragedy if you had no way to look back on this particular section of the journey!

Swimming with Bioluminescent Plankton: An Otherworldly Experience

Okay, so here we go, what makes this tour special, swimming with bioluminescent plankton. Is that a bit strange to read? Yes, sure, probably so. It’s worth taking the tour to get to this point; you would be unlikely to forgive yourself! Once darkness has fully settled, the boat anchors in a certain spot known for plankton. Plankton, they might be hard to see in broad daylight, but at nighttime, they are quite the spectacle!

Put another way, slipping into the water is something else entirely; it’s like going into a dark space which suddenly sparkles everywhere with tiny stars. So, every movement makes the plankton glow. This truly has the kind of magic that I, for one, think every visitor must feel. The brightness of the plankton is dependent on different conditions and even then, is subject to seasons, however, even seeing a little is totally amazing. Frankly, the experience alone will create memories that can be recalled easily and will last a very long time.

Snacks, Safety and Sensations

Any reputable tour operator really will provide snacks and beverages; that seems to be the general rule here. Therefore, anticipate bottled water, and some fruit, along with some local treats. As well as that, always keep a lookout for the availability of life jackets. I mean, seeing as how it is really important that everyone puts one on while swimming.

Oh yeah, so I almost forgot, sunscreen. Do not forget sunscreen! The sun here is extremely intense, too; protecting your skin should always be top of mind. Now, I’m not sure if this next thing is for you, or if you’ve already done it, but being vigilant always makes experiences better. It doesn’t matter where in this big wide place you are. Oh, and one other super important detail: it is advisable to bring a waterproof bag. No matter how prepared you may feel; protecting phones or anything electronic would be best!

Is the Phi Phi Island Sunset Plankton Tour Worth Your Money?

Okay then, bottom line? This excursion? It’s really worth it for travelers with a touch of daring who do not mind groups. Even though Maya Bay’s visit can feel short, it’s kind of an awesome view that just shouldn’t be missed. Seeing that the sunset view really is stunning; however, it’s truly the bioluminescent plankton swimming portion which steals the show, don’t you think? A few considerations, there’s always going to be lots of people around. As well as that, speedboat rides they tend to be bumpy!

Even then, for an amazing memory – think neon plankton swirling as you move – this trip provides unique recollections worth owning. As a matter of fact, if possible try doing your research regarding different operators prior to choosing one. If it goes wrong you may feel more could have been done. But assuming the company values its guests (as most do); I just know this Phi Phi Island experience won’t let anybody down! You might like your experience so much; there may never be a reason to book another.

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