There are many options for scuba diving in Phuket for beginners.

The paradise island is a hotspot for divers as the weather is great, the water warm and the prices are very reasonable. Also, the locals are known for their friendliness and laid back attitude. Phuket is the biggest island in ‘The Land of Smiles’ and is truly a stand out destination.

Scuba Diving in Phuket for Beginners – Where to Start

 

There are dive centers all over the island, in every town. The main tourist towns are on the west coast. Kata, Karon and Patong being the three most popular. Chalong is the main diving hub for the dive sites to the south and east of the island.

 

 

You are unlikely to be far from a dive centre wherever you are on the island. The picture above shows where the groupings of dive centres are. But just in case you are unsure of who to pick, here are some recommendations for you –

 

Patong – All 4 Diving

Karon – Sharkey Scuba

Kata – Phuket Dive Tours

 

What Can I Expect as Someone New to Diving?

 

You can proceed in two ways when starting to dive.

The first option is to test out diving whilst a diving professional escorts you around giving you a chance to experience the sensation of breathing underwater. This is called a ‘discovery dive’ and is a great way to determine if you would like to enrol and get your diving license, or maybe you are the type who would prefer to get straight to the point…

The second option is to go directly in to your ‘Open Water’ course which usually takes 3 days. You will do one day of diving in a confined area, usually a pool, perhaps a shallow beach area. On the subsequent days you will head out into the sea for some skills drilling and more real world experience.

As someone who is new to diving there is unlikely a need to worry about equipment, your dive school should have that factored into your course. Diving insurance should also be included, although it is most likely a good idea to double check.

Studying beforehand is expected and we would advise that you do take this seriously. Completing the e-learning section prior to your course will assist you greatly in passing as there is quite a lot to take on. Furthermore you do want to be the best diver you can be surely right?

 

Scuba Diving in Phuket for Beginners – Why Scuba Dive?

 

Scuba diving really is one of the most fascinating sports you are likely to come across. First of all, we do not know all that much about the sea, certainly with regards to how much we know about the world on land. There truly is a wonderland under the surface hence why we highly recommend you explore it.

Buoyancy control, getting used to the equipment and understanding the science behind it all are a great challenge. When you have mastered the basics you will naturally relax more and start to really take in the environment around you.

Finally, you never forget the first time you see a Manta Ray, or a Whale Shark. Utterly incredible moments. There are things out there that you do not even know how much you love yet. Just wait until you see how dorky Bumphead Parrotfish are…

 

What to do next…

 

If you are still planning phase of your trip of a lifetime, I would highly recommend taking a look at our article on Diving in the Similan Islands. Once you have your Open Water license, this whole paradise will be open to you.

 

Further reading…

 

• Your Diving Course in Phuket – The Best Way to Start
• Scuba Diving in Phuket Price Guide | What Can I Expect?