About this tour
When Lily from our BugBitten team booked this dive trip from Koh Yao Yai, she found herself on a sleek 43-foot speedboat with just a handful of other certified divers heading out into the Andaman Sea. The whole experience clocks in at five hours and stays intimate — groups max out around 10 people, which means your PADI instructors actually know your name and quirks underwater. Sites are close by, usually a 20-minute cruise, so less time bouncing on the boat and more time exploring coral gardens and the fish life that makes this part of Thailand special.
Highlights
- Tiny groups mean guides spot your individual dive style and interests
- Brand new speedboat with proper facilities — showers and marine toilet included
- Short boat runs to sites keep you fresh and keen for diving
- All gear provided and looked after by the crew — just turn up
- English-speaking instructors give genuine context about Andaman reefs and residents
- Feels private and low-stress despite being an organised tour
- Bottled water on board keeps you hydrated between dives
What to expect
You'll meet your group at the boat in the early morning. The crew handles all your equipment setup — tanks, BCDs, the lot — so there's no faffing about on the beach. Once everyone's kitted up, you're cruising out to the dive sites in under 20 minutes. The boat's new and comfortable; if you need the loo or a rinse-off, it's there. Your instructor will brief the day's conditions, what to look for underwater, and stick close to you while you explore.
Underwater, the visibility and marine life vary depending on season and exact site, but the crew knows the Andaman's character well — they'll point out reef structure, fish behaviour, and give you real knowledge rather than just shepherding you along. Between dives, you'll have time on the boat with water and a breather. It's a proper working dive trip, not a joyride, so expect genuine seamanship and a focus on safety and your comfort.
What travellers say
- Crew handles all diving kit — show up and dive worry-free
- Tiny groups mean your instructor knows your experience level
- Fast speedboat with genuine comfort amenities onboard
- Short distances to sites keep nausea and fatigue minimal
- Instructors share real knowledge about Andaman reefs and fish
- No hotel transfers — you arrange your own transport
- Phi Phi Islands dive adds 600 THB national park fee per diver
- Early starts typical for diving; not ideal for late risers
Themes summarised by our team from public information about this tour. Verify specifics on the operator's page before booking.
Good to know
This suits divers who want a no-fuss, crew-supported experience without the hassle of managing their own kit. The small group size means you're not one of 20 nameless faces, and the short boat runs are ideal if you get queasy. English-speaking guides and quality equipment matter here. You'll learn something real about the Andaman's underwater world.
You'll need your own transport to the meeting point — no hotel pickup included. If you're diving Phi Phi Islands specifically, there's a 600 THB national park fee per person on top. The trip isn't suitable if you're pregnant or have cardiovascular concerns. Early mornings are standard for diving, and the sea can be choppy depending on season. Bring a light layer for the boat ride; sun protection and seasickness tabs if you're prone. Budget transport to/from your hotel separately.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.