Speedboat or Catamaran: Which is better for excursions in Phuket in summer 2026

The summer season in Phuket raises many questions for tourists. One of the most popular is which sea excursion to choose: by speedboat or by catamaran. Many believe that all sea programs are the same in summer, but the type of vessel can seriously affect comfort during the trip.

Let's figure out when to choose a speedboat and when it's better to prefer a catamaran.

What happens at sea in summer

From May to October, Phuket experiences the southwest monsoon season. This doesn't mean it rains every day or the sea is constantly stormy, but the waves are indeed higher during this period than in winter.

This is especially noticeable during long crossings between islands. That is why in summer, the choice of vessel becomes much more important than in the high season.

While in winter the difference between a speedboat and a catamaran is not so strongly felt, in summer it becomes obvious within a few minutes of going out to sea.

Speedboat excursions

Speedboats remain the most popular type of transport for sea excursions in Phuket.

Most programs to Phi Phi Islands, James Bond Island, Racha/Coral Island, Coral Island and other destinations are carried out on them.

The main advantages of such boats are speed and cost. Tourists quickly reach the islands, spend more time on beaches and snorkeling for less cost.

However, in summer, speedboats also have their peculiarities.

During waves, the vessel actively moves up and down, periodically jumping on wave crests. On some routes, the pitching can be quite noticeable, especially if the sea is rough.

Therefore, such excursions are well suited for tourists who tolerate pitching well and do not experience discomfort during sea crossings.

Speedboats are also excellent for relatively short routes where the time spent at sea is not too long. For example, the direction of Racha and Coral Islands.

Many tourists travel on such vessels every year even in summer and are completely satisfied with the trip.

The main thing is to understand the peculiarities of the summer sea and be prepared for the fact that the trip can be quite active.

speedboat with forward-facing seating phi phi bamboo excursion with Russian guide tour

Catamaran excursions

In recent years, catamarans have become a real hit among tourists vacationing in Phuket in summer.

The main reason for their popularity is the high level of comfort.

Thanks to two hulls, a catamaran is much more stable on the water compared to a speedboat. It reacts less to waves, jumps less often, and passes through rough sea sections noticeably more smoothly.

The difference is especially noticeable during long crossings to the islands.

Many tourists who previously avoided sea excursions due to seasickness change their minds after a catamaran trip.

speed catamaran in phuket excursion comfortable two decks

Why many choose catamarans in summer

In summer, comfort becomes one of the main factors in choosing an excursion.

While in winter most tourists focus on the route, in the wave season many begin to pay attention specifically to the type of vessel.

A catamaran allows for significantly calmer transitions between islands, so it is often recommended for families with children, elderly tourists, and those who do not tolerate seasickness well.

In addition, modern catamarans usually have more free space for relaxation, comfortable sunbathing areas, and more comfortable seating for passengers.

What catamaran excursions are available in summer 2026

The following programs on motor and sailing catamarans are currently available for booking:

Which type of transport is best for children

Yes, catamarans are most often recommended for families with children during the summer period.

A smoother ride helps avoid unnecessary discomfort during a sea trip, and spacious decks make the journey more convenient for the whole family.

Of course, it is impossible to completely eliminate pitching even on a catamaran, but the difference compared to a speedboat is usually very noticeable.

What to choose in summer: speedboat or catamaran

There is no single answer here.

If speed and cost are most important to you and you tolerate pitching well, you can safely choose a speedboat excursion. Especially if it's about the closest islands and the sea on the day of the trip promises to be relatively calm.

If you want maximum comfort, are traveling with children, elderly relatives, or simply don't like seasickness, it's better to choose a catamaran.

During the rainy season, catamarans provide the most comfortable conditions for sea excursions and allow you to enjoy not only the islands but also the journey itself.

speedboat and catamaran comparison which transport to choose phuket excursions

Our recommendations

In summer in Phuket, one should not choose an excursion based solely on price. It is much more important to consider weather conditions, the route, and the type of vessel.

For short routes and tourists who tolerate the sea well, a speedboat remains an excellent option.

If you want the most comfortable holiday without unnecessary shaking and jumping over waves, choose modern catamarans. In most cases, they are the best solution for sea excursions in Phuket during the summer season.