Sea Bees Diving

Sea Bees Diving is one of Phuket's long-established dive operators, with more than 20 years of experience and dive centres in Phuket, Khao Lak and Nai Yang. Its head office is on Viset Road in Chalong, in the south-east of the island. The company runs diving day trips, liveaboard trips to the Similan Islands and a full programme of courses.

For newcomers, the courses start at beginner level, and the programme goes all the way up to instructor qualifications, so it suits both first-time divers and those looking to build a career in diving. Day trips run from Phuket, Khao Lak, Phi Phi and Nai Yang, giving certified divers a simple way to explore the reefs and wrecks of the Andaman Sea without committing to several days at sea.

The Similan Islands are the main attraction for experienced divers. Sea Bees runs liveaboard trips there, including flexible options, on its own boats; the Excalibur is its flagship, while MC Stingray runs Similan trips from Khao Lak and MV Runaway covers local and wreck dives. Diving from Khao Lak is available only from November to April, so plan Similan trips for those months. Outside the season, check what day trips are running, as the programme is smaller in the monsoon months. If you are short of time, a single day trip is a good way to try the company before committing to a liveaboard.

Sea Bees suits beginners who want a structured introduction, certified divers, and groups of friends or families who want to learn together. Anyone with a medical condition should complete the standard dive medical questionnaire before booking and may need a doctor's sign-off. Bring your certification card and logbook if you already dive, and plan your flight home at least 24 hours after your last dive, in line with standard safety guidance.

The Chalong office is in the south-east of the island, a short drive from Wat Chalong, Rawai and Kata. Contact the team by phone or email to check schedules, course start dates and liveaboard availability, as liveaboards in particular can fill up early in the high season. Non-divers can ask about snorkelling options on day trips, which make it possible for mixed groups to travel together.