From Phi Phi: Half Day Trip for Certified Divers (2 Dives)

From Phi Phi: Half Day Trip for Certified Divers (2 Dives)

If you’re a seasoned diver craving vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters, the Half Day Trip for Certified Divers on Phi Phi Island offers a compelling blend of adventure and natural beauty. Priced at $91.64 per person and lasting around 5 hours, this tour is perfect if you’re looking to escape the crowds and explore some of the most dazzling underwater scenery Thailand has to offer. Led by experienced PADI professionals at a 5-star Eco Dive Centre, the tour is known for safety, personalized care, and a strong conservation ethic.

What we love most is the chance to see turtles and sharks in their natural habitat, along with the chance to explore coral reefs teeming with clownfish, snappers, and barracuda. Plus, the small group size—usually just 2 divers per instructor—means you’ll get focused attention and a more relaxed experience. A second highlight is the conservation-minded approach of the eco dive team, ensuring that the reefs remain healthy for future visitors.

One consideration is the need for certification and recent diving experience—you must have dived within the last year to participate, which could mean a refresher if your skills have lapsed. Also, since the trip departs from Phi Phi and involves boat transfers, it’s best suited for those comfortable with short boat rides and spending a night on the island.

This tour is ideal for certified divers who want high-quality, small-group diving with a focus on marine life and reef health, especially if you appreciate personalized service and stunning scenery.

Key Points

• Small groups ensure personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Marine life encounters include turtles, sharks, barracuda, and colorful reef fish.
• Expert guides provide safety, local knowledge, and conservation passion.
• Convenient schedule with morning or afternoon departures suits tight itineraries.
• Eco-conscious approach helps protect the delicate marine environment.
• All equipment included, with meals and insurance for peace of mind.

An In-Depth Look at the Phi Phi Certified Diver Experience

When we think about diving around Phi Phi, we imagine stunning coral formations, vibrant marine life, and the thrill of encountering creatures like turtles and sharks in their natural surroundings. Blue View Divers has crafted a trip that balances these expectations with safety, sustainability, and personal service. With a solid 5-star rating and glowing reviews, this tour clearly hits the mark for many travelers.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour begins with a meeting about 20 minutes before departure at the main pier, usually around 7 or 7:30 am for morning trips or 12:30 pm for in the afternoon. You’ll check in, pay a THB 600 park entrance fee, and get ready for a short boat ride—about 20 to 25 minutes—to reach the chosen dive sites, often the Bida Islands or Phi Phi Leh. This distance from the main island ensures you’re away from the crowds, a big plus for those seeking serenity underwater.

The first dive typically lasts about 60 minutes and offers encounters with iconic reef species, including clownfish, snappers, and moray eels. If you’re lucky, you might spot a turtle or even a shark, depending on the site and conditions. The guides are adept at choosing locations that are both breathtaking and less busy, maximizing your chances of a peaceful, undisturbed experience.

After the first descent, everyone gets a chance to relax and enjoy a delicious, accommodating lunch onboard in stunning surroundings—imagine dining on the water with views of the islands. This break is essential to recharge before the second dive, which lasts another up to 60 minutes. If you saw a turtle on the first dive, your crew might take you to a different spot known for shark sightings. The focus remains on quality marine encounters, not quantity.

The return times are well-timed: 12:30-1 pm for morning trips, so you’re back in time for your onward ferry, and around 5:30-6 pm for afternoon adventures. This schedule helps you maximize your day without feeling rushed.

The Marine Environment and Dive Sites

The coral reefs around Phi Phi are among the most famous in Thailand—and for good reason. The reefs are healthily populated with colorful corals, providing shelter for a dazzling array of marine life. Big schools of snappers and barracuda are common sights, and the possibility of swimming alongside turtles or sharks elevates the experience.

The guides aim to find quieter sites, especially in low season, which means you’re less likely to be jostling with large groups. As Daniel from a review mentioned, he had an “incredible sea life” experience with “great dive” and a “great crew”—highlighting how well the team manages to find exceptional spots.

The Benefits of a Small Group and Eco Focus

The small-group format—2 divers per instructor—ensures that your safety and enjoyment are prioritized. You’ll receive personalized guidance, which is ideal if you’re a certified diver looking to explore specific marine environments or seeking reassurance in more challenging conditions.

The eco-conscious approach of Blue View Divers is evident in their passion for conservation. They aim to miss the crowds and visit sites with fewer visitors, reducing environmental impact and enhancing the overall experience.

Practicalities: Equipment, Cost, and Logistics

All scuba equipment is included, so you won’t need to fuss with bringing your own gear. The tour also covers coffee or tea for refreshment and meals that cater to various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. The admission fee to Phi Phi Marine Park is THB600, payable on-site and a small additional expense to consider.

If you haven’t been diving in over a year, a refresher course is available for +THB800, ensuring you’re comfortable before entering the water. For those interested in GoPro rentals, expect to pay about THB1000+—a great way to capture your underwater adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for certified divers who want intimate, personalized dives with a focus on marine life and reef health. It’s ideal if you’re after the possibility of seeing turtles and sharks and prefer a relaxed pace with less crowded sites. If you’re a diver who appreciates stunning views from boat rides and flexible schedules, this tour offers both.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In our view, this tour provides excellent value for the price. You get two high-quality dives in some of Phi Phi’s most scenic spots, with the added bonus of small groups and expert guides. The focus on conservation and personalized service makes it stand out from larger, more commercial outfits.

For divers who are certified and eager to see a diverse range of marine life—including turtles, sharks, and colorful reefs—this trip is a worthy investment. The fact that it’s highly rated by travelers, with 44 reviews and a perfect 5-star rating, speaks volumes about its consistency.

If your priority is quality over quantity and you want to maximize your chances of peaceful, breathtaking encounters, Blue View Divers has crafted an experience that’s both memorable and meaningful.

FAQ

Do I need to be a certified diver to join this trip?
Yes, this tour is for certified divers only. You need to have dived within the last year, or you may need to do a refresher course.

How long do the dives last?
Each dive typically lasts around 60 minutes, giving you ample time to explore and enjoy marine life.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers two dives, scuba equipment, lunch, coffee or tea, and insurance.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, you’ll need to pay the THB 600 marine park entrance fee on site. If you want to rent a GoPro or do a refresher, those are additional costs.

What is the size of the tour group?
The group is intentionally small—maximum of 10 travelers—ensuring personalized attention and less crowded diving.

When should I book?
Most trips are booked about 26 days in advance, so it’s best to reserve early to secure your spot.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The trip is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a substitute date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this Phi Phi diving trip is a smart choice for certified divers looking for quality, personalized marine encounters in a stunning setting. It’s well-suited for those who value small-group experiences, eco-friendly practices, and diving in tranquil, less crowded sites. If you’re eager to see turtles and sharks in crystal-clear waters, this tour promises an authentic, memorable adventure that respects the natural environment—a true highlight of any trip to Thailand’s famed Phi Phi Islands.