Phuket Deep Sea Fishing at Racha Island Boat Cruise

Trying to gauge a fishing trip in Phuket based on glowing ads and glossy pictures? You’re not alone. The Phuket Deep Sea Fishing tour to Racha Island promises a full day of excitement: fishing, snorkeling, relaxing, and enjoying stunning sea views. On paper, it sounds like a perfect escape for lovers of marine adventures. But as with many activities, the actual experience can vary quite a bit, and it’s worth knowing what you’re really signing up for.

One thing we do like is that this tour combines several activities into one day—fishing, swimming, sunbathing, and a tasty onboard lunch. The tour is designed to cater to both seasoned anglers and casual water lovers, with the convenience of round-trip transport from many points around Phuket. However, a recurring theme from reviews suggests that the fishing may not always meet expectations, especially for those craving the thrill of a big catch. This is a tour that works best if you’re looking for a relaxed day on the water with a splash of adventure and beautiful scenery, rather than a guaranteed fishing expedition.

A key consideration is that the tour’s reviews highlight some disappointment regarding fishing success, especially in recent reports indicating overfished waters. So, if big game fishing is what you’re after, this might not be your ultimate goal. That said, the experience of cruising to Racha Island and enjoying the island’s turquoise waters is quite enjoyable and will appeal to anyone wanting a well-rounded day out at sea.

Key Points

• Combines multiple activities: fishing, snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing in one tour.
• Transport included: convenient pick-up from various Phuket locations.
• Fishing success varies: some guests caught small fish, others found fishing disappointing.
• Beautiful scenery: Racha Island’s clear waters and stunning shoreline make for great photo ops.
• Crowd size: maximum of 40 travelers, so it feels shared but not overcrowded.
• Value for money: includes gear, lunch, drinks, and guides, but fishing results may not justify the cost for serious anglers.

Overall Experience and What to Expect

The Phuket Deep Sea Fishing tour offers what many consider a classic island-hopping day with a twist—fishing on the high seas. The tour departs early at 7:00 am from Chalong Pier, with land transfers arranged from multiple Phuket hotspots, including Patong, Kata, and Karon. This makes it accessible and convenient, especially for travelers staying in different parts of Phuket.

Once onboard, you’ll notice the boat is equipped with fishing gear—aimed at giving everyone a shot at reeling in something. The crew is generally friendly and guides you through the process, providing snorkeling masks, soft drinks, water, snacks, and fruits, all served on the deck as you cruise toward Racha Island. The journey itself is quite scenic, with plenty of opportunities for photos of the coastline and open sea.

The Main Activity: Deep Sea Fishing

The core of this tour is the chance to fish in the waters surrounding Racha Island. This part can be quite hit or miss. Guest reviews reveal mixed experiences; some caught tiny snapper and small fish on tiny baits and hooks, while others barely got a nibble. One reviewer noted, “While the ads look great, with ‘big game’ fish pictures, the reality was a few very small snapper caught on tiny baits, fished straight down, and small hooks.” That suggests the fishing might be more about the experience than reeling in a trophy-sized fish.

Experienced guides do their best, and some catches are cleaned and cooked on board, which is a nice touch. The crew is known for trying hard, but the fishing success largely depends on the luck of the day and the health of the fish populations—something that recent reports suggest is a concern around Phuket’s waters.

Snorkeling and Swimming at Racha Island

After fishing, the boat anchors at Racha Island, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Guests can snorkel using provided masks or just take a refreshing swim in the warm, inviting sea. This part of the tour is generally well-received, especially by those eager to cool off and enjoy the vibrant marine life. The island’s beauty makes it a highlight, and many guests appreciate the opportunity to relax on the sandy beaches or soak up the sun.

Lunch and Relaxation

A highlight of this trip is the onboard lunch, which is included in the price. Guests report that the food is tasty and served in a scenic setting. The menu typically includes Thai dishes and fresh fruits, providing a satisfying break after the morning’s activities. The relaxed atmosphere on deck allows for plenty of downtime, whether sunbathing, chatting with fellow travelers, or simply enjoying the views.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $111 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package—including transport, fishing gear, snorkeling equipment, lunch, drinks, snacks, a tour guide, and insurance. For travelers seeking a hassle-free day with multiple activities, that’s a fair deal. The convenience of land transfers and everything being organized adds value, especially for first-timers or those who prefer a guided experience.

However, if your main goal is serious fishing and reeling in sizable catches, this might fall short. Reviews highlight that the waters around Phuket may be overfished, making the fishing portion less rewarding than hoped. But if your focus is on enjoying the scenery, trying your hand at fishing, and cooling off in Racha Island’s waters, this tour delivers.

What the Reviews Reveal

While some guests appreciate the day out and the scenery, others express disappointment. One reviewer simply remarked, “Did not meet our expectations,” noting the small fish caught and the tiny baits used. Another pointed out, “Think this trip confirmed some reports that Phuket is completely fished out by commercial fishing,” with only one bite and a single catch during a full day of trolling.

Despite these mixed reports, many travelers found value in the guided service, the beautiful views, and the opportunity to relax in paradise. The guides are often praised for their knowledge, and the overall experience is described as enjoyable, if not always successful in terms of fishing.

Practical Details and Tips

• Timing: The tour starts promptly at 7:00 am, so plan to be ready early.
• Duration: Approximately 7 hours—enough time to enjoy fishing, snorkeling, and lunch without feeling rushed.
• Group size: Limited to 40 travelers, providing some sense of intimacy but a lively atmosphere.
• Inclusives: Gear, masks, drinks, snacks, fruits, lunch, and insurance are all included.
• Additional costs: Land transfer in some areas (250 baht per person) and personal expenses are not covered.
• Weather dependency: The tour’s success hinges on good weather; poor weather may lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a relaxed, all-in-one day of sea activities, especially those interested in trying fishing with guided support. It’s perfect if you enjoy scenic boat rides, snorkeling, and spending time in the sun. However, it might not fulfill serious anglers looking for big catches or those expecting high fishing success. The tour is best for those who appreciate a scenic cruise, a tasty meal, and lightly fishing, rather than a fishing-focused trip.

Final Thoughts

The Phuket Deep Sea Fishing at Racha Island tour offers a well-organized day on the water, combining fishing, snorkeling, and leisure. While the fishing component may not always meet the expectations of those craving trophy catches, the cruise itself provides plenty of opportunities for enjoying Phuket’s stunning marine scenery. Guides and crew generally aim to make the day pleasant and memorable, especially with the added convenience of included transfers and meals.

If you’re after a hassle-free, scenic, and action-packed day that balances adventure with relaxation, this tour provides good value. Just keep your expectations aligned with the reviews—fishing success isn’t guaranteed, but the beauty of Racha Island and the camaraderie onboard are often praised.

Perfect for travelers who want a versatile day out on the water, this tour offers a taste of Phuket’s marine charm, even if the fish don’t always bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, land transfers in Phuket town, Rawai, Naiharn, Sai Yuan, Kata, Karon, Patong beach, Kalim beach, and Tri Trang are included. Additional transfers in some areas (like Siray Bay or Cape Panwa) cost approximately 250 baht per person.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, starting at 7:00 am and returning to the meeting point around early afternoon.

Can I participate if I don’t have fishing experience?
Absolutely. The guides provide fishing gear and assistance, making it suitable for beginners. Plus, there are plenty of other activities like snorkeling and relaxing onboard.

What is included in the price?
Your fare covers boat cruise, fishing gear, snorkeling masks, drinks, snacks, fruits, lunch, tour guide, and travel insurance.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, some land transfer areas outside the included zones may require an extra fee (250 baht per person). Personal expenses, souvenirs, or additional beverages are not covered.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Always check the weather forecast before booking.

This deep-sea fishing trip to Racha Island offers a balanced day of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a mix of activities and don’t mind modest fishing results. With beautiful views, friendly guides, and a hassle-free setup, it’s worth considering if your main goal is to experience Phuket’s marine environment without high-pressure fishing.