Scuba Diving in Phi Phi Island

Phi Phi is a world-renowned destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. Translucent waters, incredible visibility, diverse and sometimes rare marine life - most notably the whale shark, the largest fish on our planet.

On Koh Phi Phi, diving clubs are legion, lining the lanes of Ton Sai village. So many that, especially between seasons, there seems to be more supply than demand. This is a good opportunity to negotiate a low price, as on paper all the clubs have more or less agreed on the same prices.

You can dive day or night, from the beach, from a long tail, from a larger rental boat, around Phi Phi Don or Phi Phi Leh, or even further afield around smaller, less frequented islands.

Last but not least, Phi Phi is a great opportunity to take one - or more - PADI diving courses at a lower cost. Classroom and practical sessions, dives and meals are usually included. Again, prices are about the same.

Snorkeling: around Ton Sai Bay and Loh Dalam (or further afield if you rent a longtail).

Scuba Diving: In the heart of Ton Sai village, diving clubs organize excursions to more remote beaches and sometimes further afield to nearby islands, including Phi Phi Leh.

For scuba diving, allow 1 to 3 hours per dive, depending on the distance to the site, which is usually reached by boat. Two dives can be combined to make a full day.

Snorkeling: Mask and snorkel rental about 150 Bath (e.g. in hotels).

Scuba diving: from about 2,000 to 3,000 Baht (introductory dive).

As soon as you step into the alleys of Ton Sai village, you'll realize that Phi Phi is a renowned diving destination. The marine reserve is home to some impressive hidden landscapes, populated by a variety of fish, crustaceans, snakes, etc., which flourish in a forest of colorful corals. They cling to the sheer cliffs that pierce the sea, forming deep canyons where underwater life teems.

If you've never dived before, you can opt for the "Discover" option, which allows you to dive alone or as a couple to a depth of 8 meters with an instructor (just over 3,000 baht).

Others will pay around 2200 baht for their dive with equipment. You can also visit a wreck (a little more expensive), do two dives in one day (by boat, lunch usually included) or get a certificate. The "Open Water", the first Padi certificate, costs around 12,000 baht (5 dives, theory and practical exam).

When choosing a dive center, look for instructors who speak your language. Signs at the entrances of the clubs indicate not only the languages spoken, but also the dive sites available. Many clubs offer night dives.