Dive Trip to Phi Phi from Phuket for certified divers

If you’re a certified diver planning a trip to Phuket, a dive trip to Phi Phi offers a fantastic way to explore some of Thailand’s most iconic underwater landscapes. With round-trip transport, expertly guided dives, and delicious meals included, this tour promises an efficient, well-organized day that balances adventure with comfort.

What really stands out is the small group size—max four divers per guide—which means you’ll get personalized attention and a more relaxed experience. On the downside, this tour doesn’t include dive equipment rental, so if you don’t bring your own, you’ll need to budget for that extra fee.

Designed for certified divers with at least 10 dives logged or recent experience, this trip is perfect for those looking for a quick, high-quality dive day while still enjoying the scenic beauty of the Phi Phi Islands. Non-divers are welcome to join the boat, making it suitable for friends or family members who prefer to stay dry but still soak in the island scenery.

Key Points

• Small groups ensure personalized guiding and better interaction with instructors.
• Three diverse dives at different sites showcase a variety of marine life and underwater topography.
• All logistics covered, including breakfast, lunch, water, and transport, make the day hassle-free.
• Limited equipment rental options mean you need your own gear or be ready to pay extra.
• Experienced guides like Mischa enhance the experience with detail-oriented spotting and photography.
• Ideal for certified divers seeking a balanced mix of adventure and comfort in a single day.

An Honest Look at the Dive Trip to Phi Phi from Phuket

This tour offers a solid package for those wanting to experience the best of the Phi Phi Islands’ marine life without the hassle of organizing multiple logistics themselves. Starting early at 8:00 am, your day begins with a convenient hotel pickup from areas like Patong, Karon, Kata, Chalong, Rawai, and Nai Harn. The air-conditioned transfer ensures you’re comfortable after a morning of excitement.

The Itinerary: What Does a Day in Paradise Look Like?

Once aboard the boat, you’ll enjoy breakfast and a refreshing fruit spread before heading out to the first diving site, typically Koh Bida Nok. This site is renowned for its stunning coral formations and schools of fish, especially snapper being chased by trevallies — a lively start for any underwater enthusiast. Several reviewers, like LucyZ_T, mentioned how the wildlife spotting was exceptional, with her guide Mischa taking photos and pointing out elusive nudibranches—a small but notable highlight that adds a special touch.

After the first two dives, you’ll break for a buffet lunch on the boat, with plenty of choices and a good variety to keep you energized. The surface interval is a chance to swap stories, refuel, and enjoy the spectacular views of limestone cliffs towering above the azure waters.

The second dive might take place at Koh Bida Nai or Phi Phi Leh, depending on conditions. These sites are famous for their distinctive landscapes and vibrant marine ecosystems. Lucy noted how she particularly appreciated the guides’ ability to spot the tiny, macro creatures that often go unnoticed, making the experience more rewarding.

The final dive on the return journey offers a chance to see Shark Point or Koh Doc Mai. Shark Point is known for its pinnacles and the possibility of spotting leopard sharks, while Koh Doc Mai offers a wall dive punctuated with caverns and abundant macro life. Many reviews, including that of Reginald_M, emphasize the diversity of the sites—each offering something totally different.

Guides and Group Size: Why It Matters

One of the most praised aspects is the small group size, often with a personal guide like Mischa. Lucy highlighted how Mischa took photos and videos for her, making the experience memorable beyond just the diving. With a maximum of four divers per guide, you’ll find yourself in a more intimate setting, which improves safety, allows for tailored guidance, and often results in a more relaxed atmosphere.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not?

For just $100.40 per person, this tour is an excellent value considering the comprehensive package. Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, breakfast, lunch, snacks, and drinks, tanks and weights, and personal accident insurance.

However, you’ll need to rent your own dive equipment if you don’t bring your own, at an additional cost of 600 Baht for a full set. Also, the marine park fee is not included, so factor that into your budget.

The itinerary’s timing and organization are designed to maximize the diving experience while maintaining a relaxed pace. The trip lasts approximately one day, starting early in the morning to make the most of daylight hours, and returning to Phuket in the late afternoon.

What Do Reviewers Say?

Overall, reviewers are mostly positive, averaging a 4.4/5 rating. Lucy’s glowing review highlights the expertise of the guide and the stunning marine life, calling the trip “highly recommended” and praising the food, which she described as “yummy and plentiful.” Reginald_M enjoyed the friendly crew and good food, though he did note a slight hiccup with the transfer, which was promptly addressed.

Megan_B, however, pointed out a less-than-perfect transfer experience, reflecting that early mornings and logistical mishaps can happen, but these are often manageable. Kelly H mentioned the boat overcrowding as a drawback, especially if you prefer a more exclusive experience.

The Real Value of This Experience

Beyond the scenic dives, this tour provides peace of mind through included logistics and safety measures. The small groups and personal guides mean you’ll get more attention, making the underwater encounters more meaningful. The variety of sites ensures your underwater exploration isn’t repetitive, and the meals keep you fueled for the entire day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits certified divers who want a hassle-free day filled with excellent underwater scenery, guided by knowledgeable professionals. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a small-group experience that emphasizes safety and personalized attention. Non-divers can comfortably join the boat to enjoy the scenery and perhaps snorkel, though that’s not officially included.

It’s a good choice for those who value professional guidance, good food, and a multi-site itinerary, rather than just a single, long ride to one location. If you’re new to diving or prefer larger groups and more social settings, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts

This Phi Phi day trip delivers on its promise of a well-organized, diverse underwater experience. The combination of premium guides, small group size, and a variety of sites makes it stand out for certified divers seeking quality over quantity. The inclusion of meals, transport, and insurance provides genuine value, especially for the price.

While minor hiccups like transfer issues or boat crowding can occur, they don’t overshadow the core experience—stunning marine life, crystal-clear waters, and the chance to tick off iconic sites from your dive list. If you’re after a trusted, efficient, and enjoyable way to explore Phi Phi’s underwater world, this tour is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-divers?
Non-divers are welcome to join the boat and enjoy the scenery, but the diving itself is reserved for certified divers. If you’re not certified, you can still experience the boat ride and relax while others dive.

What equipment is included?
Tanks and weights are provided, but dive equipment rental is not included. You can rent a full set for 600 Baht if needed.

How many dives are included?
You get three guided dives — two at the Phi Phi Islands and one on the return trip, subject to weather conditions.

What is the maximum group size?
Groups are limited to four divers per guide, making the experience more personalized and less crowded.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, fresh fruits, water, coffee, and tea are included, ensuring you stay energized throughout the day.

What about insurance?
Personal accident insurance is included, providing peace of mind as you explore the underwater world.

How early should I book?
Most bookings are made around 36 days in advance, but it’s wise to reserve sooner if you’re traveling during peak season or want guaranteed availability.

This comprehensive Phi Phi dive trip offers a mixture of adventure, comfort, and value, making it an attractive option for certified divers eager to see the best underwater sights around Phuket.