Phuket Two Islands Trip to Coral & Raya Island by Speed Boat

Travelers looking for a quick escape from the bustling beaches of Phuket often consider island-hopping tours. One popular option is the Phuket Two Islands Trip to Coral and Raya Islands by Speed Boat. While this tour promises a day filled with snorkeling, relaxing beaches, and exciting boat rides, how well does it deliver on its promises? We’ve gathered insights from real travelers to give you the inside scoop.

This tour offers speedy access to two beautiful islands, which means more time in the water and on the sands—certainly a big plus for those eager to explore Thailand’s marine life. Plus, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics hassle-free, especially for busy travelers. We also love the inclusive snorkeling gear and unlimited beverages that keep you refreshed throughout the day. However, a word of caution: some guests have experienced shorter-than-expected stays at Raya Island, which might influence how much you get to explore.

This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers who appreciate guided tours, value convenience, and enjoy snorkeling or beach lounging. If you’re seeking a relaxed, unstructured day, this might not be the perfect fit. But for those wanting a balanced day of sightseeing, water activities, and good food, it hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Speedy transfer: Fast boats make the journey quick, giving you more time on the islands.
• Inclusive snorkeling gear: No need to rent equipment separately—just show up.
• Hotel pickup: Door-to-door service for most Patong, Kata, and Karon areas.
• Limited time at Raya Island: Some reviews mention short stays, so plan accordingly.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides provide insightful commentary, enhancing the experience.
• Cost-effective: At around $99.90, you get a full day of activities with lunch included.

A Practical Overview of the Tour

This tour is designed to maximize your day without the stress of planning transportation or activities. Starting with hotel pickup between 8:00 and 9:00 am, you’ll be transferred to Chalong Pier to begin your adventure. The boat departs promptly at 9:30 am for Coral Island, where you’ll spend about an hour and a half soaking up the sun, swimming, or trying out some water sports (at your own expense).

Coral Island: The First Stop

Coral Island is well-regarded for its soft white sands and clear waters. You’re free to swim, relax, or explore the shoreline, with the added bonus of snorkeling gear included. One guest noted the short visit at Raya Island, but most travelers enjoy the lively marine life and vibrant coral reefs here. The island’s quiet vibe makes it a lovely start to your day, especially if you prefer less crowded beaches.

Transition to Raya Island

At around 11:30 am, you’ll hop back onto the speedboat for the approximately one-hour ride to Raya Island. The journey itself is part of the fun, with the wind in your hair and gorgeous ocean views. Raya Island, also known as Racha Island, is less visited than some other spots, which means fewer crowds and more space to breathe.

Lunch at Raya Island

Once there, a buffet lunch awaits at the Raya Island Restaurant. Reviewers appreciated the generous spread of food and fresh fruit, making for a satisfying break. The restaurant’s location offers a great vantage point for relaxing and watching boats drift by. With the lunch included, you can focus on enjoying your meal without worrying about extra costs.

Snorkeling and Leisure

After lunch, you can choose to visit Patok Bay, Loh Bay, or Siam Bay for snorkeling. These spots are known for their colorful coral reefs and abundant fishes, offering a delightful underwater view. According to reviews, guides often provide insightful commentary about the marine life, but some guests, like the reviewer who wished for snorkeling masks, found that gear availability could be better.

The remaining hours at Raya Island are yours to enjoy—whether that’s sunbathing, swimming, or just relaxing on the beach. As one traveler mentioned, you might find your stay at Raya Island feels somewhat brief, but the overall experience still offers a rewarding balance of activity and leisure.

Return Journey

By 3:30 pm, it’s time to head back to Chalong Pier. The return trip typically arrives around 4:00–4:30 pm, allowing for a relaxed journey home. From there, most travelers are transferred back to their hotels, completing a full day of island fun.

What’s Included & Practical Tips

This tour covers round-trip transfers from your hotel, making it very convenient, especially if you’re staying in Patong, Kata, or Karon (free pickup). For other locations, an additional surcharge applies, payable on the day. The trip includes speedboat rides, snorkeling gear, lunch, and insurance, offering good value for the price of approximately $99.90 per person.

We recommend bringing essentials like sunglasses, sunscreen, a spare T-shirt and shorts, a beach towel, and a waterproof camera. The tour operates with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience but also meaning seats and spots are limited.

Considerations

• The schedule and experience might be affected by weather or safety protocols.
• If you’re pregnant or have certain health issues, consult your doctor before participating.
• Lateness can lead to missing parts of the tour, so arrive at your hotel lobby at least 15 minutes early.
• Some travelers have expressed disappointment about the short duration at Raya Island, so plan your expectations accordingly.

Authentic Insights From Past Travelers

One guest described the guide as “insightful”, which really highlights the importance of knowledgeable hosts. Others appreciated the smooth logistics and the opportunity to snorkel in relatively uncrowded waters. Conversely, a review mentioned that the snorkeling masks were not always available, so if you’re keen on underwater exploration, bringing your own gear might be worthwhile.

The quiet beaches and warm waters are consistently praised, especially by those who value tranquil settings over crowded tourist spots. However, a few travelers noted that the short visit at Raya Island meant they didn’t get as much time to explore as they would have liked.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a straightforward, guided day out on the water. It works well if you want to see two islands with minimal planning, enjoy snorkeling, and prefer having lunch included. Active travelers who love boat rides and marine life will appreciate the focus on water-based activities.

If you’re after a more relaxed, unstructured beach day or a longer experience at Raya Island, you might want to consider other options. But for a well-organized, all-in-one day trip, this tour delivers solid value and plenty of memorable moments.

The Sum Up

The Phuket Two Islands Trip to Coral & Raya Islands by Speed Boat offers a fun, convenient way to explore some of Thailand’s stunning coastal waters. The combination of quick transfers, guided commentary, snorkeling, and a tasty buffet makes it a good choice for travelers wanting to pack a lot into a single day. While the short stay at Raya Island might leave some wishing for more time, overall, the experience is engaging and accessible.

The tour’s value is enhanced by its inclusion of snorkeling gear and hotel transfers, making it a hassle-free way to enjoy Phuket’s marine playground. It’s perfect for those who prioritize a guided, structured adventure with plenty of opportunities to relax and take in the scenery.

For travelers who seek a balanced mix of activity and ease, with knowledgeable guides and straightforward logistics, this trip is a solid pick. Just keep your expectations in check regarding the duration at each island, and you’ll likely leave with plenty of happy memories.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The full-day trip lasts approximately 8 hours, including transfers, boat rides, and island time.

What islands will I visit?
You will visit Coral Island and Raya Island (also known as Racha Island), each offering beaches and snorkeling opportunities.

Is snorkeling equipment included?
Yes, snorkeling gear such as masks and snorkels are provided for free.

Are hotel pickups available?
Most Patong, Kata, and Karon hotels are included with free pickup and drop-off; outside these areas, an extra surcharge may apply.

Can I buy lunch on the island?
Lunch is included in the tour price, served at Raya Island restaurant with a buffet and fresh fruit.

How many people are on the tour?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers for the land transport portion, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sun lotion, a spare T-shirt, beach towel, swimming suit, camera, and any personal snorkeling gear if preferred.

What happens if I’m late?
Late arrivals may be considered no-shows and could be charged a fee or miss parts of the tour.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this suitable for pregnant women or those with health issues?
Participants should consider their health conditions; consult your doctor if unsure.