Oceanic Dive Center FAQs Page
If you have a question about any aspect of diving in Phuket, or if you're just curious to know more, we've compiled this list of FAQs for you. Would you like more detail about anything? No problem. Get in touch with us through the contact form here, WhatsApp us at +66848504314, or send us an email at info@oceanicdivecenter.com.
Certification FAQs
Absolutely. Anyone eight years and older who is reasonably fit and in good health can experience the underwater world. Our eight- and nine-year-old adventurers can jump into our fun Try Scuba program, while ocean lovers aged ten and up can enroll in a full Open Water course.
Not at all for your first experience. You can join our Try Scuba program even if you can’t swim a stroke, but being comfortable in the water definitely adds to the fun. If you’re eager to try diving but aren’t a swimmer, we highly recommend our half-day Try Scuba session at Kata Beach. It’s a wonderful, easy dive. Or you’re welcome to join us on a Try Scuba session on a boat trip, but please bear in mind you will need to jump into deep water from the boat.
Shorter trips straight to the Similan Islands are fantastic for Open Water divers, though we recommend having about 15 logged dives under your belt. For longer itineraries that venture out to Koh Bon, Koh Tachai, and Richelieu Rock, the currents can get quite strong—for those, you’ll need an Advanced Open Water certification and at least 20 logged dives. Tip: If you haven’t been in the water for more than 6 months, we strongly recommend jumping into a quick refresher dive with us first!
It depends on the dive site: for a beach dive at Kata House Reef, or Racha Noi and Racha Yai, you don’t need a certification at all; for Phi Phi, Shark Point, Anemone Reef, and Koh Doc Mai, you need to be at least Open Water certified; and for the King Cruiser Wreck, you should have – or be taking – your Advanced Open Water.
Seasons and Marine Life FAQs
January to April offers our absolute best weather and diving conditions. While we dive year round, beach diving can be tricky during the wet season (May to November). Surprisingly, those wet season months are actually the best time of year to explore Racha Noi and Racha Yai, so there is always a great dive waiting for you.
The Similan Islands Marine Sanctuary is open from October 15th to May 15th each year, with December to April being the prime window to visit. Because the first and last weeks of the season can bring particularly unpredictable weather, it’s often best to check the forecast once you arrive; there are usually plenty of spots for last-minute bookings. However, if you plan to visit during the peak holidays (late December to early January), the best boats fill up months in advance, so be sure to book early. Have a look at our blog on Phuket’s weather for a more detailed overview.
Whale sharks are rare and majestic visitors. Your best chance to spot them is on a liveaboard trip to Richelieu Rock or Koh Tachai between January and April. While we do occasionally cross paths with them on day trips to Phi Phi and Shark Point, it’s always a lucky and very special bonus.
For the best chance to meet curious, playful manta rays, join us on a liveaboard to Koh Bon, Koh Tachai, or Richelieu Rock between January and April. If you are looking for a day trip instead, we also occasionally see them around Racha Noi during these same prime months.
Trips, Gear, & Logistics
It all depends on your experience level. For beginners, the calm waters of Kata Beach and the Racha Islands are perfect. If you’re an intermediate diver, you’ll love Anemone Reef, Phi Phi, Shark Point, Koh Doc Mai, and the Similans. For our advanced divers, we have thrilling sites like the King Cruiser Wreck, Koh Bon, Koh Tachai, and Richelieu Rock.
Yes, we love hosting snorkelers. They are incredibly welcome to join our day trips. The best spots for snorkeling clear, shallow waters are Racha Noi, Racha Yai, and Phi Phi.
You definitely won’t go hungry. All of our boat trips include a hearty breakfast and a delicious local lunch, plus plenty of fresh fruit, tasty snacks, and refreshing drinks kept cold for you throughout the day.
Yes and no! We provide high-quality, regularly serviced rental gear at great rates, so you don’t need to pack heavy. However, if you own a mask and fins, we always recommend bringing them along since a personal fit is hard to beat. Note: If you have open-heel fins and only want to pack your booties, let us know in advance so we can match them with the right fins.
Expect beautifully warm water ranging from 29°C to 32°C (84°F–89°F). You won’t need heavy wetsuits here—a simple 3mm shorty wetsuit or just a rash vest and boardshorts will keep you perfectly comfortable. During some months, we can get cold thermoclines, but they shouldn’t affect you much unless you’re on a Similan liveaboard. Ask us about the prevailing conditions a week before your trip.
Welcome to Phuket
As active members of the local Thai and expat community here in Phuket, we can also offer advice on all aspects of your trip: from recommending the best restaurants to giving insider advice on Thai culture, so that you get the very best out of your time in Phuket. And when the diving is done, you're welcome to drop by in the evening, to socialise with your instructors and fellow divers.
So welcome to Oceanic! Pop in for a chat, check out our facilities, meet our team and become part of the Oceanic family!
