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The 10 Best Full-Day Tours in Phuket
Phuket isn’t just about beaches and vibrant nightlife; it’s a treasure trove of full-day experiences that showcase the island’s diverse personality. Whether you’re interested in underwater adventures, cultural sightseeing, or nature encounters, Phuket has options to suit every taste. Our favorites include the Full-Day Beginner Scuba Course for those new to diving—an excellent way to dip your toes in the water—and the Private Phi Phi Islands Speedboat for a personalized island escape. We love how Phuket’s tours combine stunning scenery, cultural insights, and authentic encounters, like visiting ethical elephant sanctuaries or exploring famous movie locations—all in one day.
If you're planning your trip, be sure to consider what kind of experience fits your style, budget, and energy level. With options ranging from around $37 for a snorkeling trip to over $1,300 for private yacht charters, there’s a full-day tour here for everyone.
Quick Overview of Phuket’s Best Full-Day Tours
Phuket’s full-day offerings are as diverse as the island itself. You can learn scuba diving with beginner courses (like the Full-Day Beginner Scuba Course), explore the world-famous Phi Phi Islands either privately or on a group tour, or get a taste of Thai culture and wildlife at the Elephant Sanctuary (full details here). For adventure lovers, kayaking in Phang Nga Bay (full-day Phangnga Bay) offers scenic views and calm waters. Family-friendly options like Froggy Fun Park are perfect for a fun-packed day, while those wanting a luxurious experience can opt for a full-day yacht trip to Phi Phi and Maiton Islands (full info here).
Below, you'll find detailed descriptions of each of these top-rated tours.
1. Full-Day Beginner Scuba Course with Private Tuition, Racha Yai
For many, the idea of learning to scuba dive in a single day sounds daunting—until you do it. This full-day beginner scuba course offers a safe, well-organized introduction to the underwater world off Phuket’s coast. It includes two open-water dives at Koh Racha Yai, guided by certified instructors who focus on making you feel comfortable and confident. The trip kicks off with hotel pickup, then sails out to the island where you’ll get a personalized briefing and instruction.
What makes this tour stand out is its private tuition, perfect for first-timers or those craving more individualized attention. Underwater, you’ll see tropical fish, colorful corals, and maybe even sea turtles—an unforgettable experience. It includes breakfast, buffet lunch, snacks, and hotel transfers, making it excellent value for the price of $157.07. Guests rave about the professionalism and safety, with many saying it’s “well-organized” and “breathtaking.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for beginners who want a comprehensive, personalized scuba experience with all logistics handled smoothly.
2. Full-Day Freshwater Lake Resort Fishing in Phang Nga
If fishing is your thing, this full-day fishing trip in Phang Nga is a must. You’ll spend the day at a lake stocked with over 60 species, including giant stingrays and Mekong catfish. The resort’s fishing sala offers shade and comfort while you bait your two rods, with guides on hand to help you land the big one.
The highlight is catching the massive Arapaima, which can weigh up to 360 pounds. After fishing, enjoy a stroll through the surrounding fruit trees and park, soaking in scenic limestone mountains during transit. At just $503.64 per person, you get a long, leisurely day with all equipment included and fantastic reviews about the friendly service. While it’s a pricier option, the experience of fishing for giant fish in a peaceful setting is a rare treat.
Bottom Line: Perfect for anglers wanting to target exotic freshwater species in an idyllic setting with full support from guides.
3. Full-Day Private Phi Phi Islands Speedboat Charter By V.Marine Tour
At number 3, the private Phi Phi Islands speedboat offers an exclusive way to explore these iconic islands. The 8-hour trip starts with a flexible pickup time and a scenic 1-hour ride to the islands. Once there, you’ll visit famous spots like Maya Bay, where “The Beach” was filmed, and Piley Lagoon, with its dramatic cliffs.
Guests love the freedom of a private boat, allowing you to snorkel, relax, and take photos at your own pace. The tour includes hotel transfers, a buffet lunch (extra cost), and stops at Bamboo Island and Monkey Beach. The personalized approach means fewer crowds and more intimate experiences. With a perfect 5-star rating, travelers say it was “absolutely incredible” and “worth every penny,” especially for groups wanting a tailored day.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples, families, or small groups seeking privacy and flexibility on a classic island-hopping adventure.
4. Full-Day Phuket Elephant Sanctuary Tour with Lunch and Dinner
If ethical wildlife encounters matter to you, this Phuket Elephant Sanctuary offers a meaningful alternative to traditional elephant tourism. The day begins with a documentary on elephants’ plight, then continues with guided exploration of the 30-acre sanctuary. You’ll observe elephants bathing, roaming freely, and learn about their communication.
A vegetarian Thai lunch and snacks are included, and the experience supports sustainable practices. You’ll help prepare food for the elephants and get close enough to hand-feed them—an extraordinary, responsible experience. The reviews highlight the kindness of the animals and knowledgeable guides, with many calling it “a memorable day.” Price is $221.45, which reflects the full-day nature and ethical focus.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want an authentic, responsible encounter with Thailand’s gentle giants.
5. Scuba Diving in Phuket – Full-Day Trip (3 Dives, All Included)
For those with a little more underwater ambition, this full-day scuba trip takes you to three different sites around Phuket, including the Racha Islands, Phi Phi Marine Park, and beyond. The tour accommodates most experience levels, with transfers, breakfast, and lunch included. It’s a great way to see the variety of marine life and coral structures that make Phuket’s waters special.
The guides are praised for their professionalism and attention to safety, with plenty of time available at each site—about 50 minutes per dive. Reviewers mention how the instructor “took great photos” and made the day memorable. The price of $174 offers excellent value considering the three dives and full logistics.
Bottom Line: Ideal for divers wanting multiple immersive experiences in one day—suitable for most skill levels.
6. Phuket Full Day City Tour & Lunch & Tiger Park
Mix culture and wildlife on this full-day city tour. It combines visits to scenic viewpoints like Karon Viewpoint and Promthep Cape, with cultural stops at the Big Buddha and the historic Wat Chalong. The tour then takes you to the Tiger Park, where you can see big cats in a controlled environment and learn about conservation efforts.
Guests appreciate the personalized service and the opportunity to explore Phuket’s highlights in just one day. The tour is flexible, with pickup at 8:30 AM, and costs $120.08. Many reviews mention the knowledgeable guide “A” and the overall well-organized schedule.
Bottom Line: Perfect for culture and wildlife enthusiasts wanting a rundown of Phuket’s sights.
7. James Bond Island Full Day Tour by Premium Speed-Catamaran
This James Bond Island trip is a favorite for lovers of breathtaking scenery and movie history. The 9-hour tour includes rides on a speed-catamaran, with canoeing around Hong Island’s limestone caves, sightseeing at Naka Island, and exploring the famous James Bond Island from “The Man with the Golden Gun.”
Guests love the scenic canoeing, the lunch on board, and the small group size (maximum 9). The reviews mention how well-organized it was and praise the professional guides. For $89, this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation with plenty of opportunities for photos.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for travelers wanting a manageable, high-quality day exploring iconic locations.
8. Full-Day Phangnga Bay with Andaman Sea Kayak
For a peaceful, scenic adventure, the Phangnga Bay kayak tour takes you into the calm waters of the Andaman Sea. The day includes kayaking around limestone islands, exploring caves, and enjoying the natural beauty of this marine landscape. The trip is personally guided, with all activities planned for safety and fun, and it promises a quiet, relaxing day away from crowds.
Rated 5 stars, reviewers mention the friendly staff and amazing scenery. The tour is priced at $116.48, making it a good choice for active travelers wanting a combination of gentle adventure and sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Best for nature lovers and paddling enthusiasts seeking a serene day on Thailand’s waters.
9. Full-Day Private Cruise of Khai and Mai Ton Islands
This exclusive private cruise offers a flexible, personalized way to experience Khai and Mai Ton Islands. Your group can snorkel, swim, and relax at your own pace. With all snorkeling gear, water, snacks, and admission fees included, the focus is on comfort and freedom.
The tour is perfect for families or friends who want a bespoke day on the water without the hustle of large group tours. The price is $783.91 per group (up to 15 people), making it fantastic value for a private experience. Guests emphasize the seamless organization and snorkeling fun.
Bottom Line: Ideal for groups looking for a tailored, intimate day with all logistics taken care of.
10. Phi Phi Island & Maiton Island Full Day Tour with Luxury Yacht
For travelers craving luxury and comfort, this full-day yacht tour offers a high-end way to see Phuket’s highlights. It covers all the main attractions of Phi Phi Islands, with water activities, snorkeling, and optional scuba. The yacht is brand new and designed for family-friendly fun.
Highlights include relaxing at Monkey Beach, snorkeling in Pileh Bay, and enjoying a buffet lunch onboard. The tour has a small group size and consistently earns top reviews for excellent service and memorable scenery. Cost is $129.56 per person, offering a luxurious yet affordable day at sea.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those wanting a premium, all-inclusive experience with luxurious touches.
How to Choose Your Perfect Full-Day Tour in Phuket
When selecting your ideal Phuket tour, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. For underwater enthusiasts, options like the Scuba Diving Trip or the Full-Day Snorkeling Tours are perfect. If you want a responsible, ethical experience, the Elephant Sanctuary is an excellent choice.
For cultural and scenic exploration, the Full Day City Tour combines viewpoints and temples. Families and groups looking for privacy or a fully customizable day should consider private options like the Phi Phi Islands Speedboat or the Khai and Mai Ton Islands Cruise.
Booking early is recommended, especially for high-end yacht and private tours, as they tend to fill quickly during peak season. Think about your priority—adventure, relaxation, cultural insight—and pick accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Phuket’s full-day tours cover all interests—whether you want to snorkel with colorful fish, explore scenic islands, or learn about elephants ethically. The Full-Day Beginner Scuba Course is perfect for first-timers, while the Private Phi Phi Islands Speedboat offers a more exclusive experience. For families or those seeking a cultural touch, the City Tour & Tiger Park delivers variety and convenience.
Whatever your preference, booking early will help secure your spot and ensure you make the most of your Phuket holiday. Dive in and enjoy the incredible experiences waiting on this beautiful island.