Phuket: Speedboat tour to Coral Island & Racha island

Phuket: Speedboat Tour to Coral Island & Racha Island

When you’re looking for a quick escape from busy Phuket, a speedboat trip to stunning islands like Coral Island, Kahung Beach, and Racha Island offers a taste of Thailand’s tropical beauty. For around $46 per person, you’ll spend 4 to 7 hours zipping across turquoise waters, snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, and lounging on soft sandy beaches.

What we love about this tour is how it combines adventure and relaxation in one package. The thrill of speeding through the sea on a fast boat is exhilarating, and the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters is always a highlight. Plus, the included Thai lunch and seasonal fruits make it feel like a full-day feast for the senses.

One possible drawback? The reviews suggest that organization can be inconsistent—some passengers have found communication with guides lacking and the itinerary not as advertised. For those seeking a smooth, well-coordinated trip or specific island destinations, this might be a point to consider.

This tour suits travelers who want a cost-effective, fun-filled day exploring Phuket’s coastal gems, especially if a bit of unpredictability doesn’t bother you. Perfect for those who value quick access to scenic beaches and snorkeling but are open to some surprises along the way.

Key Points

• Speedboat Adventure: Fast-paced trip to Coral Island, Kahung Beach, and possibly Racha Island.
• Snorkeling & Beach Time: Excellent opportunities to snorkel in vibrant reefs and relax on soft sands.
• Flexible Options: Choose from half-day, full-day, or full-day including Racha Island for longer exploration.
• Inclusion of Food & Drinks: Thai lunch (for full-day options), seasonal fruits, water, soft drinks, and cold towels.
• Pick-up Service: Convenient hotel transfers from many Phuket locations, with some extra fees for certain areas.
• Potential Disorganization: Reviews indicate some trips may lack clarity or full adherence to advertised destinations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical, Honest Look at the Tour Experience

Getting there & timing
Most travelers will appreciate the included hotel pick-up service, which simplifies the logistics of meeting at a central point. The driver will contact you in advance, usually 30 minutes to an hour before pickup, making it easy to plan. Starting times vary depending on the option you select—from 9:00 AM for full-day trips to 12:00 PM for half-day adventures. Remember, some pickup areas charge extra, so check the fee details beforehand.

The speedboat ride itself is undoubtedly a highlight. It’s the classic way to cover distance quickly and get to the best beaches without wasting time on slower ferries. The boats are equipped with life jackets, snorkeling gear, and safety equipment, giving you peace of mind. Expect the ride to be lively, sometimes choppy, but always fun.

Destinations & Highlights
– Coral Island: a favorite for its vibrant coral reefs and clear waters. Snorkeling here is usually top-notch, with colorful fish visible just below the surface.
– Kahung Beach: a quieter stretch of sand ideal for relaxing and soaking up the sun. It’s perfect for unwinding after some water activities.
– Racha Island (if included): known for its pristine beaches and excellent snorkeling spots, Racha is often described as a more secluded paradise. However, some reviews mention that Racha might be omitted if the tour doesn’t go as planned. As one traveler noted, “we were ONLY at coral island because we had apparently paid for Racha Island,” which is a reminder to confirm your itinerary.

Snorkeling & beach time
The snorkeling gear provided allows you to explore the underwater world, with the reefs teeming with marine life. We loved the way the tour balances adventure with leisure, giving ample time to swim, sunbathe, or sip a cold drink. The beach chairs and shaded areas are comfortable spots to relax between dips.

Food & refreshment
For full-day trips, the included Thai lunch is a significant plus. It’s a chance to enjoy local flavors amid a stunning backdrop of islands. During the day, fresh seasonal fruits, soft drinks, and bottled water are available, helping you stay refreshed. The cold towels are a nice touch after sunbathing or swimming.

Potential challenges
The reviews reveal some disorganization. A traveler lamented, “everything was very disorganized,” and the guide’s limited English made communication difficult. It’s worth noting that the itinerary may not always match what’s advertised, and some guests have only experienced Coral Island because they didn’t get to Racha as planned.

Who this tour is best for
If you’re someone who enjoys a lively, adventurous day on the water and don’t mind some unpredictability, this tour fits well. It’s especially good for budget travelers seeking a convenient way to visit popular beaches without the hassle of arranging transport themselves. However, if you prefer a more organized, seamless experience, or are particularly eager to visit Racha Island, you might want to explore other options or confirm details beforehand.

Why This Tour Might Be Worth Your Time

We found that the speedboat ride itself is a dynamic way to explore Phuket’s southern islands. The thrill of zipping across the water is balanced by the serenity of soft sandy beaches and clear reefs perfect for snorkeling. The value of including hotel transfers, snorkeling gear, and a Thai lunch makes this a relatively affordable day out, especially considering the cost of hiring a boat and guide independently.

The scenic views during the ride are unforgettable—expect stunning vistas of islands rising out of the sea, with plenty of photo opportunities. The beaches, especially Kahung Beach, offer a peaceful retreat, ideal for those wanting to escape the crowds or enjoy a tropical picnic.

However, be prepared for some organizational hiccups. As one reviewer bluntly put it, “everything was very disorganized,” and communication issues could hamper your experience. This suggests that if you’re flexible and open-minded, you’re likely to still enjoy the highlights, but if smooth logistics are your priority, this might not be the best choice.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers willing to accept some surprises in exchange for a low-cost, fun-filled day exploring Phuket’s nearby islands. It’s perfect if your primary goal is snorkeling, beach lounging, and enjoying the sea, with the understanding that the experience may vary from trip to trip.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The duration varies from 4 to 7 hours, depending on the option you select and the pace of the trip.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pick-up, snorkeling gear, water, soft drinks, seasonal fruits, a cold towel, beach chairs, life jackets, and insurance. Full-day options also include a Thai lunch.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, some pickup areas charge extra fees—250 Baht per person for certain locations, and up to 2,000 Baht per van for others. Lunch is only included in full-day packages, so if you opt for a shorter trip, you’ll need to arrange your own meal.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly restricted, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, babies under 1 year, or travelers over 70, mainly due to safety and comfort considerations.

How is the snorkeling gear provided?
Snorkeling equipment is included, so you can explore the reefs without extra rental costs.

What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes, towel, sandals, beachwear, and cash for additional expenses or tips.

Will I get to visit Racha Island on this tour?
It depends. Some trips include Racha Island, but reviews indicate that sometimes only Coral Island is visited. Confirm the itinerary when booking.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Since the tour is based on weather conditions, it could be canceled or rescheduled if the sea is too rough. Check the policy for full refunds if you cancel in advance.

Is the tour guided in English?
Yes, the live guide speaks English, making it easier to follow along and ask questions during your trip.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

To sum it up, this Phuket speedboat tour offers a lively, budget-friendly way to explore some of Thailand’s most popular island beaches. While organization might sometimes be inconsistent, the spectacular scenery, snorkeling, and beach time make it a worthwhile option for those who enjoy a bit of adventure and are flexible with their schedule. It’s an ideal choice for travelers eager to combine a quick, scenic sea excursion with the chance to relax on pristine beaches—just be sure to clarify the itinerary and prepare for some surprises along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: