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    Phuket’s Must-Visit Island Tours: What’s Worth Booking This High Season 2026/27

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    BY Paul ChappellOctober 10, 2024
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    If you visit Phuket in the high season, the island tours will be in full swing. Come high season, the Andaman Sea beams with sparkling waters, clear skies, and perfect weather. It is the best time to go island hopping and explore the caves, cliffs, and marine life. But with so many island tour options, which one should you choose?

    Don’t worry; this blog has answers to all your island tour queries. Keep reading to learn about the must-visit Phuket island tours in the high season. 

    A] Why is Phuket's High Season Perfect for Island Hopping?

    The perfect weather and water conditions mark the high season in Phuket. Phuket’s peak season usually runs from November to April. During this time, the sea is calm, and the sky is clear, offering breathtaking views. Whether you want to work up a tan on the beach or go snorkeling in the sea, this is the ideal season. 

    B] Best Island Tours in Phuket

    When we talk about island hopping during peak season, so many islands come to mind. Here are the best island tours that should be on the top of your Phuket itinerary - 

    1. Phi Phi Islands Tour 

    Imagine stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, and that is the Phi Phi Islands. The most popular islands in Phi Phi include Koh Phi Phi Leh and Koh Phi Phi Don. From Phuket the islands are 1 hour 10 minutes by speedboat from Boat Lagoon Marina, or around two hours by ferry from Rassada Pier. Our Phi Phi Sunrise Tour (join-in, maximum 18 adults) and the private Phi Phi Sunrise charter both leave at first light to reach Maya Bay before the main fleet. On this tour, you can visit many famous spots, like Maya Bay, Bamboo Island, and Monkey Beach. You can go snorkeling or scuba diving in the sea or explore gems like the Viking Cave. A Maya Bay tour from Phi Phi is another great option to enjoy water expeditions, watch beautiful sunsets, and experience marine life. Simba Sea Trips offers a luxury private speedboat charter and a Phi Phi sunrise tour to let you comfortably explore these iconic islands. 

    2. Phang Nga Bay Tour 

    This bay is the perfect mix of adventure and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination. The Phang Nga Bay tour takes you to the iconic James Bond Island, famous for the movie shoot for The Man with the Golden Gun. You can explore the dramatic limestone karsts and canoe through hidden caves and lagoons. Visit the Samet Nangshe Viewpoint for stunning sunrise views or explore the mangroves and floating villages. You can take a boat tour from Phuket or Krabi and spend a day soaking in the beauty of Phang Nga Bay. 

    3. Similan Islands — read this before you book a "day trip"

    The Similan Islands reopen for the season around 15 October and have Thailand's clearest water. We do not run Similan day trips from Phuket, and we say so plainly: it is roughly 100 km of open Andaman Sea each way, which is why the sensible departure point is Khao Lak, not Phuket. If Similan is on your list, base a night in Khao Lak and book a Khao Lak operator — choosing a smaller boat over the high-volume 40-plus-passenger speedboats that dominate that route. Opening and closing dates for every season are on our Similan Islands opening dates page.

    4. Khai Islands Tour 

    A group of three islands, the Khai Islands, are the perfect getaway from Phuket. A Phuket boat tour to the Khai Islands is a perfect 20-minute short trip. These islands are known for their shallow, crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches. You can snorkel and swim in the ocean or relax on the stunning beaches for a perfect day out. Khai Islands are a must-visit destination for families with young children and grandparents. 

    5. Racha and Coral Islands Tour

    Coral Island is a short boat ride from Phuket and offers a laid-back atmosphere. It has stunning beaches where you can unwind and absorb the tropical surroundings. Racha Island, on the other hand, is the perfect choice for a day of relaxation and snorkeling. The clear blue waters and beautiful coral reefs make it a paradise for ocean lovers. You can hop on a speedboat tour from Phuket to Racha and Coral Islands and experience the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. 

    Conclusion

    These five island tours are unmissable on your next Phuket trip. The high season makes all these islands come alive, and the breathtaking views will leave you spellbound. Book the island tour in advance and prepare for all the beach necessities. Since many tour operators are available in Phuket, research well before opting for one. You can check out Simba Sea Trips and book a group or private boat tour to your dream destination in Phuket.  
    Paul Chappell

    About Paul Chappell

    Paul Chappell is the owner and operator of Simba Sea Trips, one of Phuket's most established boat tour companies, founded in 2005. With over 23 years as a professional airline pilot and more than 11 years in Phuket's tourism industry, Paul brings a unique blend of aviation-grade safety standards and hands-on marine expertise to every tour. He has been on the water since childhood — from waterskiing and houseboats to operating luxury charter boats across the Andaman Sea. Today, Paul oversees the Simba Group's four brands: Simba Sea Trips, Two Sea Tour, Soho Pool Club, and Simpro Academy.

    Looking to book a Phuket tour? See our Phuket destination guide

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