Diving Trip Thailand – Diving in Phuket, Khao Lak & Similan Islands
Travel period
Features
Starting from
Diving trip Thailand: diving in the Andaman Sea
This diving trip takes you to two special destinations on the Andaman coast of Thailand: Phuket and Khao Lak. Both locations have their own atmosphere, above and below the water. From lively coastal areas and colorful reefs to impressive granite formations and world-famous dive sites, together they offer a varied introduction to the best this region has to offer. Throughout the trip you will dive with the same diving school and stay in carefully selected accommodations, ensuring a familiar and worry-free experience.
The trip begins in Phuket, where a relaxed island atmosphere, tropical beaches and a vibrant coastal culture form the backdrop. From here you will make your first dives in the Andaman Sea. Colorful coral reefs, schools of tropical fish and a great diversity of marine life immediately make for impressive underwater encounters.
Then travel on to Khao Lak, a quieter coastal destination and the ideal base for diving around the Similan Islands. Here the underwater landscape is visibly changing. Large granite rock formations, vast sandy plains, impressive swim-throughs and healthy coral reefs make for a varied and spectacular diving environment.
During the dives you can encounter large schools of reef fish, turtles, barracudas and different types of reef sharks. Depending on the season, there is also the chance of encounters with manta rays or even a whale shark, which is an absolute highlight for many divers.
Because the complete trip is provided by one diving school, all components fit together seamlessly. This allows you to fully enjoy the unique underwater world that Phuket, Khao Lak and the Similan region have to offer.
Best travel time for a diving trip to Thailand
The official diving season in the Similan Islands runs from mid-October to mid-May. During these months, the islands offer the best diving conditions with visibility often reaching more than 30 meters. Especially the months between November and April are considered optimal, as the sea water is calm, stable and clear. In February & March there is more chance of seeing the larger marine animals, but visibility may be slightly reduced.
Average temperatures
Wetsuit advice for Thailand
Since the water in Thailand is very pleasant, a shorty or 3mm is more than enough.
What will you experience on this trip?
View itinerary here
Day 1 & 2 | Travel to Phuket
Today you will fly to Phuket. Depending on where you fly from, this can sometimes be direct, but usually with a stopover in Dubai or Singapore. Count on a plane ride here, including layover between 17 and 19 hours.
The next day you will then arrive in Phuket. Here you will be picked up at the airport and transferred to the Palm Garden Resort Phuket. After you have checked into the resort and walk you to the Sea Bees dive center to get acquainted and do the administrative work. In the evening, you can have a look around downtown Phuket of you just go to bed nice and early – rest from the trip. Because tomorrow you are already going diving!
Day 3 to 7 | Day trips with diving from the Excalibur II
Over the next 5 days you will make a total of 10 dives around Phuket & Phi Phi Islands. Day trips are made on the Excalibur II, a 23-meter-long submarine. On board, breakfast and lunch are freshly prepared and served. Also included is fruit, coffee, tea and water and there is a dive bar for a refreshing beer after the dive. You can do 2 to 3 dives per day on a day trip ( 3rd dive is surcharge) and below is an overview of the possible dive sites you will visit.
Shark Point really must be seen, with its three high cliffs and frequent sharks. This spot, with a depth of up to 25m, is very popular. Not far away is the King Cruiser wreck, a sunken ferry between Shark Point and Anemone Reef, which provides rich habitat for corals and scorpion fish.
Koh Doc Mai is a limestone island and a great place for close-up photos of small marine animals. For those just starting to dive or wanting a refresher course, Racha Yai is the ideal spot, but experienced divers will also enjoy schools of barracuda in waters that go up to 35m deep. Nearby Racha Noi offers crystal clear views, giant rock formations and, with a little luck, manta rays. Its South Tip is among Thailand’s top diving spots.
Finally, the Phi Phi Islands, known for their black reef sharks, turtles and vibrant corals, are a perfect diving destination for beginners and advanced divers alike.
Day 8 | Day trip: Phuket overwater
In addition to diving, it’s also fun to see some above water. You can book various day trips/excursions at the resort’s front desk.
For example, explore the beautiful culture and breathtaking views of Chalong on a fun day trip in Phuket, discover the rich Buddhist history of Southern Thailand or visit the iconic Big Buddha, a 45-meter-high marble Buddha statue, and enjoy breathtaking views of Chalong Bay.
But that’s not all! Within a short drive from Palm Garden Resort, there are plenty of other temples, markets and viewpoints to explore. Be amazed by the beautiful sights and take the most beautiful pictures during this unforgettable diving vacation in Phuket.
Day 9 | Transfer to Khao Lak
Today make your transfer to Palm Garden Khao Lak of about 2.5 hours and check in. You are already familiar with the diving school aance you are also diving here at Sea Bees. Upon arrival, walk in so you can find out the schedule for the next few days. You can spend the rest of the day relaxing and exploring Khao Lak.
Day 10 to 14 | Diving at the Similan Islands
In the depths of the Andaman Sea, the “Khao Lak Mix” dive package (10 dives spread over 5 days) reveals some of southern Thailand’s most enchanting underwater landscapes. On board the MV Stingray you will enjoy lunch, fruit, coffee, tea and water.
The Similan Islands invite divers to explore their colorful coral gardens and fascinating rock formations. Koh Bon and Koh Tachai, located slightly north and part of the Similan National Park, promise adventures with stronger currents. But it is precisely these currents that if you have good luck attract manta rays and whale sharks.
A particular highlight is a visit to Koh Bon’s famous “cleaning station. In this area, where colorful cleaner fish rid larger fish of parasites, there is a good chance of encountering some of the ocean’s most impressive pelagic species, including manta rays.
And then, for wreck lovers, there is the mysterious Boonsung Wreck, a former tin dredge that now serves as a hideout. A glance at this spot reveals perhaps the greatest density of fish in all of southern Thailand. A swim here is like swimming through a moving fish museum.
Day 15 | Day trip: Khao Lak overwater
Today, unfortunately, you can’t dive because you’re getting on a plane tomorrow. But not to worry, there is much to do in Khao Lak, such as;
A visit to the Khao Lak Lamru National Park which offers beautiful hiking trails that lead you through the lush greenery of the jungle. There are different levels of hikes, so whether you are a beginner or an experienced hiker, there is something for everyone.
If you are looking to cool off on a hot day, there are also several waterfalls in the area that you can visit. The Ton Chong Fa waterfall is a popular choice and offers stunning views of the surroundings while enjoying the refreshing waters.
Another option is to explore Sri Phang Nga National Park. This park is known for its abundant wildlife, including monkeys, elephants and tigers. There are several tours available where you visit a wildlife sanctuary, where you have the chance to see these animals up close.
If you want to do something more adventurous, you can visit Khao Sok National Park. This park offers some of the best jungle trekking in the region and is home to a beautiful lake that you can explore by kayak.
Want to book an excursion? Then walk past the resort’s reception desk. They are happy to help and advise you!
Day 16 & 17 | End of diving vacation and return home
Today marks the end of your enchanting vacation in Thailand. You get ready for your return trip and make your way to Phuket airport. This drive from Khao Lak to the airport takes about 1 hour.
Depending on your departure time and the duration of your flight, you may well set foot on European soil the same day.
Highlights of this trip
What can you expect from this diving trip in Thailand?
Diving in the Similan Islands
The Similan Islands are among the most beautiful diving areas in Thailand and are known for their crystal clear waters, granite rock formations and colorful coral reefs. During several dives a day you will discover an impressive underwater world full of reef fish, turtles and sometimes larger pelagic species such as reef sharks and manta rays. The alternation between coral gardens, swim throughs and deeper dive sites makes this area particularly versatile and suitable for both novice and experienced divers.
Variety above and below water
Phuket and Khao Lak are on the same coast, but offer a completely different experience. In Phuket, you will enjoy a lively island atmosphere with tropical beaches and cozy coastal towns. Khao Lak, on the other hand, provides a quiet base close to the region’s most famous dive sites. The underwater scenery is also constantly changing, from colorful reefs and sandy plains to impressive rock formations. That variety keeps the trip interesting from the first to the last day of diving.
Opportunity for special encounters
The waters off the west coast of Thailand are known for their rich marine life. While diving, you may encounter turtles, barracudas, reef sharks and large schools of tropical fish. At certain times of the year, manta rays and whale sharks also migrate through the region. This very combination of permanent residents and special seasonal guests makes every dive exciting. You never know exactly what will appear behind the next rock formation or in the blue water.
The accommodations
The stay and surroundings
Palm Garden Resort Phuket
Palm Garden Resort in Phuket is an oasis in the bustling heart of the city. Within walking distance of attractions, dining options and beaches, the resort still offers a serene escape from the city bustle. A lush garden surrounds the inviting pool, a perfect place for relaxation. Nearby is Chalong pier, the epicenter of Phuket’s diving activities, so everything is walkable. Dining becomes an experience in itself with the restaurant serving both local and international delicacies, all with garden views. For an extra touch of pampering, a massage service is available in a soothing garden setting. Moreover, other cultural attractions and beaches are just a short drive away.
Palm Garden Resort Khao Lak
Palm Garden Resort Khao Lak, an hour from Phuket airport, is a tropical retreat close to the lively center of Khao Lak. Here you can relax by the large pool, surrounded by a beautiful green garden, after diving adventures on the Similan or Surin Islands. Divers will be glad that Tap Lamu pier is close by, as that is the pier from which you leave for the diving day trips.
Khao Lak itself offers endless sandy beaches, dense jungles with hiking trails, waterfalls and exotic wildlife in places like Khao Sok National Park. For adventurers, renting a scooter is ideal, and the region is also a springboard to Phang Nga Bay. Rooms at the resort are comfortable including a private terrace and hammock. Culinary enthusiasts can enjoy both local and international cuisines at the garden-view restaurant. Fancy a massage? That, too, is possible here.
The diving school
The diving school and facilities
Sea Bees Diving
During this diving vacation you will dive with Sea Bees Diving. This is a leading diving school with more than 20 years of experience in Southern Thailand. With four locations in the area and well-trained professionals, they offer an unforgettable diving experience. The dive centers are equipped with high quality modern equipment and the in-house bungalow resorts are specially designed for divers. With their own boats, they offer day trips and diving safaris to the most beautiful spots in the Andaman Sea. Dives are conducted in small groups at similar experience levels, accompanied by highly experienced dive guides who show the most sensational sites and animals on the reef.
Sea Bees Diving also offers a wide range of diving courses, from beginner to instructor level. Their in-house instructors have undergone a rigorous six-month training period to ensure the high quality of service and instruction they provide.
Travel costs
What is included
This travel package is US$ 1.738 per person based on two people in one room. The trip can be extended as desired. A number of things are included by default in this travel package.
Prices are subject to price changes, increases or changing exchange rates. Flights are always based on the cheapest possible booking class.
Want to know more about the possibilities? Get in touch with us!
Included in this trip, from US$ 1.738 p.p.
- Phuket
- 7 nights in a double room
- Stay on a bed & breakfast basis
- Dive package with 10 dives
- Fruit, lunch and drinks on dive days
- Khao Lak
- 7 nights in a double room
- Accommodation based on lodging
- Dive package with 10 dives
- Fruit, lunch and drinks on dive days
- General
- Return transfers
- VZR & Administration fee
Excluding
- Return flight Phuket from US$ 1.043 p.p.
- Marine Park Fee Similan 700 THB per day ±US$ 22
✈︎ The quoted (international) flight prices are indicative prices and based on departures from Europe. However, we can arrange flights from any location worldwide. Booking your own flights is of course also possible.
Optional
- 15L tank; per dive 150 THB = approx. US$ 5
- Diving equipment; per day 500 THB = approx. US$ 14
- Nitrox; per dive 250 THB = approx. US$ 7
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Frequently asked questions about this diving holiday
Diving general
Boat dives, usually 2 or 3 per day. From Phuket you dive at Phuket or the Phi Phi Islands and from Khao Lak at the Similan Islands.
Between 30 minutes and 2 hours of sailing. You really take day trips here, often leaving early and having lunch on the boat. This way you get the most out of your dive day and dive the more remote sites.
2 or 3 per day.
No, this is not offered
No, the dives are from the boat and the sites are a bit of a boat ride.
Yes you can, you can take SSI diving courses here. You can also learn to dive here!
Yes, it is located in the resort.
Diving equipment
The tanks are DIN but INT adapters are available.
Yes, these cost 150 THB per dive. This is approx. €4,-
Yes, this costs THB 250 per dive, which is approx. €6,50 .
Yes you can, a standard complete set costs 500 THB, which is about 13.
You can upgrade the set to premium diving equipment. This is a BCD with integrated lead pockets and a lightweight regulator. This set costs 1000 THB per day, approximately €26.
Other activities & excursions
Especially at the dive sites around Phuket, you can snorkel well. There are also opportunities around the Similan Islands, but weather conditions must allow it. Phuket is more suitable in that regard.
Thailand, the land of smiles, is fantastic above water. Both Phuket and Khao Lak offer many different excursions, including to the national parks but also, for example, to Maya Beach, famous from the movie “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio.
You can also go out and explore by yourself. Discover Thai food at roadside food trucks or enjoy a wonderful massage.
The resort offers many different excursions that you can book on site through the front desk.
Accommodation
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