Phuket: Coral and racha Islands Snorkeling Trip with Lunch

Exploring Phuket’s Coral and Racha Islands: A Practical Guide

Planning a day trip around Phuket’s stunning islands? We’ve looked into the Coral and Racha Islands snorkeling tour offered by Seven Plus Travel, and here’s what you need to know. This full-day speedboat adventure promises a combination of calm beaches, vibrant reefs, and Thai hospitality—all for around $53 per person.

What immediately catches the eye is the fast speedboat ride, which maximizes your time on the islands instead of spending hours in transit. Plus, the inclusion of hotel transfers (for certain areas) makes the whole experience feel smooth and hassle-free. The tour also offers snorkeling gear, a Thai buffet lunch, and opportunities to soak up the sun in peaceful surroundings.

However, not every review is glowing—some travelers have expressed disappointment with waiting times and group management. So, this trip is best suited for those seeking a lively, guided day with plenty of aquatic activity rather than a quiet secluded escape. It’s ideal for couples, families, and anyone wanting a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation without breaking the bank.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Fast boat transfer means more island time and less sitting in transit.
• Vibrant reefs and calm beaches are perfect for snorkeling and relaxing.
• Inclusive amenities like lunch, soft drinks, and snorkeling gear add value.
• Potential for long wait times at the meeting point and on the boat, so patience is key.
• Suitable for families and couples, but less so for those prone to seasickness or with mobility issues.
• The overall value hinges on your desire for a lively, guided day rather than a private or tranquil experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Coral & Racha Islands Snorkeling Trip

This tour kicks off early, with hotel pickups in select Phuket zones, setting the stage for a full day of island exploring. The journey begins at Chalong Pier, where anticipation builds for the speedboat ride to two of Phuket’s most loved spots: Coral Island and Racha Island.

The Speedboat Ride: More Than Just Transportation

Travelers often praise the speedboat for its speed and the thrill of the ride. It’s designed to cut down on travel time, meaning you spend less time in transit and more time in the water or on the beach. The boat is spacious enough for the group, but reviews highlight the importance of patience—especially if the boat is crowded.

Coral Island: Calm Waters and White Sands

The first stop is Coral Island, renowned for its soft white sand beaches and gentle waves. It’s a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, or trying optional water sports. The calm waters make it perfect for families or less confident swimmers. Many appreciate the tranquil environment, which offers a break from the bustling Phuket scene.

One traveler mentioned, “Good support, attentive, very nice day spent,” which suggests the staff aim to make the experience enjoyable. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to relax or engage in water activities if you choose.

Racha Island: Vibrant Reefs and Snorkeling

Next, the focus shifts to Racha Island, famous for its vibrant coral reefs and crystal-clear waters. Snorkeling here is the main event, with full gear provided—masks, snorkels, and life jackets. The tour guides often take visitors to Patok Bay, Lah Bay, or Siam Bay, where marine life thrives.

One reviewer described the snorkeling experience as “discovering colorful marine life and coral reefs,” emphasizing the beauty beneath the surface. The clear water and lively reefs are a real highlight, especially for those who love seeing fish, coral, and even turtles. Guides are attentive and ensure safety, but the overall experience depends on weather and sea conditions.

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Lunch and Leisure Time

A buffet lunch is included, served at a beachfront restaurant. The meal is typically Thai cuisine, offering a taste of local flavors. After lunch, there’s free time to explore the beaches, swim, or simply relax in the sun.

The reviewer who called the day “very nice” appreciated the seafront setting and the relaxed pace. However, others have noted that the afternoon swimming was shortened due to scheduling delays, so punctuality might influence your experience.

Return Journey and Onboard Refreshments

The trip back to Chalong Pier features tropical fruits and soft drinks, a small but appreciated perk. The entire day wraps up with a scenic cruise and the convenience of hotel transfers (for select areas), making for a smooth end to a busy day.

Practical Details and Tips for Your Trip

• Timing: Expect an early morning pickup and a full day’s commitment. The tour’s emphasis on maximizing island time is a plus for those who dislike long transit periods.
• Pricing and Value: At $53, the trip offers a decent balance of activities and amenities. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, lunch, and transfers means most expenses are covered upfront.
• Group Size: While not explicitly stated, reviews imply a sizable group, which could impact the intimacy of the experience. Patience and flexibility are key, especially during busy seasons.
• What to Bring: Pack a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, camera, and a change of clothes. Seasickness medication might be wise—some reviews suggest that the boat ride can be bumpy.
• Restrictions: The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, non-swimmers, people with back problems, or seasickness-prone travelers. It’s also not ideal for those seeking a private or tranquil escape.
• Environmental Responsibility: Travelers are reminded not to touch marine life or feed fish and turtles, helping preserve the delicate ecosystems of these islands.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

One review reflected a disappointing experience, citing long waits at the meeting point, crowded boats, and a lack of detailed guidance. The reviewer felt like “receiving orders all day,” and was annoyed by the tip bucket passed around—a reminder that organizational hiccups can impact enjoyment.

On the brighter side, another traveler described the day as “very nice,” highlighting the supportive staff and the beautiful scenery. This variation suggests that the experience can differ depending on the group size, guide attentiveness, and weather conditions.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is a solid choice if you’re after a lively, well-organized day with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, sunbathe, and enjoy Thai cuisine. It’s best suited for families, couples, or groups who appreciate guided tours and don’t mind sharing the boat with others.

However, if you’re seeking quiet solitude or have mobility issues, this might not be the ideal option. Likewise, travelers prone to seasickness should consider medication beforehand, as the speedboat ride can be choppy.

Final Thoughts

The Coral and Racha Islands snorkeling trip with lunch offers a balanced blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural flavor—all at a reasonable price. The highlight is the crystal-clear waters and vibrant reefs, perfect for snorkelers eager to see marine life up close.

While organizational issues and group size might detract from the experience for some, the tour’s inclusion of lunch, transfers, and gear makes it a convenient choice for those looking to explore Phuket’s marine surroundings without fuss.

For travelers who enjoy guided excursions with a mix of activity and relaxation, this tour provides a worthwhile day out. Just pack your patience, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel transfers are provided for select areas in Phuket, making the start and end of your day more convenient.

How long is the boat ride?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, the tour emphasizes a fast speedboat to maximize island time, so expect a shorter travel time compared to traditional boats.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, camera, and possibly a change of clothes. Seasickness medication might be helpful if you’re prone to motion sickness.

Are the snorkeling masks and gear included?
Yes, full snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, life jacket) is provided, allowing you to focus on enjoying the underwater scenery.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for families, but consider the sea conditions and the physical demands of snorkeling and boat rides.

What is the lunch like?
A Thai buffet lunch is served at a beachfront restaurant, offering local flavors and a relaxing break during the day.

Are there water sports available at Coral Island?
Water sports are optional and not included in the tour price. You might find additional activities available for an extra fee.

What if I don’t want to snorkel?
The tour mainly revolves around snorkeling and beach relaxation. If you prefer not to snorkel, you can relax on the beach or enjoy the scenery.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility to adjust your plans.

This coral and Racha Islands tour offers a practical, fun-filled day for those eager to experience Phuket’s marine beauty without fuss. With a good balance of guided activities and free time, it’s a solid choice for a memorable island adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: