3 Fun Dives in Racha Yai and Racha Noi for Certified Divers

Start your underwater adventure in Phuket with this well-reviewed package: three professionally guided dives at the Racha Islands, priced at just under $90 per person. For about 9 hours, you’ll visit some of the most beautiful coral reefs in Thailand, with the opportunity to explore vibrant marine life, including coral gardens, colorful fish, and perhaps even stingrays near sunken ships. Led by experienced instructors like Sam or Johan, and with small group sizes of just three to four divers, this tour offers a personalized experience you won’t forget.

What we really love about this trip is the focus on safety and comfort—from comprehensive insurance coverage to well-maintained boats—and the chance to share the underwater beauty with a small, friendly group. Plus, the inclusion of local transfers and quality equipment means less hassle and more time enjoying the scenery.

One thing to consider is that this tour is geared towards certified divers with a moderate physical fitness level, so if you’re new to diving or have specific health issues, you’ll need to check carefully. Also, note that this experience is for those willing to spend a full day on the water—it’s a long, but rewarding, escape from Phuket’s busy beaches.

This trip appeals most to travelers who love marine life, good organization, and expert guidance—especially those seeking a safe, fun, and value-packed way to explore some of Thailand’s best underwater sights.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: The tour is led by knowledgeable instructors like Sam and Johan, who are praised for their professionalism, patience, and passion.
• Small Group Experience: With only 3-4 divers per guide, you get personalized attention, making your underwater moments more relaxed and tailored.
• Stunning Underwater Scenery: Reviews mention vibrant coral reefs, colorful fish, and even stingrays swimming near sunken ships—highlighting the marine richness of Racha Yai and Noi.
• All-Inclusive Value: The price includes equipment, insurance, breakfast, lunch, snacks, drinks, and transfers from key locations—offering great value for a full day out.
• Flexible and Trustworthy: The tour has a perfect 5-star rating across 15 reviews, with many praising the organization, safety, and overall experience.
• Family Friendly: Adventurers aged 10 and above are welcome, making it a good choice for families with certified teens.

An In-Depth Look at the Racha Islands Dive Experience

What Makes This Tour Special?

This tour is a fantastic way to experience Thailand’s underwater beauty without the hassle of organizing every detail yourself. The Racha Islands, particularly Racha Yai and Racha Noi, are famous for their crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine species. For certified divers, this is a chance to explore some of the most striking sites in the region, guided by pros who prioritize safety and fun.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The trip starts early at 7:00 am at Chalong Pier, a convenient meeting point with easy access from most Phuket areas. After a quick safety briefing and equipment fitting, you’ll board a comfortable, well-equipped boat, setting out across the calm waters toward the Racha Islands.

Once at the islands, you’ll undertake three dives, each lasting roughly 50 minutes or until your cylinder pressure hits 50 bars. The small group setup ensures you get plenty of attention, making the experience safer and more enjoyable. The dive sites themselves are described as epic, with vibrant coral formations and lively schools of fish, including the chance to see the famous stingrays swimming near sunken ships—a highlight praised by many reviewers.

Marine Life and Underwater Sights

Based on glowing reviews, the underwater scenes are truly breathtaking. People mention “spectacular coral and colorful fish,” with some lucky divers spotting stingrays, which seem to glide effortlessly past sunken relics. The reefs are described as vivid and bustling, perfect for snorkelers and underwater photographers alike.

Food and Refreshments

The boat’s amenities make a difference—complimentary breakfast, lunch, fresh fruits, and drinks are served throughout the day. Reviewers mention the food as “surprisingly good,” with dietary restrictions accommodated, making it a nourishing experience to fuel your underwater adventures.

Safety and Equipment

All necessary diving equipment is included, along with comprehensive insurance coverage—a reassuring aspect for all certified divers. The guides are praised for their careful attention to safety, and the small group size allows them to give personalized support, whether you’re a confident diver or a little nervous.

Transfers and Convenience

Transfers from popular Phuket locations like Patong, Karon, Kata, and Kamala are included, which adds significant convenience. If you’re staying further afield, private transfers are available for an additional cost, making this a flexible option for various travelers.

Who Would Love This?

This trip is perfect for certified divers of all experience levels who want a manageable, high-quality experience. It’s especially suited to those who value small groups and expert guides, as many reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of dive instructors like Sam and Johan. It’s also a good option for families with teens, given the age minimum of 10, and those wanting a full day of underwater exploration combined with good food and comfort.

What Could Be Better?

While generally praised for organization and safety, some travelers might find the long day demanding, especially if they prefer shorter excursions or are prone to seasickness. Also, for those seeking underwater photos or videos, optional extras are available at additional cost, which could be a consideration if capturing memories is important.

The Sum Up

For anyone with a certification and a love for marine scenery, this Phuket-based diving experience offers excellent value and a safe, enjoyable way to explore the Racha Islands’ underwater treasures. The small group setting, expert guides, and comprehensive amenities make it stand out among similar offerings in the region.

If you’re seeking a well-organized, authentic underwater adventure with friendly instructors and vibrant marine life, this trip is hard to beat. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate personalized service, good food, and stunning underwater vistas—and who don’t mind a full day on the water to see some of Thailand’s best reefs.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes three dives, scuba equipment, comprehensive insurance, pick-up transfers from key Phuket locations, breakfast, lunch, snacks, and drinks.

Is this suitable for beginners?
No, this experience is designed for certified divers. Beginners who are not certified will need to look for beginner-friendly options.

How long does each dive last?
Each session lasts up to 50 minutes or until your cylinder pressure reaches 50 bars.

Can I bring my own underwater camera?
Optional underwater photos and videos are available for purchase, but you are welcome to bring your own waterproof camera.

What is the group size?
Diving groups are small, with a maximum of three to four divers per instructor, ensuring personalized attention.

What about dietary restrictions?
The tour accommodates vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs—just specify when booking.

What if the weather is bad?
The activity depends on good weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there an age limit?
Yes, divers must be at least 10 years old to participate.

This Phuket diving trip offers a balanced mix of adventure, safety, and value. Whether you’re looking to see marine life up close or just want a dependable, fun day out on the water, it’s a solid choice for certified divers eager to explore the captivating depths of the Racha Islands.