The Best Phuket 3 Islands Snorkeling Tour By Speedboat

Exploring the Best Phuket 3 Islands Snorkeling Tour By Speedboat

This Phuket island-hopping adventure by speedboat offers a full day of water-based fun, taking you to Maiton, Racha, and Coral Islands. Priced at around $48.66 per person, it promises a mix of snorkeling, beach lounging, and water activities, all packed into roughly 8 to 9 hours. The tour is popular enough to be booked 10 days in advance on average, which indicates good demand and consistent scheduling.

What we particularly like about this experience is the opportunity to visit multiple beautiful islands in a single day, with each offering its own unique scenery and activities. The inclusion of a buffet lunch on Coral Island adds a nice touch to keep you energized. Plus, the tour’s pickup service from various Phuket locations makes it more convenient for travelers staying in different parts of the island.

However, some travelers note that the organization could be improved, especially regarding the timing and group size. The reviews suggest that longer stays on the first island and shorter visits elsewhere might impact your overall experience. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy active days of exploring and don’t mind a busy schedule.

If you’re after cost-effective island hopping combined with snorkeling and water sports, and are flexible about the pace, this tour would fit the bill. For anyone looking for a relaxing, perfectly paced day, you might want to consider alternatives. Still, the stunning scenery and varied stops make it worth considering if you’re prepared for a lively, somewhat hectic day.

Key Points

• Multiple Islands in One Day: Visit Maiton, Racha, and Coral Islands, each with unique beaches and snorkeling spots.
• Water Activities & Wildlife: Snorkeling in sheltered reefs and opportunities to see dolphins in their natural habitat.
• All-Inclusive Value: Includes lunch, snorkeling gear, soft drinks, fruits, and insurance.
• Group Size & Organization: Tour groups can be up to 30 people, and some reviews highlight organizational challenges.
• Duration & Timing: Expect a long day with around 8-9 hours, with some feedback about uneven time spent at each stop.
• Pick-up & Convenience: Transfers from many Phuket locations, making it easier to join the tour hassle-free.

Detailed Review of the Tour Experience

Starting the Day

The tour begins promptly at 8:00 am with pickup from various Phuket locations such as Patong, Karon, Kata, Phuket Town, and others. This wide range of pickup points offers flexibility, but bear in mind that early mornings can be a bit hectic, especially if you’re not staying nearby. The transfer is included, which is a bonus, and helps streamline the start of your adventure.

Visiting Koh Racha Yai

The first stop is Koh Racha Yai, known for its pristine beaches and clear waters. Here, we get the feeling that this island is the star of the tour — the reviews highlight its “beautiful, deserted beaches” and the potential to see dolphins. The long stay here (which some say is too lengthy) allows ample time for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. As one reviewer put it, “the islands are absolutely stunning,” making Racha a highlight for many.

This part of the tour is critical for relaxation and scenic views. However, some feel the time spent on Racha could be better balanced since it’s the first stop, and they stayed much longer than at the other islands. Still, the opportunity to snorkel with colorful fish and relax on white sands is sure to delight water lovers.

Coral Island & Lunch Break

Next, the tour moves to Coral Island, where a buffet lunch is served at a local restaurant. The meal is included in the price and features a simple but satisfying spread to keep everyone fueled for the afternoon’s activities. After lunch, you’ll have time to snorkel again and enjoy various water sports, including parasailing if you wish.

According to reviews, Coral Island provides crystal-clear waters and coral reefs, making it a popular snorkeling spot. The time here is roughly two hours, which is enough to explore the reefs and enjoy the beach. Some travelers found this segment a perfect balance of eating, relaxing, and water fun.

Maiton Private Island & Dolphins

The final stop is Maiton Island, which is less crowded and offers a more exclusive feel. The island is known for its turquoise waters and deserted beaches, and if luck is on your side, you might spot dolphins during your snorkeling session. One reviewer specifically mentioned the chance to see dolphins, adding an element of excitement.

However, the time allocated here is about an hour, so don’t expect a long stay. Some guests felt this was brief, but the views and snorkeling opportunities make it worthwhile.

Returning & Overall Duration

The tour wraps up around 5 pm, with the group returning to Phuket. The total duration of 8-9 hours makes it a full day, and most travelers find it packed with activity. While some appreciated the value and the chance to explore multiple islands, others mentioned the tour feeling somewhat rushed, especially on the first island.

Practical Aspects & Inclusions

The tour includes life jackets, snorkeling equipment, accident insurance, and fresh fruits, plus soft drinks and Thai snacks. This comprehensive package adds value, especially for budget-conscious travelers. The English-speaking guide was praised for being knowledgeable, although some reviews mention organizational hiccups.

Cost-wise, at about $48.66 per person, this tour offers a decent price point for the number of stops and activities involved. Considering the included meals, equipment, and the convenience of transfers, it tends to be a good deal for those wanting a full-day adventure.

Considerations & Downsides

While the majority of reviews are positive about the scenery and activities, there are notable concerns. Some guests felt the itinerary was too rushed, with long waits at certain spots and limited time at others. The group size of up to 30 people can sometimes feel crowded, affecting the overall experience, especially during snorkeling or on the beaches.

A reviewer mentioned that the tour felt disorganized at times, which might impact the flow, but others appreciated the effort of the guides in managing the group. The tour’s dependence on weather can also affect plans; poor weather might lead to cancellations or altered routes.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits ** travelers who love water activities, island scenery, and a busy, activity-packed day**. It’s ideal for those wanting to see multiple islands without the hassle of planning each stop independently. It’s also a good choice if you’re on a budget and looking for value-packed excursions that cover snorkeling, beach time, and some wildlife spotting.

However, if your priority is relaxed pacing and in-depth exploration, this tour might feel a bit hurried. Also, travelers with health concerns or mobility issues should note the long hours and active nature of the day.

Final thoughts

This speedboat tour from Phuket delivers a solid mix of scenic beauty, snorkeling, and water sports, all at a reasonable price. The inclusion of lunch, snorkeling gear, and transfers simplifies the experience, making it accessible and straightforward. While some reviews point out organizational flaws and uneven time distribution, the overall experience offers genuine value for those eager to explore multiple islands in one day.

The chance to see dolphins, snorkel over coral reefs, and lounge on white sandy beaches makes this tour appealing. Expect a lively, energetic day where you get to tick off several must-see spots around Phuket’s surrounding islands.

In summary, this tour is best for travelers seeking a budget-friendly, activity-rich day in the water, willing to accept some minor organizational quirks. If you’re after relaxed island hopping with plenty of snorkeling and water fun, you’ll likely find this an enjoyable, memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from several Phuket locations including Patong, Karon, Kata, Phuket Town, and others, making it quite convenient.

What is the typical duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 to 9 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning around 5:00 pm, including stops and transfers.

Are water sports like parasailing included?
While snorkeling equipment, life jackets, and water sports are included, parasailing is available but may incur additional costs — check with the guide on the day.

Will I see dolphins on this tour?
There’s a chance to see dolphins at Maiton Island, but it’s dependent on luck and natural conditions.

Is food provided during the tour?
Yes, a buffet lunch is included at Coral Island, along with seasonal fruits and Thai snacks for a light refreshment.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, waterproof camera, and a hat. All snorkeling gear and life jackets are provided, so no need to bring your own unless you prefer.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 4-11 are welcome, but it’s advisable for pregnant travelers or those with certain health conditions to consult with the tour provider beforehand.

Final note

If you’re looking to enjoy Phuket’s nearby islands with a lively, all-in-one tour that balances snorkeling, beach time, and water sports, this speedboat trip offers a lot for its price. Just be prepared for a somewhat busy day and potential organizational hiccups. For those who value stunning scenery and active exploration, this tour is a worthwhile choice.