A Diver’s 14 Days in Thailand

By HiThai Editorial · Updated May 25, 2026

The salt crusts on your skin. You check your air gauge at 18 meters near Chumphon Pinnacle. This is how a proper two-week Thai dive itinerary begins.

Week One: The Koh Tao Classroom

Koh Tao remains the global hub for beginners. Most divers land at Koh Samui airport and take a 150 THB ferry from Thong Prasert pier to the island. You will likely stay near Sairee Beach or find a quiet bungalow in Chalok Baan Kao. The water is warm here.

I recommend booking your PADI Open Water course at Ban's Diving Resort on Sairee Beach because their instructors have managed local waters since 1984. You will spend three days in the classroom and shallow water before hitting the deeper reefs. Expect to pay roughly 12,500 THB for a full certification package in 2026. It is affordable.

After you get your license, do not stop immediately. Spend four extra days doing "fun dives" around Tao to build your buoyancy. You should visit:

  • Shark Bay for dugong sightings (though they are rare).
  • Chumphon Pinnacle for larger pelagic fish.
  • Sail Rock for incredible visibility.

Eat at Sairee Fishermen Village. The grilled squid at the stalls near the pier costs about 220 THB per plate.

The Phi Phi Day-Dive Sprint

Moving north requires a ferry or a speedboat. You can catch a high-speed boat from Koh Tao to Koh Phi Phi Don for approximately 850 THB. This leg of the trip is fast. It feels slightly bumpy while crossing the Andaman Sea.

Phi Phi offers different conditions than the Gulf of Thailand. The limestone cliffs tower over the water. You will dive at sites like King Cruiser or Anemone Reef. These spots are crowded during the midday peak. Go early.

Many operators run day trips from Tonsai Village. While the crowds gather on Maya Bay to take photos, the real action happens underwater at Shark Point. You might see blacktip reef sharks cruising the sandy bottom. They are not dangerous to divers. Stay calm.

If you prefer a quieter base, stay at the northern end of the island near Long Beach. You can walk to local cafes that serve fresh papaya salad for 85 THB.

The Similan Liveaboard Experience

This is the crown jewel of your trip. A liveaboard is a floating hotel that stays at sea for several days. You must fly from Phuket or Krabi to reach the Similan Islands. Most boats depart from Khao Lak. The drive from Phuket Airport takes about 90 minutes.

The Similans are strictly regulated by the Department of National Parks. They close every year during the monsoon season from May to October. In 2026, expect a 5-day liveaboard to cost between 45,000 THB and 65,000 THB depending on your cabin choice. It is worth every baht. You will see whale sharks here.

The diving is world-class because the currents bring massive amounts of nutrients to the reefs. You will visit:

  • Richelieu Rock for macro life and schooling fish.
  • Koh Bon for manta ray sightings.
  • Elephant Head Rock for challenging swim-throughs.

The food on these boats is usually excellent. Most crews provide three meals a day and snacks between dives. You will sleep in a bunk while the boat gently rocks.

Logistics and Gear Management

Don't pack too much heavy gear. You can rent high-quality equipment in Koh Tao or Phuket for about 350 THB per day. This saves space in your checked luggage. It also prevents broken regulators during transit. Most shops carry Mares or Scubapro brands.

Travel between islands is best handled via ferry schedules. Use the Boat Magic or Lomprayah websites to check timings. Avoid booking last-minute transfers on the day of travel because the local piers can be chaotic during peak season. Plan ahead.

Keep your logbook updated. Digital apps work well, but many dive masters still appreciate a physical book with stamps. It proves your experience level for advanced liveaboard bookings.

Quick Reference

  • Koh Tao Certification: 12,500 THB (PADI Open Water).
  • Phuket to Khao Lak Transfer: 800–1,200 THB via private car.
  • Similan Season: October to May only.
  • Best Dive Site: Richelieu Rock.
  • Essential App: Grab for local transport in Phuket and Koh Samui.

Always check your nitrogen levels before taking a domestic flight. Wait at least 18 to 24 hours after your last dive before heading to the airport.