Phuket: Racha Islands 3 scuba dives boat trip PADI GoPro

Exploring Phuket’s Racha Islands: A Practical Guide to the 3 Dive Boat Trip

If you’re looking to add some serious underwater adventure to your Phuket trip, the Racha Islands tour by Marine Guru is worth considering. This full-day outing offers a combination of guided dives, snorkeling, and a chance to explore local wrecks—all in a comfortable, well-organized setting. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a first-timer, this trip aims to cater to different levels with engaging guides and varied dive sites.

What we love about this experience? First, the fact that it features three fun dives at pristine coral sites, with options for beginners to certified divers. Second, the inclusion of artificial reefs and wrecks makes it more than just a standard reef tour—there’s an element of discovery and marine conservation in the mix. Lastly, the professional guides who speak multiple languages and prioritize safety make the journey both enjoyable and trustworthy.

A small caveat? The tour is quite long at 11 hours, which might be tiring for some. Plus, it’s not suitable for children under 10 or travelers with mobility or health issues, so it’s best suited for those ready for a full day of activity. This tour will appeal most to those wanting quality diving experiences with knowledgeable instructors and a good variety of underwater sights.

Key Points

• Diverse dive sites with coral reefs, wrecks, and artificial reefs
• Suitable for different experience levels including first-timers with PADI Discover Scuba options
• Professional multilingual guides ensure safety and education
• All-inclusive transportation from key Phuket locations adds convenience
• Long duration offers a comprehensive day, perfect for dedicated divers
• Limited age and health restrictions make it accessible only to certain travelers

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Racha Islands Boat Trip

The Setting: Why Racha Islands?

Just 15 kilometers south of Phuket, Koh Racha Yai and Racha Noi are famed among locals and visitors alike for their gentle, clear waters and abundant marine life. The islands are perfect for anyone craving easy, shallow bays and vibrant coral gardens. They’re sheltered enough that diving is possible year-round, even during Phuket’s windier seasons, especially on the east side where most dive sites are located.

Despite their small size—roughly 3.5 km long and 1.5 km wide—the islands pack a punch with around 6 main dive spots. The protected nature of the bays means you’ll find calm, buoyant waters that are ideal for beginners and experienced divers alike.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Pickup and Transfer
The day kicks off with pickup from five locations: Patong, Kamala, Kathu, Chalong, and Karon. The shared vans are relatively quick—about an hour—allowing you to relax and get familiar with your fellow travelers. It’s a convenient way to start the adventure without worrying about logistics.

Boat Journey & Breakfast
Once at Chalong Pier, you’ll board a comfortable boat that whisks you away to the islands. Expect a meal onboard—a good chance to fuel up before your dives. The boat ride offers scenic views and the chance to meet your dive guides, who are friendly and often multilingual.

First Dives & Marine Exploration
The early dives focus on pristine coral reefs and artificial reefs, created to promote marine life. Reviewers have noted the vibrant corals and clear water, ideal for both underwater photography and just soaking in the scenery. One diver pointed out, “We loved the way the artificial reefs created a new habitat for marine creatures, making the dives both beautiful and meaningful.”

Snacks & Second & Third Dives
After the initial dives, you’ll enjoy local snacks—think tropical fruits and light refreshments—before moving on for two more dives, possibly including a local wreck. The wrecks are small but interesting, adding variety to the underwater landscape. One guest shared that exploring the wreck was a highlight, giving a glimpse into local maritime history.

Optional PADI Discover Scuba
For those new to scuba, the Discover Scuba Diving experience is included, providing two introductory dives and the chance to earn a PADI certificate. Reviewers mention guides are patient and thorough, making beginners feel comfortable even underwater.

Return & Drop-off
The trip wraps up with a relaxing 45-minute ride back to Phuket, with ample time to discuss your favorites of the day. Drop-offs are available at the same initial pickup locations, ensuring a smooth end to the adventure.

The Dive Sites: What Makes Them Special?

• Coral Reefs: The reefs are teeming with marine life, with some reviewers noting vibrant colors and diverse species. The reefs are shallow, making them perfect for photography and novice divers.
• Artificial Reefs: These are recent additions aimed at boosting marine habitats, and they have been successful, with new sea creatures settling in quickly.
• Local Wrecks: Though small, wreck sites add a touch of history and exploration. They’re often home to different marine life, providing a change of scenery from the reefs.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Will Love This Tour?

Diving Beginners & Certified Divers
The pairing of guided dives and introductory courses makes this accessible for beginners, while experienced divers will appreciate the variety of sites. The artificial reefs and wreck exploration give a sense of discovery beyond the typical coral gardens.

Marine Life Enthusiasts
If vibrant corals and reef ecosystems excite you, you’ll be pleased with the widespread marine activity. Plus, the artificial reefs serve as a reminder of conservation efforts.

Travelers Wanting Convenience
The door-to-door transportation, multilingual guides, and all necessary scuba gear included make this a hassle-free option. It’s a full-day commitment, but one that covers a lot of ground in a comfortable setting.

Those Prepared for a Long Day
At 11 hours, this is a substantial experience. It suits travelers who enjoy immersing themselves fully rather than short or half-day trips.

The Practical Side

Transport & Timing
Transportation from Phuket is included from key locations, which is a big plus for ease of planning. The full-day schedule ensures you get maximum value—three dives, meals, and relaxed travel.

Group Size & Guides
While not specified, reviews praise the knowledgeable guides for their professionalism and language skills. This enhances safety and helps you get the most out of each dive.

Pricing & Value
Considering the three dives, equipment, meals, and transportation, the tour offers good value for serious diving enthusiasts. It’s less about a quick snapshot and more about a complete experience.

Conclusions

This Racha Islands boat trip offers a well-rounded underwater adventure that balances scenic beauty, marine life, and conservation efforts. It’s ideal for divers of all levels who want to explore coral reefs, artificial reefs, and wrecks with knowledgeable guides in a safe, supportive environment. The inclusion of snacks, transport, and multilingual instructors makes it a practical choice for many travelers.

If you love diving in calm waters, want easy access to Phuket’s underwater treasures, and appreciate professional guidance, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s perfect for those prepared to spend a full day exploring the underwater world with a focus on safety, learning, and fun.

However, if you’re after a quick trip or have limited mobility or health issues, this may not be the best fit. But for dedicated divers and curious beginners ready to make the most of their time in Thailand, it’s a thoroughly rewarding experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, it includes options for first-time divers through the PADI Discover Scuba program, with guides providing thorough instructions and support.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and a towel. All scuba gear is provided, but personal items like sunscreen and a waterproof camera are recommended.

How long is the trip?
The whole experience lasts approximately 11 hours, including pickup, boat transfer, dives, and return.

Are meals included?
Yes, you will be served a meal onboard, plus local snacks during the day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for non-divers?
While primarily a diving trip, non-divers can join for snorkeling and enjoy the boat trip, but the main focus is on diving activities.

In summary, this tour from Phuket offers a comprehensive underwater experience with a focus on safety, variety, and convenience. It’s perfect for divers eager to explore the vibrant marine life of the Racha Islands, whether they’re new to scuba or seasoned enthusiasts. With friendly guides, great reef sites, and well-organized logistics, it’s a solid choice for a day of adventure in the Gulf of Thailand.

You can check availability for your dates here: