Thailand’s Phuket stands as a world-class underwater destination, with crystal-clear waters hosting both beginner-friendly and advanced marine experiences. Smart travelers choose between convenient day trips and intimate private excursions around the main island. Our favorite outings head to Racha Noi and Racha Yai, where small groups get up-close encounters with vibrant coral gardens and tropical fish. First-timers particularly benefit from discovery courses, while seasoned explorers appreciate the professional-grade night adventures. We’ve carefully tested the region’s top offerings to bring you this hand-picked selection of Phuket’s finest aquatic adventures.
Key Points
- Full-day scuba diving courses at Racha Yai Island, with a 99% recommendation rate and notable instructors like Ootdy, Net, Pomme, and Ned.
- Premium and private diving experiences at Racha Noi and Racha Yai, offering personalized attention and commitment to sustainability.
- Specialty diving experiences like night dives and refresher courses, catering to certified divers with moderate fitness requirements.
- Snorkeling and scuba diving tours to Racha Island, starting from $52 per person with transportation, equipment, and buffet lunch.
- Diving experiences generally require moderate fitness and may not be suitable for certain medical conditions or pregnant individuals.
Full-Day Racha Yai Private Scuba Diving Course From Phuket
This full-day private scuba diving course from Phuket takes travelers to the stunning Racha Yai island.
With 220 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, it promises a personalized experience led by professional, certified instructors.
The course includes full scuba gear, meals, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
Divers can expect to see vibrant marine life in clear waters, with specific praise for instructors like Ootdy, Net, Pomme, and Ned.
While most find the hygiene practices satisfactory, some suggest using disposable cups and bottles.
Read our full review: Full-Day Racha Yai Private Scuba Diving Course From Phuket Review
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From Phuket: Advanced Open Water Diving Course
Adventurous divers can embark on an Advanced Open Water Diving Course from Phuket, allowing them to explore the vibrant underwater world at depths up to 30 meters.
Priced from $412.25 per person, the 2-day course includes 6 dives and certification from SSI.
Divers can look forward to exploring diverse marine life at sites like King Cruiser, Shark Point, and Racha Noi.
The small group size of 4 participants ensures personalized attention from certified instructors who speak multiple languages.
With free pickup, meals, and equipment provided, this course offers a convenient and immersive scuba diving experience in Phuket.
Read our full review: From Phuket: Advanced Open Water Diving Course Review
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Discover Scuba Diving for Beginners (Non Certified Divers)
For those new to scuba diving, Phuket offers an enticing Discover Scuba Diving experience catered to non-certified divers.
With 99 reviews and a 98% traveler recommendation, this small-group introductory lesson provides pool training and a dive on the shallow Kata Beach reef.
Accompanied by a professional and certified instructor, you will discover the area’s abundant tropical marine life in a personalized setting.
Lunch is included after the dive, followed by relaxation time at Kata Beach.
Moderate physical fitness is required, and the activity isn’t suitable for certain medical conditions.
Priced from $75.33 per person, this beginner-friendly dive is a great way to start one’s scuba journey in Phuket.
Read our full review: Discover Scuba Diving for Beginners (Non Certified Divers) Review
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Phuket: Racha Island Snorkeling or Scuba Diving Tour
One of the premier snorkeling and scuba diving tours in Phuket, the Phuket: Racha Island Snorkeling or Scuba Diving Tour offers an unforgettable experience exploring the pristine waters of Racha Island.
Priced from $52 per person, this full-day tour allows travelers to either snorkel or scuba dive, discovering colorful marine life and vibrant coral reefs.
The tour includes transportation, equipment, a buffet lunch, and insurance.
With a 4.5/5 rating based on 50 reviews, the tour receives high marks for its value and transportation, although some note minor issues with wait times and hidden costs.
Read our full review: Phuket: Racha Island Snorkeling or Scuba Diving Tour Review
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Full-Day Scuba Diving (3Dives) in Phuket
This full-day scuba diving excursion in Phuket promises an extraordinary underwater adventure.
With three dives, you’ll explore the region’s vibrant marine life and pristine coral reefs. The highly-rated tour includes roundtrip transportation, breakfast and lunch, and all necessary equipment.
Dive masters receive praise for their expertise and friendly guidance, ensuring a safe and memorable experience.
Suitable for participants with a moderate fitness level, the excursion isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions.
With a 100% recommendation rate from past travelers, this Phuket diving tour is an excellent choice for an unforgettable aquatic adventure.
Read our full review: Full-Day Scuba Diving (3Dives) in Phuket Review
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Discover Scuba Diving Racha Yai From Phuket
Discover Scuba Diving Racha Yai From Phuket offers an incredible underwater adventure just a short boat ride from Phuket. This 8-hour experience allows you to explore the vibrant marine life at a maximum depth of 12 meters.
Suitable for participants aged 10 and up, the activity includes two dives with all necessary equipment, plus breakfast, lunch, and snacks. With experienced, English-speaking instructors, you’ll receive a thorough introduction to the basics of scuba diving before adapting to breathing underwater.
Customer reviews praise the small group sizes, comfortable dive boats, and knowledgeable guides, especially Ohn, who ensure a personalized and memorable experience.
Priced from $139.53 per person, this Phuket dive trip offers excellent value and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Discover Scuba Diving Racha Yai From Phuket Review
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PADI Discover Scuba Diving for Beginners (Non Certified Divers)
For those new to scuba diving, the PADI Discover Scuba Diving for Beginners (Non Certified Divers) experience in Phuket offers an exceptional introduction to the underwater world.
Priced at $195.87 per person, this 100% recommended activity takes divers to stunning Phuket locations. The tour includes round-trip transportation, use of all scuba equipment, and meals throughout the day.
With a maximum of 4 travelers, the small group size ensures personalized attention from the highly-rated instructor, Franck.
Reviewers praise the professionalism, clarity, and entertainment value, as well as the secure and well-organized operation.
For beginner divers, this is an unbeatable way to safely explore the vibrant marine life of Phuket.
Read our full review: PADI Discover Scuba Diving for Beginners (Non Certified Divers) Review
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From Phuket: Full-Day Similan Island Scuba Diving Day Trip
Scuba enthusiasts visiting Phuket can embark on an unforgettable full-day adventure to the renowned Similan Islands for a day of exceptional diving.
This excursion, priced at $164.43 per person, offers the chance to explore two distinct dive sites in the archipelago. Featuring small group sizes and professional guidance, the trip promises encounters with diverse marine life, including sharks and turtles.
Meals with stunning Andaman Sea views are included, along with hassle-free transportation and all necessary dive equipment, except for a rental fee of 600 Baht.
With a minimum requirement of 20 dives and recent experience, this Similan Islands diving experience is an absolute must for certified divers visiting Phuket.
Read our full review: From Phuket: Full-Day Similan Island Scuba Diving Day Trip Review
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Small Group Scuba Diving Experience in Maiton Private Island
Phuket’s Maiton Private Island offers scuba enthusiasts a remarkable small group diving experience. With a maximum of 12 travelers per tour, the excursion provides personalized attention from knowledgeable instructors.
The package includes all necessary equipment, snacks, and insurance, ensuring a hassle-free adventure. Pickup services are available from select locations, making it convenient for participants.
While the experience isn’t suitable for those with certain health conditions, children aged 10 and up are welcome to join.
The majority of reviews praise the stunning coral, diverse marine life, and excellent training for beginners. However, a few customers have noted equipment issues and concerns about customer service, which the host has acknowledged and vowed to address.
Read our full review: Small Group Scuba Diving Experience in Maiton Private Island Review
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Premium Guided Scuba Diving Day Trip for Certified Divers
Adventurous certified divers can embark on a premium guided scuba diving day trip in the waters surrounding Phuket, Thailand.
This 5.0-rated experience accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers and is recommended by 100% of previous participants. The tour includes the use of scuba and snorkeling equipment, as well as snacks, lunch, and beverages.
The operator is committed to sustainability, providing water in a tank with cups to avoid single-use plastics.
While not wheelchair accessible, the activity is located near public transportation. Participants should have moderate physical fitness and can’t be pregnant or have serious medical conditions.
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For certified divers seeking a more personalized scuba experience, this private diving trip at Racha Noi and Racha Yai from Phuket is a captivating choice.
With a 100% traveler recommendation and 5.0 rating across 11 reviews, the trip includes a full set of diving equipment, professional instruction, and a maximum of 2 divers per instructor.
Savor breakfast, lunch, and refreshments while exploring the vibrant marine life of these renowned dive sites.
Pickup and drop-off services are provided for select areas, and alcoholic and soft drinks are available for purchase.
Catering to both certified and non-certified divers, this experience prioritizes safety and builds confidence, making it a must-try for seasoned and novice divers alike.
Read our full review: Private Diving on Shared Trip at Racha Noi and Racha Yai From Phuket Incl. Lunch Review
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Scuba Diving Kata Beach Night Dive for Certified Divers
Scuba diving enthusiasts can embark on an exhilarating night dive along the shores of Kata Beach in Phuket. This activity, recommended by 100% of travelers, is suitable for certified divers and promises a thrilling underwater experience.
Participants will be provided with a 12 LT scuba cylinder, weights, and a weight belt, as well as access to a private transportation service. While full scuba equipment rental is available for an additional charge, divers can also bring their own gear.
The activity requires a moderate level of physical fitness and isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions. With a perfect 5.0 rating from 12 reviews, this night dive is a must-try for experienced scuba enthusiasts visiting Phuket.
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Try Scuba Diving
Phuket offers a fantastic opportunity to try scuba diving, an exhilarating underwater activity that allows you to explore the vibrant marine life.
The “Try Scuba Diving” experience in Phuket is highly recommended, with 11 total reviews and a 100% recommendation rate from travelers. Priced at $195.87 per person, this activity includes all necessary equipment, lunch, and refreshments.
The meeting point is Chalong Pier, and the dive starts at 8 am, returning to the same location. While not wheelchair accessible, this moderate activity is suitable for most travelers, excluding those with certain medical conditions.
With an expert team guiding the way, this is an excellent chance to take the plunge and discover the wonders of the underwater world.
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Scuba Diving Daytrip to Racha Yai
Why not embark on a Scuba Diving Daytrip to Racha Yai during your time in Phuket? This highly-rated excursion offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the stunning underwater world.
With a maximum of 40 travelers per tour, you’ll enjoy personalized attention from the professional instructors. The trip includes private transportation, a delicious buffet-style breakfast and lunch, and all necessary scuba equipment.
Reviewers praise the friendly staff, good food, and longer dive times of up to an hour. While the host addresses any communication issues, they prioritize safety and customer satisfaction, providing refunds for weather-related cancellations.
Don’t miss this chance to experience the beauty of Racha Yai’s vibrant marine life.
Read our full review: Scuba Diving Daytrip to Racha Yai Review
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Open Water Scuba Certifiication Course With Beach Dives
For those seeking to become certified open water divers, the scuba certification course with beach dives in Phuket is an exceptional opportunity.
Priced from $421.87 per person, the course includes open water certification and beach dives. Located in Phuket, the course starts at 9 am and ends back at the meeting point.
Participants will receive all necessary scuba and snorkeling equipment. While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, most travelers can participate, with a maximum of 4 per group.
With a perfect 5-star rating based on 7 reviews, the course offers free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the start.
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Scuba Diving Lesson for Beginners (1 Hour )
Ideal for first-time divers, the beginner’s scuba lesson in Phuket provides a captivating one-hour introduction to the underwater world.
Led by experienced instructors, you will learn essential diving techniques and safety protocols in a convenient location. The lesson includes use of all necessary scuba equipment, as well as private transportation and insurance coverage.
While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, the moderate physical fitness level required makes this activity accessible to most travelers.
With a maximum of 8 participants, the small group size ensures personalized attention throughout the experience.
At just $66.29 per person, this beginner’s scuba diving lesson offers great value for money.
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Refresher Scuba Diving Trip, 3 Dives at Racha Noi and Racha Yai
Travelers often rave about the refresher scuba diving trip that offers three dives at the renowned sites of Racha Noi and Racha Yai off the coast of Phuket, Thailand.
This all-inclusive experience provides a full set of diving equipment, delicious meals, and the guidance of a professional instructor.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, the intimate group ensures personalized attention.
The trip’s perfect 5-star rating from 5 reviews further adds to its appeal.
Whether you’re looking to refresh your diving skills or explore the vibrant underwater world, this refresher trip promises an unforgettable scuba diving adventure in Phuket.
Read our full review: Refresher Scuba Diving Trip, 3 Dives at Racha Noi and Racha Yai Review
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Phuket Raya Island Day Tour With Snorkeling or Scuba Diving
Phuket Raya Island Day Tour offers travelers an exciting opportunity to explore the picturesque Racha Yai island and surrounding bays.
Starting at $52 per person, this tour includes round-trip transportation, snorkeling or scuba diving, a buffet lunch, and full insurance coverage. Guests can choose between snorkeling and scuba diving options, with the latter suitable for ages 10 and up.
The tour features stops at Ter Bay, Patok Bay, and Kon Kare Bay. With a maximum of 30 travelers, this small-group experience provides a personalized and immersive day of discovery.
Complimentary pickup is available from central locations, and there are additional fees for pickups from other areas. Travelers can easily book this tour and take advantage of the free cancellation policy.
Read our full review: Phuket Raya Island Day Tour With Snorkeling or Scuba Diving Review
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Full-Day Koh Phi Phi Scuba Diving Course From Phuket
The Full-Day Koh Phi Phi Scuba Diving Course from Phuket offers experienced divers a chance to explore the stunning underwater world of the Phi Phi Islands.
This small-group tour includes two dives up to 39 feet, with all equipment provided. The day starts with pickup from select Phuket areas, followed by a boat ride to the dive sites. Divers will enjoy breakfast and lunch as part of the package.
While not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with medical conditions, the tour is suitable for those 12 years and older. With a maximum of 10 travelers, this dive experience provides a more personalized adventure with a multi-lingual guide.
Read our full review: Full-Day Koh Phi Phi Scuba Diving Course From Phuket Review
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Explore Scuba Diving at Racha Yai Island From Phuket
Dive enthusiasts looking to enjoy Phuket’s captivating underwater realm can embark on the Explore Scuba Diving at Racha Yai Island From Phuket experience.
This private tour offers a 5-star rated scuba diving adventure, with a PADI-certified instructor guiding participants through the vibrant marine life of Racha Yai Island.
The package includes a full set of diving equipment, breakfast, lunch, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
With a start time of 8 AM, explorers can expect an immersive day of discovery, enjoying a surface interval between two dives.
Priced at €131.19 per person, this experience provides excellent value and an unforgettable opportunity to witness Phuket’s underwater wonders.
Read our full review: Explore Scuba Diving at Racha Yai Island From Phuket Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Scuba Diving Activities?
Most scuba diving activities have minimum age requirements, often around 10-12 years old. However, some operators may have additional restrictions or offer specialized programs for younger divers. It’s best to check with individual dive shops for their specific policies.
Can I Bring My Own Scuba Diving Equipment or Is It Provided?
You can choose to bring your own scuba diving equipment or use the gear provided by the dive operators. Many offer rental equipment, ensuring a hassle-free experience for those who don’t own their own gear.
What Should I Bring With Me for the Scuba Diving Tours?
Divers should bring essentials like swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, and any personal diving gear they prefer. Many tours provide basic equipment, but bringing one’s own fins, mask, and snorkel can enhance the experience.
Are There Any Medical Requirements or Pre-Existing Conditions to Consider?
Certain medical conditions like heart or lung issues may require clearance from a doctor before scuba diving. Divers should also disclose any pre-existing conditions to their instructor. It’s important to prioritize safety when engaging in this adventurous activity.
Can I Cancel or Reschedule My Scuba Diving Booking if Needed?
Yes, you can typically cancel or reschedule your scuba diving booking if needed. Many operators offer flexible policies, allowing you to make changes without incurring significant fees. Be sure to review the operator’s cancellation and rebooking terms before finalizing your reservation.
Recap
Phuket offers a range of scuba diving experiences, from beginner courses to advanced dives. Visitors can explore the Racha Yai and Racha Noi islands, or venture further to Koh Phi Phi. With a variety of full-day and multi-dive options, there’s something to suit all skill levels and interests. Whether you’re a first-time diver or an experienced enthusiast, Phuket’s vibrant underwater world is sure to impress.