Hi, I'm Vitalii. I've been living in Phuket for almost four years, running this blog and helping people with tours and island life. Below are the conditions that apply to all sea and land excursions through our partners. No fine print — just the facts, so there are no surprises at the pier.
All excursions are conducted by licensed operators. I personally verify each partner and take responsibility for quality. If anything goes wrong — write to me directly.
Age Categories
Three pricing tiers apply to all tours:
- Adult — 10 years and older
- Child — 4 to 9 years inclusive
- Infant — 0 to 3 years inclusive
Age is calculated on the tour date, not the booking date. They may ask for documents at the pier — have a passport copy with you.
Infants are usually free or charged a symbolic fee — depends on the tour. Check with the manager when booking.
Weather and Force Majeure
This is Thailand — rain is not a reason to cancel a tour. Tropical rain usually lasts 30-60 minutes and doesn't affect the program. You'll be wet from the sea anyway.
Rain is not grounds for cancellation or refund.
The only reason for operator-side cancellation is a storm warning from maritime police. This happens 3-5 times during monsoon season (May-October). In that case:
- Free date change — anytime
- Full refund — if rescheduling isn't possible
The operator decides on cancellation in the morning of the tour day. We notify you immediately.
Who Is Not Allowed on Sea Excursions
These aren't our rules — they come from operators and insurance companies:
- Pregnant women — at any term. No exceptions. Related to insurance and boat vibration.
- Travelers over 70 — not recommended. Long boat rides, heat, snorkeling are serious strain. If your health allows and you accept the risks — discuss with the manager.
- Serious medical conditions — heart problems, recent surgeries, epilepsy. Always inform us when booking.
- Intoxicated persons — the operator may refuse service without refund.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Same conditions for all excursions:
Free cancellation or date change
If you notify us 24 hours or more before the tour — free date change. Refund is also possible, but rescheduling is preferred.
Less than 24 hours before the tour
No refund. The operator has already booked a seat, ordered lunch, arranged the transfer. These are real costs.
Exception: a medical certificate from a hospital (not a clinic — a hospital like Bangkok Hospital, Vachira Hospital), provided before 16:00 on the tour day. In this case — 50% refund.
No-show without notice
No refund. The boat left, the seat is empty, the lunch is paid for.
Late for the transfer
We call 15 minutes before the minivan arrives. If you don't come out — the driver waits 10 minutes and leaves. The boat won't wait — it has a schedule and other passengers. This counts as a no-show.
Tip: if you think you might change your mind — just let us know 24 hours ahead. We'll reschedule without any hassle. No penalties, no hard feelings.
Payment
No deposit required. Pay on tour day — cash to the guide at the pier or transfer to the manager. We accept Thai Baht (THB). Rubles, dollars, and euros — at the day's exchange rate.
Tips for the guide are at your discretion. Not required, but always appreciated.
What's Included (Standard)
Most excursions include:
- Hotel — pier — hotel transfer
- English/Russian speaking guide
- Lunch (buffet or set menu)
- Drinks and fruit on board
- Snorkeling masks, tubes, life jackets
- National park entrance fees
- Medical insurance during the tour
Details may vary — check the specific tour description in our excursion catalog.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to do if it's raining?
You'll go on the tour. Rain isn't cancellation. Only a storm warning from maritime police grants a refund or date change. Tropical rain lasts 30-60 minutes and usually adds to the experience.
Can I cancel one day before the tour?
If 24+ hours before — yes, free of charge. Less than 24 hours — no refund. The only option is a hospital medical certificate by 16:00, then 50% refund.
Will pregnant women be taken on a boat?
No, at any term. This is the operator's and insurer's rule. Alternative — land tours (Phuket overview, temples, markets).
Are children under 4 free?
Usually yes or a symbolic fee (300-500 THB). Depends on the specific tour and operator. Check with the manager.
What if I get sick on the tour day?
Until 16:00, get a certificate from a hospital (Bangkok Hospital, Vachira) — 50% refund. After 16:00 or without a certificate — no refund possible.
How is child age calculated?
By tour date, not booking date. Documents (passport copy) may be requested at the pier — have them with you.
Questions Left?
Write to me directly — I respond personally or through the manager:
- Telegram: @phuketblog_manager_bot
- WhatsApp: +66 91 036 13 51
Browse all tours in our excursion catalog.