Phuket: Try SCUBA DIVING Full Day Experience 2 Dives

Phuket: Try SCUBA DIVING Full Day Experience 2 Dives – A Detailed Review

If you’re dreaming of exploring the vibrant underwater scene around Phuket but aren’t yet certified or experienced, this Try Scuba Diving trip with SSI Dive Center Aum Scuba might just be your perfect introduction. It offers a chance to breathe underwater, see incredible marine life, and gain confidence—all within a well-organized day of adventure.

What we love about this experience is its small group setting—only two participants per instructor, which means personalized attention. The expert guides like Nigel and Aum are frequently praised for their friendliness and professionalism. Plus, the stunning backdrop of Racha Yai Island provides an unforgettable underwater canvas. That said, the trip does involve a fair amount of traveling, with boat rides and transfers, which might be a consideration for those prone to seasickness or with tight schedules.

This activity is ideal for beginners, families, or anyone over 12 years who wants to experience the thrill of breathing underwater without needing certification. However, it’s worth noting that people with certain health conditions or pregnant women should reconsider. Overall, if you’re after a safe, fun, and visually spectacular half-day adventure, this tour fits the bill.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Beginner-friendly: No prior experience needed, perfect for first-timers.
• Small group: Max two divers per instructor for personalized guidance.
• All-inclusive: Equipment, insurance, breakfast, lunch, and transfers included.
• Flexible timing: Around 10 hours, with pickup from several popular locations.
• Marine beauty: Explore vibrant reefs and marine life at Racha Yai Island.
• Safety and comfort: Experienced instructors ensure confidence and security.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Easy Pickup and Transfer

The experience kicks off with hotel pickups from key locations like Karon, Rawai, and Patong. The free transport simplifies logistics, which can often be a headache on other tours. Expect a 30-minute van ride to Chalong Pier, where the adventure truly begins. This part of the trip is comfortable and allows travelers to get into the relaxed Phuket vibe before heading out to the islands.

The Boat Ride to Racha Yai

A scenic 1.5-hour boat cruise takes you from Chalong to Racha Yai Island. Expect the boat to be well-organized, with friendly staff handling the logistics. This stretch can be quite enjoyable if you enjoy sea breezes and ocean views. Reviewers mention the boat ride is a highlight, offering a taste of island life and a good opportunity to get excited for the underwater portion.

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Familiarization and First Dive

Once on Racha Yai, the focus shifts to learning basic diving skills under the supervision of your SSI instructor—most notably Nigel or Aum, who earn high praise for their patience and expertise. You’ll undergo a briefing on safety, equipment, and the fundamentals of breathing underwater.

Your first dive lasts about 50 minutes and takes place at a maximum depth of 12 meters. The purpose here is familiarization—getting comfortable with the equipment and the sensation of breathing underwater. From reviews, it’s clear that Nigel’s explanations are clear, and he helps even the most nervous divers feel at ease. Expect to see a variety of marine life, with some reviewers mentioning the crystal-clear visibility and vibrant coral reefs.

Break, Lunch and Relaxation

After the first dive, you’ll have around 75 minutes for a well-deserved break and a hearty lunch. The included meal is typically a buffet with soft drinks, tea, and coffee—giving you energy and hydration for the second dive. This downtime also allows you to chat with fellow participants, share impressions, and soak in the island ambiance.

The Second Underwater Adventure

Following lunch, you’ll gear up for your second dive, again lasting up to 50 minutes. Many reviewers highlight that the second dive feels more playful and freer, as you’ve already gained some comfort with the equipment. Marine life is abundant, and the reefs are full of colorful fish and corals. This part of the trip is often described as fun and exhilarating, with comments like “the second dive was even better than the first”—especially when you realize you’re breathing underwater comfortably.

Return Journey and Drop-off

The trip wraps up with the boat cruise back to Chalong, then a comfortable 30-minute van ride to your hotel. The entire day runs smoothly, with most guests finishing around 4-4:30 pm, ready to share their stories and plan their next aquatic adventure.

What Makes This Experience Stand Out?

Expert Instruction and Safety

Guides like Nigel and Aum are repeatedly praised for their friendly demeanor and professionalism. They make sure everyone understands the basics, help with equipment fitting, and keep a close eye on safety. The inclusion of comprehensive diving insurance adds peace of mind, especially for first-timers. As one review notes, “we felt safe at all times,” which is crucial for those new to the underwater world.

Stunning Marine Environment

The reefs around Racha Yai Island offer vivid coral formations and an impressive array of marine creatures. Reviewers report sightings of many different fish, and the clear water makes for fantastic photography opportunities. The marine life and vibrant coral are significant draws, making the experience well worth the effort of the boat ride.

Well-Organized Logistics

From pickup to drop-off, everything is smoothly managed. The tour’s small group size means personalized attention, and the all-inclusive package covers transportation, equipment, meals, and insurance—adding convenience and value. Participants also love the flexibility of booking reserve now, pay later, which is perfect for last-minute planners or flexible travelers.

Authentic Experience for Families and Beginners

The tour is accessible for those over 12, including families, as long as they’re comfortable in water and reasonably fit. The age range (up to 70 years) is quite broad, making it suitable for most recreational water lovers. Enthusiasts note that the instructors are patient and attentive, helping build confidence in novice divers.

Practical Considerations

Duration and Timing

The full day lasts about 10 hours, starting with early pickups and ending in the late afternoon. This makes it a full yet manageable day, especially for travelers eager to maximize their Phuket experience without rushing. The last dive surfaces around 3:30 pm, so you should plan your next activities accordingly.

Transportation and Comfort

The journey includes a combination of van rides and boat trips, which might be a concern if you’re prone to seasickness. The boat is appreciated for its stability and friendly crew, but if this is a worry, prepare accordingly. The hotel pickup and drop-off from popular locations like Patong, Karon, and Rawai add convenience, especially for those staying in tourist hotspots.

What to Bring

Participants are advised to bring a change of clothes, towel, beachwear, and cash for extras. Since meals are included and equipment provided, there’s little else needed—just your sense of adventure and a desire to explore beneath the waves.

Health and Safety

You should be reasonably fit, able to swim, and free of conditions like asthma, diabetes, or back problems. It’s also essential to allow 18 hours between diving and flying for safety reasons.

Pricing and Value

At a glance, the price covers virtually everything: transfers, instruction, equipment, insurance, meals, and two dives. For first-time divers or those seeking a safe, guided introduction, this package offers excellent value. The small group size guarantees personalized attention, often a big plus over larger, more cookie-cutter tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for beginners eager to try diving in a safe environment. It’s equally suited for families, solo travelers, or couples looking for a memorable adventure. If you’re comfortable in water, enjoy marine life, and want a hassle-free day with expert guidance, this trip ticks all the boxes.

However, it’s less suitable for pregnant women, non-swimmers, children under 12, or those with specific health concerns. Also, if you are prone to seasickness or prefer a more leisurely, land-based vacation, you might want to consider other options.

FAQs

Is prior diving experience required?
No, this is a beginner-friendly program designed for those with no previous experience or certification.

How long do each of the dives last?
Each dive lasts up to 50 minutes, or until your air reaches 50 bar, at depths of up to 12 meters.

What is included in the tour price?
The package covers hotel pickup and drop-off, equipment, comprehensive insurance, breakfast, lunch, soft drinks, tea, coffee, and two guided dives.

Can I book this tour if I don’t stay near the pickup locations?
Yes, pickup is available from several key areas, and arrangements can be made for other locations for an additional fee.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, participants must be over 12 and up to 70 years old. All participants should be able to swim and be reasonably fit.

What if the weather conditions are bad?
Water transport and dive sites are subject to change based on weather and tides. The operator will inform you on the day if adjustments are needed.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Absolutely, especially for families with children over 12 who are comfortable in water. It’s a safe, guided introduction to scuba diving.

What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes, towel, beachwear, and cash for extras or souvenirs.

How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking early, especially during peak seasons, but the “reserve now & pay later” option offers flexibility.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this Phuket Try Scuba Diving experience offers a straightforward, safe, and stunning introduction to the underwater world. The combination of expert guides, well-organized logistics, and breathtaking marine scenery makes it a compelling choice for those new to diving or looking for a memorable day in the sea.

It’s best suited for adventurous spirits eager to explore without the commitment of certification. If you’re after professional guidance, flexible arrangements, and a chance to see some of the best reefs Phuket has to offer, this tour delivers on all fronts.

For anyone who dreams of floating effortlessly among colorful fish and coral, or simply wants a taste of underwater exploration, this experience is a fantastic way to start. Just remember to pack your enthusiasm and a sense of adventure, and you’ll leave with stories that last a lifetime.

You can check availability for your dates here: