Discover Phi Phi Islands on a traditional longtail boat

If you’ve seen those picture-perfect shots of wooden boats gliding past limestone cliffs, this is your turn to be in one. A Phi Phi Island tour by traditional longtail boat gives you the most authentic way to explore, just like the locals do. Feel the sea breeze, hear the hum of the engine, and drift from one turquoise bay to the next at your own pace. These tours are perfect if you like slow travel and quiet corners.

Whether you’re snorkeling near hidden lagoons or sunbathing on the bow, it’s a relaxed, no-rush day on the water that feels as real as it gets.

Why go for a Phi Phi longtail boat tour?

Authentic Thai experience

Traditional wooden boats make the journey feel local and personal, offering a slower, more scenic way to explore the islands.

Flexible and relaxed

Most tours are private or small-group, letting you choose your pace and spend more time where you like.

Hidden coves and shallow bays

Longtail boats can reach quiet beaches and lagoons that bigger boats skip, ideal for peaceful swims and snorkeling.

Friendly local guides

Your captain knows the islands best, sharing stories, taking photos, and steering you to the most beautiful spots.

Choosing the right longtail boat experience

Shared tours

Ideal if you want the full local experience without going private. Choose between half-day and full-day options, visiting highlights like Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, and Pileh Lagoon at a relaxed pace.

Recommended experience:

  • From Phi Phi: Maya Bay Longtail Boat Tour with Snorkeling

Private tours

Perfect for couples, families, or small groups who want full control of the day. You can set your route, spend longer at favorite spots, and enjoy quiet beaches away from the crowds.

Recommended experience:

  • From Phi Phi: Maya Bay Custom Private Longtail Boat Tour with Snorkeling

What’s usually included in a longtail boat tour

These tours pack in everything you need for a relaxed island day:

  • Longtail boat ride across Phi Phi’s top spots like Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, and Pileh Lagoon.
  • Choice of half-day or full-day (shared) or 3–7 hour (private) options.
  • Snorkeling gear, life jackets, and insurance included.
  • Seasonal fruits and drinking water are provided on board.
  • An expert local guide to show you the best snorkeling and photo spots.
  • Flexible itinerary with multiple time slots or customizable routes.

Is it safe for kids and families?

  • Yes, definitely. Longtail boat tours are family-friendly and operate in calm, shallow waters around Phi Phi.
  • All boats come with life jackets and experienced local guides who know the routes well.
  • Children aged 4 and above can usually join, though private tours are often preferred by families for extra comfort and flexibility.

What’s the difference between a long-tail boat and a speedboat tour?

Long-tail boat

  • Traditional wooden style
  • Slower, more relaxed pace
  • Often used for short island-hopping tours from Phi Phi Don
  • Better for small groups and flexible itineraries
  • Lower price point

Speedboat

  • Modern, enclosed motorboats
  • Faster—ideal for full-day tours from Phuket
  • Higher capacity of  passengers
  • Covers more ground but less intimate
  • Usually more expensive

Choose a long tail if you want a scenic, cultural experience. Go speedboat if you want to cover more in less time.

Frequently asked questions about longtail boat tours to Phi Phi Islands

No, longtail boats are not suitable for the open sea journey between Phuket and the Phi Phi Islands due to safety concerns. Instead, travelers typically take a ferry or speedboat from Phuket to Phi Phi Don and then hire a longtail boat for local tours around the islands.

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