Annual closure of Maya Bay, August 1 to September 30. During the monsoon, Maya Bay is closed to landing by the national park. During this period, we admire the bay from the water and swimming/snorkeling is done at Pileh Lagoon and Loh Samah; the rest of the program is unchanged.
Why leave early in the morning
Maya Bay is one of the most photographed beaches in the world, and one of the busiest during the middle of the day. By leaving in the morning, you enjoy soft light, calm water and a much quieter atmosphere than during rush hours.
Meet at our office at 6:30 a.m.. Quick briefing, then we join the boat together for a full morning around Phi Phi Leh.
Small group · 15 seats, 4 departures a week
The Morning Maya departs on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, on our own boat, with 15 travelers maximum per departure. Concretely:
Room on board. You don't jostle with strangers.
Your own snorkeling spots. The guide does not supervise a herd: he finds the best spots and stays with you.
Everyone has their photos. The guide knows the light and the good times.
Included on board
Fresh fruits (watermelon, pineapple) and drinks (Coke, Sprite, water) served during the morning. Snorkeling equipment provided and disinfected between each outing. Photos shared the same day via WhatsApp.
Please note: Maritime National Park fees (400 THB adult / 200 THB child) are not included and must be paid on site in cash.
Take away
- SPF 50+ sunscreen, to be reapplied in water.
- Towel (we have extra on board).
- Waterproof bag for valuables.
- Phone in waterproof pouch.
- A light layer: the morning boat is fresh.
- Cash for national park fees.
Our team
More than 8 years guiding on Phi Phi. French and English speaking. Knows the reefs by name. TAT license, insured, trained in maritime safety. Our team responds quickly on WhatsApp, even early in the morning.
Detailed programme
06h30
Meet at the office
Welcome at our office, safety briefing, then short journey to the boat.
06h45
Departure
Boarding and departure towards Phi Phi Leh in the morning light.
07h15
Maya Bay
Arrival at Maya Bay early in the morning. Photos and limestone cliffs in soft light. (From August 1 to September 30, Maya Bay is closed to disembarkation: you can admire it from the water, swimming in Pileh and Loh Samah.)
07h50
Loh Samah Bay
Sheltered cove at the back of Phi Phi Leh. Calm water, first snorkeling.
08h20
Pileh Lagoon
Emerald lagoon surrounded by high cliffs. Swimming and photos in turquoise water.
09h00
Snorkeling · Table Coral & Coral City
The most beautiful coral gardens around. Shallow water reef fish.
09h45
Viking Cave
Passage in front of the Viking cave and its scaffolding for collecting swallows' nests.
10h10
Wang Long Bay
Spectacular bay between cliffs. Last calm swim.
10h35
Monkey Bay
Stop at the monkey beach before returning to the pontoon.
11h00
Return to the pontoon
Return to Tonsai Pier around 11:00.
Included / Not included
Included
- Private boat small group (15 seats maximum)
- Insured captain and TAT licensed
- French and English speaking guide on board
- Fresh fruit on board (watermelon, pineapple)
- Drinks on board (Coke, Sprite, water)
- Snorkeling equipment (mask, fins, vest)
- Photos shared via WhatsApp
Not included
- Maritime National Park Fee (400 THB adult / 200 THB child), payable on site in cash
- Transfer hotel ↔ office / Tonsai Pier
- GoPro/personal underwater camera
- Seasickness tablets (Dramamine, available at 7-Eleven)
Before you go
Good to know
Prone to seasickness?
Take a tablet ~30 min before departure, sit mid-boat, keep your eyes on the horizon and avoid heading out on an empty stomach.
Beat the crowds
Iconic spots like Maya Bay are far calmer early in the day. Our morning departures get you there before the midday ferry rush.
National park fees
Some sites sit inside a national park, so an entrance fee may apply. Check the “Not included” list above so there are no surprises.
Sun & reef care
The tropical sun is strong, bring a hat, sunglasses and plenty of water. Reef-safe sunscreen is required in Thai marine parks.
What to pack
Swimwear under your clothes, a towel, a dry bag for your phone, and a change of clothes for the trip back.