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.
The best comfort/price compromise
For 1,900 THB more than the standard speed boat, you gain:
- Catamaran instead of speed boat (stable, spacious, swimming pool).
- Buffet instead of simple platter.
- Chicken + fruit BBQ on Maiton Island at sunset.
- Private long tail for Pileh (access to the heart of the lagoon).
- Kayak + SUP available all day.
- Sunset at sea + 1h30 more (10am vs 8.30am).
Our advice
If you are hesitating between James Bond Premium and Phi Phi Premium, choose according to your priority:
- James Bond Premium (4,600 THB) → spectacular limestone landscapes of Phang Nga, kayaking in caves.
- Phi Phi Premium (3,900 THB) → Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, more classic postcard beaches.
Both have sunset dinner + catamaran. If you only have one day, Phi Phi Premium is slightly cheaper and more iconic for the film.
Tip: reserve the day before (not guaranteed in high season), or 48 hours in advance in December-February (fills up quickly).
Detailed programme
9h30
Hotel pick-up
Air-conditioned van to the port.
11h00
Catamaran boarding
Installation, welcome cocktail.
11h30
Bamboo Island
White sand, crystal clear water, snorkeling and kayaking. Few people.
13h00
Phi Phi Don · buffet
Thai buffet lunch in a partner restaurant in Tonsai.
14h30
Pileh Lagoon (long tail)
The catamaran cannot enter the narrow lagoon - long tail transfer to access the closed body of water between the cliffs.
15h30
Maya Bay
Passage in front of the legendary site of the film “La Plage”. (From August 1 to September 30, Maya Bay is closed to disembarkation: view from the water.)
16h30
Sailing to Maiton Island
Catamaran on the high seas, free time on deck.
17h30
Maison Island + sunset
Private beach, BBQ chicken + fruit + snacks on board. Sunset over Phuket.
19h00
Return port
Night navigation (boat lighting).
19h30
Return to hotel
Disembarkation and return van.
Included / Not included
Included
- English-speaking guide
- National park taxes included
- Return transfer from hotel (tourist areas)
- Buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don
- BBQ chicken + fresh fruit at sunset (Homemade)
- Water + juice + soft drinks
- Towels provided
- Long tail to access Pileh Lagoon
- Mask + snorkel + vest
- 2 kayaks + 2 paddles
Not included
- Alcoholic drinks (onboard bar, 150-400 THB)
- Crew gratuities
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.