The Racha Dive Center

Located on the island of Racha Yai, the Racha Dive Center serves as a gateway to the diverse marine environments of the Andaman Sea. From the calm reef flats to deeper sites, the centre provides access to some of the most significant underwater landscapes in the region.

Based in Rawai, the centre operates with a focus on high-standard PADI instruction. It is ideally positioned for divers looking to explore the waters around Racha Noi, Phi Phi, and the various wrecks and reefs that define this part of Thailand.

The centre holds a PADI 5 Star affiliation, reflecting a high standard of training and operational quality. All instruction and dive operations are conducted in English, ensuring clear communication for international divers.

The facility is designed to support divers at every stage of their journey, from those taking their first Discover Scuba Diving course to those pursuing advanced specialties like Wreck Diver or Deep Diver.

The centre offers the complete PADI curriculum, ranging from the initial Discover Scuba Diving experience to Open Water Diver. For those looking to progress, courses include Advanced Open Water Diver, Rescue Diver, and the Emergency First Responder certification.

Specialised training is also available through various PADI specialties, such as Peak Performance Buoyancy, Night Diver, Wreck Diver, Deep Diver, and Enriched Air (Nitrox) Diver. The centre also provides the ReActivate programme and Digital Underwater Photographer training.

The centre utilises purpose-built dive boats designed specifically for diving operations. These vessels provide reliable access to the surrounding sites and are equipped to handle various dive types, including night dives.

For those looking for more direct transport, private speedboat transfers are available. For group movements from Rawai, shuttle transfers are also an option.

On-site facilities include a dedicated 3-metre ozone-sanitised training pool, providing an ideal environment for skill practice and course work. The centre also features a large classroom for theoretical instruction and a spacious shop.

Nitrox is available for divers looking to extend their bottom times. The facility is equipped to support various training needs, from beginner levels through to advanced specialties.

The reefs and slopes of the area are home to a variety of large species, including manta rays and various species of turtles. You will frequently encounter blue spotted stingrays, barracuda, and various groupers. Larger pelagics such as jacks and tuna also move through these waters.

For those interested in macro life, the area offers sightings of various octopus species, cuttlefish, and nudibranchs. You can also find scorpionfish, frogfish, and various types of shrimp and crabs.

The seabed and reef structures are well-populated with various reef fish, including butterflyfish, damselfish, and angelfish. You may also spot lionfish, stonefish, and various species of triggerfish.

The area offers a variety of environments, from shallow reef flats to deeper sites. Depending on the specific location and conditions, divers may encounter drift dives, particularly for those with the appropriate certifications.