Is it worth going on a private speed boat tour from Phuket to Phi Phi Islands in 2025?

The Phi Phi Islands have long been one of Thailand’s most famous attractions, drawing travelers with their turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and lively marine life. Located about 45 kilometers from Phuket, these islands are often described as the crown jewels of the Andaman Sea. For 2025, as tourism continues to rebound and travel trends shift toward more personalized experiences, many visitors are asking the same question: Is it worth going on a private speedboat tour from Phuket to Phi Phi Islands?

The short answer: yes. A private speedboat tour in 2025 offers comfort, flexibility, and exclusivity that standard group tours simply can’t match. But let’s take a closer look at why it might be the best way to experience this tropical paradise.

Travel trends in 2025 – Privacy and Flexibility

Travel in 2025 is different from what it was a few years ago. Many tourists now value private experiences over crowded group tours. Whether traveling as a couple, a family, or a group of friends, the ability to customize your itinerary and avoid the masses is a huge advantage.

Group tours to Phi Phi often leave from Phuket in the morning with dozens of passengers on board, following a fixed schedule. By contrast, a private speedboat tour allows you to set your own pace, decide when to leave, and choose how long to spend at each stop. This flexibility is especially valuable for travelers who want a balance of adventure and relaxation.

Time efficiency – Getting to Phi Phi faster

Another major advantage of booking a private speedboat is the time saved. The journey from Phuket to Phi Phi Islands takes about 45–60 minutes by speedboat, compared to two-three hours by ferry. That means you’ll have more time to explore the islands and less time in transit.

In 2025, as demand for the islands grows, ferries and shared tours may become even more crowded. Having your own boat ensures not only a quicker journey but also more comfort along the way.

Visiting Maya Bay and beyond

One of the biggest reasons people choose Phi Phi is Maya Bay, the legendary beach made famous by The Beach movie. In 2025, Maya Bay continues to follow strict environmental protection rules. It closes each year between August 1 and September 30 for rehabilitation, reopening again on October 1. When open, visitors can walk on the beach but swimming is not allowed to protect the fragile coral and seabed.

With a private speedboat, you can time your visit to Maya Bay perfectly, arriving early in the morning before most group tours or lingering later in the afternoon when crowds thin out. This makes the experience far more peaceful and photogenic.

But Maya Bay is just one highlight. Private tours usually include stops at:

• Pileh Lagoon – A spectacular emerald lagoon surrounded by towering cliffs.

• Viking Cave – Known for swiftlet bird nests and local legends.

• Monkey Beach – Where monkeys roam freely along the shoreline.

• Bamboo Island – A quieter beach with powdery white sand and excellent snorkeling.

The beauty of a private tour is that you can skip or extend your time at any stop.

Comfort, space, and service

A private speedboat isn’t just about destinations, it’s also about the experience on board. In 2025, many operators provide modern boats equipped with shaded seating, sun decks, fresh towels, soft drinks, and snorkeling gear.

Unlike group tours, where 30–40 passengers share one boat, a private charter is reserved just for your group. Families with children appreciate the space and privacy, while couples enjoy the exclusivity and comfort. Crews on private boats also provide more personalized service, catering to your schedule, helping with snorkeling equipment, and even capturing photos.

Cost considerations

Of course, the main factor that makes people hesitate is the price. A private speedboat tour from Phuket to Phi Phi Islands generally costs more than a seat on a shared tour. Prices often start from around 39,000 THB per normal speed boat and increase up to 47,000 THB for a luxury speed boat!

For small groups or families, however, the cost per person can be surprisingly reasonable when split. When you consider the benefits—flexibility, privacy, time savings, and comfort, the value of a private speedboat in 2025 is clear.

Avoiding crowds in 2025

Tourism to Thailand is thriving again in 2025, and Phi Phi Islands remain one of the country’s most visited attractions. While their popularity means the islands are rarely empty, a private speedboat helps you avoid the busiest times and places.

Your captain can adjust the route to steer clear of peak crowd hours, ensuring a more enjoyable experience. This ability to escape the masses is one of the biggest reasons private tours remain so attractive.

Final verdict – Is it worth it?

So, is a private speedboat tour from Phuket to Phi Phi Islands worth it in 2025? Absolutely. If you’re looking for flexibility, exclusivity, comfort, and time efficiency, a private speedboat is the best way to explore the islands.

Yes, the cost is higher than a standard group tour, but the experience is incomparable. From arriving early at Maya Bay to snorkeling at hidden lagoons and relaxing on quiet beaches, the memories created on a private tour are worth every baht.

For couples seeking romance, families wanting convenience, or groups of friends chasing adventure, a private speedboat tour to Phi Phi Islands in 2025 is an investment in a truly unforgettable day in paradise.