Racha Yai, an hour and a half by boat south of Phuket, has white-sand bays and shallow reefs with clear water: Phuket’s most popular spot for Discover Scuba Diving. You sail on a large, comfortable dive boat with lunch on board and plenty of shade.
The day
- Hotel pickup in Phuket around 7:00, departure from Chalong pier.
- Theory briefing and gear check during the crossing.
- First dive in shallow water (max 12 m) with your instructor, 2 students per instructor.
- Thai lunch on board and a second dive in another bay.
- Back at your hotel around 17:00.
Clownfish, parrotfish, blue-spotted stingrays and, with luck, turtles are common sights.
Who it is for
Anyone aged 10+ in good health. You fill in a medical questionnaire; any positive answer requires a doctor’s clearance.
What to bring
- Swimsuit, towel and a change of clothes.
- Reef-safe sunscreen.
- Do not fly within 24 hours after diving.
Best time: November to April, with calm seas and better visibility. Racha Yai can be dived year-round, but monsoon seas can be rough.
Booking and cancellation
We confirm your place with a trusted local provider and send you the exact meeting point and time in writing. If weather or the authorities force a cancellation, we offer another date or a full refund.
Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Two dives with a PADI/SSI instructor
- Full gear
- Lunch, fruit and drinks on board
- Dive insurance
FAQs
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
You should be comfortable in water; the instructor is with you at all times.
How deep will I go?
A maximum of 12 metres, usually less.
Can non-divers come?
Yes, they can snorkel with the companion option.
