Full-Day Similans Scuba Diving from Phuket

Planning a trip to Thailand and eager to explore some of its most stunning underwater scenery? This Full-Day Similans Scuba Diving tour from Phuket offers a fantastic way for certified divers to experience the iconic marine life and vibrant coral reefs of the Similan Islands. For around $180 per person, you’ll enjoy two guided dives, comfortable transport, and a delicious onboard lunch—all in one day.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the small-group approach, with a maximum of four divers per guide, ensuring personalized attention. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes the whole day seamless—no need to worry about logistics. One thing to keep in mind is that diving in this region can be somewhat challenging, so recent diving experience is a must.

This tour is best suited for certified divers with recent experience who are comfortable with the physical demands of the activity. If you’re looking for a day packed with underwater adventure, stunning views, and the chance to encounter sea creatures like sharks and turtles, this trip might be ideal. However, if you’re new to diving or not comfortable with current conditions, it’s worth considering other options.

Key Points

• Certified Diver Focus: Designed for experienced divers with recent diving history.
• Small Group: Limited to four divers per guide, enhancing safety and personalized service.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Transport, lunch, tanks, and weights included.
• Challenging Water Conditions: Suitable for those with recent diving experience; not ideal for beginners.
• Spectacular Marine Life: Expect to see moray eels, lionfish, sea turtles, and even sharks.
• Breathtaking Views: The Similans are famous for their clear waters and vibrant coral landscapes.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Journey Begins

Most participants are picked up from their Phuket or Khao Lak accommodations early in the morning—around 6:00 to 6:30 am—making the start a bit early. The journey to Tap Lamu, the main meeting point, involves air-conditioned comfort, setting the tone for a relaxed day ahead. The tour provider, Phuket dash Scuba, is known for punctuality and friendly service, adding to the overall confidence in this adventure.

From Tap Lamu, a speedboat whisks you out to the larger vessel waiting at the Similans. The boat ride itself offers a glimpse of Phuket’s coastline and, if you’re lucky, some sightings of marine life along the way. The entire trip emphasizes comfort and safety, which is reassuring for those who may be a bit anxious about high-speed boat rides.

The First Dive: Spectacular Underwater Landscapes

Once at the dive site, a comprehensive briefing will prepare you for what’s ahead. The first dive is usually at a spot celebrated for its good visibility and stunning underwater scenery. Expect to see a vibrant tapestry of hard and soft corals, which form a perfect backdrop for numerous marine creatures like moray eels, lionfish, and, occasionally, larger species such as napoleon wrasse.

Multiple reviews mention the “spectacular landscapes” underwater and the chance to spot sharks or sea turtles. One diver noted, “I loved the way the guides pointed out creatures I might otherwise have missed, even in the busy coral reefs. Visibility was excellent, and the scenery was breathtaking.”

Lunch and Relaxation

After the first dive, you’ll enjoy a well-earned break with a buffet-style lunch onboard. The meal includes fresh fruits, drinks, and hot tea or coffee—perfect for recharging after your underwater adventure. The onboard atmosphere is relaxed, with some guests commenting on the “great view” of the sea while eating.

The Second Dive: Another Marine Wonderland

Post-lunch, the boat will take you to a different dive site, offering a new underwater experience. The second dive often provides the chance to see larger fish, sea turtles, or even blacktip sharks, especially since the tour is known for decent chances of spotting these creatures.

One reviewer described the experience as “an exhilarating second dive, with clear waters and lots of marine activity. I appreciated the small group size—it felt very personal and safe.” The small group setting means you get ample attention from your guide, making the experience more informative and tailored.

The Return: A Relaxed End to a Busy Day

After the second dive, you’ll have some drinks and time to relax on the boat before heading back to Phuket. The return trip offers panoramic views of the islands and coastlines, and many appreciate the smooth ride back, especially if they’ve enjoyed a full day of activity.

Once back on land, transfers will take you back to your hotel, completing a day that packs adventure and comfort into roughly 12 hours.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Personalized Service: With only four divers per guide, you’re not just another face in the crowd. Guides like “Mr. Somchai,” a favorite among recent reviewers, are praised for their professionalism and attentiveness. They often give helpful tips on buoyancy and marine life identification, making the experience more educational.

Focus on Certified Divers: This trip is tailored specifically for those with recent diving experience (minimum 15 dives and within the last year). The challenging conditions mean it’s not suitable for newbies, but for those who meet the criteria, the waters offer a rewarding playground.

Value for Money: At $181.79, the price includes two guided dives, full equipment rental, lunch, water, and transfers. While there are additional costs like the 700 Baht national park fee and optional equipment rental, the overall package provides excellent value considering the quality of the underwater environment.

Marine Life & Visibility: The tours are praised for good visibility—upwards of 20 meters—and the chance to encounter diverse sea creatures. The possibility of seeing sharks, turtles, and large fish adds excitement. Several reviews mention the “breathtaking views” underwater, especially during the first dive.

Flexible and Reliable: The tour’s cancellation policy emphasizes weather conditions, with clear instructions on rescheduling or refunds in case of bad weather. This transparency helps set expectations and reduces stress.

Practical Details & Tips

Timing & Duration: The early start (around 6 am) means a full day, but the trip is well-organized to maximize diving time and minimize unnecessary waiting. The entire experience lasts approximately 12 hours, including transfers, dives, lunch, and rest.

Group Size & Safety: Small groups enhance safety and make your experience more personal. Multiple reviews reinforce that guides are attentive and eager to ensure each diver feels comfortable and informed.

Equipment & Fees: Tanks and weights are included, but rental of full dive gear costs 600 Baht. If you’re planning to rent, consider whether you want to bring your own gear or rent locally for convenience.

Weather & Conditions: As with any ocean activity, good weather is crucial. The tour will be canceled if conditions are unsafe, but in such cases, you’ll be offered a new date or a full refund.

Preparation: Make sure your dive certification is current and can be verified. Also, recent diving experience is necessary—so if your last dive was over a year ago, this might not be suitable.

The Sum Up

This Full-Day Similans Scuba Diving tour from Phuket provides certified divers a fantastic opportunity to experience Thailand’s renowned underwater world in a comfortable, small-group setting. The combination of stunning coral reefs, diverse marine life, and well-organized logistics makes it a strong choice for those looking for a memorable day at sea.

While the water conditions can be challenging, the guide-led dives and attention to safety help ensure a rewarding experience. The inclusion of transport, lunch, tanks, and small group sizes enhances the overall value, making it well worth the investment for experienced divers eager for adventure.

If you’re a certified diver wanting to explore the beauty of the Similan Islands without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour is likely to meet and even exceed your expectations. Just remember to bring your certification, recent dive history, and a spirit ready for underwater discovery.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
No, this tour is designed for certified divers with recent experience, as conditions can be challenging and require a certain level of skill.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pick-up and drop-off, two guided dives, tanks and weights, lunch, fresh fruits, drinks, coffee, and tea.

Are dive equipment rentals available?
Yes, full dive equipment can be rented for 600 Baht if needed, but it is not included in the base price.

What is the minimum number of dives required?
Divers should have completed at least 15 dives and have recent experience within the last year to participate.

What is the start time?
The tour departs around 8:00 am, with pick-ups from most Phuket and Khao Lak hotels starting around 6:00-6:30 am.

How long does the entire trip last?
Approximately 12 hours, including transfers, diving, lunch, and return.

What kind of marine life might I see?
Expect to see moray eels, lionfish, sea turtles, and possibly sharks like leopard or blacktip, depending on conditions.

Is there a dress code or specific gear I should bring?
Bring your dive certification cards, and if you prefer to use your own gear, check if it’s compatible with the rental options available.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The trip is weather-dependent and may be canceled if conditions are unsafe. In that case, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Bookings are typically made well in advance—about 24 days on average—so last-minute spots may be limited, especially during peak seasons.

This detailed review should help you decide if this full-day Similans experience aligns with your diving skills and adventure appetite. It promises a fulfilling day exploring some of Thailand’s best marine habitats, with the security of expert guides and a well-organized itinerary.