Phuket Raya Island Day Tour with Snorkeling OR Scuba Diving

Explore Phuket’s Prime Beaches and Undersea Wonders on a Full-Day Island Tour

If you’re craving a day away from the busy streets of Phuket, this Raya Island Day Tour with Snorkeling or Scuba Diving offers a relaxing escape to some of the island’s most beautiful beaches. For about $52, you get hotel pickup, a speedboat ride, and a full itinerary that includes swimming, sunbathing, and great food—all within roughly nine hours. What we love about this tour is how well-organized it is, with clear instructions and plenty of time to enjoy each stop, plus the chance to enjoy either snorkeling or trying out scuba diving.

Another highlight is the opportunity to visit multiple spots, from Koh Racha Yai’s stunning bays to the quieter beaches of Coral Island, making this a well-rounded experience for lovers of both land and sea. The included buffet lunch and the convenience of hotel pickup make it easy to relax and focus on enjoying your day.

One thing to consider is that the tour’s timing can feel a bit rushed, especially if you’re hoping for longer beach stays or extra time underwater. It’s best suited for travelers who want a taste of island life, enjoy water activities, and appreciate organized trips that handle the logistics. This tour is ideal if you’re visiting Phuket for a short stay or looking for a value-packed day that combines adventure with comfort.

Key Points

• Convenience: Hotel pickup, round-trip transport, and all gear provided.
• Variety: Visit multiple beaches and enjoy snorkeling or scuba diving.
• Food & Rest: Buffet lunch with snacks and drinks to keep you energized.
• Flexible Options: Choose between snorkeling or scuba diving based on your comfort level.
• Authentic Experience: Professional guides and small group sizes enhance the experience.
• Timing: Well-structured, but expect some time constraints on beach and underwater activities.

A Full Breakdown of the Phuket Raya Island Day Tour

This full-day excursion is designed for travelers who want to see a bit of everything Phuket’s surrounding islands have to offer—without the hassle of organizing transport or activities themselves. At a modest price of $52, the experience packs in a lot, from the scenic speedboat ride to multiple beach visits and water activities.

Starting Point and Early Morning Pickup

The tour begins early, with pickup from your hotel in Patong, Kata, Karon, and several other popular beaches. We appreciated how straightforward this made the day; no need to worry about transportation logistics. Our guide collected us promptly, and we headed to Chalong Pier, where the speedboats were waiting.

The Speedboat Ride to Raya Island

The boat ride itself lasts around 30 to 45 minutes, offering a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and perhaps a quick coffee or tea to start the day. Traveling by speedboat is not only efficient but also adds a touch of adventure. As you glide across the water, you’ll already be soaking in the stunning views of Phuket’s coastline.

First Stop: Koh Racha Yai

Arrival at Ter Bay marks the beginning of your underwater adventure, with two options depending on your choice—snorkeling or scuba diving.

• For snorkelers, the equipment is provided, and you’ll have about 45-60 minutes to explore the vibrant marine life around Kon Kae Bay or Siam Bay. The fresh gear and professional guidance mean even beginners feel comfortable. Travelers report that they loved the clear water and chance to see colorful fish and coral reefs, making this a favorite part of the trip.

• For those opting for scuba diving, you’ll get around 15 minutes of safety instructions before jumping in at a 10-meter depth, with approximately 30 minutes underwater. Even without a license, this shallow dive promises views of lively coral reefs and swimming fish, which many find surprisingly memorable.

Midday: Buffet Lunch on Buang Hai Bay

After your underwater activities, the group reconvenes on land for a buffet lunch at a local restaurant. The lunch is described as tasty and substantial, offering a good break before more beach time. Many reviewers appreciate the variety of snacks and drinks included, as well as the opportunity to relax and chat with fellow travelers.

Afternoon: Coral Island and Relaxation

Post-lunch, the tour heads to Coral Island for some downtime. You’ll have about an hour to unwind, swim, or sunbathe. For an extra fee (around 100 THB), you can rent a beach chair, or opt for additional activities like parasailing or banana boat rides—though these are offered by third-party vendors on-site. One reviewer highlighted the option to rent a chair, noting it made relaxing on the beach much more comfortable.

Return to Phuket

By around 3:30 PM, it’s time to leave Coral Island and head back to the mainland. The boat ride back offers one last chance to enjoy the scenery, with the group arriving at Chalong Pier around 4:15 PM. From there, your driver will take you back to your hotel, wrapping up a busy yet enjoyable day.

What Travelers Say: Real Experiences and Honest Opinions

The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 from eight reviews shows most travelers find this tour valuable and fun. One traveler, Teresa Morrison, called it a “great trip for an islands taster,” emphasizing the well-organized schedule and the chance to visit multiple beautiful locations. She especially enjoyed the coral island stop and appreciated the provided refreshments, though she wished it was longer.

On the flip side, some reviewers like Mikko T expressed disappointment over organizational issues, such as poorly fitting snorkeling masks that led to skipping some activities. While these are rare, they highlight that equipment quality can vary, and travelers should be prepared for slight inconveniences.

A French traveler, Laure, described the trip as “magnifique,” praising the stunning views and the friendly guide team. Her account reflects how many travelers leave with wonderful memories of the scenery and warm company.

Practical Details That Matter

Transport and Timing: The round-trip speedboat ride is quick and efficient, allowing maximum time for activities on the islands. The early start and 9-hour duration give enough time to enjoy the beaches and underwater adventures without feeling rushed.

Group Size and Guides: With a maximum of 30 travelers and professional guides, this tour offers a balance between personalized attention and social interaction. The guides are noted for their friendliness and helpfulness, which can make a big difference when trying new activities like scuba diving or snorkeling.

Price and Value: At $52, this tour offers a solid value considering the included hotel pickup, all equipment, lunch, and multiple beach visits. It’s a budget-friendly way to see some of Phuket’s best nearby islands without the stress of planning all the logistics yourself.

Age and Activity Levels: Suitable for ages 10 and up for scuba diving, and generally accessible for most travelers in good health. However, the short duration underwater and the limited time on each stop might not satisfy those seeking a deep exploration or longer beach stays.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who want a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure, especially if you enjoy water activities like snorkeling or are curious about trying scuba diving for the first time. It’s perfect for visitors who prefer a well-organized, hassle-free experience that takes care of transportation, gear, and meals.

If you’re traveling with family, the options for snorkeling or short dives make it accessible for children and non-divers alike. However, if you’re after a more leisurely pace or more time underwater, you might find this tour slightly rushed.

The Sum Up

For those visiting Phuket and craving a taste of island life, this Raya Island Day Tour stands out as a practical, fun, and affordable option. It offers a good balance of scenic beauty, water activity, and comfort, making it ideal for first-time visitors or anyone with limited time on the island. The professional guides, well-organized schedule, and inclusive amenities ensure you’ll get a memorable day without the stress of orchestrating your own trip.

While some may wish for longer beach stays or more personalized equipment, most travelers come away feeling they’ve experienced a snapshot of Phuket’s best coastal spots. If you’re eager to enjoy stunning vistas, vibrant marine life, and a taste of local island life all in one day, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included for most popular beaches like Patong, Kata, and Karon, making it very convenient.

How long is the boat ride?
The speedboat ride from Phuket to Raya Island lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes, providing scenic views en route.

Can I choose snorkeling instead of scuba diving?
Absolutely. You can select the snorkeling option, where you’ll get gear and about 45-60 minutes to explore marine life.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers professional guides, speedboat transportation, snorkeling or scuba gear, buffet lunch, all entrance fees, coffee & tea, and full insurance.

Are there age restrictions for scuba diving?
Yes, participants must be at least 10 years old to try scuba diving, and children pay the same price as adults.

What if I don’t like the equipment offered?
Some reviews mention issues with snorkeling masks fitting properly, so bring your own mask if you have specific comfort needs.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, as long as you’re comfortable in shallow water, snorkeling is a safe and enjoyable activity for non-swimmers with provided gear.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 16 days ahead, which is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

Whether you’re keen on underwater exploration or just prefer lounging on gorgeous beaches, this tour offers a straightforward way to enjoy Phuket’s nearby islands. It balances adventure with relaxation—making it perfect for a memorable day on Thailand’s Andaman Sea.