Racha and Coral Islands Scuba Tour by Speedboat from Phuket

Travelers looking for a balanced mix of adventure and chill time will find this Racha and Coral Islands tour a compelling day out. Priced at around $95 per person, it offers roughly seven hours of snorkeling, scuba diving, and beach relaxation, all with the convenience of hotel pickup and a professional guide. We’ve gathered insights from past travelers and examined the itinerary to give you a clear picture of what to expect—and whether it’s worth it for you.

One thing we love about this tour is how it combines exciting underwater exploration with ample time on pristine beaches. The inclusion of underwater photos and videos lets you relive those special moments, which is a thoughtful touch. But a potential consideration is the timing and group size—with a maximum of 45 travelers, it’s a relatively intimate experience, but busy days might feel crowded at some spots. This tour fits best for adventure-seekers who also appreciate leisurely beach time, families with older children, and couples craving a mix of thrill and relaxation.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary blending snorkeling, scuba, and beach relaxation
• Professional PADI instructors ensure safety and guidance
• Includes hotel transfers, making logistics stress-free
• Underwater photos and videos add lasting memories
• Maximum of 45 travelers for a more personal experience
• Cancellable up to 24 hours in advance for peace of mind

An Overview of the Tour

This speedboat trip from Phuket takes you to two popular islands—Racha Yai (Ko Racha Yai) and Coral Island—each offering a different flavor of tropical bliss. It’s designed to be a full, action-packed day with enough downtime to soak up the sun and enjoy the scenery. The tour is priced competitively, especially considering it includes transportation, lunch, snorkeling gear, and underwater photography.

The tour starts early at 8:45 am with pickup from select Phuket locations, making it easy to skip the hassle of organizing transport. The boat ride itself promises stunning views, and the itinerary allows ample time for each activity—something not always guaranteed on day trips.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Ko Racha Yai (2 hours)

Your day begins at Ko Racha Yai, a well-loved destination for snorkeling and diving. The highlight here is a guided scuba diving session, with a maximum depth of 10 meters, suitable for beginners and experienced divers alike. Past travelers mention that the professional PADI instructors—like “Master Diver Nui”—make newcomers feel comfortable and confident. One reviewer appreciated the small group size and detailed briefings, which helped them enjoy the underwater world without feeling rushed.

For those who prefer not to dive, Patok Bay offers soft sands and calm waters perfect for relaxing or snorkeling with provided equipment. The crystal-clear waters allow you to see vibrant coral and tropical fish, with some noting the impressive marine biodiversity. The surroundings are peaceful, making it a perfect spot for photos or just unwinding.

Stop 2: Patok Beach and Lunch (2 hours)

After the underwater excitement, it’s time for a buffet lunch at a local restaurant. The included meal offers a good variety of Thai dishes, with many travelers mentioning the quality and freshness of the food. It’s also a chance to talk about the morning’s adventures and plan the next part of the day.

Post-lunch, you can choose to snorkel at Kon Kare Bay or simply lounge on the beach. Reviews suggest that the beach is pristine, with fine sand and clear water. Some guests note that the beach gets busy later in the day, so arriving early helps you snag a better spot.

Stop 3: Coral Island (1 hour)

The final stop at Coral Island provides a relaxing wind-down. Travelers often opt for blissful swimming, snorkeling, or just lying on the sun-kissed sands. The island’s turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs are highly praised for their beauty and clarity.

Guests comment that the Sea activity options are plentiful but optional—so if you’re feeling lazy, you can just chill with a drink in hand. The short time allocated—around an hour—means you’ll want to make the most of it, but it’s enough to feel refreshed before heading back.

What Sets This Tour Apart

This trip offers a well-rounded experience. The inclusion of professional PADI instructors ensures safety and quality for the diving experience, a major plus for those new to scuba or wanting expert guidance. The underwater photos and videos are a thoughtful touch, allowing you to keep visual souvenirs of your underwater encounters.

The hotel transfers streamline the day, removing the stress of logistics, and the timing—starting early—maximizes your time on the islands. With a maximum group size of 45, the tour balances social interaction with comfort, avoiding the overly crowded feeling of some larger tours.

However, the cost of $95.08 per person, while reasonable considering all inclusions, might seem steep if you’re on a tight budget. But when you factor in the quality of equipment, professional guidance, and the additional photos, many find it offers good value.

Authentic Experiences from Past Travelers

One reviewer shared that the guide was very attentive, especially during the scuba session, which made their first underwater experience enjoyable and safe. Another mentioned that the marine life at Racha Yai was more vibrant than they expected, with plenty of tropical fish and even a sea turtle spotted during snorkeling.

Some travelers highlight that timing and weather are crucial—if the weather turns bad, the trip could be canceled or rescheduled. The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before, adding peace of mind.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation: Free hotel pickup is available from key locations like Patong, Kata, Naiharn, Rawai, and Phuket Town. Confirm your pick-up point when booking.

Timing: The tour begins at 8:45 am and lasts approximately 7 hours—plan to be ready early. It ends back at the meeting point, so consider your transportation plans afterward.

Group Size & Safety: Limited to 45 travelers, making the experience more personal. Participants aged 10 and above in good health are welcome to join, with specific restrictions for scuba diving and sea walker activities.

What to Bring: Sunscreen, towel, hat, and waterproof camera. Snorkel gear is provided, but you can bring your own if you prefer.

Additional expenses: Extra fees apply for certain locations—THB 100 or THB 200—if you wish to visit other beaches or spots not included in the standard itinerary.

The Sum Up

This Racha and Coral Islands tour offers a compelling balance of underwater adventure and beach relaxation. The professional guidance, quality equipment, and thoughtful extras like underwater photos make it appealing for those wanting a memorable day in Phuket’s waters. The small group size and flexible options mean you’re less likely to feel overwhelmed, and the scenic stops promise plenty of stunning views.

It’s best suited for families with older children, couples, or groups who want to see vibrant coral reefs, enjoy safe scuba experiences, and unwind on beautiful beaches—all in one day. If you’re after a well-organized, value-packed trip with plenty of opportunities to photograph underwater wildlife, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel transfers from Phuket, a buffet lunch, snorkeling equipment, life jackets, professional PADI instructors, underwater photos and videos, and accident insurance.

What are the main activities?
You’ll snorkel and scuba dive at Ko Racha Yai, enjoy beach time and lunch, then relax or snorkel again at Coral Island.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers aged 10 and above in good health can participate, especially those interested in snorkeling and relaxed beach activities.

How long does the trip last?
Approximately 7 hours from pickup to drop-off, starting at 8:45 am.

Are there extra costs involved?
Yes, small additional fees apply if visiting certain beaches or spots outside the standard itinerary (THB 100–THB 200). Personal expenses and tips are not included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, waterproof camera, and a towel. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you may prefer your own.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

The Racha and Coral Islands tour provides a well-rounded, scenic, and safe way to enjoy Phuket’s marine treasures. It’s a great pick for those who want a mix of underwater adventure and relaxing beach days, all with the convenience of organized transfers and professional guidance.