Experience Raya Island Tour by Speed Boat from Phuket

This speedboat day trip to Koh Raya (Racha) Island offers a quick escape from Phuket’s bustling beaches to a quieter, more laid-back paradise. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of tropical serenity, combined with the thrill of snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. The tour is priced at around $79.09 per person, making it a relatively affordable way to enjoy a full day of island-hopping, swimming, and relaxing. The experience includes pickup from your hotel, a speedboat ride, and all necessary snorkeling gear, which means less hassle and more time enjoying the scenery.

What we love most about this tour is its concise, well-organized itinerary that balances adventure with relaxation. It’s a great way to see a beautiful island without spending the entire day on transport or in crowded spots. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the trip’s success hinges on weather conditions, which can slightly affect departure times or the safety of water activities. This tour suits travelers looking for a straightforward, fun-filled day with minimal fuss—ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to explore some of Phuket’s best snorkeling spots.

Key Points

• Short and sweet: Around 6 to 8 hours, perfect for a day trip without feeling rushed.
• All-in-one package: Includes hotel pickup, snorkeling gear, soft drinks, and insurance.
• Authentic snorkeling experience: Excellent reef at Khon Kae Bay with preserved hard corals.
• Relaxed vibe: Quiet beaches and rustic surroundings make it ideal for unwinding.
• Good value for money: Affordable price with multiple inclusions, plus optional hotel pickup.
• Weather dependent: Activities may be affected by weather or safety considerations.

An In-Depth Look at the Raya Island Experience

Getting There and Starting the Day

The adventure begins early, between 7:30 and 8:00 am, with a hotel pickup in Patong, Kata, or Karon—no extra charge within a 3 km radius of Patong Beach. From there, it’s a short 30-minute transfer to Chalong Pier, where the speedboats are waiting. The ride itself is quick and smooth, giving you a sneak peek of Phuket’s coastlines, but be prepared for some bumpiness if seas are choppy.

Travelers should arrive promptly, as latecomers risk being considered no-shows or might be rebooked into later slots if available. The group size is limited to 15 travelers for land transport, which means a more intimate experience and less crowded rides, though boat capacity can vary.

The Speedboat Ride: A Thrill and a Breeze

Once aboard the deck of a well-maintained speedboat, the journey to Koh Raya feels like a mini adventure. The ride takes about 30 minutes, offering scenic views and a chance to snap some photos of Phuket’s coast and nearby islands. The crew, including guides from Asia Advisor Thailand, are friendly and professional, often sharing fun facts about the islands and safety tips.

The boat’s size and speed mean you’ll want to hold on tight during the ride. It’s a quick, energetic trip that sets the tone for the day—upbeat and scenic.

Koh Raya Island: The Highlight

Arriving at Koh Raya, you’re greeted with a rustic, unspoiled atmosphere. The island’s main draws are its white sandy beaches and excellent snorkeling spots at Siam Bay and Khon Kae Bay. According to reviews, the coral reefs are well-preserved, with abundant hard corals at both shallow and deeper levels—perfect for snorkeling enthusiasts.

Many guests appreciated the tranquility of the beaches, describing them as nearly deserted—ideal for a peaceful escape. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved how quiet and relaxed it was; it felt like we had the whole beach to ourselves.” Another highlighted the opportunity to walk around to quieter beaches on the other side of the island, away from the main crowd.

Snorkeling Highlights and Marine Life

Snorkeling is a major part of this tour. The reefs at Khon Kae Bay are praised for their good preservation, making this spot a favorite for snorkelers. Equipment such as masks, snorkels, and life jackets are provided, and the guides are helpful in giving tips on how to get the best views underwater.

One reviewer shared, “The snorkeling gear was decent, and I could see a variety of marine life, including colorful fish and corals.” The warm waters and clear visibility provide an almost underwater sanctuary, especially for those new to snorkeling.

Relaxing and Exploring

After some time in the water, guests can lounge on the white sands, soak up the sun, or explore the island’s less crowded beaches. The island’s rustic charm means there are few commercial establishments, so it’s all about nature and peace. Some travelers mentioned walking along the coast, discovering nearly untouched beaches that are perfect for photos or just unwinding with a book.

Departure and Return

By 4:00 pm, it’s time to head back to Chalong Pier. The return trip is usually smooth, with the crew ensuring everyone is comfortable. Once back ashore around 4:30 pm, travelers are transferred back to their hotels.

Practical Tips and What to Bring

To make the most of this trip, pack essentials like sun glasses, sun lotion, swimwear, a towel, a spare T-shirt or shorts, and your camera. Since the tour includes soft drinks, you won’t need to worry about hydration, but bringing some snacks could be a good idea if you’re hungry after snorkeling.

The guides are helpful, and the tour is designed with safety in mind—life jackets are provided, and insurance is included. Just keep in mind that activities might be affected by weather, so flexibility is key.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip primarily appeals to travelers seeking a straightforward, low-stress day on the water. Families with kids, couples, or solo visitors who want to snorkel in relatively calm waters will find it ideal. If you’re after a more lively, party-style boat experience, this might feel a bit subdued—although the peaceful environment at Koh Raya itself tends to be quite the opposite.

It’s also well-suited for those who prefer a small group setting and appreciate the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. Budget-conscious travelers will find good value in everything included—snorkeling gear, soft drinks, and insurance—without hidden costs.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This speedboat trip to Koh Raya provides a wonderful blend of adventure and tranquility. The key highlights—crystal-clear snorkeling waters, white sandy beaches, and a laid-back vibe—are all top-tier, especially considering the reasonable price point. You’ll love the way the tour simplifies the logistics, letting you focus on enjoying your day, whether that’s floating in the water, lounging on the beach, or exploring the island.

If your goal is to sample some of Phuket’s best snorkeling without the long boat rides or crowded resorts, this experience hits the mark. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want to avoid overly commercialized tours but still crave a memorable day on the water.

However, keep in mind the weather dependency and the relatively short time on each stop. For those wanting more time exploring or a more vibrant party atmosphere, other options might be better.

The Raya Island speedboat tour offers solid value, authentic nature experiences, and a peaceful escape—a smart choice for anyone looking to add a bit of coral reef and sandy beach to their Phuket trip.

FAQ

What is the starting time for the tour?
The tour begins between 7:30 and 8:00 am with hotel pickup, so be ready in your hotel lobby at least 15 minutes early.

How long does the entire trip last?
The full experience lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, including pickup, boat rides, snorkeling, and return transfer.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included unless specified. You are encouraged to bring snacks or purchase them on the island.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but travelers should have moderate physical fitness and be comfortable in water. The tour includes snorkeling, so children should be able to swim or wear life jackets.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunglasses, sun lotion, swimwear, a towel, spare clothes, a camera, and any personal essentials. The tour provides soft drinks and snorkeling gear.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the trip are non-refundable.

This Raya Island trip balances adventure with peaceful moments, offering a charming taste of Phuket’s natural beauty. Whether you’re snorkeling along coral reefs or relaxing on a nearly deserted beach, it’s a day that promises authentic tropical bliss at a reasonable price.