Liveaboard dive boats let divers spend multiple days at sea, reaching sites far beyond what a single-day boat trip from Phuket can cover.
Where liveaboards go
Most Phuket-based liveaboards head to the Similan Islands, Koh Bon, Koh Tachai and Richelieu Rock — the last known as one of Thailand's best sites for encountering whale sharks, though sightings are never guaranteed.
Trip length
Typically 2–4 nights, with several dives scheduled per day, including early morning and occasional night dives — considerably more diving per day than a single day-trip boat allows.
Season
Runs during the Similan area's open season (roughly mid-October to mid-May) — outside that window, boats reroute to other sites or pause entirely, so confirm current-year dates before booking.
Who it suits
Certified divers looking to log more dives at a wider range of sites — not a beginner-friendly introduction to diving, which is better started with shorter local dive courses.