Dive Trip to Phi Phi from Phuket for certified divers

Exploring the Underwater World on a Phi Phi Dive Trip from Phuket
This full-day adventure is designed for certified divers eager to explore the famed waters of the Phi Phi Islands. For around $100, you’ll enjoy three guided dives in some of Thailand’s most celebrated underwater sites, with small groups of no more than four divers per guide ensuring personalized attention. The trip includes round-trip transport from Phuket, breakfast, lunch, fresh fruits, and drinks, making it both convenient and comprehensive.

Two aspects particularly stand out to us: first, the small group size that offers a more intimate diving experience—often with your own dedicated guide—and second, the opportunity to see a variety of marine life and geological formations during different dives. You’ll get to explore at Koh Bida Nok and Koh Bida Nai, Phi Phi Leh, and a site on the way back—either Shark Point or Koh Doc Mai—each offering unique underwater sights.

One potential consideration is that the marine park fee is not included in the base price, and rental of dive equipment costs extra. Also, the trip relies heavily on weather conditions, so some planning flexibility is wise.

This tour is perfect for certified divers looking to make the most of Thailand’s underwater scenery in a relaxed, small-group setting. If you love discovering new dive sites with expert guides and enjoy combining good food with adventure, this trip will suit you well.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Max of 4 divers per guide, often with a private guide for personalized service.
• Variety of Sites: Includes two Phi Phi dives and a third site on the return, offering diverse marine life and underwater landscapes.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Breakfast, lunch, fresh fruits, water, and hot drinks included, plus tanks and weights.
• Convenient Pickup: Pickup from key areas in Phuket makes the day stress-free.
• Certified Divers Only: Requires proof of experience, with at least 10 dives or a recent dive within six months.
• Excellent Value: At around $100, the trip combines quality dives, good food, and small-group intimacy.

The Details: What To Expect on Your Dive Day

Early Morning Pickup and Transportation

Your day begins at 8:00 am with a courteous pickup from your Phuket accommodation if you’re in Patong, Karon, Kata, Chalong, Rawai, or Nai Harn. The journey to the boat is by air-conditioned van, ensuring comfort after a potentially early start. Having your pickup included is a real plus—it saves you the hassle of arranging transport, especially when you’re eager to maximize your dive time.

The Boat and the First Dives

Once on board, you’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast as the boat glides towards the Phi Phi Islands, renowned for towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters. The first stop often is Koh Bida Nok, famous for its vibrant coral reefs, schooling fish, and the chance to spot larger species like snapper and trevallies. LucyZ_T praised this site for its gorgeous underwater scenes and clear visibility.

The small group setting really shines here, as your guide can focus on helping each diver with gear and pointing out hidden treasures like nudibranchs—those tiny, colorful sea slugs that are often overlooked. It’s a setting that promotes comfort and learning, especially for those who want a more personal experience.

Midday Break and Lunch

After your first two dives, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch on the boat, which is a highlight for many travelers. Fresh fruits, drinks, and hot meals keep everyone energized, and the surface interval is an ideal time to relax, chat with fellow divers, or review the incredible sights seen underwater. As one guest put it, the food was “yummy and plentiful,” making this part of the experience both nourishing and social.

The Second Dive and the Return Journey

Post-lunch, you’ll head to another popular site—possibly Koh Bida Nai or Phi Phi Leh—each offering their own unique underwater features. Some might see spectacular coral formations or abundant marine life. The reviews reflect a shared appreciation: “The diving scene was gorgeous,” and the variety of sites keeps the experience fresh and engaging.

On the way back to Phuket, you’ll make your third dive at either Shark Point or Koh Doc Mai. Shark Point offers underwater pinnacles, soft and hard corals, and the possibility of spotting leopard sharks. Alternatively, Koh Doc Mai features a wall dive with caverns and macro life, perfect for photographers and those interested in tiny marine creatures.

End of the Day and Return to Phuket

Once the last dive is complete, you’ll be transported back in comfort to your accommodation. The air-conditioned van ensures you remain relaxed after a day of underwater exploration. Many reviews mention how smooth and hassle-free the logistics are, making the trip feel more like an adventure than a chore.

Value and Equipment Considerations

This trip offers excellent value for certified divers, combining three guided dives with transportation, meals, and insurance. The price of around $100 is competitive, especially considering the small-group dynamic and personalized guides.

However, note that additional costs include dive equipment rental—priced at 600 Baht for a full set—and the marine park fee, which is not included in the initial price. If you’re planning multiple trips or want to streamline your experience, bringing your own gear can be worth considering.

Guides and Marine Life

From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Mischa stand out for their knowledge and enthusiasm—taking photos, pointing out hard-to-spot nudibranchs, and providing helpful gear refreshers. This personal touch enhances the overall experience, especially if you’re keen on macro photography or just want a trusted expert familiar with the sites.

Group Size and Atmosphere

The small group size—max four divers—brings a more relaxed, tailored experience that many travelers appreciate. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or someone wanting a quieter, less crowded experience, this setup ensures you’re not lost in a crowd.

Possible Drawbacks

The main concern among reviewers is the organization of transfers. While most found pickups smooth, at least one diver mentioned an issue with a wrong hotel pickup, leading to some waiting. Weather can also impact the day, as some sites depend on calm seas.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This trip is ideal if you’re a certified diver with experience, looking for a small-group, personalized experience in Phuket. It suits those who want to maximize their underwater sights without the crowds and are comfortable with drift dives. The inclusion of good food and comfortable transport makes it appealing for travelers who prefer a hassle-free, all-in-one day of adventure.

It’s especially perfect for divers who appreciate macro photography and marine biodiversity, as guides tend to focus on wildlife and hidden creatures. Non-divers and friends are welcome to join the boat, adding a social element to the day, though they won’t partake in the dives.

The Sum Up

For anyone with diving experience looking to explore Phuket’s underwater world in small, guided groups, this trip offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and value. The three different dive sites ensure a variety of marine life and scenery, from coral gardens to shark sightings. The included meals, hassle-free transportation, and personal guide service add to the appeal, making it a well-rounded choice for those wanting a memorable day on the water.

While the marine park fee and equipment rental are extra, the overall experience remains very cost-effective given the quality of dives and intimate service. If you love discovering diverse underwater environments and prefer small-group excursions, this trip could be the highlight of your Phuket stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable if I’m not a certified diver?
This trip is designed for certified divers only. However, non-diving friends or relatives can join the boat and enjoy the day on deck, but they won’t be able to participate in the dives.

What level of diving experience do I need?
You should have at least 10 dives or have completed your last dive within the past 6 months. Proof of experience is required to join.

Are meals provided?
Yes, the trip includes breakfast, a buffet lunch, fresh fruits, water, coffee, and tea—making the day both filling and refreshing.

How many divers are in each group?
The maximum is four divers per guide, which is ideal for personalized instruction and a relaxed atmosphere.

What sites will we visit?
You’ll typically visit Koh Bida Nok, Koh Bida Nai, Phi Phi Leh, and a site on the way back, either Shark Point or Koh Doc Mai. Each offers a different underwater experience, from coral gardens to potential shark sightings.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions prevent safe diving, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Are dive equipment rentals available?
Yes, full sets are available for 600 Baht, but bringing your own gear might be more convenient if you’re a frequent diver.

In all, this trip combines a diver-friendly schedule, professional guides, and convenience—making it an excellent choice for those eager to see Phuket’s underwater treasures with a trusted company.