Racha, Raya and Maiton Islands Snorkeling Tour From Phuket

This snorkeling tour promises a full day of island hopping, crystal-clear waters, and scenic beaches—perfect for those wanting to escape the crowds and see some of Thailand’s most beautiful spots. It’s a popular option for travelers eager to enjoy a mix of relaxation, snorkel adventures, and a taste of local island life all in one day.

What we like most about this trip is the chance to visit three unique islands, each offering something different—from Pirates Beach’s pristine sands to Maiton’s untouched coral reefs. The convenience of hotel pickup and a well-organized itinerary makes it a good choice for travelers who want hassle-free sightseeing.

However, one downside some travelers have noted is the inconsistency in the experience. While most enjoyed the boat rides and snorkeling, at least one reviewer felt the visit to Maiton Island was more of a quick stop rather than a full exploration, with some claiming they didn’t actually visit Maiton but stayed near the other islands. Keep that in mind if your main goal is to explore Maiton thoroughly.

This trip suits travelers looking for an active, scenic day out with multiple snorkeling opportunities and a relaxed vibe. It’s ideal for those who want a guided experience with all logistics sorted, though seasoned snorkelers may find it somewhat limited if they’re after a more in-depth exploration.

Key Points

• Island hopping by catamaran offers a comfortable and scenic way to explore multiple islands.
• Snorkeling in clear waters at Banana Bay and Maiton provides excellent underwater sights.
• Hassle-free pickup from your Phuket hotel simplifies logistics.
• Timing is roughly 6 to 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip.
• Mixed reviews highlight the varying quality of visits to Maiton Island.
• Value for money is reasonable, especially considering the included buffet lunch and equipment.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Our review begins with the boat ride itself. Traveling on a first-class speed catamaran, you’re transported comfortably across the water, with plenty of space to relax, take photos, or just enjoy the scenic ocean views. The boat’s size means the group stays relatively manageable, with a maximum of 45 travelers, balancing lively camaraderie with enough space to avoid feeling crowded.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Pirates Beach (Phuket Deep Sea Port)
Your adventure kicks off early, around 7:30 am, with pickup from your hotel—an aspect many travelers appreciate for saving time and hassle. Once aboard, the first highlight is Pirates Beach, known for its white sands and calm waters. Expect to spend around an hour here, soaking up the sun, swimming, or snorkeling. According to reviews, this is a peaceful spot, perfect for a quick dip and photos. One traveler mentioned loving the way the guide explained safety procedures, which added confidence to their snorkeling.

Second Stop: Banana Bay, Raya Noi
Next, the boat takes you to Banana Bay, where the translucent waters invite you to snorkel among vibrant marine life. This stop is often praised for its crystal-clear waters, making it a fantastic spot for both swimming and underwater photography. The reviews highlight that guides are attentive, helping beginners feel comfortable, while experienced snorkelers can enjoy the abundant marine life.

Lunch on Raya Island
Around midday, the group arrives at Raya Island for the buffet lunch. The meal includes drinks and fresh fruits, with vegetarian options available. Many travelers note the lunch as surprisingly decent, offering enough fuel for the afternoon activities. The setting is relaxed, with shaded areas and tables overlooking the water, making it a pleasant break amid the day’s activity.

Third snorkeling stop at Raya Island
Post-lunch, the tour continues with more snorkeling around Raya Island. The waters are again clear, and the coral reefs interesting enough to warrant multiple dips. The knowledgeable guides often point out marine species and coral formations, adding an educational touch. One reviewer appreciated the staff’s friendliness and helpfulness, which enhanced their overall experience.

Final Stop: Maiton Island
The last part of the trip takes you to Maiton Island, renowned for its untouched beauty and exclusive vibe. However, some reviews note that the actual visit might be more of a quick swim near the island rather than an extensive exploration. One traveler said, “they do not go to Maiton Island, it’s just to Racha and Coral with an old speedboat.” This suggests that the official itinerary may sometimes be flexible or limited depending on conditions or operator choices.

Maiton’s coral reefs and golden sands are spectacular, but access is restricted since it’s privately owned. Expect around two hours here, mainly for swimming and snorkeling in peaceful surroundings—perfect if you’re after a serene escape, though perhaps less so if you want to spend significant time exploring.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes snorkeling equipment, a buffet lunch with drinks, soft drinks, fresh fruits, snacks, bottled water, coffee/tea, and life insurance. These inclusions add value, especially the snorkeling gear and lunch, which are often some of the main costs on similar tours.

Not included are personal essentials like swimwear, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, or a power bank. A good tip is to bring your own waterproof camera or phone case, as capturing underwater moments is often a highlight here.

From the Reviews: Authentic Perspectives

While most travelers seem satisfied with the boat’s comfort and the friendliness of the staff, one review called the experience a “fake trip,” claiming they didn’t visit Maiton Island at all and felt the trip was a scam for $75. This comment suggests some operators may vary, or excursions might be more limited than expected. As such, it’s wise to clarify with the provider beforehand whether Maiton will be fully included in your route.

Conversely, another guest rated the tour a “5,” stating they found it “less crowded, more unspoiled, and just an epic day.” They appreciated the well-organized boat and informative staff, which made the experience enjoyable. This contrast shows how perceptions can differ based on expectations and the day’s conditions.

The Practical Side: Logistics, Duration, and Cost

Starting at 7:30 am, the tour lasts around 6 to 7 hours, making it a full day but not overly tiring. Pickup from your hotel simplifies the process, especially if you’re staying in central Phuket. The cost of around $82 per person strikes a reasonable balance given the inclusions—lunch, snorkeling gear, and guided assistance.

For families with young children, this tour could work well since kids under 3 are free, and the pace is relaxed with plenty of stops. However, pregnant travelers are advised not to participate due to water and activity considerations.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for beginners or casual snorkelers who want to see multiple islands without the hassle of planning transport or meals. It’s also perfect for travelers who appreciate a comfortable boat ride, scenic beaches, and good food in a compact timeframe.

However, if you’re seeking an in-depth exploration of Maiton Island or prefer to spend more time underwater or on specific islands, you might find this tour somewhat limited. The reviews suggest that the focus is on the experience rather than extensive island exploration.

The Sum Up

This Phuket island-hopping snorkeling tour offers a respectable blend of scenic views, marine adventure, and convenient logistics. The inclusions—including buffet lunch and snorkeling gear—add value, especially for first-timers or those looking for a straightforward, guided experience.

What truly stands out are the knowledgeable guides and the chance to snorkel in some of the clearest waters near Phuket. The ease of pickup and the well-organized itinerary make it a stress-free choice, especially for travelers short on time or unfamiliar with the area.

However, be aware that the experience can vary, and some may feel that the visit to Maiton Island is more of a brief stop rather than a deep exploration. If you’re after a more exclusive or comprehensive visit to Maiton, consider other options or private arrangements.

In all, this tour is best suited for those seeking a relaxed, well-organized day of snorkeling and island sights, with a good chance of enjoying unspoiled beaches and vibrant reefs—especially if you value comfort and convenience over a highly personalized experience.

FAQ

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your Phuket hotel, simplifying transportation and saving you time and effort.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, starting early in the morning around 7:30 am.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?
Yes, the buffet lunch includes vegetarian options, along with drinks and fresh fruits.

Can I snorkel at all the stops?
Absolutely. The tour includes snorkeling gear, and you’ll have multiple opportunities to snorkel in clear waters at Pirates Beach, Banana Bay, and around Raya and Maiton Islands.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes; children under 3 are free, and those aged 4-11 pay a child rate. Just note that pregnant women and those with health concerns should check with providers about suitability.

Are the waters suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides are attentive, and snorkeling conditions are generally calm and clear, making it accessible for novices.

Can I expect to visit Maiton Island thoroughly?
It depends. Some reviews report limited access, with the stop more of a quick swim/ snorkel near the island rather than a full exploration. Confirm with the operator if visiting Maiton is a priority for you.

This snorkeling tour packs a lot into a single day, offering scenic vistas, vibrant marine life, and the chance to relax on some beautiful beaches. If you’re after a well-organized, value-packed trip that showcases the best of Phuket’s nearby islands, it’s worth considering, keeping in mind the mixed reviews regarding Maiton Island visits.