Phuket has one of the largest tour inventories in Thailand, and standards vary. For boat trips, the size of the boat and the group shapes the day: big boats are steadier and cheaper, speedboats are faster and bumpier, and small-group or early-departure trips reach the famous spots before the crowds. Almost all tours include hotel transfers from the main beach areas; pick-up from the far north or south of the island sometimes costs extra.
These picks were chosen in October 2026 for what you do on them and for the number and quality of their reviews. Prices are indicative “from” prices in euros; national park fees are often paid separately in cash.
Our pick of Phuket & Phang Nga Bay tours & tickets
from €42 Phang Nga Bay and canoeing tour by big boat
A day on a two-deck boat among the islands of Phang Nga Bay, with guided canoe trips into its hidden caves, a stop at James Bond Island and lunch and drinks on board.
from €79 Phang Nga Bay bioluminescent plankton and sea canoes
An afternoon-into-evening trip exploring the bay’s national park scenery by sea canoe and staying after dark to see bioluminescent plankton glow in the water.
from €59 7 Wonders of Phang Nga Bay 6-islands tour
A full circuit of the bay taking in Koh Yao Yai, Panak and Hong islands as well as James Bond Island and its limestone formations.
from €108 Similan Islands early-bird tour from Phuket and Khao Lak
An early speedboat departure to the Similan Islands for white-sand beaches and snorkelling in clear water at three locations. Operates only in the park’s open season.
from €74 Scuba diving at Maiton or the Racha Islands for all levels
Half-day or full-day dive trips off Phuket’s south coast, with one to three dives at Koh Maiton, Racha Yai or Racha Noi. Suitable for beginners and certified divers.
from €32 Surf lesson for beginners at Kata Beach
A step-by-step first lesson with an instructor, from the basics on the sand to standing on the board.
from €74 Elephant Jungle Sanctuary half-day visit with meal
A guided half day at a sanctuary with hotel transfers and a Thai buffet. The listing includes feeding and time in the water with the elephants; there is no riding.
from €65 ATV and zipline panoramic adventure
Quad-bike trails through the island’s forested hills combined with ziplines over the treetops and views from near the Big Buddha.
Booking tips
- Park fees. Phang Nga Bay (Ao Phang Nga National Park) and the Similans charge foreign visitors entry fees of a few hundred baht — more for the Similans. Check what is included.
- Seasons. The Similan and Surin islands are closed from roughly mid-May to mid-October. Phang Nga Bay is sheltered and runs all year, which makes it the best wet-season boat trip.
- Canoes. On most bay tours a guide paddles for you, because the cave entrances are tight and tide-dependent. If you want to paddle yourself, look for trips that say so.
- Elephants. Book only no-riding sanctuaries, and prefer observation and feeding over bathing.
- Seasickness. The crossing to the Similans and Racha islands can be rough; take medication beforehand.
