The Best Phuket 3 Islands Snorkeling Tour By Speedboat

Taking a day to explore Phuket’s nearby islands by speedboat sounds like the perfect way to enjoy Thailand’s beautiful waters — but is this tour worth your time and money? While it promises visits to Maiton, Racha, and Coral Islands, along with snorkeling, water sports, and a buffet lunch, the actual experience can vary quite a bit. We’ve gathered insights from real travelers to give you a clearer picture.

What we love about this tour are the stunning island landscapes, the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and the convenience of round-trip transfers from many Phuket locations. On the flip side, some reviewers point out organized chaos and short stays at certain islands. If a full day of island hopping with plenty of flexibility sounds ideal, this might be a good fit. But if you’re looking for a more relaxed or intimate experience, you might want to consider other options.

This tour is best suited for those eager to see multiple islands in one day, water lovers who enjoy snorkeling and sea sports, and travelers on a budget seeking good value. Keep in mind, it’s a group experience with a minimum of 10 participants, so it’s less suited for those craving privacy or a personalized touch.

Key Points

• Multiple Islands in One Day: Visit Maiton, Racha, and Coral Islands for diverse scenery.
• Snorkeling & Water Sports: Plenty of opportunities to swim and enjoy sea activities, with equipment provided.
• Value for Money: At about $48.66, it offers a comprehensive package of transportation, lunch, and activities.
• Potential for Crowds & Short Stops: Some reviews mention overly busy days and brief island stops.
• Guides & Organized Tours: Knowledgeable guides and professional service are noted positives, though organization can vary.
• Weather & Group Size: Expect a maximum of 30 travelers; weather may affect the itinerary, with full refunds possible if canceled.

The Itinerary in Detail

Koh Racha Yai: The Highlight of the Tour

The tour starts early, with pickup from your hotel around 8:00 am, and heads straight to Racha Island, often called one of the most beautiful spots in the area. The ride from Phuket’s Rung Siam Pier is a quick 30-minute speedboat trip, making it a great way to avoid long travel times.

On Racha Island, you’ll find pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and sunbathing. One reviewer mentioned that this is a “superb tour for island lovers,” and it’s easy to see why. The island’s calm, sheltered waters make it ideal for swimming and observing marine life. Expect to see colorful fish and coral reefs, which are a highlight for snorkelers.

However, some travelers note that the stay here can feel a bit long, especially if the group gets held up, or if the schedule isn’t tightly managed. As one reviewer said, the island itself is worth the visit, but the logistics could be smoother.

Coral Island: Snorkeling and a Buffet Lunch

After Racha, the group heads to Coral Island. This stop is known for its white sandy beaches and vibrant coral reefs, which makes it a popular snorkeling spot. The tour includes a buffet lunch at a beachfront restaurant— a key perk for those wanting a hearty meal after some water fun.

During the 2-hour stay, you can enjoy snorkeling, swimming, or simply lounging on the sand. Reviewers have appreciated the well-organized lunch and the chance to relax and recharge. For snorkelers, the waters here are rich with coral and colorful fish, offering a lively underwater scene.

Some reviews mention that the time on Coral Island can be somewhat rushed, with only about an hour or so for activities after the buffet, which may leave snorkelers wishing for more time. If you’re eager to explore underwater in detail, keep this in mind.

Maiton Island: The Exclusive Spot & Dolphin Chance

The last stop is Maiton Island, sometimes called the “dolphin island,” if luck is on your side. The boat arrives here for a quick snorkel session, and some reviewers have caught glimpses of dolphins in these waters, making it an exciting end to the trip.

With just about an hour at Maiton, the focus is on snorkeling and possibly spotting dolphins, depending on the day’s conditions. While some travelers found the time here short, others appreciated the exclusivity of Maiton, which is less crowded than other spots.

Additional Water Sports & Activities

Beyond snorkeling, the tour offers various water sports, including parasailing, which adds an adrenaline rush to the day. These activities are available at Coral Island and give you a chance to enjoy the water in multiple ways.

Transportation & Group Dynamics

The tour provides round-trip transfers from multiple Phuket locations, including Phuket town, Karon, Patong, and others, making it convenient for most travelers. The transportation is by air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort for the roughly 8 to 9-hour day.

Group sizes can go up to 30 travelers, which means you’ll be sharing the boat and experiences with a decent-sized crowd. While guides are generally described as knowledgeable and English-speaking, some reviews mention that the organization could be improved, especially when coordinating the timing for each island stop.

Food, Equipment, and Overall Value

The included buffet lunch on Coral Island is often praised for being satisfying and a good way to refuel after snorkeling and water sports. Fruits, soft drinks, and Thai snacks are also part of the package, which adds to the overall value.

Snorkeling gear and life jackets are provided, making it easier for beginners or those who prefer not to bring their own. The safety measures, including accident insurance, are reassuring, though some reviewers noted that the boat ride can be choppy, especially on windy days.

Considering the price of around $48.66, this tour offers a fair amount of activities, transportation, and food, especially if you’re eager to tick off multiple islands in a single day. However, the value is somewhat dependent on how long you get to enjoy each stop. Some travelers, like Antonio, feel the schedule is too packed, leaving little time to truly relax or explore.

Real-World Insights from Travelers

One traveler commented, “The islands are amazing, but the tour was very unorganized,” highlighting that the experience can vary depending on group size and weather conditions. Conversely, others found it to be “well worth it,” especially for snorkeling and experiencing several islands without the hassle of planning multiple trips.

A guest shared that the guides were efficient and made the day enjoyable, though the short time at each stop can be frustrating if you want to linger longer. The chance of seeing dolphins at Maiton is a bonus, but it’s not guaranteed, so don’t plan your trip around dolphin sightings.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for budget-conscious travelers eager to visit multiple islands in a single day and enjoy water activities. It suits those who don’t mind a somewhat busy schedule and are looking for an active, fun-filled day rather than a peaceful retreat. If you’re comfortable with group tours and value convenience, this is a great way to see some of Phuket’s best nearby islands.

However, if you prefer more time at each location, or seek a more personalized or relaxed experience, other tours might be better suited.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat tour delivers on its promise of island hopping, snorkel adventures, and fun water sports for a reasonable price. The stunning scenery, combined with the chance to see marine life and relax on white beaches, makes it a worthwhile option for many travelers. Just be prepared for a busy day and the possibility of brief stops — planning some personal downtime or a flexible mindset can make the most of it.

The combination of good value, knowledgeable guides, and gorgeous views makes this tour especially appealing for those eager to explore Phuket’s islands without breaking the bank. It’s best for energetic travelers ready to pack their day with water-based fun and island scenery.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers round-trip transfer from various Phuket locations, including Phuket town, Karon, Patong, and more.

What’s the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting around 8:00 am and returning to the meeting point.

Are snorkeling equipments included?
Yes, snorkeling gear and life jackets are provided for all participants.

Can I see dolphins on this tour?
Dolphins may be seen at Maiton Island if luck is on your side, but sightings are not guaranteed.

Is lunch included?
A buffet lunch is served at Coral Island and is generally well-rated, offering a chance to recharge after water activities.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is around 30 travelers, which can be lively but also busy.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Child tickets are available for ages 4-11, making it family-friendly, provided children are comfortable in water activities.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, hat, and a towel. The tour provides water and snacks, but personal items are also recommended.

What are the potential drawbacks?
Some reviews mention overly crowded days and limited time at each island, so patience and flexibility are advisable.

What is the booking process?
It’s typically booked 10 days in advance, and you’ll receive a mobile ticket for easy access.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded, budget-friendly way to explore Phuket’s nearby islands with plenty of water fun and stunning scenery. It’s perfect for those who want to maximize their island time without fuss, but if you crave a more relaxed pace, consider options with fewer stops or longer stays.