Phuket is well known for its scuba diving sites, but many travelers come here without knowing much about how diving works in Phuket. I’ve met quite a few people who didn’t even realize diving was possible here! So today, I’d like to explain the Phuket diving system—how it works, and what makes it a little different from other places. 😊
1. The overall system
In Phuket, all diving day trips depart from Chalong Pier, instead of directly from individual dive shops.
In some other countries, it’s common to board a boat right in front of the dive shop—but Phuket uses a centralized system.
Dive shops here take care of booking and arrangements, but all trips begin from the pier.
(1) Diving – Reservation
Most divers make a reservation with a dive shop before they arrive in Phuket, or after they arrive but before their diving day.
The shop helps arrange everything—your equipment, dive site plan, boat schedule, and even pickup if available.
(2) Hotel or Resort
You can book your accommodation through the dive shop if they offer packages, or you can simply choose a hotel that fits your preference.
Many divers prefer to stay near the Chalong area for convenience, but it’s totally up to you!
(3) Meals
Breakfast and lunch are usually freshly prepared and served on the boat.
After diving, most guests enjoy dinner on their own—there are plenty of great restaurants around Phuket, so you’ll have no trouble finding something that suits your taste.
You’re free to plan your meals and schedule however you like—just like independent travel.
So unlike in some places where diving, meals, and lodging are all handled at the same resort, diving in Phuket is more like a custom trip—you plan your experience the way you want it.
Still, dive shops here are always happy to help if you need guidance!
2. The Boat
In Phuket, many dive shops—including ours—use large day-trip boats instead of smaller vessels.
These boats can usually accommodate up to 60 divers and staff, offering a stable and comfortable ride even when the sea gets a little rough.
It feels a bit like being on a mini liveaboard—just without sleeping onboard!
(1) Advantages of Phuket’s dive boats
Unless the waves are over 3 meters, the boat stays stable and easy to move around on.
There’s plenty of space to relax. Many people nap on the way to or from the dive site 😊
Most boats have 2–3 toilets that also serve as changing rooms.
You can rinse off with fresh water after the dive (just no shampoo 🧴).
A cook on board prepares breakfast and lunch fresh on the boat.
There’s a warm, indoor area—so you won’t need a windbreaker, even on a windy day.
(2) Disadvantages
It takes time to reach the dive sites—about 1 hour and 20 minutes for the closest locations.
You won’t stop at islands or beaches—everything takes place on the boat.
But don’t worry! We carry Thai motion sickness pills onboard, and if you take one in advance, you’ll be just fine.
3. Dive Sites in Phuket
Phuket offers a wide variety of dive sites, each with its own unique beauty and marine life.
We usually visit dive spots like Racha Islands, Phi Phi Islands, and local sites such as King Cruiser Wreck, Shark Point, Anemone Reef, and Koh Doc Mai.
The dive site is chosen each day based on several factors:
Weather and sea conditions
Water current and visibility
Diver certification level and experience
You can find more detailed descriptions of each site on our Fun Diving page. 😊
💬 Ready to dive in?
Now that you know how the scuba diving system in Phuket works, you can plan your trip with more confidence!
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, Phuket offers something for everyone—from stable, comfortable boats to beautiful underwater scenery.
📱 Message us on WhatsApp — we’re happy to answer your questions anytime!
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We’ll help you make the most of your diving adventure in Phuket! 😊
