Coral and Racha Island Tour by Speed boat

Thinking about a day out on the water from Phuket? The Coral and Racha Islands tour by speedboat promises a quick escape to two of the region’s most beautiful spots—ideal for those craving snorkeling, sunshine, and a break from busy beaches. While it offers a straightforward way to tick off some tropical highlights, it’s worth knowing what’s really included—and what might fall short.

Three features we appreciate include the convenience of hotel transfers, the chance for small-group intimacy, and the opportunity for snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Plus, the knowledgeable guides help make the trip smooth and informative. However, some travelers have found the timing tight—with limited time at key locations—which can make the experience feel rushed. This trip suits travelers who enjoy a structured, activity-packed day but aren’t expecting long stretches of relaxing on the beach.

Key Points

• Convenient transfers from Phuket’s main beaches make the day hassle-free.
• Small-group setting enhances comfort and personalized attention.
• Snorkeling in clear waters promises vibrant underwater life for enthusiasts.
• Timings can be tight, so be prepared for a busy schedule.
• Food is included with a buffet lunch on Coral Island, adding value to the trip.
• Weather and tide conditions may alter the itinerary, so flexibility is essential.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Pickup and Transfer

The adventure begins early, somewhere between 7:00 and 8:30 AM. You’ll be picked up from either Patong or Karon, making it easier for most travelers to hop on without extra fuss. The minivan ride is around 30 minutes, giving you a little time to mentally prepare for the day ahead or chat with fellow travelers.

Speedboat to Coral Island

Once at the pier, you’ll hop onto a speedboat—a swift, exhilarating ride that lasts about 15-20 minutes. The boat is designed for speed and efficiency, but keep in mind that rough weather can make the ride bouncy or uncomfortable. Several reviewers mention that a bumpy ride can be a bit jarring, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or have back issues. Ale, a traveler from the Czech Republic, noted that he was injured during a rough crossing, highlighting that weather conditions are a vital consideration.

Coral Island: Beach and Snorkeling

Your first stop, Coral Island, is famed for its beautiful snorkeling waters and lively beach scene. You are given around 3 hours here, which might seem generous, but some reviewers felt this was not enough to truly unwind or explore. As one traveler from France expressed, they felt the time was too short, leading to a hurried experience.

At Coral Island, you have the option to snorkel or relax on the beach. The waters are often described as clear, with vibrant marine life—a real treat for snorkelers. For those craving extra fun, sea sports activities are available for an additional fee, including jet skis and banana boats. The beachside buffet lunch adds a nice touch, offering a range of Thai and international dishes in a relaxed setting, which many reviewers appreciated for its quality and variety.

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Transition to Raya Island

Post-lunch, you’ll leave Coral Island around 1:30 PM for Raya (or Racha) Island, a short 30-minute ride away. Raya is known for its secluded beaches and calm waters, making it excellent for swimming and relaxing. The stop here lasts about 1.5 hours, giving you enough time for a quick dip, sunbathing, or casual exploration.

Racha Island: Relaxation & Snorkeling

Despite the brief visit, travelers love the stunning scenery—the water here is often praised for its clarity. The reviews indicate that guides are helpful and friendly, making sure everyone gets the most out of this stop. For some, it’s a highlight of the trip, thanks to the peaceful vibe and beautiful surroundings.

Return Journey & Hotel Drop-off

Around 3:30 PM, you’ll start heading back to Phuket, arriving at the pier by 4:00 PM. From there, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel, completing an action-packed day.

Practical Details & Considerations

Transportation & Group Size

The small-group tour enhances the experience by avoiding overcrowding, and the speedboat provides swift transit between islands. Still, the total duration is 8 hours, so be prepared for a fairly full itinerary.

Cost & Value

The tour’s price includes transfers, guide service, snorkeling equipment, and lunch, which collectively offers decent value considering the convenience. However, if you’re keen on more relaxed time on the beaches, this trip might feel a little rushed, especially with the timing tight at each stop.

Weather & Conditions

Weather can significantly influence the experience. As some reviews note, rough seas or rain may impact boat rides and the overall schedule. It’s wise to keep flexible and check the forecast before booking.

What to Bring

Pack beachwear, a change of clothes, a camera, and cash for extras or activities. Remember, drones are not allowed, and the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with back or heart problems, or wheelchair users.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One guest from France felt that their time on Coral Island was “just relaxation or snorkeling”, but the longer beach lounging was limited. Conversely, another reviewer from the US praised the guide’s excellent English and clear instructions, emphasizing that the crew made the trip enjoyable despite the weather challenges.

A traveler from the Czech Republic shared that the boat ride was incredibly bouncy, and they sustained a back injury. This highlights the importance of weather awareness and comfort during the ride.

Several guests appreciated the good food and buffet lunch, noting it was more than just a quick snack—adding to the trip’s perceived value.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour caters best to active travelers who want a quick, structured day that combines snorkeling and beach time without much hassle. It’s suitable for those who enjoy short boat rides and guided excursions with a focus on photogenic beaches and underwater sights. If you prefer longer relaxation periods or a leisurely pace, you might find the schedule too tight.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Coral and Racha Islands tour by speedboat provides a convenient way to see two stunning destinations in a single day. The small-group setting, professional guides, and inclusive lunch make it a practical choice for travelers eager to explore without stress.

That said, the limited time at each stop means you’ll want to arrive with realistic expectations—this is not a day for lounging on the beach all afternoon. It’s more about snorkeling, quick dips, and sightseeing. If you’re comfortable with a fast-paced schedule and weather conditions are favorable, you’ll likely enjoy the trip.

For those after authentic snorkel experiences, good value, and hassle-free transfers, this tour is worth considering. However, if your priority is longer relaxation or more in-depth exploration, you might prefer a different, more flexible option.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, including transfers, boat rides, stops, and return to your hotel.

What is included in the price?
Transfers to and from Phuket, a live English-speaking guide, snorkeling equipment, and a buffet lunch are part of the package.

Can I snorkel at both islands?
Yes. Both Coral and Raya Islands are known for their snorkeling opportunities, and you’ll typically have around three hours at Coral and two hours at Raya for water activities.

Is there enough time to relax on the beach?
While there is some leisure time, the schedule is quite packed, so expect a busy day with limited lounging.

What should I bring?
Bring beachwear, a change of clothes, a camera, cash for extras, and perhaps a hat and sunscreen for sun protection.

Are there any activities not allowed?
Drones are prohibited, and the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back or heart problems, wheelchair users, or babies under one year.

What happens in case of bad weather?
Weather heavily influences the trip. If conditions are rough or rainy, the itinerary might be altered, or the trip could be canceled for safety.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is conducted in a small-group setting for a more personalized experience, though exact group size isn’t specified.

Final Words

The Coral and Racha Islands tour by speedboat offers a practical, fun-filled day for those eager to see beautiful beaches and enjoy underwater adventures without overextending their schedule. The combination of efficient transfers, knowledgeable guides, and included meals makes it a good value for travelers looking for an active day trip. Just keep expectations realistic about the time at each stop and be aware of possible weather disruptions. If you’re after a speedy, well-organized island getaway that balances adventure with comfort, this tour could be just what you need.

You can check availability for your dates here: