Premium Guided Scuba Diving Day Trip for Certified Divers

If you’re someone who’s already earned your scuba certification and plans to visit Phuket, you’ve just found a trip that could redefine your underwater adventures. This 7-hour guided day trip costs around $158 per person and is hosted on the charming M/V Matchanu, a cozy boat that caters to a maximum of 12 divers. The focus here is on personalized experience, with unrestricted dive times and a flexible schedule that lets you explore some of Phuket’s most intriguing underwater sites without the crowds.

What we love about this trip is how it combines professional service with a relaxed atmosphere—perfect for both newer certified divers seeking beautiful sights and experienced divers looking for a more intimate, unrushed experience. The boat’s small size means you won’t be crammed in with dozens of strangers, allowing for a more peaceful, personalized experience. Plus, the focus on eco-friendly practices—like no single-use plastics—adds a thoughtful touch that many travelers will appreciate.

One thing to consider is that scuba equipment isn’t included in the price, so if you need to rent gear, you’ll want to factor that into your budget. Also, since the tour is weather-dependent and limited to 10 travelers, it’s best to book a few weeks in advance if you want to secure your spot.

This trip suits certified divers of all levels who want to explore Phuket’s underwater landscapes in a small-group setting, away from the crowds but with all the professional guidance you’d expect. If your goal is to see vibrant reefs, shipwrecks, and walls with a relaxed crew and excellent food, this tour is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Max. 12 divers for a personalized and intimate atmosphere.
• Flexible Dive Time: Unrestricted dive duration to explore at your own pace.
• Eco-Conscious: Water provided in tanks, no single-use plastics, aligning with environmentally friendly values.
• Diverse Dive Sites: Coral gardens, walls, shipwrecks, and vibrant marine life.
• Professional Guides: Well-reviewed guides like Mona, Alice, and Simon ensure safety and fun.
• Excellent Food & Refreshments: Snacks, lunch, coffee/tea, and bottled water keep you energized.

A Closer Look at the Phuket Scuba Experience

The Boat and Atmosphere

The M/V Matchanu is described as a charming, relaxed dive boat that epitomizes the small-group, personable diving experience many travelers seek. With a maximum of just 12 divers, the boat’s size translates into a cozy environment where everyone’s comfort and safety are prioritized. We loved the way the crew prepares everything in advance, with gear already set up for each diver—so there’s no rushing or scrambling when you arrive.

The small boat allows for more flexibility and a slower pace, meaning you can enjoy longer bottom times and soak in the underwater scenery without feeling hurried. Several reviews mention a stress-free, well-organized trip with attentive guides like Mona, Alice, and Simon, who are praised for their professionalism and friendliness.

The Itinerary and Dive Sites

The trip kicks off early at 8:00 am from the Chalong pier, with a clear focus on quality over quantity. The diverse sites visited include reefs, walls, and wrecks—each offering unique sights and marine encounters. The various locations are highlighted for their pristine reefs and abundant fish; many reviews rave about the “untouched” reefs and schools of fish that make each dive a visual feast.

What sets this experience apart is the unrestricted dive time. Unlike larger tours with tight schedules, you’ll enjoy more freedom to explore each site at your own pace. This is particularly appreciated by experienced divers who want to linger over a favorite coral garden or examine a wreck thoroughly.

The Marine Environment

According to reviews, the underwater landscape is breathtaking—colorful coral gardens, walls, and wrecks that captivate divers of all levels. The marine life is described as impressive, with abundant fish and healthy corals. The sites visited are often described as “pristine” and “untouched,” making it clear that the tour emphasizes eco-conscious practices, like no single-use plastics and water in tanks.

Food, Snacks, and Refreshments

Included in the tour are snacks, lunch, coffee/tea, and bottled water—the latter provided in reusable cups, which is a fantastic touch given the increasing focus on sustainability. Several reviews emphasize the delicious food and friendly service, with many noting that the lunch was a highlight of the day.

The Guides and Service Quality

Guides like Mona and Alice receive glowing praise for their professionalism, patience, and friendliness. Many reviewers mention how these guides tailored the experience to their skill levels, making everyone feel safe and well cared for. The small group size and attentive service contribute significantly to the overall enjoyment.

Price and Value

For $158.13, travelers get a full day of diving in some of Phuket’s top sites, with personalized attention and flexible diving times. Considering the small-group setting, quality of guides, and diverse underwater environments, many see this as excellent value. The price explicitly does not include scuba equipment, which is a common practice, so renters should budget accordingly.

Considerations and Recommendations

While most reviews are enthusiastic, it’s worth noting that equipment rental is separate and not included, so you’ll need to plan for that if you don’t have your own gear. Also, weather can impact the trip—though the company offers full refunds or rescheduling if conditions are poor.

This tour is best suited for certified divers who want to explore with freedom and flexibility, not those seeking a larger, more regimented tour. It’s ideal for divers who enjoy small groups, diving at their own pace, and appreciate good food and friendly guides.

The Sum Up

This Phuket scuba trip offers a refreshing take on underwater exploration—small, relaxed, personalized, and environmentally conscious. The expert guides, diverse sites, and unrestricted dive times make it a top choice for divers who want quality over quantity. The focus on safety, professionalism, and delicious local food ensures you’ll leave with great memories and a smile.

If you’re a certified diver looking for a well-organized, intimate experience with high standards of service and a chance to see Phuket’s best underwater sights, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suited for those who value flexibility and personalized attention and don’t mind paying a little extra for a more authentic, stress-free day beneath the waves.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You’ll receive snorkeling equipment, snacks, lunch, coffee/tea, and bottled water in reusable cups. Scuba equipment rental is not included, so bring your own or arrange rentals separately.

What is the tour duration?
The whole trip lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning to the meeting point in Phuket.

How many people are on the boat?
The boat is limited to a maximum of 12 divers, ensuring an intimate experience and personal attention from guides.

What level of physical fitness is required?
A moderate fitness level is recommended, as the activity involves some physical exertion typical of diving trips.

Can I join if I’m a beginner diver?
This trip is designed for certified divers. If you’re not certified or new to scuba, look for introductory courses or beginner-friendly trips.

What are the main dive sites?
Expect coral gardens, walls, and shipwrecks, with a focus on abundant marine life and pristine reefs.

How do I book or confirm?
Booking is straightforward via the provider’s website or platform like Viator. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, but spots are limited and best booked 21 days in advance.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience is weather-dependent. If conditions are poor, the trip might be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund or alternative date offered.

Is the water temperature suitable?
While not explicitly mentioned, Phuket’s waters are generally warm enough for comfortable diving, especially if you bring your own wetsuit or rent gear from the operator.

In sum, this small-group, flexible dive trip in Phuket offers a quality experience that’s hard to beat for certified divers craving personalized service, beautiful marine environments, and delicious local food. It’s a smart choice for anyone who wants to maximize their underwater time while enjoying a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.