November to April marks the tourist high season and the best time to come is from February to April regardless of whether you are diving or not. The weather is at its best with calm seas and, as there are fewer tourists, accommodation can be cheaper. The Similan Island dive sites are not so crowded, and it is the season when you are more likely to encounter a whale shark or manta ray on your Phuket liveaboard diving trip.

For visiting Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi Islands and Khao Lak, November to April is the best time. However March to September is the best time of year to dive the island of Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand. So it is always a good time of year to scuba dive in Thailand. Find more details on the seasons in our Thailand dive sites section.

Some of the dive sites in Thailand do have strong currents but this can depend on the time of year, time of day and the dive site itself. More details are available in our dive sites section. You will be advised by your dive guide in the pre-dive briefings but you will rarely have to swim against a strong current.

Although there are couple of nice dive spots not far off Phuket's shores, the best dive sites are to be found just an hour or two's boat ride away. Most people take a scuba diving day trip to such sites as Kingcruiser Wreck, the Racha Islands, Shark Point and the Phi Phi Islands.

There is plenty of great local diving to keep you busy for a week or so but if you want to experience the best diving Thailand has to offer then you really should join a liveaboard cruise to the Similan Islands or beyond into Burma/Myanmar.

The Gulf of Thailand's popular Koh Samui is the largest island and boasts plenty of good quality resort hotels. The diving is not as spectacular as Phuket or the Similan Islands, but there are several good and well-known dive sites. This is a good place for a diving day trip during Phuket's diving low season. For more details about getting there and what to do, see our Koh Samui tourist section.

A Thailand liveaboard cruise is a diving vacation where you eat and sleep on the boat as it takes you to the different dive sites. All the diving facilities and living accommodation are housed on the boat. As the vessel stays at sea for the duration of the trip, remote dive sites can be explored and there is a greater opportunity to dive excellent sites that are not within reach on a normal daytrip boat.

Thai liveaboard destinations are the Similan Islands, the Surin Islands, Hin Daeng - Hin Muang, as well as the Mergui Archipelago (Burma).

Most boats offer up to 4 dives a day with about 3 hours between dives to relax. The first dive is often early in the morning around 7 am and the last at sunset or slightly later for a night dive.

You will be expected to dive with a buddy on your liveaboard trip as the boats are recreational diving cruise charters, so follow the recreational scuba diving guidelines. You can dive without a guide if you prefer as long as you dive to a maximum depth of 40m, observe safe diving limits and have all the necessary equipment to dive unassisted, i.e. dive computer or timing device, submersible marker buoy and compass.

Most Thailand liveaboard boats provide 12 litre aluminium tanks with yoke or A-clamp international valves. If you have a DIN regulator you can either bring an adaptor with you or rent or buy one on arrival. It is possible to rent 10 and 15 litre tanks by booking in advance. Some boats have enriched air nitrox on board too. You can see the details of each boat page.

The food selection and standard is usually excellent on Thailand scuba diving cruises. Have a look at 'Food' information of your boat for details of the type of food served on your trip.

Yes of course. Vegan as well. Please let us know your requirements when you make your booking.

You need to bring all your personal diving gear except tanks, weights and your weight belts, a bathing suit, towel and toiletries. Warm weather clothes are fine such as shorts and T-shirts but you may want something a little warmer for breezy evenings. Sun protection is also a good idea.

If you suffer from sea sickness then it's a good idea to take your liveaboard cruise from February to April when the sea is at its calmest. All the charter boats stock anti sea sickness medication for your use too.
At night the boats tie up to mooring points at the islands visited on the trip. These mooring points are found in the islands' bays, sheltered from the open seas.

There is no Malaria at any of the Thailand liveaboard destinations.

Yes, non-divers and snorkellers can enjoy a liveaboard cruise although they are really designed for divers. Many of the dive sites are suitable for snorkelling especially in the Similans.

The price for a non-diver is often 10% less which sounds like a small discount but you are taking a place that would otherwise be available to a diver. Please review the 'More Trip Details' on the boat page for exact non-diver price for your cruise.

Generally you are expected to share on a Similan liveaboard boat as sleeping space is at a premium. Occasionally if the boat is not full and there are an odd number of passengers you might be able to have your own cabin. If you insist on staying alone in a cabin then you will need to pay a single supplement. These vary from one liveaboard to the next from 50% to 90% of the published price. Always check with us for the best deal if you are travelling alone.

You have several hours of surface interval time between dives when you are free to do what you want. If the boat is not moving to another dive site you can explore the island. Please advise the boat's tour leader before disembarking.

Yes definitely! The most common sharks in the Similan Islands are leopard sharks and whitetip reef sharks. Silvertip reef sharks and nurse sharks are more commonly seen on Burma liveaboard cruises. Whale sharks have been sighted fairly often some years so you may be lucky!

Manta rays encounters have been quite common in recent years, and you are practically guaranteed of seeing blue-spotted sting rays, marble rays and fantail rays.

Visitors from most Asian and Western countries, including those from Europe, North America, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, are granted a visa waiver on arrival. This allows for a 60-day stay when entering by air or a 30-day stay when arriving by land or sea. The permit can be extended by an additional 30 days for a fee at any immigration office in major cities and tourist destinations. However, travellers from some other nations must obtain a tourist visa in advance from a Thai embassy or consulate. For the latest regulations and requirements, visit the: Thailand Immigration Bureau's website.

In Thailand's main tourist destinations English is widely spoken and understood and it is possible to have a fantastic holiday without worrying about communicating.

However if you speak even just a few words it can go a long way to better understanding the Thai culture and is really appreciated by the locals. Get yourself a phrase book and learn a few basic words and sentences - it could save you some money on your purchases too!

Sightseeing & Activities

* What are the best things to do in Phuket?
You can enjoy jet skiing, parasailing, and snorkelling along the west coast's coral reefs. Take a boat trip to Krabi or Phang Nga Bay to explore limestone caves by sea canoe. Try golf, bowling, rifle shooting, or adventure activities like bungee jumping and go-karting.

* Where are the best viewpoints in Phuket?
Head to the hills south of Patong for stunning views of Kata and Karon beaches. Visit Promthep Cape for breathtaking sunsets. The Big Buddha statue offers panoramic island views, and Wat Chalong showcases beautiful Thai temple architecture.

* Are there any nature attractions near Phuket?
Yes, you can visit the Gibbon Sanctuary and Bang Pae Waterfall near the Heroines Monument. The west coast villages of Bang Tao, Surin, and Kamala offer cultural insights into Phuket’s Muslim communities.

Beaches

* Which beach is best for nightlife?
Patong Beach is Phuket’s liveliest spot, with bars, clubs, and water sports. Soi Bangla is the centre of nightlife, closed to traffic at night.

* Where can I find quieter beaches?
Karon Beach (4km long, less crowded), Kata Beach, and Kata Noi are great for relaxation. Nai Harn, Yanui, Kamala, Surin, and Laem Sing offer peaceful alternatives.

* Can I surf in Phuket?
Yes! From May to October, Karon Beach has strong waves ideal for surfing. Check warning flags for safety.

Dining & Nightlife

* Where can I find good restaurants?
Patong offers diverse cuisines, from Thai to Italian, French, and Japanese. Karon and Kata also have excellent beachfront dining options.

* What’s the nightlife like in Phuket?
Bangla Road in Patong has over 200 bars, clubs, and go-go bars. Quieter spots can be found away from the main party areas.

Shopping

* Where should I shop in Phuket?
Patong’s Soi Permpong II & III have maket-style stalls. You can buy Thai silk, tailored suits, pearls, and handicrafts. Phuket Town and the airport road offer antiques and teak wood furniture.

* What unique souvenirs can I buy?
Look for pewter items, gemstones, wood carvings, and Buddha statues. Designer copies are widely available at bargain prices.

Transportation

* How do I get around Phuket?
Tuk-tuks are common but negotiate prices. Renting a scooter or car is flexible for sightseeing. Public buses run between beaches and Phuket Town.

* Are there taxis at the airport?
Yes, metered taxis are available. The ride from Phuket Airport to Patong takes about 45 minutes.

Travel to Phuket

* How do I fly to Phuket?
Direct flights operate from Bangkok, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Kuala Lumpur. From Bangkok, flights take just over an hour.

* Is Phuket safe from Thailand’s southern unrest?
Yes, conflicts are limited to the far south near Malaysia; Phuket remains safe for tourists.

Final Tips

* Best time for whale sharks (diving): March–May
* Combine trips: Visit Phi Phi Islands or Krabi for more adventures

Sightseeing & Activities

* What are the best things to do in Koh Samui?
You can explore Angthong National Marine Park by sea kayak, visiting hidden lagoons and the famous beach from "The Beach" movie. Snorkel colourful coral reefs, learn Thai cooking, or try Muay Thai boxing at local gyms. Don't miss the vibrant beach road markets for shopping and souvenirs.

* What cultural attractions should I visit?
See the iconic Big Buddha at Wat Phra Yai temple, visible from across the island. Visit Wat Khunaram to see the mummified monk Loung Pordaeng. Explore Hua Thanon fishing village to experience Samui's Muslim community and their colourful boats.

* Are there any natural attractions?
Yes! Visit Na Muang waterfalls (I and II) - the second requires a 30-minute hike. Hin Lad Waterfall offers a rainforest setting with multiple levels and a refreshing swim spot.

Beaches Which beach is best for nightlife?

* Which beach is best for nightlife?
Chaweng Beach (7 km long) is the most popular with vibrant nightlife, restaurants, and beach bars. Lamai Beach is slightly quieter but still offers great dining and entertainment options.

* Where can I find quieter beaches?
The north coast has peaceful beaches like Bophut (a fishing village), Big Buddha Beach, and Choeng Mon. For complete seclusion, try Taling Ngam Beach or Thong Krut Bay in the south.

* Which beach is best for snorkelling?
Bang Po Bay offers good snorkelling with calm seas and coral reefs. The 4 km beach remains mostly undeveloped.

Dining & Nightlife

* What food options are available?
Samui offers everything from spicy Thai curries to international cuisine (French, Italian, Japanese, etc.). Chaweng and Lamai have the widest variety of restaurants, including beachfront seafood spots.

* Where is the best nightlife?
Chaweng and Lamai have lively bars, live music venues, and beach clubs. For a more relaxed evening, try beachfront cocktail bars with ocean views.

Shopping

* What can I buy in Koh Samui?
You'll find Thai handicrafts, tailor-made clothes, gems, and souvenirs. Chaweng and Lamai have the most shops, including boutiques for unique finds. Haggle for the best prices!

* Are there counterfeit goods?
Yes, you can find designer knock-offs, but be cautious of quality. Genuine Thai silk, jewellery, and artwork are better souvenirs.

Transportation

* How do I get around the island?
Use songthaews (shared pickup trucks) for cheap transport - just wave them down. Meter taxis are more comfortable but agree on fares first. Motorbike rentals are available but risky (wear a helmet!).

* Is driving safe in Koh Samui?
Road accidents are common, especially with motorbikes. Always wear a helmet, and ensure you have an international driving license to avoid fines.

Travel Tips

* What’s the best way to explore Angthong Marine Park?
Join a boat or kayak tour to visit the park’s stunning islands, lagoons, and beaches. Full-day trips often include snorkeling and hiking.

* When is the best time to visit?
Dry season (December-April) is ideal for beaches and outdoor activities. May-November brings rain but fewer crowds.

* Any safety tips?
Avoid unlicensed taxis, wear helmets on bikes, and be cautious when swimming in rough seas (check flags at beaches).

Island Basics

* What are the main islands in Phi Phi?
The Phi Phi archipelago consists of 2 main islands: Phi Phi Don (the larger, inhabited island) and Phi Phi Leh (uninhabited but famous for Maya Bay).

* Is Phi Phi Don developed for tourism?
Yes, Phi Phi Don has hotels, restaurants, and bars, particularly around Tonsai Village. However, the island has no roads and retains a laid-back island vibe.

* Is Phi Phi Leh inhabited?
No, Phi Phi Leh is uninhabited and protected as part of Mu Koh Phi Phi Marine National Park. Overnight stays are prohibited.

Sightseeing & Activities

* What are the best things to do in Phi Phi?
- Snorkel at Hin Pae (great for blacktip reef sharks).
- Hike to Phi Phi Don’s Viewpoint for panoramic island views.
- Visit Maya Bay (from The Beach movie) and Pileh Lagoon.
- Explore Viking Cave (known for swiftlet nests).
- Take a longtail boat tour around Phi Phi Leh’s cliffs and lagoons.

* Where is the best snorkelling?
Hin Pae (near Long Beach) has coral and marine life. Phi Phi Leh’s Loh Samah Bay is also great.

* Can I visit Maya Bay?
Yes, but access is sometimes restricted for conservation. Day trips by boat are allowed. Check the current regulations onc you arrive at the islands.

Beaches & Where to Stay

* Which beaches are the best?
- Long Beach (Had Yao) - Quiet, great snorkelling. - Loh Dalum Beach - Lively, near Tonsai Village. - Maya Bay (Phi Phi Leh) - Iconic but busy with day-trippers.

* Where should I stay on Phi Phi Don?
Avoid noisy Tonsai Village. Opt for Long Beach or the east/south coasts for a peaceful stay.

Dining & Nightlife

* What food options are there?
Plenty! Thai seafood, Italian, German bakeries, and beachfront bars. Tonsai Village has the most choices.

* Is there nightlife?
Yes, mainly in Tonsai Village - beach bars like Carlito’s and Reggae Bar offer drinks and music. No clubs, but late-night dancing at Apache Bar.

Shopping

* Can I shop on Phi Phi?
Limited options - just beachwear, souvenirs, and basics. For serious shopping, wait until Phuket.

* Are there counterfeit goods?
Yes, you can find designer knock-offs, but be cautious of quality. Genuine Thai silk, jewellery, and artwork are better souvenirs.

Transport & Getting Around

* How do I get around Phi Phi?
- Walking - The main mode of transport (there are no cars!).
- Longtail boats - Hire for island hopping (negotiate prices first).
- Bicycles - Limited rentals available.

* How do I reach Phi Phi from Phuket?
Ferries (2-hour ride) or speedboats (1-hour ride) run daily from Phuket’s Rassada Pier.

Important Tips

* Cash is king – ATMs are scarce; bring enough Thai baht.
* Protect the reefs – Use reef-safe sunscreen.
* Respect Viking Cave – No entry, as it’s guarded.
* ook ferries in advance in peak season (Dec-Apr).

Sightseeing & Activities

* What are the best things to do in Koh Samui?
You can explore Angthong National Marine Park by sea kayak, visiting hidden lagoons and the famous beach from "The Beach" movie. Snorkel colourful coral reefs, learn Thai cooking, or try Muay Thai boxing at local gyms. Don't miss the vibrant beach road markets for shopping and souvenirs.

* What cultural attractions should I visit?
See the iconic Big Buddha at Wat Phra Yai temple, visible from across the island. Visit Wat Khunaram to see the mummified monk Loung Pordaeng. Explore Hua Thanon fishing village to experience Samui's Muslim community and their colourful boats.

* Are there any natural attractions?
Yes! Visit Na Muang waterfalls (I and II) - the second requires a 30-minute hike. Hin Lad Waterfall offers a rainforest setting with multiple levels and a refreshing swim spot.

Beaches

* Which beach is best for nightlife?
Chaweng Beach (7 km long) is the most popular with vibrant nightlife, restaurants, and beach bars. Lamai Beach is slightly quieter but still offers great dining and entertainment options.

* Where can I find quieter beaches?
The north coast has peaceful beaches like Bophut (a fishing village), Big Buddha Beach, and Choeng Mon. For complete seclusion, try Taling Ngam Beach or Thong Krut Bay in the south.

* Which beach is best for snorkelling?
Bang Po Bay offers good snorkelling with calm seas and coral reefs. The 4 km beach remains mostly undeveloped.

Dining & Nightlife

* What food options are available?
Samui offers everything from spicy Thai curries to international cuisine (French, Italian, Japanese, etc.). Chaweng and Lamai have the widest variety of restaurants, including beachfront seafood spots.

* Where is the best nightlife?
Chaweng and Lamai have lively bars, live music venues, and beach clubs. For a more relaxed evening, try beachfront cocktail bars with ocean views.

Shopping

* What can I buy in Koh Samui?
You'll find Thai handicrafts, tailor-made clothes, gems, and souvenirs. Chaweng and Lamai have the most shops, including boutiques for unique finds. Haggle for the best prices!

* Are there counterfeit goods?
Yes, you can find designer knock-offs, but be cautious of quality. Genuine Thai silk, jewellery, and artwork are better souvenirs.

Transportation

* How do I get around the island?
Use songthaews (shared pickup trucks) for cheap transport - just wave them down. Meter taxis are more comfortable but agree on fares first. Motorbike rentals are available but risky (wear a helmet!).

* Is driving safe in Koh Samui?
Road accidents are common, especially with motorbikes. Always wear a helmet, and ensure you have an international driving license to avoid fines.

Travel Tips

* What’s the best way to explore Angthong Marine Park?
Join a boat or kayak tour to visit the park’s stunning islands, lagoons, and beaches. Full-day trips often include snorkeling and hiking.

* When is the best time to visit?
Dry season (December-April) is ideal for beaches and outdoor activities. May-November brings rain but fewer crowds.

* Any safety tips?
Avoid unlicensed taxis, wear helmets on bikes, and be cautious when swimming in rough seas (check flags at beaches).

It is entirely up to you if you want to tip or not in Thailand. If you have had a fabulous time and the service exceeded your expectations then it is nice to leave a tip to show your appreciation.

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Whatever your preference and budget there are plenty of options ranging from 5-star international beach resorts to low-cost guesthouses and bungalows. With their 'Low Price Guarantee', you can be sure that whatever you choose you will be getting the best value-for-money possible.

If you are staying in a guesthouse or hotel in Thailand as a single traveller, and making diving daytrips or a dive course, then you will be paying for the room yourself and there is no option to share with another guest.