Scuba diving with Indepth Dive College Phuket in Thailand

Introduction

This page is about the deals offered by Indepth Dive College Phuket. Here you will find all the details. In the booking section on this page you can send a booking request directly to the reservation team of Indepth Dive College Phuket.

About Indepth Dive College Phuket

Indepth Dive Centre is a small, professional PADI 5* IDC & TecRec Centre located in Chalong on Phuket Island in the South of Thailand with over 24 years experience working in the Dive Industry in Thailand.

Indepth Dive Centre is a small, professional PADI 5* IDC & TecRec Centre located in Chalong on Phuket Island in the South of Thailand with over 24 years experience working in the Dive Industry in Thailand.

We are open 12 months a year and offer a full range of Phuket Day Trips.

Phuket Boat Dive Trips

Many people come for a holiday to Phuket because of one reason; Phuket Diving and we don’t blame them! Phuket has long been a Dive Travel destination due to the quality of the Phuket diving. Consequently, we are lucky enough to be able to offer some great Phuket diving for divers of all levels. Not only that, but Phuket diving is 12 months a year, so you can enjoy some awesome Phuket diving any month of the year.

Join us on a fabulous Phuket scuba diving trip visiting the local Phuket dive sites, and have the time of your life! Our Phuket scuba diving trips are popular not only with Tourists on holiday, but also with residents of Phuket, both Thai and foreigners alike.

Our Phuket scuba diving trips visit a variety of different Phuket dive sites, however we think the best Phuket dive sites are found at the nearby local islands. Such as Racha Noi and Shark Point. They can either be a short, 1 hour sail to a local site. Up to 2 hour cruises for dive sites such as those found around Phi Phi.

Our Indepth Phuket Scuba Diving Trip Boat also visits all the best Phuket dive sites. Some of our favorites we recommend: Koh Phi Phi, The King Cruiser Shipwreck and also Anemone Reef. And of course the ever popular Racha Yai and Racha Noi Islands are also available 7 days a week.

We use this boat as one of our boats for a Phuket Scuba Diving Trip as not only is the boat large and comfortable, but they are only 20m away from our office. This means that for this Phuket Scuba Diving Trip, equipment pick-us are in fact done the day before. As they are next we can hand carry the boxes and bags to their office the day before. This doesn’t affect you the dive customer, but it does ease our Phuket scuba diving trip logistics.

Are you are intending to make your own way to the boat rather than taking advantage of our complementary hotel or guest house pick up? If so the meeting point for this Phuket scuba diving trip is Chalong Pier Car Park at 08:00 hours.

Please Note: This boat doesn’t have EANx Nitrox on board, Nitrox tanks you can be ordered in advance at 200 THB / tank. Soft Drinks are 20 THB / tin with Beer after the last dive 60 THB.

Phuket Scuba Diving Hotel pick-ups:

  • These start from 07:00-07:45 depending on where you are staying on Phuket.

  • The Phuket Scuba Diving trip usually departs around 08:30.

  • Phuket Scuba Diving Trip Hotel pick-ups start from 07:30 with the boat departing around 08:30

  • You can expect to be back from your Phuket Scuba Diving Trip, and therefore back at your hotel any time from 15:30 to 18:30 depending on destination of the Phuket Scuba Diving Trip and also number of dives on that trip.

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Training Courses

Training Courses PADI - Discover Scuba Diving

Discover Scuba Diver - Private Course: 1 day out on the boat + 3 dives

Duration
1 days
Price per person
USD $ 226

Do you want to Try Scuba Diving?

Do you have 1 hour available? Are you 10 years old? If so you can Try Scuba Diving in as little as 1 hour, it's that easy.

Have you ever wanted to go underwater and see all the exciting Fish and Coral? After all we have all seen amazing fish and coral on TV or at the movies, but have you ever tried scuba diving with them? If not then now is your chance to try Scuba Diving!

Do you want to Try Scuba Diving?

Do you have 1 hour available? Are you 10 years old? If so you can Try Scuba Diving in as little as 1 hour, it's that easy.

Have you ever wanted to go underwater and see all the exciting Fish and Coral? After all we have all seen amazing fish and coral on TV or at the movies, but have you ever tried scuba diving with them? If not then now is your chance to try Scuba Diving!

The PADI Discover Scuba Diving program is a quick and easy way to try Scuba Diving in a swimming pool or off the beach. Or better still spend the day out on the boat at the islands and try scuba diving with the amazing fish and coral. After all that is Phuket and Thailand are so famous for!

How long is the PADI try scuba diving course?

Our PADI Indepth Discover Scuba Diving program is usually run over one day. The best scuba diving experience is to go out on the dive boat. This way you can make 1, 2 or 3 scuba dives. We usually go to the dive sites Racha Yai, Racha Noi or Koh Phi Phi because these are some of our best dive sites to try scuba diving. And if you don't have much time you can also try scuba diving in a swimming pool or off a local beach. In fact both Kata Beach and Ya Nui Beach are the best beaches for Discover Scuba Diving. This means that you can try scuba diving in a 1/2 day. Whenever possible though we prefer to take you out on the boat. So you can try scuba diving and stil experience the best diving Phuket can offer you.

The Dive Briefing

The first thing you will do is listen to a careful briefing by your PADI Instructor. In addition you will be given a PADI Discover Scuba Diving Booklet which is yours to keep. Lastly before you are ready to enter the water there is also a quick quiz for you to complete. When you try scuba diving for the first time we will have you do a few simple skills. This is in a shallow water where you can easily stand up if you want to. Usually this is in a sheltered bay off the beach or in a swimming pool.

After you are comfortable with that, you will go on some scuba diving at some REAL dive sites with your instructor! And you will experience some spectacular Phuket dive sites. These reefs are full of the amazing tropical fish and corals typical of The Andaman Sea which you can wonder at whilst you learn.

The dive sites we take you to are ideal to try scuba diving on! This is because they have some of the best marine life at shallow depths. As a result his gives you that full-on try Scuba Diving experience!

What is next?

Well here is some good news! Now you have been on a PADI Discover Scuba Diving program, you are already on your way to getting your PADI Scuba Diving license.

This is because The PADI Discover Scuba Diving dives, both pool and in the sea, can count towards PADI Courses. These courses are your PADI Scuba Diver Course (2 days) or your full entry-level PADI Open Water Diver course (3-4 Days.) In other words your entry level scuba diving certification.

Therefore if you choose to do the PADI Open Water Course within 12 months? Then your PADI Try Diving experience can count as PADI Open Water Course Confined Water Dive 1 and Open Water Dive 1.

Contact us for our special rates for anyone taking our Discover Scuba Diving program and wanting to continue onto The PADI Open Water Diver Course.

So what are you waiting for? Try Scuba Diving TODAY ...


Included in the training

Required course materials, Certification Fees, Free pick-up and drop off service

Training Courses PADI - Discover Scuba Diving

Discover Scuba Diver: 1 day out on the boat + 2 dives

Duration
1 days
Price per person
USD $ 142

Do you want to Try Scuba Diving?

Do you have 1 hour available? Are you 10 years old? If so you can Try Scuba Diving in as little as 1 hour, it's that easy.

Have you ever wanted to go underwater and see all the exciting Fish and Coral? After all we have all seen amazing fish and coral on TV or at the movies, but have you ever tried scuba diving with them? If not then now is your chance to try Scuba Diving!

Do you want to Try Scuba Diving?

Do you have 1 hour available? Are you 10 years old? If so you can Try Scuba Diving in as little as 1 hour, it's that easy.

Have you ever wanted to go underwater and see all the exciting Fish and Coral? After all we have all seen amazing fish and coral on TV or at the movies, but have you ever tried scuba diving with them? If not then now is your chance to try Scuba Diving!

The PADI Discover Scuba Diving program is a quick and easy way to try Scuba Diving in a swimming pool or off the beach. Or better still spend the day out on the boat at the islands and try scuba diving with the amazing fish and coral. After all that is Phuket and Thailand are so famous for!

How long is the PADI try scuba diving course?

Our PADI Indepth Discover Scuba Diving program is usually run over one day. The best scuba diving experience is to go out on the dive boat. This way you can make 1, 2 or 3 scuba dives. We usually go to the dive sites Racha Yai, Racha Noi or Koh Phi Phi because these are some of our best dive sites to try scuba diving. And if you don't have much time you can also try scuba diving in a swimming pool or off a local beach. In fact both Kata Beach and Ya Nui Beach are the best beaches for Discover Scuba Diving. This means that you can try scuba diving in a 1/2 day. Whenever possible though we prefer to take you out on the boat. So you can try scuba diving and stil experience the best diving Phuket can offer you.

The Dive Briefing

The first thing you will do is listen to a careful briefing by your PADI Instructor. In addition you will be given a PADI Discover Scuba Diving Booklet which is yours to keep. Lastly before you are ready to enter the water there is also a quick quiz for you to complete. When you try scuba diving for the first time we will have you do a few simple skills. This is in a shallow water where you can easily stand up if you want to. Usually this is in a sheltered bay off the beach or in a swimming pool.

After you are comfortable with that, you will go on some scuba diving at some REAL dive sites with your instructor! And you will experience some spectacular Phuket dive sites. These reefs are full of the amazing tropical fish and corals typical of The Andaman Sea which you can wonder at whilst you learn.

The dive sites we take you to are ideal to try scuba diving on! This is because they have some of the best marine life at shallow depths. As a result his gives you that full-on try Scuba Diving experience!

What is next?

Well here is some good news! Now you have been on a PADI Discover Scuba Diving program, you are already on your way to getting your PADI Scuba Diving license.

This is because The PADI Discover Scuba Diving dives, both pool and in the sea, can count towards PADI Courses. These courses are your PADI Scuba Diver Course (2 days) or your full entry-level PADI Open Water Diver course (3-4 Days.) In other words your entry level scuba diving certification.

Therefore if you choose to do the PADI Open Water Course within 12 months? Then your PADI Try Diving experience can count as PADI Open Water Course Confined Water Dive 1 and Open Water Dive 1.

Contact us for our special rates for anyone taking our Discover Scuba Diving program and wanting to continue onto The PADI Open Water Diver Course.

So what are you waiting for? Try Scuba Diving TODAY ...


Included in the training

Required course materials, Certification Fees, Free pick-up and drop off service

Training Courses PADI - Discover Scuba Diving

Discover Scuba Diver: 1 day out on the boat + 3 dives

Duration
1 days
Price per person
USD $ 166

Do you want to Try Scuba Diving?

Do you have 1 hour available? Are you 10 years old? If so you can Try Scuba Diving in as little as 1 hour, it's that easy.

Have you ever wanted to go underwater and see all the exciting Fish and Coral? After all we have all seen amazing fish and coral on TV or at the movies, but have you ever tried scuba diving with them? If not then now is your chance to try Scuba Diving!

Do you want to Try Scuba Diving?

Do you have 1 hour available? Are you 10 years old? If so you can Try Scuba Diving in as little as 1 hour, it's that easy.

Have you ever wanted to go underwater and see all the exciting Fish and Coral? After all we have all seen amazing fish and coral on TV or at the movies, but have you ever tried scuba diving with them? If not then now is your chance to try Scuba Diving!

The PADI Discover Scuba Diving program is a quick and easy way to try Scuba Diving in a swimming pool or off the beach. Or better still spend the day out on the boat at the islands and try scuba diving with the amazing fish and coral. After all that is Phuket and Thailand are so famous for!

How long is the PADI try scuba diving course?

Our PADI Indepth Discover Scuba Diving program is usually run over one day. The best scuba diving experience is to go out on the dive boat. This way you can make 1, 2 or 3 scuba dives. We usually go to the dive sites Racha Yai, Racha Noi or Koh Phi Phi because these are some of our best dive sites to try scuba diving. And if you don't have much time you can also try scuba diving in a swimming pool or off a local beach. In fact both Kata Beach and Ya Nui Beach are the best beaches for Discover Scuba Diving. This means that you can try scuba diving in a 1/2 day. Whenever possible though we prefer to take you out on the boat. So you can try scuba diving and stil experience the best diving Phuket can offer you.

The Dive Briefing

The first thing you will do is listen to a careful briefing by your PADI Instructor. In addition you will be given a PADI Discover Scuba Diving Booklet which is yours to keep. Lastly before you are ready to enter the water there is also a quick quiz for you to complete. When you try scuba diving for the first time we will have you do a few simple skills. This is in a shallow water where you can easily stand up if you want to. Usually this is in a sheltered bay off the beach or in a swimming pool.

After you are comfortable with that, you will go on some scuba diving at some REAL dive sites with your instructor! And you will experience some spectacular Phuket dive sites. These reefs are full of the amazing tropical fish and corals typical of The Andaman Sea which you can wonder at whilst you learn.

The dive sites we take you to are ideal to try scuba diving on! This is because they have some of the best marine life at shallow depths. As a result his gives you that full-on try Scuba Diving experience!

What is next?

Well here is some good news! Now you have been on a PADI Discover Scuba Diving program, you are already on your way to getting your PADI Scuba Diving license.

This is because The PADI Discover Scuba Diving dives, both pool and in the sea, can count towards PADI Courses. These courses are your PADI Scuba Diver Course (2 days) or your full entry-level PADI Open Water Diver course (3-4 Days.) In other words your entry level scuba diving certification.

Therefore if you choose to do the PADI Open Water Course within 12 months? Then your PADI Try Diving experience can count as PADI Open Water Course Confined Water Dive 1 and Open Water Dive 1.

Contact us for our special rates for anyone taking our Discover Scuba Diving program and wanting to continue onto The PADI Open Water Diver Course.

So what are you waiting for? Try Scuba Diving TODAY ...


Included in the training

Required course materials, Certification Fees, Free pick-up and drop off service

Training Courses PADI - Bubble Maker

Bubble Maker

Duration
1 days
Price per person
USD $ 91

The PADI Bubblemaker program: scuba diving for kids!

Contrary to what you might think from TV and movies, scuba diving isn’t only an awesome sport or hobby for “grown-ups." In today's day and age scuba diving is also an excellent sport and hobby for children. In addition the PADI Bubblemaker could be the start of a lifelong adventure and even a career in the making.

The PADI Bubblemaker program: scuba diving for kids!

Contrary to what you might think from TV and movies, scuba diving isn’t only an awesome sport or hobby for “grown-ups." In today's day and age scuba diving is also an excellent sport and hobby for children. In addition the PADI Bubblemaker could be the start of a lifelong adventure and even a career in the making.

The PADI Bubblemaker course is specially designed to allow children to experience the thrill of Scuba Diving in a safe, fun way. As such not only is the program is conducted under the direct supervision of a PADI Instructor, but it also takes place in shallow water.

You might be wondering what your kids will be doing on the PADI Bubblemaker Course

First of all, they will have a short Bubblemaker briefing on how the to breathe underwater. Don’t worry, this is the same as we do on the surface. The only difference is that we never hold our breath underwater. We will also explain how the Scuba Diving equipment they will be using works. This along with a few other simply things they need to know to dive safely under supervision.

After they are happy with their briefing, then it’s time for the pool and some diving! This is where their PADI instructor will help them on with their equipment. And before you ask, we do have Scuba Diving equipment made in small sizes especially for kids. When they are happy with their equipment and how it works then it's time to dive. In the pool and equipment on, then their PADI Instructor will show them some simple skills.

Once they are comfortable and their instructor happy, then it's time to dive! We have lots of games for them to do, as well as a load of other fun and exciting things to do.

You will be surprised at just how much fun it can be. And just how much there is to do in a pool if you have never dived before.

PADI Bubblemaker safety first

And don’t worry folks, The Bubblemaker program takes place in a swimming pool under the direct supervision of a PADI Instructor in water no deeper than 2m.

Because this gives youngsters a chance to safely explore the underwater world they may well develop a hobby for life as we all have.

Our Parents are so lucky that this PADI program was not available when we were kids. Because we would not have not stop pestering them until they let us try Scuba Diving, even when we were only 8 years old.

Sign up your kids for the PADI Bubblemaker today and see how they develop and change …

Included in the training

Required course materials, Dive equipment included

Training Courses PADI - Open Water Diver

Open Water Diver

Duration
4 days
Price per person
USD $ 450

Get your PADI Open Water and learn to dive!

The PADI Open Water Course is PADI's entry level scuba diving certification license. This is the PADI course that teaches you how to scuba dive. So once you have completed this course you will have your OWN PADI Open Water diving license.

Get your PADI Open Water and learn to dive!

The PADI Open Water Course is PADI's entry level scuba diving certification license. This is the PADI course that teaches you how to scuba dive. So once you have completed this course you will have your OWN PADI Open Water diving license.

Therefore this means you will be CERTIFIED PADI OPEN WATER DIVER. You will be able to dive with a buddy anywhere in the world!

The PADI Open Water Course is broken down into three 3 parts:

PART 1: PADI Open Water Course: Classroom

First of all you need to read the PADI Open Water Diver manual and watch the DVD. There are Quick Quizzes which test you along the way. At the end of each Chapter in the PADI Open Water manual there is a Knowledge Review. When you get to class on Day 1 of your PADI Open Water Course, your Instructor will give you a Quiz for each Chapter. Furthermore they will go over anything that you are not completely sure about. Incidentally when it comes to the PADI Open Water manual: you can choose from a Touch, Digital,eLearning or paper manual. Most of all PADI Touch or Digital Manuals allow you to start your PADI  Open Water TODAY! 

This part of the course introduces you to the simple basic knowledge you need to know to scuba dive. You will also learn about the scuba diving equipment you will be using. In conclusion there is also, some simple, but important, safety information. This usually takes 2-6 hours depending on how prepared you are by the time you start. If you are coming to Phuket on holiday then we recommend starting your online study as soon as you can.

PADI has been developing their library of Scuba Diving Digital products and therefore offers a variety of exciting options. Without doubt the best in our opinion is the Open Water Touch. This is designed for tablets or smart phones. However, you also have Digital manuals, online study called eLearning. More and more of these learning aids are being released all the time.

Whichever you choose, even if you prefer the traditional paper manual, it is included in your PADI Open Water Course Price!

PART 2: PADI Open Water: Pool Dives and Skill Development

Now the fun really starts! Pool Dives take place in a purpose built 5m deep scuba diving training pool. This is a specially designed pool built to provide the depths required to train you properly. In this part of the PADI Open Water Course you will learn the basic skills needed to dive safely, along with various troubleshooting techniques. This is skills like Mask Clearing and Regulator Clearing. Learning the basics first in the pool allows you to comfortably gain scuba diving skills due to a pleasant and controlled environment with no outside distractions.

The pool dives take 4-6 hours depending on class size and in addition how easily you take to scuba diving. We found it easy but obviously some people take a bit longer. However, we have all the time in the world for this so we therefore take it at whatever speed you find the most comfortable.

PART 3: PADI Open Water Course: Open Water Dives

The last 2 days of the PADI Open Water Diver Course are spent out on the boat at some of our favorite local Phuket dive sites! The dive sites we choose are the best dive sites for entry level divers. As a result you would be going to one of over 15 different dives sites in and round the Racha Yai and Racha Noi islands.

The PADI Open Water Course is a minimum of 4 dives over 2 days. This is where you will experience the fun of being out for the day on a dive boat in the beautiful tropical waters surrounding Phuket. Most of all you will be repeating skills which you did in the swimming pool and adapting them to real life scuba diving. The rest of the dive will be spent doing what you came here to do, dive and explore the reefs along with your Instructor once the skills are completed.

Upon completion of this course you will have earned The PADI Open Water Diver Certification License. Because of this you will be qualified to rent equipment and dive independently of a PADI Dive Professional up to a depth of 18m.

Now you are a Certified PADI Open Water Diver, what’s next?

Good question. Because you now have an almost unlimited number of dive sites to dive and PADI scuba diving courses to take!

Most Phuket PADI Open Water Divers will want to continue onto the PADI Advanced Open Water Course. Also, maybe take a PADI Specialty Diver Course or two. Especially popular ones with newly certified divers are Peak Performance Buoyancy, Underwater Naturalist, Digital Underwater Photography and Nitrox Diver Specialty Courses. Any of these courses are going to improve your diving experience.

And, of course, you can now go scuba diving on our local Phuket dive sites or maybe join a Liveaboard to the world famous Similan Islands!

Special Discount available for two or more people booking together.

Included in the training

Required course materials, Certification Fees, Free pick-up and drop off service, Dive equipment included

Training Courses PADI - Open Water Diver

Open Water Diver including 5 dives

Duration
4 days
Price per person
USD $ 480

Get your PADI Open Water and learn to dive!

The PADI Open Water Course is PADI's entry level scuba diving certification license. This is the PADI course that teaches you how to scuba dive. So once you have completed this course you will have your OWN PADI Open Water diving license.

Get your PADI Open Water and learn to dive!

The PADI Open Water Course is PADI's entry level scuba diving certification license. This is the PADI course that teaches you how to scuba dive. So once you have completed this course you will have your OWN PADI Open Water diving license.

Therefore this means you will be CERTIFIED PADI OPEN WATER DIVER. You will be able to dive with a buddy anywhere in the world!

The PADI Open Water Course is broken down into three 3 parts:

PART 1: PADI Open Water Course: Classroom

First of all you need to read the PADI Open Water Diver manual and watch the DVD. There are Quick Quizzes which test you along the way. At the end of each Chapter in the PADI Open Water manual there is a Knowledge Review. When you get to class on Day 1 of your PADI Open Water Course, your Instructor will give you a Quiz for each Chapter. Furthermore they will go over anything that you are not completely sure about. Incidentally when it comes to the PADI Open Water manual: you can choose from a Touch, Digital,eLearning or paper manual. Most of all PADI Touch or Digital Manuals allow you to start your PADI  Open Water TODAY! 

This part of the course introduces you to the simple basic knowledge you need to know to scuba dive. You will also learn about the scuba diving equipment you will be using. In conclusion there is also, some simple, but important, safety information. This usually takes 2-6 hours depending on how prepared you are by the time you start. If you are coming to Phuket on holiday then we recommend starting your online study as soon as you can.

PADI has been developing their library of Scuba Diving Digital products and therefore offers a variety of exciting options. Without doubt the best in our opinion is the Open Water Touch. This is designed for tablets or smart phones. However, you also have Digital manuals, online study called eLearning. More and more of these learning aids are being released all the time.

Whichever you choose, even if you prefer the traditional paper manual, it is included in your PADI Open Water Course Price!

PART 2: PADI Open Water: Pool Dives and Skill Development

Now the fun really starts! Pool Dives take place in a purpose built 5m deep scuba diving training pool. This is a specially designed pool built to provide the depths required to train you properly. In this part of the PADI Open Water Course you will learn the basic skills needed to dive safely, along with various troubleshooting techniques. This is skills like Mask Clearing and Regulator Clearing. Learning the basics first in the pool allows you to comfortably gain scuba diving skills due to a pleasant and controlled environment with no outside distractions.

The pool dives take 4-6 hours depending on class size and in addition how easily you take to scuba diving. We found it easy but obviously some people take a bit longer. However, we have all the time in the world for this so we therefore take it at whatever speed you find the most comfortable.

PART 3: PADI Open Water Course: Open Water Dives

The last 2 days of the PADI Open Water Diver Course are spent out on the boat at some of our favorite local Phuket dive sites! The dive sites we choose are the best dive sites for entry level divers. As a result you would be going to one of over 15 different dives sites in and round the Racha Yai and Racha Noi islands.

The PADI Open Water Course is a minimum of 4 dives over 2 days. This is where you will experience the fun of being out for the day on a dive boat in the beautiful tropical waters surrounding Phuket. Most of all you will be repeating skills which you did in the swimming pool and adapting them to real life scuba diving. The rest of the dive will be spent doing what you came here to do, dive and explore the reefs along with your Instructor once the skills are completed.

Upon completion of this course you will have earned The PADI Open Water Diver Certification License. Because of this you will be qualified to rent equipment and dive independently of a PADI Dive Professional up to a depth of 18m.

Now you are a Certified PADI Open Water Diver, what’s next?

Good question. Because you now have an almost unlimited number of dive sites to dive and PADI scuba diving courses to take!

Most Phuket PADI Open Water Divers will want to continue onto the PADI Advanced Open Water Course. Also, maybe take a PADI Specialty Diver Course or two. Especially popular ones with newly certified divers are Peak Performance Buoyancy, Underwater Naturalist, Digital Underwater Photography and Nitrox Diver Specialty Courses. Any of these courses are going to improve your diving experience.

And, of course, you can now go scuba diving on our local Phuket dive sites or maybe join a Liveaboard to the world famous Similan Islands!

Special Discount available for two or more people booking together.

Included in the training

Required course materials, Certification Fees, Free pick-up and drop off service, Dive equipment included

Guided tours

Guided tours PADI - Open Water Diver

Boat Trip to Racha Noi and Racha Yai (Monday departure)

Duration
1 days
Price per person
USD $ 118

RACHA NOI DIVE SITES

Racha Noi: Banana Bay a fun easy dive for all

Banana Bay is found on Racha Noi island, which lies 10-15 miles South of Phuket. Racha Noi is the “last” dive site before the Andaman Sea and is roughly one 45-60 minutes past Ko Racha Yai. When cruising between the Racha Islands keep your eyes open as Sailfish and dolphins can sometimes be seen jumping out of the water. Whales have also been spotted between the two Racha Islands.

RACHA NOI DIVE SITES

Racha Noi: Banana Bay a fun easy dive for all

Banana Bay is found on Racha Noi island, which lies 10-15 miles South of Phuket. Racha Noi is the “last” dive site before the Andaman Sea and is roughly one 45-60 minutes past Ko Racha Yai. When cruising between the Racha Islands keep your eyes open as Sailfish and dolphins can sometimes be seen jumping out of the water. Whales have also been spotted between the two Racha Islands.

Banana Bay is at the East side of Racha Noi, and got its name from the shape of the bay. Which not too surprisingly, looks like a banana. To be fair the bay is surrounded by Banana Trees, hence the name is actually quite accurate. The bay stretches almost 1km and thus provides postcard-quality scenery, with a beautiful green landscape, powdery white sand and crystal blue waters. A nice and easy dive site for beginners and PADI Open Water Diver Course students as there is plenty of places for skill practice. However, there is still plenty for experienced scuba divers.

Visibility is generally from 10m-30m+ with the depths ranging 2-40m+ ...

Banana Bay is an easy dive site for both beginner divers and experienced divers

Banana Bay is a large banana shaped bay with a gentle sloping sandy bottom. Here you will find a large number of small and large “pinnacles.” These are in the middle of the bay and are covered in Hard and Soft Corals. There are some nice “boulder rock formations” at the Southern end. There are in fact similar to the topography you can expect to see in The Similan and Surin Islands. Additionally, in the shallower waters areas there are some large Staghorn Coral fields.

In the shallow parts of the reef and out on the sand, Turtles can often be spotted. And if you are lucky maybe an Eagle Ray or 2 who seem to have made this bay their hang-out. Banana Bay is a nice, easy dive site and thus great for photographers. However not only is Banana Bay great for macro-photography, but also for some stunning landscape photography. Due in part to visibility usually being 20-30m in the October to May months.

You can find all the usual Phuket Andaman marine life you would expect see. There are many different species of Anemone Fish, Moray Eels, Butterfly Fish and Parrot Fish. Out on the sand you have Ghost Pipefish, Kuhl’s Stingray, Cuttlefish and Jenkins Rays.

Just keep your eyes open as you never know what you are going to find at Racha Noi. On a good day you maybe encounter with a shark or two, or even see a Manta Ray flying by ...


Racha Noi: Maritas Rock & Marina Bay 2 dive sites in 1

Maritas Rock, also known as Marina Bay, lie 12-15 miles South of Phuket, and are probably two of the most dived and local dive sites. These dive sites lie roughly in the middle of South-West side of the Racha Noi Island.

In fact Maritas Rock and Marina Bay are actually almost the same dive site. Local legend has it that Marita’s Rock was named after a local Divemaster from many years ago, although details are scarce. These dives sites are beautiful to dive and are covered in soft corals and Gorgonian Sea Fans with visibility ranging from 10-30+ m. Additionally the boulder are formations are stunning and reminiscent of The Similan Islands. In turn these create some swim-throughs, canyons and small caverns to explore.

Current inside Marina Bay itself is normally mild. However outside the bay, especially at Marita’s Rock, the current is can be very strong. For this reason Marita's Rock is recommended for Advanced / experienced divers only. Since Racha Noi is the “last” dive site before the Andaman Sea and as such the Racha Noi dive sites start to get deep. Consequently, this means there are very deeps dive sites off the island. However it also brings in the larger pelagic fishes such as large Tuna, and schools of Barracuda and  Trevallies.

Keep your eyes open for Manta Rays, the occasional Whale shark, along with Blacktip and Whitetip Reef Sharks ...

What can I see on a Dive Tour to Maritas Rock & Marina Bay at Racha Noi Islands?

Marina Bay is a huge bay on the Western side of Racha Noi and is also known as “Manta Bay.” For reasons, we hope are self-explanatory!

Maritas Rock & Marina Bay consist of a sloping sandy bottom with Coral Bommies. Along with some scenic Staghorn Coral and various other Hard Corals and granite rock formations. Go slowly, as if you look carefully, you should find a lot of Peacock Mantis Shrimps. This is addition to Cuttle Fish camouflaging themselves in the rocks, Sea Whips, Brain Corals and patches of Fire Coral.

Leopard Sharks like the sandy patches as they provide resting areas, and Leopard Sharks can usually be seen on most days. Furthermore there is a nice variety of Stingrays that can be found out on the sandy patches.

Roughly 20m from Southern the corner of the bay is Marita’s Rock starts around 24m. Marita’s Rock has many swimthroughs formed by the granite boulders resting on each other. These are similar to the world-famous Elephant Head Rock dive site in The Similan and Surin Islands. These boulders can be pretty impressive, especially with the huge Sea Fans and Soft Corals.

Be careful if you dive in the swimthroughs as sometimes it's hard to make you way around clearly. This is due to the exits being invariably full of Five lined Snappers and Glassfish.

PLEASE REMEMBER: Not only should you NOT enter any overhead environment without the proper training and equipment, but you should always pay close attention to you Dive Guide’s briefing.

The diversity of Marine Life can be quite overwhelming at Maritas Rock and Marina Bay. Consequently, it can be hard to say what you will see at Maritas Rock and Marina Bay.

Obviously, you can expect to see the usual South Andaman marine life you would expect to see around Phuket dive sites. This includes many Parrot Fish, Triggerfish, Butterfly Fish, Anemone Fish, Pipefish, Cornet and Trumpet Fish. Additionally, there are different species of Sea Snake, along with favourites like Cuttle Fish, Moorish Idols and Banner Fish. Take your time to look in the canyons and crevices, as they are Turtles find and Barracudas to see.

The Mantas are usually found towards the Southern end of the Marina Bay / Marita’s Rock where the depth is around 20-30m. Manta Rays are common here and are usually spotted cruising up and down reef feeding on the krill and jellyfish. Hence why they are attracted to dive sites that have currents.

At the end of the dive it's a good idea to ascend to around 5m on Marita’s Rock and do an extended Safety-Stop. This is because you never know when you might be rewarded with a famous “Manta Fly-By” ...


Racha Noi: Banana Rock, another Rock that Rocks

Banana Rock is located at Racha Noi Island, roughly 45-60 minutes further than Racha Yai Island. Be sure to keep your eyes open and as you go between the two Rachas, as both Sailfish and Dolphins can be seen around here. And with the deeper waters Whales have also been spotted here too.

Banana Rock at the East side of Racha Noi located at the North tip of Banana Bay. This is between Banana Bay and North Rock and is a mixture of shallow flat sand with the usual mixture of Hard and Soft Corals. There are also "granite boulder / rock formations,” similar those in The Similans that start at 15 m and drop down to more than 40m+.

Remember Racha Noi is the “last” dive site before the Andaman Sea starts to gets deep. This means that there are some very deep spots off the island, in excess of 80m. As such the tides and current bring in the larger pelagic fish. These tend to be Manta Rays, large Tuna, Barracuda, Trevallies. Additionally Black Tip, White Tip Reef Sharks and even Whale Sharks have been spotted here.

For PADI Open Water Diver Course students and beginner divers new to scuba diving it is ideal with plenty of places for skill practice. Yet at the same time there are lots of hard and soft corals to keep you mesmerized!

To start the dive you would normally do a giant stride off the boat and then descend down a mooring line to around 6m. This will then take you down to the sloping sand bottom followed by a gentle swim out to the first rocks and boulders around 15m. Again, do take the time to explore these slowly as there are all kinds of Marine Life around here attracted by these Rocks.

You will find plenty of Lizard Fish, Fusiliers, Butterfly Fish and Damsel Fish. There are Red Tooth Trigger Fish as well as the usual array of Nudibranchs and Banded Boxer Shrimps. Moray Eels, Kuhl’s Stingray, Lion and Scorpionfish are regularly spotted here. Along with Anemone Fish, Cuttle Fish, Sea Snakes, Butterfly Fish, Durban Dancing Shrimps and White Ribbon Eels.

It is an ideal scuba diving site for both scuba divers and snorkelers and provides some awesome photographic opportunities ...

Racha Noi: Camera Bay, a dive where you will want your Camera!

Camera Bay is located on the North-Western part of Racha Noi Island, one of the Racha Islands, (also known as Raya Islands) around 12-15 miles South of Phuket. This comprises of two islands; Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi. Koh Racha Noi, “Ko / Koh” meaning island, “Noi” in Thai meaning Small or Less, and is the furthest; roughly 45-60 minutes past Racha Yai.

As you pass Racha Yai on your way to Racha Noi be sure to keep your eyes peeled as, Dolphins, Sail Fish and even Whales are regularly spotted here! In and around the rocks you will find everything you have come to expect from Phuket Diving. This includes Butterfly Fish, Parrot Fish, Anemone Fish and Nudibranchs. You can often find Octopus and Cuttlefish among the rocks and corals. Additionally, there is also schooling Barracudas, Triggerfish, Puffer and Porcupine Fish. And if you are lucky a turtle or two. For macro enthusiasts if you look very carefully you should be able to find a Frog Fish, otherwise known as an Angler Fish.

As Racha Noi is the “last” dive site before the Andaman Sea really starts to gets deep the location and water movement helps brings in the larger pelagic fishes Including Manta Rays, the occasional Whale shark, large Tuna, Barracuda, Trevallies and Black Tip and White Tip Reef Sharks, which Racha Noi is famous for!

Camera Bay itself is suitable for all levels of divers with little current and an excellent variety of hard corals with white sandy patches surrounded by the boulders and rocky edges of the island itself. Although sheltered from the current in the bay a popular end to the dive is to go out of the bay and drift. As such divers often exit the bay and let the current take them North where the boat will be waiting for you.

Depths start from 5-15m in the bay itself going off to 30m+ as you head North out of the bay, with visibility the usual 10-30m+

RACHA YAI DIVE SITES

South of Phuket: Racha Islands

The “Racha Islands” (sometimes spelt as Raya Islands) consisting of Koh Racha Yai and Noi. Incidentally in Thai “Ko / Koh” means "island" with "Yai" meaning "Large" or "Big" and “Noi” "Small" or "Less". These Phuket Dive Sites lie only 12-15 miles / 1 hr 20 min – 1hr 45 min South of Phuket. In fact these are probably 2 of the most dived and consequently best known Phuket Dive Sites. These Phuket dive sites are generally considered “easy diving.” The Phuket Dive Sites here offer fantastic snorkeling characterized by great visability, crystal clear water and beautiful white sandy bays. Most of all they are teeming with tropical marine life with stunning reefs sloping off from 3m to over 25m.

Racha Yai is the nearest and is a 90 minute cruise from Chalong, and has several Phuket dive sites unique in their own way. Not only do you have Bay 1 with its ship wrecks and even an underwater motor bike, but also Siam Bay with it’s underwater elephants! The Racha Yai dive sites offer near perfect dive conditions. This is because the island's dive sites present shallow dives within sheltered bays.

Racha Yai Bay 1: The Number One Racha Yai Dive Site!

Racha Yai Bay 1 is the first in a series of natural bays and is located on the East side of Racha Yai Island. Fortunately Racha Yai Bay 1 is only 90 minutes away from Chalong by dive boat. This bay is very popular not only with divers, but also with snorkelling trips.

The average depth of Racha Yai Bay 1 is around 10-15m. Although the dive sites vary from between 5-30m. As such this another local Phuket dive site that is suitable for beginner divers in addition to the more experienced divers. Racha Yai Bay 1 has everything from shallow soft and hard coral reefs, to ship wrecks ranging from 15-25m in depth.

Racha Yai: Siam Bay – Elephant Dive anyone?

Siam Bay dive site is the Northern most bay of Racha Yai, roughly 1 ½ hours away by dive boat. The bay itself consists of rocky edges and the center bay area is sand covered with hard-coral patches. Including some large “Coral Bommies” and nice Staghorn coral.

And as far as we know, Siam Bay is the only dive site in the world that you can guarantee yourself a dive with elephants. Even they are made from stone!

These man-made concrete elephants and were sunk in 2006, along with a temple gate and mythical giant sentry known locally as Yak. They were sunk in order to add another scuba diving attraction for the local Phuket dive sites, not surprisingly these did in fact prove very popular with divers. In fact, many divers around the world now have fond memories of swimming around this temple.

Don’t forget to bring your underwater camera with you. However, if you don’t have one, then one of our Photoguides could always go with you. That way you can relax, enjoy your diving, while they take some cool pics of one of the most the unusual photographic opportunities ...

Racha Yai Island: Bungalow Bay

Located on the North West Side of Racha Yai Island, Bungalow Bay is found in a bay off, a scheduled beach, 1 km from the Ban Raya Resort. Hence the dive site name.

The picturesque beach is typical of the beaches of the West Coast of Thailand. In other words a long idyllic beach with white sand and clear blue waters. The bay itself has a long crescent curve along both sides of the bay where some of the best corals lie. These are ideal for not only scuba diving, but they are also very popular with snorkelers and day-trippers. Furthermore it is not uncommon to see some of the luxury sailing boats gently bobbing on their moorings, scattered around the bay.

The diving at Bungalow Bay can be split into 2 separate dives. These are: North Wall and South Wall. This is mainly due to the sheer size of the area as you can dive both sides of the bay. The Northern side of the bay is a sloping reef consisting mainly of Staghorn corals and scenic boulders. These eventually drop off to a depth of around 25m. The Southern side has similar topography but is shallower.

Needless to say you have all the usual Andaman Sea reef fish and marine life throughout the dive site ...

Racha Yai Bay 3: Lucys Reef

Lying about 12miles South of Phuket are the Racha Islands, where Racha Yai Bay 3 Lucy Reef is located. This takes around 1 ½ hours by regular dive boat, although speed boats can easily make the trip there in under an hour.

Racha Yai Bay 3 is the smallest of the 3 bays along the East side of Racha Yai Island, and is only 90 minutes from Chalong Pier by boat. As such this bay is very popular not only with local dive trips, but also with snorkeling trips. This is because of the lovely sheltered shallow corals close to the beach. Underwater the clear and calm waters here are perfect for beginner divers. Whilst not the best Phuket diving, the bay is home to a variety of reef fish. The reefs are mostly Hard Corals and make a nice introduction to Scuba Diving in Phuket.

The Dive Sites in Racha Yai Bay 3 vary from 5-30m and are therefore suitable for beginner divers as well as divers with more experience ...

Racha Yai Bay 3: Homerun Reef

Racha Yai Bay 3, where Homerun Reef is located is the smallest of the 3 bays along the East side of Racha Yai Island. This dive site can be reached by Phuket dive boat in about 1 1/2 hours, however it is usually dived on the way back.

 

Homerun Reef is a popular last dive of the day as it runs North along the East side of Racha Yai, taking you back in the direction of Chalong , which is how it got it’s name. Thus Homerun Reef  is a perfect local Phuket dive site for the last dive of the day. The current at Homerun Reef varies from nothing to strong, therefore be sure to listen carefully to your Dive Briefing and follow the dive plan. Additionally when not diving, such as during the surface interval, Homerun Reef is a great location to catch some sunshine whilst having lunch.

Underwater the clear and calm waters of Homerun Reef are excellent for beginners and divers who have not dived for a long time. The reef starts at 3-5m depending on the tide, sloping off to sand around 20m. The reefs here don't have much soft corals, however there is a lot of hard corals here. Especially Branch and Staghorn Corals. Homerun Reef has all the usual marine life you would expect. Notably there is even a small wooden shipwreck near the Southern end at 24m.

Homerun Reef is the perfect end to a perfect days diving ...

Included in the tour

Dive Guide, Skipper, Transfers from and to hotel

Guided tours PADI - Open Water Diver

Boat Trip to Phi Phi and Anemone Reef (Monday departure)

Duration
1 days
Price per person
USD $ 118

RACHA NOI DIVE SITE

Racha Not: Banana Bay a fun easy dive for all

Banana Bay is found on Racha Noi island, which lies 10-15 miles South of Phuket. Racha Noi is the “last” dive site before the Andaman Sea and is roughly one 45-60 minutes past Ko Racha Yai. When cruising between the Racha Islands keep your eyes open as Sailfish and dolphins can sometimes be seen jumping out of the water. Whales have also been spotted between the two Racha Islands.

RACHA NOI DIVE SITE

Racha Not: Banana Bay a fun easy dive for all

Banana Bay is found on Racha Noi island, which lies 10-15 miles South of Phuket. Racha Noi is the “last” dive site before the Andaman Sea and is roughly one 45-60 minutes past Ko Racha Yai. When cruising between the Racha Islands keep your eyes open as Sailfish and dolphins can sometimes be seen jumping out of the water. Whales have also been spotted between the two Racha Islands.

Banana Bay is at the East side of Racha Noi, and got its name from the shape of the bay. Which not too surprisingly, looks like a banana. To be fair the bay is surrounded by Banana Trees, hence the name is actually quite accurate. The bay stretches almost 1km and thus provides postcard-quality scenery, with a beautiful green landscape, powdery white sand and crystal blue waters. A nice and easy dive site for beginners and PADI Open Water Diver Course students as there is plenty of places for skill practice. However, there is still plenty for experienced scuba divers.

Visibility is generally from 10m-30m+ with the depths ranging 2-40m+ ...

Banana Bay is an easy dive site for both beginner divers and experienced divers

Banana Bay is a large banana shaped bay with a gentle sloping sandy bottom. Here you will find a large number of small and large “pinnacles.” These are in the middle of the bay and are covered in Hard and Soft Corals. There are some nice “boulder rock formations” at the Southern end. There are in fact similar to the topography you can expect to see in The Similan and Surin Islands. Additionally, in the shallower waters areas there are some large Staghorn Coral fields.

In the shallow parts of the reef and out on the sand, Turtles can often be spotted. And if you are lucky maybe an Eagle Ray or 2 who seem to have made this bay their hang-out. Banana Bay is a nice, easy dive site and thus great for photographers. However not only is Banana Bay great for macro-photography, but also for some stunning landscape photography. Due in part to visibility usually being 20-30m in the October to May months.

You can find all the usual Phuket Andaman marine life you would expect see. There are many different species of Anemone Fish, Moray Eels, Butterfly Fish and Parrot Fish. Out on the sand you have Ghost Pipefish, Kuhl’s Stingray, Cuttlefish and Jenkins Rays.

Just keep your eyes open as you never know what you are going to find at Racha Noi. On a good day you maybe encounter with a shark or two, or even see a Manta Ray flying by ...


Racha Noi: Maritas Rock & Marina Bay 2 dive sites in 1

Maritas Rock, also known as Marina Bay, lie 12-15 miles South of Phuket, and are probably two of the most dived and local dive sites. These dive sites lie roughly in the middle of South-West side of the Racha Noi Island.

In fact Maritas Rock and Marina Bay are actually almost the same dive site. Local legend has it that Marita’s Rock was named after a local Divemaster from many years ago, although details are scarce. These dives sites are beautiful to dive and are covered in soft corals and Gorgonian Sea Fans with visibility ranging from 10-30+ m. Additionally the boulder are formations are stunning and reminiscent of The Similan Islands. In turn these create some swim-throughs, canyons and small caverns to explore.

Current inside Marina Bay itself is normally mild. However outside the bay, especially at Marita’s Rock, the current is can be very strong. For this reason Marita's Rock is recommended for Advanced / experienced divers only. Since Racha Noi is the “last” dive site before the Andaman Sea and as such the Racha Noi dive sites start to get deep. Consequently, this means there are very deeps dive sites off the island. However it also brings in the larger pelagic fishes such as large Tuna, and schools of Barracuda and  Trevallies.

Keep your eyes open for Manta Rays, the occasional Whale shark, along with Blacktip and Whitetip Reef Sharks ...

What can I see on a Dive Tour to Maritas Rock & Marina Bay at Racha Noi Islands?

Marina Bay is a huge bay on the Western side of Racha Noi and is also known as “Manta Bay.” For reasons, we hope are self-explanatory!

Maritas Rock & Marina Bay consist of a sloping sandy bottom with Coral Bommies. Along with some scenic Staghorn Coral and various other Hard Corals and granite rock formations. Go slowly, as if you look carefully, you should find a lot of Peacock Mantis Shrimps. This is addition to Cuttle Fish camouflaging themselves in the rocks, Sea Whips, Brain Corals and patches of Fire Coral.

Leopard Sharks like the sandy patches as they provide resting areas, and Leopard Sharks can usually be seen on most days. Furthermore there is a nice variety of Stingrays that can be found out on the sandy patches.

Roughly 20m from Southern the corner of the bay is Marita’s Rock starts around 24m. Marita’s Rock has many swimthroughs formed by the granite boulders resting on each other. These are similar to the world-famous Elephant Head Rock dive site in The Similan and Surin Islands. These boulders can be pretty impressive, especially with the huge Sea Fans and Soft Corals.

Be careful if you dive in the swimthroughs as sometimes it's hard to make you way around clearly. This is due to the exits being invariably full of Five lined Snappers and Glassfish.

PLEASE REMEMBER: Not only should you NOT enter any overhead environment without the proper training and equipment, but you should always pay close attention to you Dive Guide’s briefing.

The diversity of Marine Life can be quite overwhelming at Maritas Rock and Marina Bay. Consequently, it can be hard to say what you will see at Maritas Rock and Marina Bay. Obviously, you can expect to see the usual South Andaman marine life you would expect to see around Phuket dive sites. This includes many Parrot Fish, Triggerfish, Butterfly Fish, Anemone Fish, Pipefish, Cornet and Trumpet Fish. Additionally, there are different species of Sea Snake, along with favourites like Cuttle Fish, Moorish Idols and Banner Fish. Take your time to look in the canyons and crevices, as they are Turtles find and Barracudas to see.

The Mantas are usually found towards the Southern end of the Marina Bay / Marita’s Rock where the depth is around 20-30m. Manta Rays are common here and are usually spotted cruising up and down reef feeding on the krill and jellyfish. Hence why they are attracted to dive sites that have currents.

At the end of the dive it's a good idea to ascend to around 5m on Marita’s Rock and do an extended Safety-Stop. This is because you never know when you might be rewarded with a famous “Manta Fly-By” ...


Racha Noi: Banana Rock, another Rock that Rocks

Banana Rock is located at Racha Noi Island, roughly 45-60 minutes further than Racha Yai Island. Be sure to keep your eyes open and as you go between the two Rachas, as both Sailfish and Dolphins can be seen around here. And with the deeper waters Whales have also been spotted here too.

Banana Rock at the East side of Racha Noi located at the North tip of Banana Bay. This is between Banana Bay and North Rock and is a mixture of shallow flat sand with the usual mixture of Hard and Soft Corals. There are also "granite boulder / rock formations,” similar those in The Similans that start at 15 m and drop down to more than 40m+.

Remember Racha Noi is the “last” dive site before the Andaman Sea starts to gets deep. This means that there are some very deep spots off the island, in excess of 80m. As such the tides and current bring in the larger pelagic fish. These tend to be Manta Rays, large Tuna, Barracuda, Trevallies. Additionally Black Tip, White Tip Reef Sharks and even Whale Sharks have been spotted here.

For PADI Open Water Diver Course students and beginner divers new to scuba diving it is ideal with plenty of places for skill practice. Yet at the same time there are lots of hard and soft corals to keep you mesmerized!

To start the dive you would normally do a giant stride off the boat and then descend down a mooring line to around 6m. This will then take you down to the sloping sand bottom followed by a gentle swim out to the first rocks and boulders around 15m. Again, do take the time to explore these slowly as there are all kinds of Marine Life around here attracted by these Rocks.

You will find plenty of Lizard Fish, Fusiliers, Butterfly Fish and Damsel Fish. There are Red Tooth Trigger Fish as well as the usual array of Nudibranchs and Banded Boxer Shrimps. Moray Eels, Kuhl’s Stingray, Lion and Scorpionfish are regularly spotted here. Along with Anemone Fish, Cuttle Fish, Sea Snakes, Butterfly Fish, Durban Dancing Shrimps and White Ribbon Eels.

It is an ideal scuba diving site for both scuba divers and snorkelers and provides some awesome photographic opportunities ...

Racha Noi: Camera Bay, a dive where you will want your Camera!

Camera Bay is located on the North-Western part of Racha Noi Island, one of the Racha Islands, (also known as Raya Islands) around 12-15 miles South of Phuket. This comprises of two islands; Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi. Koh Racha Noi, “Ko / Koh” meaning island, “Noi” in Thai meaning Small or Less, and is the furthest; roughly 45-60 minutes past Racha Yai.

As you pass Racha Yai on your way to Racha Noi be sure to keep your eyes peeled as, Dolphins, Sail Fish and even Whales are regularly spotted here! In and around the rocks you will find everything you have come to expect from Phuket Diving. This includes Butterfly Fish, Parrot Fish, Anemone Fish and Nudibranchs. You can often find Octopus and Cuttlefish among the rocks and corals. Additionally, there is also schooling Barracudas, Triggerfish, Puffer and Porcupine Fish. And if you are lucky a turtle or two. For macro enthusiasts if you look very carefully you should be able to find a Frog Fish, otherwise known as an Angler Fish.

As Racha Noi is the “last” dive site before the Andaman Sea really starts to gets deep the location and water movement helps brings in the larger pelagic fishes Including Manta Rays, the occasional Whale shark, large Tuna, Barracuda, Trevallies and Black Tip and White Tip Reef Sharks, which Racha Noi is famous for!

Camera Bay itself is suitable for all levels of divers with little current and an excellent variety of hard corals with white sandy patches surrounded by the boulders and rocky edges of the island itself. Although sheltered from the current in the bay a popular end to the dive is to go out of the bay and drift. As such divers often exit the bay and let the current take them North where the boat will be waiting for you.

Depths start from 5-15m in the bay itself going off to 30m+ as you head North out of the bay, with visibility the usual 10-30m+

RACHA YAI DIVE SITES

South of Phuket: Racha Islands

The “Racha Islands” (sometimes spelt as Raya Islands) consisting of Koh Racha Yai and Noi. Incidentally in Thai “Ko / Koh” means "island" with "Yai" meaning "Large" or "Big" and “Noi” "Small" or "Less". These Phuket Dive Sites lie only 12-15 miles / 1 hr 20 min – 1hr 45 min South of Phuket. In fact these are probably 2 of the most dived and consequently best known Phuket Dive Sites. These Phuket dive sites are generally considered “easy diving.” The Phuket Dive Sites here offer fantastic snorkeling characterized by great visability, crystal clear water and beautiful white sandy bays. Most of all they are teeming with tropical marine life with stunning reefs sloping off from 3m to over 25m.

Racha Yai is the nearest and is a 90 minute cruise from Chalong, and has several Phuket dive sites unique in their own way. Not only do you have Bay 1 with its ship wrecks and even an underwater motor bike, but also Siam Bay with it’s underwater elephants! The Racha Yai dive sites offer near perfect dive conditions. This is because the island's dive sites present shallow dives within sheltered bays.

Racha Yai Bay 1: The Number One Racha Yai Dive Site!

Racha Yai Bay 1 is the first in a series of natural bays and is located on the East side of Racha Yai Island. Fortunately Racha Yai Bay 1 is only 90 minutes away from Chalong by dive boat. This bay is very popular not only with divers, but also with snorkelling trips.

The average depth of Racha Yai Bay 1 is around 10-15m. Although the dive sites vary from between 5-30m. As such this another local Phuket dive site that is suitable for beginner divers in addition to the more experienced divers. Racha Yai Bay 1 has everything from shallow soft and hard coral reefs, to ship wrecks ranging from 15-25m in depth.

Racha Yai: Siam Bay – Elephant Dive anyone?

Siam Bay dive site is the Northern most bay of Racha Yai, roughly 1 ½ hours away by dive boat. The bay itself consists of rocky edges and the center bay area is sand covered with hard-coral patches. Including some large “Coral Bommies” and nice Staghorn coral.

And as far as we know, Siam Bay is the only dive site in the world that you can guarantee yourself a dive with elephants. Even they are made from stone!

These man-made concrete elephants and were sunk in 2006, along with a temple gate and mythical giant sentry known locally as Yak. They were sunk in order to add another scuba diving attraction for the local Phuket dive sites, not surprisingly these did in fact prove very popular with divers. In fact, many divers around the world now have fond memories of swimming around this temple.

Don’t forget to bring your underwater camera with you. However, if you don’t have one, then one of our Photoguides could always go with you. That way you can relax, enjoy your diving, while they take some cool pics of one of the most the unusual photographic opportunities ...

Racha Yai Island: Bungalow Bay

Located on the North West Side of Racha Yai Island, Bungalow Bay is found in a bay off, a scheduled beach, 1 km from the Ban Raya Resort. Hence the dive site name.

The picturesque beach is typical of the beaches of the West Coast of Thailand. In other words a long idyllic beach with white sand and clear blue waters. The bay itself has a long crescent curve along both sides of the bay where some of the best corals lie. These are ideal for not only scuba diving, but they are also very popular with snorkelers and day-trippers. Furthermore it is not uncommon to see some of the luxury sailing boats gently bobbing on their moorings, scattered around the bay.

The diving at Bungalow Bay can be split into 2 separate dives. These are: North Wall and South Wall. This is mainly due to the sheer size of the area as you can dive both sides of the bay. The Northern side of the bay is a sloping reef consisting mainly of Staghorn corals and scenic boulders. These eventually drop off to a depth of around 25m. The Southern side has similar topography but is shallower.

Needless to say you have all the usual Andaman Sea reef fish and marine life throughout the dive site ...

Racha Yai Bay 3: Lucys Reef

Lying about 12miles South of Phuket are the Racha Islands, where Racha Yai Bay 3 Lucy Reef is located. This takes around 1 ½ hours by regular dive boat, although speed boats can easily make the trip there in under an hour.

Racha Yai Bay 3 is the smallest of the 3 bays along the East side of Racha Yai Island, and is only 90 minutes from Chalong Pier by boat. As such this bay is very popular not only with local dive trips, but also with snorkeling trips. This is because of the lovely sheltered shallow corals close to the beach. Underwater the clear and calm waters here are perfect for beginner divers. Whilst not the best Phuket diving, the bay is home to a variety of reef fish. The reefs are mostly Hard Corals and make a nice introduction to Scuba Diving in Phuket.

The Dive Sites in Racha Yai Bay 3 vary from 5-30m and are therefore suitable for beginner divers as well as divers with more experience ...

Racha Yai Bay 3: Homerun Reef

Racha Yai Bay 3, where Homerun Reef is located is the smallest of the 3 bays along the East side of Racha Yai Island. This dive site can be reached by Phuket dive boat in about 1 1/2 hours, however it is usually dived on the way back.

 

Homerun Reef is a popular last dive of the day as it runs North along the East side of Racha Yai, taking you back in the direction of Chalong , which is how it got it’s name. Thus Homerun Reef  is a perfect local Phuket dive site for the last dive of the day. The current at Homerun Reef varies from nothing to strong, therefore be sure to listen carefully to your Dive Briefing and follow the dive plan. Additionally when not diving, such as during the surface interval, Homerun Reef is a great location to catch some sunshine whilst having lunch.

Underwater the clear and calm waters of Homerun Reef are excellent for beginners and divers who have not dived for a long time. The reef starts at 3-5m depending on the tide, sloping off to sand around 20m. The reefs here don't have much soft corals, however there is a lot of hard corals here. Especially Branch and Staghorn Corals. Homerun Reef has all the usual marine life you would expect. Notably there is even a small wooden shipwreck near the Southern end at 24m.

Homerun Reef is the perfect end to a perfect days diving ...

Included in the tour

Dive Guide, Skipper, Transfers from and to hotel

Guided tours PADI - Open Water Diver

Boat Trip to Racha Yai

Duration
1 days
Price per person
USD $ 98

South of Phuket: Racha Islands

The “Racha Islands” (sometimes spelt as Raya Islands) consisting of Koh Racha Yai and Noi. Incidentally in Thai “Ko / Koh” means "island" with "Yai" meaning "Large" or "Big" and “Noi” "Small" or "Less". These Phuket Dive Sites lie only 12-15 miles / 1 hr 20 min – 1hr 45 min South of Phuket. In fact these are probably 2 of the most dived and consequently best known Phuket Dive Sites. These Phuket dive sites are generally considered “easy diving.” The Phuket Dive Sites here offer fantastic snorkeling characterized by great visability, crystal clear water and beautiful white sandy bays. Most of all they are teeming with tropical marine life with stunning reefs sloping off from 3m to over 25m.

South of Phuket: Racha Islands

The “Racha Islands” (sometimes spelt as Raya Islands) consisting of Koh Racha Yai and Noi. Incidentally in Thai “Ko / Koh” means "island" with "Yai" meaning "Large" or "Big" and “Noi” "Small" or "Less". These Phuket Dive Sites lie only 12-15 miles / 1 hr 20 min – 1hr 45 min South of Phuket. In fact these are probably 2 of the most dived and consequently best known Phuket Dive Sites. These Phuket dive sites are generally considered “easy diving.” The Phuket Dive Sites here offer fantastic snorkeling characterized by great visability, crystal clear water and beautiful white sandy bays. Most of all they are teeming with tropical marine life with stunning reefs sloping off from 3m to over 25m.

Racha Yai is the nearest and is a 90 minute cruise from Chalong, and has several Phuket dive sites unique in their own way. Not only do you have Bay 1 with its ship wrecks and even an underwater motor bike, but also Siam Bay with it’s underwater elephants! The Racha Yai dive sites offer near perfect dive conditions. This is because the island's dive sites present shallow dives within sheltered bays.

Racha Yai Bay 1: The Number One Racha Yai Dive Site!

Racha Yai Bay 1 is the first in a series of natural bays and is located on the East side of Racha Yai Island. Fortunately Racha Yai Bay 1 is only 90 minutes away from Chalong by dive boat. This bay is very popular not only with divers, but also with snorkelling trips.

The average depth of Racha Yai Bay 1 is around 10-15m. Although the dive sites vary from between 5-30m. As such this another local Phuket dive site that is suitable for beginner divers in addition to the more experienced divers. Racha Yai Bay 1 has everything from shallow soft and hard coral reefs, to ship wrecks ranging from 15-25m in depth.

Racha Yai: Siam Bay – Elephant Dive anyone?

Siam Bay dive site is the Northern most bay of Racha Yai, roughly 1 ½ hours away by dive boat. The bay itself consists of rocky edges and the center bay area is sand covered with hard-coral patches. Including some large “Coral Bommies” and nice Staghorn coral.

And as far as we know, Siam Bay is the only dive site in the world that you can guarantee yourself a dive with elephants. Even they are made from stone!

These man-made concrete elephants and were sunk in 2006, along with a temple gate and mythical giant sentry known locally as Yak. They were sunk in order to add another scuba diving attraction for the local Phuket dive sites, not surprisingly these did in fact prove very popular with divers. In fact, many divers around the world now have fond memories of swimming around this temple.

Don’t forget to bring your underwater camera with you. However, if you don’t have one, then one of our Photoguides could always go with you. That way you can relax, enjoy your diving, while they take some cool pics of one of the most the unusual photographic opportunities ...

Racha Yai Island: Bungalow Bay

Located on the North West Side of Racha Yai Island, Bungalow Bay is found in a bay off, a scheduled beach, 1 km from the Ban Raya Resort. Hence the dive site name.

The picturesque beach is typical of the beaches of the West Coast of Thailand. In other words a long idyllic beach with white sand and clear blue waters. The bay itself has a long crescent curve along both sides of the bay where some of the best corals lie. These are ideal for not only scuba diving, but they are also very popular with snorkelers and day-trippers. Furthermore it is not uncommon to see some of the luxury sailing boats gently bobbing on their moorings, scattered around the bay.

The diving at Bungalow Bay can be split into 2 separate dives. These are: North Wall and South Wall. This is mainly due to the sheer size of the area as you can dive both sides of the bay. The Northern side of the bay is a sloping reef consisting mainly of Staghorn corals and scenic boulders. These eventually drop off to a depth of around 25m. The Southern side has similar topography but is shallower.

Needless to say you have all the usual Andaman Sea reef fish and marine life throughout the dive site ...

Racha Yai Bay 3: Lucys Reef

Lying about 12miles South of Phuket are the Racha Islands, where Racha Yai Bay 3 Lucy Reef is located. This takes around 1 ½ hours by regular dive boat, although speed boats can easily make the trip there in under an hour.

Racha Yai Bay 3 is the smallest of the 3 bays along the East side of Racha Yai Island, and is only 90 minutes from Chalong Pier by boat. As such this bay is very popular not only with local dive trips, but also with snorkeling trips. This is because of the lovely sheltered shallow corals close to the beach. Underwater the clear and calm waters here are perfect for beginner divers. Whilst not the best Phuket diving, the bay is home to a variety of reef fish. The reefs are mostly Hard Corals and make a nice introduction to Scuba Diving in Phuket.

The Dive Sites in Racha Yai Bay 3 vary from 5-30m and are therefore suitable for beginner divers as well as divers with more experience ...

Racha Yai Bay 3: Homerun Reef

Racha Yai Bay 3, where Homerun Reef is located is the smallest of the 3 bays along the East side of Racha Yai Island. This dive site can be reached by Phuket dive boat in about 1 1/2 hours, however it is usually dived on the way back.

 

Homerun Reef is a popular last dive of the day as it runs North along the East side of Racha Yai, taking you back in the direction of Chalong , which is how it got it’s name. Thus Homerun Reef  is a perfect local Phuket dive site for the last dive of the day. The current at Homerun Reef varies from nothing to strong, therefore be sure to listen carefully to your Dive Briefing and follow the dive plan. Additionally when not diving, such as during the surface interval, Homerun Reef is a great location to catch some sunshine whilst having lunch.

Underwater the clear and calm waters of Homerun Reef are excellent for beginners and divers who have not dived for a long time. The reef starts at 3-5m depending on the tide, sloping off to sand around 20m. The reefs here don't have much soft corals, however there is a lot of hard corals here. Especially Branch and Staghorn Corals. Homerun Reef has all the usual marine life you would expect. Notably there is even a small wooden shipwreck near the Southern end at 24m.

Homerun Reef is the perfect end to a perfect days diving ...

Included in the tour

Dive Guide, Skipper, Transfers from and to hotel

Guided tours PADI - Open Water Diver

Boat Trip to King Cruiser Wreck, Shark Point and Ko Doc Mai

Duration
1 days
Price per person
USD $ 103

Phuket Wreck Diving: King Cruiser Ship Wreck

Built in Japan in the 1960s The King Cruiser is an 85m long twin hulled catamaran which was purchased in 1990. It was operating as a car and passenger ferry transporting passengers between Phuket and Phi Phi Island. This was before it became some of the best Phuket Wreck diving.

Phuket Wreck Diving: King Cruiser Ship Wreck

Built in Japan in the 1960s The King Cruiser is an 85m long twin hulled catamaran which was purchased in 1990. It was operating as a car and passenger ferry transporting passengers between Phuket and Phi Phi Island. This was before it became some of the best Phuket Wreck diving.

On the 4th of May 1997 the ship strayed off course hitting a popular scuba diving site called Anemone Reef and ripping open one of the hulls. The King Cruiser then sank in less than an hour with the nearly 600 passengers and crew on board. However luckily everyone was rescued by local fishing and scuba diving dive boats.

Her final resting place is approximately 27 km east of Phuket where she now sits upright on the seabed at a depth of 31m and rising up to 18m. Two decades later this stunning wreck is now home to an abundance of tropical fish and fantastic soft corals and is some of the best Phuket Wreck Diving!

Join us for some of the best Phuket wreck diving ...

Phuket Shark Point or Hin Musang is one of the most beautiful dive sites in Thailand

On a good day Shark Point can rival most dive sites around the world.

This Phuket scuba diving site is located 26km from Chalong Pier on Phuket, and takes 90 minutes to reach by boat. Shark Point is named after the docile Leopard Sharks that are often encountered resting on the sandy seafloor. One of the main attractions of Shark Point, apart from the Sharks, is the staggering amount of colourful corals found here. There is a huge variety of soft corals here, in particular the giant Gorgonian Sea Fans. These are usually surrounded by large schools of tropical fish which make an awesome setting for this limestone pinnacle.

Approaching from the South, Shark Point appears as a tiny rock outcropping of no interest. However beneath the surface lie seven pinnacles that run from north to south. Each pinnacle gets smaller and deeper as you proceed from one onto the next. Pinnacles 1 & 2 are the most frequently dived as they have good shallow corals and close together with a lot of marine life.

The current and visibility varies with the tidal conditions. Shark Point can easily have 25m visibility with no current or it can go, down to 5m visibility with very strong current ...

Ko Doc Mai or "Flower Island"

Ko Doc Mai is an uninhabited island only a short 1 hour boat ride away. Because of its easy accessibility and stunning macro life it is one of the most popular Phuket scuba diving sites. The island is visible for miles around as it is a huge rock formation with sheer cliffs all the way around. Most noteworthy is the fact that the only people that access the island itself are the fishermen who collect special Birds’ Nests. These are sold to the local markets for the world famous “Birds Nest Soup.”

Ko and also Koh are the Thai words for “Island” and “Dok Mai” means flower, because the island is believed to look like a flower.

The island is well known for its macro life and because of this very popular with photographers. There are areas of the wall teeming with Durban Dancer Shrimp, Boxer Shrimp and also White Eyed Moray. However the real attraction to the macro lover is the wide variety of Nudibranchs and Ornate Ghost Pipe fish found along the wall. Often with some Tigertail Seahorses. However, if macro is not your thing, then there are also large varieties of fish species to be found. We regularly see Clown Fish, Moorish Idols, Puffer Fish, Banded Sea Snakes and, in addition, the almost overly friendly Titan Triggerfish!

This Phuket dive site is a beautiful, dynamic and sometimes challenging dive. As a result the visibility can be up either 20m with no current on a good day or visibility of 5m with a strong current on a more challenging day.

Whatever the conditions, Koh Doc Mai is a surprise and a delight for divers of all levels and interests ...

Included in the tour

Dive Guide, Skipper, Transfers from and to hotel

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