How to get from Phuket to the Racha Islands?
Insider's Response
Racha Islands (or Raya, Racha/Raya Islands) are two small islands Racha Yai and Racha Noi in the Andaman Sea just 12 kilometers south of Phuket. You can reach the islands by speedboat from Chalong Pier in 30-40 minutes. The islands are famous for crystal clear transparent water, white sandy beaches, pristine nature and rich underwater world — an ideal place for snorkeling and diving. Racha Yai is the main island with developed infrastructure (hotels, restaurants, bungalows) where most tours go. Racha Noi is an uninhabited island without infrastructure, popular among divers. This is a great place for those who want to relax quietly in seclusion, away from noisy tourist locations of Phuket.
There are several ways to get from Phuket to the Racha Islands. The easiest and most convenient is as part of an organized tour. You’ll have the chance to explore the beautiful coastline, go snorkeling or diving — the marine life around Racha is rich and vibrant. Read more about tours here. Or you can simply use the feedback form below to quickly book a tour.
We’ve selected the three best tour companies that offer excursions to Racha Island. Fill out the form, and we’ll forward your request — they’ll contact you to provide details on the terms and pricing.
If you prefer to travel independently, you can take water transport from Chalong Pier. The fastest way is by speedboat, which departs three times a day and takes only 25 minutes. A more affordable and comfortable option is a cabin boat, which takes about 40 minutes. For a budget-friendly and authentic experience, take a longtail boat (traditional Thai boat), which takes about an hour.
On the islands, you can enjoy active water sports or just chill out on secluded beaches. We’ve written more about things to do on Racha here.
Want a private adventure? Rent a yacht and plan your own route. If you prefer a structured experience, check out our recommendations in the Excursions section.