Phuket activities
Phuket is a major tourist destination, consequently there are more activities available than I can possibly hope to cover here. There is go-cart racing and bungy jumping for those that like an instant adrenalin rush. Elephant and canoe treks for those that like to go at a more sedentary pace. There is climbing, cruising and fishing and of course there is diving.
Diving
There are more diving companies in Phuket than you can waggle your snorkel at. You can go from beginner to dive instructor within one holiday. I am not a diver myself so I can only pass on what people have told me are good.
Two day scuba diving courses start at around US$195, whilst 4 day open water courses start at around US$310. On completion of the longer course will will be certified as an internationally recognized PADI Open Water Diver. After the shorter course you would still need direct supervision of a PADI professional to be able to dive.
Once you are qualified, day trips that include 2-3 dives start at around US$85 though many companies offer multiple dive packages with attractive discounts.
For longer excursions a wide range of live-aboard options are available.
www.diveasia.com, www.waterworldasia.com, www.all4diving.com, www.mermaid-liveaboards.com
Kayaking
There are numerous kayaking and sea canoe operators. The original, and by far and away the best is John Gray’s Sea Canoe. It was John Gray that first explored the ‘hongs’ or open sea caves in the spectacular Phang Nga bay.
Some of the karsts that jut out from the ocean are hollow inside. The sea has eroded caves from below while the rain eroded the island from the top. After millions of years on this the centre of the island collapses creating an unbelievably tranquil lagoon which can often only be reached at low tide. And only by canoe.
There are various packages you can join or you can have a trip tailor made to your specifications.
www.johngray-seacanoe.com
Rock Climbing
Rock Climbers will need to get themselves over to Railay beach in Krabi. This spectacular beach lined with equally spectacular limestone cliffs has over 700 routes all bolted and graded according to the French system.
There are routes here for everyone from beginner 5 a’s, multi-pitch 6 a’s right up to extreme 8 c’s. There are also courses for the complete beginner
Simple half day courses which include; basic rope climbing and safety techniques start at 1,000 baht. Three day courses which include; self rescue and rope technique, top rope climbing, rappelling, lead climbing and multi-pitch climbing are 6,000 baht.
www.railay.com/railay/climbing/climbing_intro.shtml
Jungle Safari
Jungle treks are available into the Khao Sok national park. One day treks that includes elephant and canoe transport start at around 3,000 baht. Three day treks are around 7,000 baht and take you deep into the jungle. Four day treks can be arranged on request. Food and sleeping arrangements are included in the price.
www.siamsafari.com
Fishing
One day fishing trips into the Andaman Sea start at around 1,800 baht. Longer trips and night fishing expeditions can be organised. Typical game fish in the area include, black marlin, barracuda, sailfish and shark.
www.prasertserifishing.com
Photos: www.railay.com, diveasia.com & adultguide-bangkok.com
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