Phuket: Coral and Racha Islands Bodaro Catamaran

Planning a day trip from Phuket to explore nearby islands often sounds like a dream—crystal waters, relaxing beaches, and scenic sunsets. The Coral and Racha Islands Bodaro Catamaran promises just that, with a luxurious vessel, multiple stops, and a sunset view at Promthep Cape. But does it deliver on what it promises? We’ve looked into this tour to help you decide if it’s worth your time and money.

One aspect we really appreciate about this tour is the well-rounded itinerary, which covers two of the most beautiful islands near Phuket, plus a sunset at one of the most iconic viewpoints in Thailand. The inclusion of lunch, snorkeling gear, and paddle boards adds a nice touch of value for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. However, on the flip side, some travelers have experienced rescheduling issues and poor service, which can cast a shadow on what otherwise sounds like an ideal day out.

This tour might be perfect if you’re eager for a luxurious, all-in-one island-hopping experience with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, relax on pristine beaches, and catch a sunset. But if reliable scheduling and attentive customer service are top priorities for you, it’s worth weighing these factors carefully.

Key Points

• Itinerary Includes Three Major Stops: Coral Island, Racha Yai, and Promthep Cape sunset.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Lunch, soft drinks, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and even paddleboards are provided.
• Potential Rescheduling Issue: There are reports of cancellations and rescheduling that can complicate plans.
• Price vs. Value: At $89, it offers good value for a full-day experience, but service quality can vary.
• Small Group Size: Maximum of 30 travelers, fostering a somewhat intimate atmosphere.
• Convenient Meeting Point: Chalong Pier is easy to access, but pickup isn’t included in this package.
• Weather Dependence: The tour relies on good weather; cancellations are possible, with full refunds if needed.

The Full Breakdown: What to Expect on the Phuket Coral and Racha Islands Bodaro Catamaran

Starting Point and Logistics

Your day begins at Chalong Pier, located at 12 Sunrise Rd in Phuket. The meeting point is straightforward, and since transportation isn’t included, you’ll need to organize your own transfer or arrive on your own. The tour operates from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, giving plenty of flexibility with timing.

One thing to keep in mind, based on traveler reviews, is that there is no included pickup service from areas like Cape Panwa, Khoa Kad, Phuket Town, or other popular spots. If you’re staying farther out, plan your transport accordingly. The small group size (up to 30 people) aims to create a more personal experience, but it also means spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.

The Vessel and Atmosphere

The boat itself is a catamaran, which generally suggests stability and comfort. While specific details about onboard amenities aren’t provided, the included items like towels and snorkeling equipment hint at a focus on comfort and activity. The vessel’s size likely allows for a relaxed atmosphere, with enough space to move around and enjoy the views.

Coral Island (Koh He) – The First Stop

Your first stop is Coral Island, also called Koh He. This is often praised for its pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs—ideal for snorkelers and beach lovers alike. You’re allocated about three hours here, which allows for a decent amount of snorkeling, swimming, or just lounging on the sand.

From reviews, it seems the coral reefs and waters are quite clear, making for good underwater visibility. Yet, some travelers note that the experience can be affected by the crowd, especially during peak times. Also, since the entrance fee is free, it’s a straightforward, no-fuss activity.

Koh Racha Yai – The Second Stop

Next, you’ll head to Koh Racha Yai, a popular choice for those wanting a lush, tropical escape. With white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, this island offers more opportunities for relaxation and underwater exploration. Again, about three hours are spent here, and snorkeling gear is provided, so you can enjoy the marine life.

Some reviews highlight that Racha Yai is a “tropical paradise,” perfect for sunbathing or dipping into the water. It is worth noting that this stop is free of admission fees, but the natural beauty makes it well worth the trip.

Promthep Cape – The Sunset Finale

The last stop is Promthep Cape, famous for its breathtaking sunset views over the Andaman Sea. The boat usually spends around three hours here, giving you ample time to witness the changing sky, take photos, and soak in the scenery. As the sun dips, the sky fills with colors, creating a spectacular end to your day.

While the sunset views are generally praised, a warning from one reviewer is that service issues and rescheduling can interfere with this part of the trip. In their case, poor communication and cancellations caused disappointment, which highlights the importance of flexible planning.

Included and Not Included

Included in the price are lunch (buffet style), soda, soft drinks, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, towels, paddleboards, and insurance. This makes the overall package quite convenient, especially for travelers who prefer an all-in-one experience without booking separate activities.

Not included are pickup services from many areas around Phuket, which means you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Chalong Pier. Plus, the tour operates “most days” between October 2024 and June 2026, but weather and minimum traveler numbers can affect availability.

The Experience and Its Pros and Cons

What travelers love: The stunning views, especially during sunset, and the opportunity to snorkel in clear waters are the highlights. Many appreciate the relaxed pace and the chance to visit multiple islands in one day. The included paddleboard can be a fun way to explore the calm waters.

What could be better: The service quality appears to be inconsistent, with one reviewer describing a “poor service” and rescheduling mishaps. While cancellations due to bad weather seem handled professionally with full refunds or alternative dates, the frustration caused by last-minute changes can be disappointing.

The price point of $89 offers decent value considering the length of the trip, the number of stops, and inclusions. But, it’s essential to be aware that the actual experience may vary depending on the day, weather, and company management.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who are looking for a full-day, island-hopping adventure with a touch of luxury and plenty of opportunities to relax or snorkel. If you’re comfortable with small-group settings and can adapt to possible schedule changes, you’ll likely enjoy the scenic stops.

However, those who prioritize reliable service and punctuality might want to consider other options or prepare for potential rescheduling issues. The tour’s focus on stunning views and natural beauty makes it a good fit for travelers eager to see multiple islands and catch a sunset at Promthep Cape.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

In short, the Phuket Coral and Racha Islands Bodaro Catamaran offers a beautiful, scenic day on some of Thailand’s most loved islands. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and a buffet lunch adds value, especially for those wanting a mix of activity and relaxation. The sunset at Promthep Cape is undeniably a highlight, providing a perfect ending to your day.

That said, the service quality and scheduling reliability are noteworthy considerations. If you’re flexible, patient, and looking for a picturesque day out, this tour can be quite enjoyable. However, travelers seeking a foolproof, stress-free experience might want to research more or consider alternative options.

This trip can be worthwhile for those eager for a scenic, activity-packed day out — just keep in mind the potential for unexpected changes.

FAQ

Does this tour include pickup service?
No, pickup isn’t included. You’ll need to make your way to Chalong Pier on your own.

How long is each stop?
Each of the three main stops—Coral Island, Racha Yai, and Promthep Cape—has about three hours allotted, giving you enough time to relax, snorkel, or enjoy the scenery.

What’s included in the tour?
You get a buffet lunch, sodas, soft drinks, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, towels, paddleboards, and insurance, making it a convenient all-in-one package.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, if the weather is poor, the tour will be canceled, and you’ll be offered a full refund or a different date.

Are there any additional charges I should know about?
The tour price covers most activities, but you should consider transportation to Chalong Pier, as it’s not included.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a camera to capture the beautiful scenery. A light jacket may be handy if it gets cool during the sunset.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Most travelers can participate, and snorkeling equipment is provided, but supervision and basic swimming ability are recommended for water activities.

To sum it up, if you’re after a scenic, activity-filled day with opportunities for snorkeling and catching a famous sunset, this tour offers a lot for the price. However, be prepared for the possibility of scheduling hiccups or service inconsistencies. With the right mindset and flexibility, it can be a memorable part of your Phuket adventure.