Snorkelling in Phuket: the comparison
| Trip | Duration | Price seen | Rating | For whom |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Similan by speedboat from Phuket or Khao Lak | Very long day | about 89 EUR | 4.5 (more than 1,800 reviews) | Visibility, clear water |
| Similan by premium speed catamaran | Very long day | about 109 USD | 4.4 (88 reviews) | Comfort, seasickness |
| Coral and Racha by speedboat | Day | about 54 to 62 USD | about 4.4 | Best compromise |
| Maya, Phi Phi and Bamboo with buffet | Day | about 42 USD | 4.6 (more than 21,000 reviews) | Most complete, budget |
| Khai islands, snorkelling and relaxation | Half day or day | about 25 USD | see listing | Short, small budget |
| Discover scuba with 2 dives | Half day | see listing | see listing | Seeing the reef up close |
Similan, for visibility
This is the enthusiasts' choice: clear water, more coral and fish than around Phuket, according to traveller feedback. The season is limited to mid-October to mid-May, see Similan from Phuket. The day is long (road then boat); if you stay in Khao Lak it is shorter: Khao Lak from Phuket.
Racha and Coral, the compromise
Closer to Phuket, so less road. Racha is nicer for swimming, Coral simpler for families: Racha or Coral. The Coral and Racha day leaves free time on the islands. The sites are busy; leave early.
Phi Phi, for the scenery
Snorkelling at Phi Phi is decent but very crowded; people go mainly for Maya Bay and the cliffs. Details: Phi Phi from Phuket. For smaller islands, the Khai islands suit a tight budget.
Tips
- Reef-friendly sunscreen; do not touch or stand on coral.
- Check whether mask and snorkel are supplied and whether the park fee is included.
- Monsoon (May to October): lower visibility, frequent cancellations; see the best time to go.
- To dive: discover scuba in Phuket.
FAQ
Where is the best snorkelling in Phuket?
At the Similan Islands, from mid-October to mid-May.
Which trip is cheapest?
The Khai islands, around 25 USD, or Maya, Phi Phi and Bamboo, around 42 USD.
Do I need to swim?
Be comfortable in the water with a life jacket; tell the crew.
Can children snorkel?
Yes, with a life jacket; choose Coral or the Khai islands for shorter trips.
