Phuket Phi Phi Islands Tour: Early Bird Review + Snorkeling Tips

So, you’re thinking of taking that trip from Phuket to the Phi Phi Islands, huh? Like your very own personal slice of paradise awaits, but very possibly shared with a whole load of other tourists, right? Well, that is where the “early bird” thing comes in, and might be what makes this tour a decent option, in a way. I want to, maybe, walk you through what the experience is actually like, covering the good stuff, and you know, maybe not quite so good bits. My take might just help you figure out if the Phuket Early Phi Phi Islands Tour, complete with snorkeling and a buffet lunch, actually suits you, or someone you know, like.

Why Go Early? Beating the Crowds is a Start

Phi Phi? Stunning. Truly! Is that all? The beaches and water are like something from a postcard. However, what those photos almost never show is that they get seriously crammed with people, mostly later in the day, often packed pretty tight. Now, the main advantage of an early tour option, alright, is that you get there when places are a bit calmer. You know, fewer selfie sticks poking you in the face kind of calm. Is it really like that? It gives you that precious time to actually enjoy the beauty, to absorb everything properly and get some space, at least for a little bit, without hordes of other visitors around. You kind of feel like you have had a proper experience of the place. Still, bear in mind “early” doesn’t equal “empty”. This is Thailand! Places are basically never empty, that’s just, maybe, the honest truth, okay?

What’s Included? A Rundown of the Tour Highlights

Okay, let’s run through the tour. Firstly, there’s a speedboat involved. Fun, right? A slightly bouncy speedboat trip. That will get you to the islands very swiftly. You know, saving travel time, but you know, hang on tight, literally! The actual tour should include multiple stops, too. So, things like Maya Bay, where they filmed “The Beach”. Which might be very busy, naturally, even early, but, so, cool to see, basically, that it is real. Monkey Beach, and you guessed it, a place with monkeys! They may or may not try to steal your stuff, by the way. Just you be warned. Then there is Pileh Lagoon, also just a really unbelievable spot for swimming. Does that seem okay? Finally, you also get decent snorkeling at some pretty great spots. That might be just what you came for. A little peek at the marine life. It is so colourful, that it can be pretty exciting for you. Plus, lunch, obviously. Included! This is generally at a resort on Phi Phi Don. I would not call it gourmet, basically, but hey, it is food, when you’re hungry.

The Snorkeling Experience: What to Expect

The snorkeling, to me, that part can actually be a highlight. In a way it is what you are paying for. Is that alright? The water is generally pretty clear, very clear actually, you would probably find, depending on the time of year. The spots they take you to usually have a good amount of sea life. Fish, obviously, maybe some colourful coral too it’s almost certain, that. What is that? Do not expect the Great Barrier Reef, obviously. What are you expecting? But it’s great for the average person. So, pretty enjoyable stuff! The tour people should supply the gear. Mask, snorkel, the flippers. Seemingly, make sure yours fits properly, just like, okay? I think they all pretty much stink of disinfectant, you know, like most hired gear. What else? Oh, you may wish to bring a waterproof camera, possibly. If that is a thing that is in your repertoire. Otherwise, it may just be lost memories, or remembered moments of coloured fish, just possibly, in that instance.

The Buffet Lunch: Setting Expectations Right

Okay, lunch. What is it really like? The included buffet lunch is, mostly, standard tourist fare, mostly. It may include a selection of local dishes and also maybe some things aimed at international tastes, too. I have actually encountered the classic fried rice, noodles, some type of chicken, or fish, something veggie, generally, a sad salad and some fruit. Is that all? So, something for just about everyone in the party to get, if that is the scenario, possibly, but nothing to really write home about, by the way. What is not to like? Quantity trumps quality, very slightly. The drinks aren’t typically included, either, or something like that, I understand. You’ll want to buy your own drinks! I just found that it can be hot work swimming and boat riding. Very thirsty, potentially. Anyway, just be aware! Stay hydrated, and just keep it in your head that you’re not at a Michelin star restaurant and you will probably be just fine.

Potential Downsides: What Could Be Better?

What isn’t great? Well, so, the “early bird” thing assists, mostly. Can it fail though? You will still face crowds. Even starting earlier! Very possibly you are never alone! Maya Bay, especially! You might have to queue to get that picture on the beach! Plus, speedboats, it is not just the bouncing about I described earlier. Could that be true? It is not ideal for the less physically able. Or maybe pregnant people, or something. In addition, sometimes, the tour feels a tiny bit rushed. More or less a whirlwind. A little photo here! A quick dip there! Back on the boat! Is that how it goes? It isn’t always the calm and leisurely experience that brochures like to suggest. That might be the trade-off for seeing a load of stuff in one trip, okay?

Is it Worth It? Final Verdict + Alternatives

So, should you go? In a nutshell, if you like to see Phi Phi Islands, plus also have limited time, plus want to dodge the hugest crowds? Well, this early tour version, it may just be a not terrible option, at the end of the day, for your holidays and excursions in Thailand. Is it really, though? The early start actually pays off in smaller crowds and also in more enjoyable snorkeling. That is what a person is usually coming for! What do they seek? Okay, I am honest. Be prepared that you might face, basically, other people still and possibly be in a little of a hurry. It isn’t perfect, alright. What could you do, possibly, if you were clever? Something like hiring a private longtail boat? Could be great! Might give you full control over where you are, plus, how long you stay, okay? Could be a fair bit more expensive. You should watch out! Doing an overnight stay on Phi Phi Don could assist you to see the sights at times that have less visitors around, okay? Overall? So, this tour! Could be good. I think. I mean, are the Phi Phi Islands going to knock your socks off or what?

Top Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour

• Arrive early at the meeting point. You should also leave a lot of time. Don’t stress the tour company or anything similar.
• Apply a load of sunscreen. Reapply always. Basically, it is hotter than you actually think out on the ocean and very similar locations!
• Take seasickness medication if necessary. Better to be safe on your own boat. So, don’t start chumming!
• Stay hydrated. The sun will take a lot from you! Water can give you that back.
• Respect the local environment. It needs that. And your help to continue thriving. Don’t drop trash and that sort of similar type of action.

The Phi Phi Islands Early Bird tour may have that little slice of paradise in mind, with you hopefully feeling rather glad of your tan, and that of those accompanying you on your tour.

What about booking the Early Phi Phi Islands tour and, for instance, being the person who loves every minute and says that Thailand truly is great? Let your travelling begin, very tentatively. Safe Travels and Happy Adventures!