Racha, Raya and Maiton Islands Snorkeling Tour From Phuket

Travelers often look for that perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and authentic beauty when visiting Thailand’s famous Phuket region. This Racha, Raya, and Maiton Islands snorkeling tour offers just that—an escape to some of the most stunning spots in the area via a comfortable catamaran. While it’s widely promoted as a fun-filled day with plenty of snorkeling and beach lounging, a closer look reveals a mixed bag of highlights and a few quirks that are worth considering.

We love the idea of island-hopping in style, with smooth transfers from your hotel and ample opportunities to explore under the water. The scenic stops at Pirates Beach, Banana Bay, and Maiton Island promise picture-perfect moments, and the included buffet lunch sounds like a great perk. However, there are some concerns about whether the experience lives up to the hype, particularly regarding the island visits’ authenticity and the overall value for money.

This tour is well-suited for travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic day with snorkeling at multiple stops. It’s ideal if you enjoy a mix of sun, sea, and socializing, but those seeking a more in-depth or exclusive experience might find it a bit rushed or commercialized. Still, for a reasonable price, it offers a decent taste of Phuket’s coastal beauty—just keep your expectations realistic.

Key Points

• Multi-island experience with stops at Racha, Raya Noi, and Maiton, offering variety in scenery and activities.
• Comfortable catamaran transportation enhances the day with less fatigue and more stability on the water.
• Snorkeling opportunities at multiple points, including Banana Bay and Maiton Island’s reefs, with equipment provided.
• Hassle-free pickup from Phuket hotels simplifies logistics, making it a convenient option.
• Mixed reviews highlight excellent guides and views, but some question the authenticity of the Maiton Island visit.
• Value for money appears fair, but some feel the trip is more a quick tour than an in-depth exploration.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Phuket Deep Sea Port – Starting Point and First Stop

The adventure kicks off early, with pickups from your hotel around 7:30am. The tour begins at Phuket Deep Sea Port, where you board a speed catamaran that promises a smooth ride. From the start, the vessel sets the tone, offering a more stable and comfortable ride than standard boats—something that many travelers appreciate, especially during choppier conditions.

Pirates Beach – Sun and Snorkel in Paradise

Your first stop is Pirates Beach, a stretch of pristine white sand that immediately invites you to relax. The reviewer “398jackie” commented that the boat was “fantastic,” and the staff was “friendly and informative,” which bodes well for those looking for a smooth, guided experience. Here, you can swim, snorkel, or simply lounge on the sand.

Banana Bay (Raya Noi) – Translucent Waters and Marine Life

Next, the tour visits Banana Bay on Raya Noi, a spot renowned for its clear waters perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Travelers often find this a highlight, as the waters are described as “beautiful translucent,” with plenty of marine life to observe. The reviews don’t specify much about this stop, but the inclusion of snorkeling equipment suggests ample opportunity to enjoy the underwater scenery.

Raya Island – Lunch and Relaxation

After the water activities, a buffet lunch is served on Raya Island, with vegetarian options available. The meal is an important part of the day, giving guests a chance to refuel and chat about the morning’s adventures. Reviewers like “398jackie” appreciated this part, describing the staff as friendly and the experience as “epic.” The opportunity to enjoy drinks and fresh fruits adds to the laid-back island vibe.

Second Snorkeling at Raya Island

Post-lunch, there’s another chance to snorkel around Raya Island, providing a second opportunity to spot colorful fish and coral. The focus here is on giving travelers multiple perspectives of the marine environment while enjoying the tranquil island atmosphere.

Ko Racha Noi – A Dive into the Blue

The tour then heads south to Racha Noi, about 12 km from Phuket. This area is famous for diving and snorkeling, with clear waters and impressive underwater visibility. The reviews note that Racha Yai, part of the same group, is developing into a resort destination, but Racha Noi remains less developed, perfect for those seeking unspoiled scenery. You’re likely to spend around three hours here, which should be enough time to swim along the reefs and take in the stunning views.

Maiton Private Island – A Private Paradise

The final stop is Maiton Island, a privately owned gem that’s rarely open to the public. This exclusivity means you’ll enjoy a pristine, untouched environment—nodding palm trees, golden sands, and vibrant coral reefs. However, one critical review claims that the Maiton Island stop might be somewhat misleading, suggesting that the tour may not always land on the island itself but rather nearby for snorkeling. The two-hour visit allows for swimming, relaxing, and soaking in the scenic beauty.

The Practicalities: What to Know Before You Book

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses a first-class speed boat, which enhances comfort and stability, especially important for those prone to seasickness or seeking a smoother ride. The group typically consists of a maximum of 45 travelers, balancing social fun with enough space to move comfortably.

Duration and Timing

Starting at 7:30am, the full day usually lasts around 6 to 7 hours, which means you’re on the water and at the islands for most of the day. It’s a fairly packed schedule, but the early start ensures you beat the crowds and make the most of daylight hours.

Cost and Value

At approximately $82 per person, this tour offers a reasonable price point considering the transportation, multiple stops, lunch, and snorkeling gear. That said, some reviews suggest that the trip might be more about quick visits rather than quality in-depth exploration, especially regarding Maiton Island.

Considerations for Travelers

If you’re pregnant, it’s best to skip this trip. Also, bringing essentials like a hat, sunscreen, swimwear, and a power bank is recommended, as these aren’t included but are crucial for comfort and safety.

What the Reviews Tell Us

While only two reviews are available, they highlight the contrasting experiences possible. One reviewer called it a “fake trip” because Maiton Island wasn’t visited, feeling the day was a bit of a scam, with an old speedboat and misrepresented destinations. This points to a possible inconsistency in the tour’s actual itinerary versus what’s advertised.

The other reviewer loved the trip, describing it as “an epic day” with fewer crowds and more unspoiled scenery than similar trips like Phi Phi Islands. They praised the boat quality, staff friendliness, and overall experience, suggesting that if you’re prepared for a busy schedule, the tour can be quite rewarding.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re after a cost-effective, scenic day with multiple snorkeling stops and a chance to relax on gorgeous beaches, this tour can deliver. The comfortable catamaran and well-organized logistics make it a good choice for those who want to avoid hassle and maximize beach and underwater time.

However, be aware that some reviews raise questions about the authenticity of the Maiton Island visit. If your main goal is to visit Maiton’s exclusive beaches, this may not always meet expectations. Still, the stops at Pirates Beach and Banana Bay are genuinely lovely, and the overall experience provides a solid introduction to Phuket’s coastal wonders.

For travelers who value guided tours with friendly staff and good value, this trip can be a worthwhile addition to your Phuket itinerary. Just keep in mind that it’s more of a quick tour than a deep exploration—you’ll get a taste, but not an in-depth experience of each island.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, starting at 7:30 am with pickups and ending in the late afternoon.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation via a first-class speed boat, snorkeling equipment, a buffet lunch, soft drinks, fresh fruits, snacks, bottled water, coffee or tea, and a guide.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes, children between 0-3 years are free, and those aged 4-11 pay a child rate. However, pregnant women are advised not to participate.

Can I snorkel at every island stop?
Yes, snorkeling is available at Pirates Beach, Banana Bay, Raya Island, and Maiton Island, with equipment provided.

Is the Maiton Island visit guaranteed?
There are mixed reports—some say Maiton isn’t always visited due to its private status or tour logistics, so it’s not guaranteed that you’ll land there.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a power bank, and possibly your camera (note that cameras aren’t included).

Final Words: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Racha, Raya, and Maiton Islands snorkeling tour offers a fun and scenic day out for those wanting a hassle-free way to see some of Phuket’s most beautiful spots. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy beach lounging, snorkeling, and socializing in a relaxed environment. The good value and comfortable boat make it suitable for first-timers or those looking for a straightforward, enjoyable day on the water.

However, if your main goal is to visit Maiton Island specifically, or you prefer more exclusive, less touristic experiences, this might not fully meet your expectations. Likewise, travelers wanting a more private or in-depth exploration could find the schedule a bit too rushed.

Overall, for a balanced, enjoyable day with plenty of marine sights and the convenience of hotel pickup, this tour gets the job done—just approach with realistic expectations about Maiton Island’s visiting status and the tour’s quick pace.