Full-Day Koh Phi Phi Scuba Diving Course from Phuket

Taking a day to explore the underwater world around Koh Phi Phi with a scuba diving course from Phuket sounds like an adventure many travelers dream of. While we haven’t personally done this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of an experience that offers both excitement and value.

What we love most? The small-group setting promises a more intimate, personalized vibe; inclusive amenities like breakfast, lunch, and equipment save hassle and hidden costs; and the diverse marine life around Koh Phi Phi keeps things interesting, even for those with some experience. However, a noteworthy consideration is the likelihood of crowded boats and dive sites, which might affect your overall enjoyment.

This tour is perfect for those who already have some diving background and want to maximize their time exploring new underwater spots. If you’re after a relaxed, well-organized day with a good dose of marine exploration, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Small-group size enhances personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• All-in-one package with transfers, breakfast, lunch, and equipment offers great value.
• Two dives in different bays showcase a variety of marine life, from turtles to sharks.
• Suitable for experienced divers, as strong currents and waves can occur.
• Convenient pickup from selected Phuket hotels streamlines the day.
• Limited to travelers aged 12+, making it accessible for families with older children.

An In-Depth Look at the Koh Phi Phi Scuba Diving Tour

What’s Included and Why It Matters

For $162.95 per person, this tour bundles essentials like round-trip transfers, scuba equipment, breakfast, and lunch. This all-inclusive approach simplifies planning—you won’t find yourself scrambling for gear or meals after a morning of diving. Plus, hotel pickup from select Phuket accommodations means you avoid tedious logistics, giving you more time to focus on the adventure.

The scuba equipment provided is designed to fit comfortably for a full day, and the breakfast kicks off the day with enough fuel for the dives ahead. Lunch, which is described as tasty, helps recharge after two dives, each lasting around 50 minutes, at depths up to 12 meters (39 feet). Keep in mind, if you have dietary restrictions, it’s advised to communicate these during booking.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

The tour departs early, with pickups starting around 7:30 am at Chalong Pier, giving you plenty of time to settle in. The boat is described as having three levels, which helps prevent the feeling of overcrowding—something that some reviewers noted as a point of congestion but also appreciated the crew’s efforts to manage the crowds. Expect to stay on the boat all day, which means comfort and space are important considerations.

The main highlights are the two dives, each carefully curated to showcase Koh Phi Phi’s vibrant marine ecosystem. You may encounter sea turtles, schools of colorful fish, and even sharks, depending on the day and site conditions. One reviewer shared that despite some perceptions of poor visibility and dead coral, the marine fauna can be surprisingly diverse, including cuttlefish, nudibranchs, and large schools of fish. The guides, often multilingual, are praised for their helpfulness and professionalism, making the underwater experience smoother and more educational.

The Dive Sites: Diversity and Challenges

The dive sites around Koh Phi Phi are renowned for their marine life, but reviews suggest that conditions can vary. One reviewer noted that water temperatures were high last year, resulting in less coral and smaller fish, which can impact what you see underwater. However, they still appreciated the effort and helpfulness of the crew.

Another guest pointed out that the boat was crowded, with many boats vying for space. While this can detract from the feeling of exclusivity, the crew’s organization helped mitigate this issue, ensuring everyone had safe and enjoyable dives.

Food and Refreshments: Tasty and Filling

Breakfast is included, providing a hearty start to the day. The lunch, which is also part of the package, has been described as good, with some reviewers appreciating the quality of the food, especially after a morning of swimming and exploration. If you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to communicate this upfront during booking.

Additional Costs and Practical Tips

One important note is the entrance fee to Phi Phi National Park, which costs 600 THB for divers and must be paid in cash. Souvenir photos are available for purchase, but not included in the package.

It’s recommended to bring cash for this fee, along with any extra snacks, drinks, or personal items you might need. The tour operates weather-dependent, so poor conditions can lead to cancellations or rescheduling, with full refunds offered if that happens.

The Experience: What It Feels Like

Imagine setting out early morning, the sea calm and the boat moving smoothly to your first dive site. The crew, experienced and attentive, guides you into the water, where you’re greeted by the colorful chaos of fish, reef, and possibly a turtle or two. The underwater landscape is vibrant, with soft and hard corals, and marine creatures darting in every direction.

After the first dive, you’ll surface, feeling refreshed and ready for a second round. Throughout the day, the crew shares insights on marine life—some guides are multilingual, making the experience accessible for international travelers. The small group size means you’re not just one of many but part of a tight-knit team exploring together.

By the end of the day, your gear is packed away, and you’ll return to Phuket with plenty of stories, photos (available for purchase), and memories of a day spent discovering the ocean’s hidden treasures.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for divers with some prior experience, as strong currents and waves have been noted. It’s ideal for those wanting a hassle-free day with all logistics handled, freeing you to focus on the underwater spectacle.

It’s also great for travelers who appreciate good food and small-group attention, making the day feel more personalized. If you’re after a straightforward, well-organized diving trip that balances adventure with comfort, this tour ticks those boxes.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In sum, this full-day Koh Phi Phi scuba diving tour offers solid value, especially given the inclusion of transfers, meals, and equipment. Despite some challenges like crowding and variable marine conditions, the knowledgeable guides and the chance to explore diverse underwater habitats make it a compelling choice.

This tour is perfect for experienced divers looking to expand their underwater adventures while enjoying the convenience of an all-in-one package. It also appeals to those who value a relaxed, small-group environment and good food after a day in the water.

If you’re seeking a straightforward, reliable way to experience Koh Phi Phi’s marine life without fuss, this tour might just be the highlight of your Phuket trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
This tour is recommended for those with some diving experience. Strong currents and waves can occur, which might not suit complete beginners. For less experienced divers, a trip to Racha Island might be a better fit.

What is included in the price?
The price covers two dives up to 12 meters, all scuba diving equipment, breakfast, lunch, and round-trip transfers from selected Phuket hotels.

Do I need to bring cash for anything?
Yes, you’ll need cash for the Phi Phi National Park entrance fee of 600 THB and potentially for souvenir photos or extra snacks.

What time does the tour start and end?
It departs at 7:30 am from Chalong Pier and ends back at the same meeting point. Expect a full day on the water, returning in the late afternoon.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance. If weather conditions cause the trip to be canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there any medical restrictions?
Participants need to complete a health questionnaire, and some pre-existing conditions (like asthma or heart issues) may prevent diving. It’s best to consult your doctor if unsure.

To sum it up, this Koh Phi Phi diving trip offers a well-rounded experience for those eager to explore underwater life with ease and comfort. While it may not be suitable for absolute beginners or those seeking solitude from crowds, it balances convenience, value, and adventure in a way that makes it a worthwhile addition to any Phuket itinerary.