Professional Documents
Culture Documents
THAILAND
INCLUDING THE M E RG U I A RC H I P E L A G O
www.diveguidethailand.com
Australia A$17.60 (incl. GST) Europe €11 Singapore S$22.50 (incl. GST)
Thailand B450 UK £8.50 USA US$14.50 Sweden SEK105
See listing on Page 159
© PADI 2009
Subscribe to the
E-MAGAZINE and read
¬
NO UT
W!
All in the
BUMPER ISSUE
stories online!
Family N
ON OW
s Gear for kids
s Introducing diving to children
s Asia Pacific’s most child-friendly
destinations
LIN
E
"$$&
e-Magazine
THE MAGAZINE THAT TRAVELS
www.ScubaDiverAA.com
Visit
the heart of the aquarium
trade; Darwin turns 200!
INSIDE RESULTS FROM THE 2009 TTL PHOTO COMPETITION (PAGE 82)
!USTRALIA ! INCL '34 s #HINA 2-" s )NDONESIA 20 s -ALAYSIA 2- s -ALDIVES 53 s .EW :EALAND .: INCL '34
0HILIPPINES 0(0 s 3INGAPORE 3 INCL '34 s 4AIWAN .4 s 4HAILAND "AHT
www.emagazine.asiangeo.com
¬
&!!
"$"#%)%%$
%#"" )(%##"" BUMPER AUSGABE
$!"($"!'!
(((
$!'#"
NS’s Mikhail Lermontov;
passport
DISCOVER | EXPLORE | INDULGE | RELAX | TRAVEL WITHOUT BORDERS
commemorative postcards.
-002%
2*46%.1%+ "%/
PLAYFUL OTTERS
DOCILE DUGONGS
JAPANESE CRANES Unveiling
ASIAN WILDLIFE WONDERS IRAN
# # ! CENTRAL ASIA’S SILK ROAD
"""
" !# PLUS! MYANMAR’S LOST ARCHIPELAGO | KYOTO’S ZEN GARDENS
KERALA’S AYURVEDIC RETREATS | LIVING LIKE AN EMPRESS IN BEIJING
$$! # EXPEDITION
SILK ROAD
ScubaDiverAA.com | AsianDiver.com
POCKET GUIDE
Dive Thailand
Cover photo & above: Thai waters are rich in splendid examples of Gorgonian sea fans
(Gorgonia ventalina)
CONTENTS
Map of Thailand & the region 18
About the author 20
About Pocket Guide DIVE Thailand 22
Introduction to Thailand 26
Travelling to & around Thailand 34
Health & safety for divers 40
Diving & snorkelling in & around Thailand 46
Learning to Dive in Thailand 60
The Andaman Sea
Phuket 90
Khao Lak 108
Mu Koh Similan Marine National Park 118
Mu Koh Surin Marine National Park 125
The Mergui Archipelago 127
Krabi 131
Koh Phi Phi 142
Mu Koh Lanta Marine National Park 152
The Gulf of Thailand
Western Seaboard
Koh Tao 162
Koh Phangan 172
Koh Samui 178
Eastern Seaboard
Pattaya 184
Mu Koh Chang Marine National Park 192
Alphabetical index of dive centres 204
Published by Sun Offa Beach Co., Ltd., 29/116 Moo 2, Chuan Chuen Lagoon,
T. Koh Kaew, A. Muang, Phuket 83000, Thailand, in cooperation with Phuket
Publicity Services Part., Ltd. EDITOR: Wilai Suksalee.
info@diveguidethailand.com, www.diveguidethailand.com
PRINTER: Siam Offset Co., Ltd, 9/1 Soi Sriaksorn Tungmahamek, Bangkok 10120
©2009 Sun Offa Beach Co., Ltd and Phuket Publicity Services Part., Ltd. All rights
reserved. The contents of this book may not be reproduced or copied in any form
– printed, electronic, photocopy or otherwise – except for excerpts used in reviews,
without the written permission of the copyright holders. Text & photography, © Paul
Lees (unless otherwise stated in the book). Design & layout, © Grenville Fordham.
16
OVERVIEW MAPS
Dive Thailand
18
ABOUT THE AUTHOR PAUL LEES PRESENTS
Paul Lees
PG
B
ritish born writer and photographer, Paul Lees, has
travelled extensively throughout Asia, gaining first-hand
insight and absorbing local perspective along the way.
DIGITAL
PHOTOGRAPHY PROGRAMMES
Numerous valuable experiences have been stored in the
form of pictures and words, which have since appeared in
many internationally acclaimed publications including New
Holland’s best selling coffee table presentations Top Dive
Underwater photography
Sites of the Indian Ocean, The Dive Atlas of the World and
Diving with Giants, as well as Dorling Kindersley’s Eyewitness
Are you interested?
Guide to Thailand. Then learn more...
Aside from spearheading the Pocket Guide series, Paul holds
the qualification of Master Instructor under two scuba diving
training agencies and Open Water Instructor in a third. He s Choose... the location
also specialises in underwater photography and is a regular
contributor to regional and international scuba diving LEEMBEH - SIMILANS - SIPADAN
magazines.
He has also been bringing the underwater world to the
s Select... what you need
surface in the form of natural history documentaries and TV ADVICE - GUIDANCE - INSTRUCTION
shows, including ABC Kane’s The Living Edens and the BBC’s
Really Wild Show. s Enjoy... immediate results!
When not engrossed with the range of Pocket Guide titles, he
continues to pay attention to expanding his extensive image
library on subjects both above and below the ocean surface.
He also coordinates and runs his own special brand of
underwater photography workshops and training courses
at a number of the most popular diving destinations
throughout the Asia Pacific region, including Indonesia,
Malaysia and Thailand.
Paul currently lives in Thailand with his family.
photo by Wilai Suksalee
T
he 2010 edition of Pocket Guide DIVE Thailand, follows
the Pocket Guide philosophy: “Written by experts who
are passionate about their subject and widely distributed
to reach active, travelling divers and those interested in taking
up the sport, providing an informative, quality publication.”
The book then covers the different diving regions, each with
its own introduction and map, plus descriptions of the region’s
featured dive sites. These are followed by detailed listings of
featured dive operators and a regional directory of local services
and travelling logistics. Each dive operator listing and directory
has a uniform layout to maintain the high standard and profile
that are the hallmarks of a Pocket Guide publication.
22
The Equipment Specialist The Equipment Specialist
In-Sight Console
Avid
A
t the heart of South East Asia, Thailand is an independent
kingdom combining 20th-century sophistication with an
ancient culture that has evolved over the past 700 years.
Tourism
With over five million annual visitors, Thailand is one of the
most popular tourist destinations in Asia. It has an enormous
amount to offer, from ancient temples to rainforests and
remote islands with palm-fringed beaches – and, of course,
coral reefs teeming with life for divers and snorkellers. Tourism
is an important part of the kingdom’s service economy.
26
INTRODUCTION POCKE T GU
GUIID
DE DIIVVE
VE THA
THAILAND
AILAND
THAILAND - INTRODUCTION
to Thailand
Taiwan, Korea and Japan, it’s excellent value for money. As Isan
a result, many Asian and European tourists now visit in the Separated from Laos by the Mekong River, the northeast
winter months from November to March and enjoy a wide plateau is dominated by agriculture (rice, fruit and vegetables)
range of impressive golf facilities all around the country. and is one of the poorest regions in the country.
For the best information and insight on where, when and Known as Isan, this region has a distinct culture and dialect
how to play, see Pocket Guide GOLF Thailand and its online PG (reflecting its proximity to Laos), and although it is the least
version, www.golfguidethailand.com developed area in Thailand, this part of the country is well
worth visiting, with ancient stone temples dating back
Bangkok and the regions of Thailand almost 10 centuries. Isan is growing in importance as the
The population of Thailand is around 60 million, with gateway to Laos.
approximately 10 million people living in the capital,
Bangkok. This massive, vibrant, traffic-bound city dominates Central Plains
the country’s central region and functions as the cultural, The central plains are another important rice-growing area
religious, economic and political centre of the country. and, although most visitors tend to pass them by on their
way further north, there are ancient cities, such as Ayutthaya
Thailand is divided into four distinct regions: the mountainous and Sukhothai, which repay exploration.
north, the vast northeast plateau, the central plains, and the
narrow Isthmus of Kra to the south, stretching down to the The Andaman Sea
border with Malaysia. It’s the islands and beaches of southern Thailand that hold the
greatest appeal for tourists and, whether you’re looking for
Once covered in teakwood forests, the mountainous solitude or sophisticated nightlife, there is plenty of choice.
northern region appeals to the adventurous traveller, with
one of the main attractions being the prospect of trekking The Andaman coastline, to the west of the Kra Isthmus,
through remote – and not so remote – villages inhabited by a boasts fabulous scenery and dazzling beaches. The largest
diversity of tribal peoples. The main focal point for the region and best-known of the island destinations here is Phuket,
is the growing centre of Chiang Mai, Thailand’s ‘second’ city. which has been attracting tourists for a number of years and
is now in full swing, high-rise hotels appear inexorably above
Elephant statue on Koh Chang
the palm trees.
Further south, the island of Koh Phi Phi and the beaches
around Krabi on the mainland are slowly but surely building a
foothold on the tourist map and, although not as established
as Phuket, they are geared up to welcome all visitors – from
independent travellers to families – as is the more remote
and charming island of Koh Lanta Yai further south.
You can drive into Thailand from Malaysia and Laos – the
latter journey takes you over the famous Thai-Laos Friendship
Bridge across the Mekong, at Nong Khai. If you are coming
into the country from Singapore or Malaysia – and if you
have a great deal of money to spare – think about the 34hr
journey on the luxurious Eastern & Oriental Express, sister to
the legendary Orient Express.
Visas
People of most nationalities can obtain free visas, valid 30
days, on arrival at Bangkok International Airport and other
entry points; these will be issued only if you have a current
passport and ticket to take you out of the country at the end
of your stay. Longer-stay visas are available, for a fee, from Thai
embassies and consulates around the world: specify whether
you want a transit visa (valid 30 days), a tourist visa (valid 60
days) or a non-immigrant visa (valid 90 days and difficult to
obtain). If you have a tourist visa you can, once in Thailand,
apply for a 30 day extension. If you plan to leave Thailand
temporarily during your stay, you must obtain a re-entry visa,
available from the Immigration Department in Bangkok. These
rules are subject to change so check current regulations prior
to departure
Customs
Customs are usually no trouble, unless you are carrying
pornography, political propaganda, firearms, large amounts of
cash (over $10,000), or illicit drugs – for possession of which
34
TRAVELLING
to and around
Thailand
the penalties are draconian. The allowances for the usual
luxury goods – perfume, alcohol and the like – vary, so check
them before departure. Please note that you are required to
bring a minimum amount of currency into the country which
varies depending on your visa.
Getting around
For longer distances air travel is the easiest option and
not prohibitively expensive. Nok Air and Thai Airways
International both have extensive domestic networks;
Bangkok Airways has a smaller one. Recent years have seen
deregulation of air travel in Thailand and a number of new
low-cost domestic carriers. Reliability may be factor.
D
ecompression Illnesses (DCI) or ‘the bends’, occurs when
bubbles of gas are trapped inside the body of a diver.
Symptoms include muscle and joint pain, skin rashes,
tingling sensations and in more serious cases neurological
problems and even paralysis.
If a diver has DCI then they will need to breathe oxygen under
pressure in a hyperbaric chamber. This helps break down the
bubbles of gas that are trapped in their body. The time they
need to spend inside the chamber can vary between 2 to 5 or
more hours depending on the severity of the symptoms. On
average a patient needs to receive 2 treatments inside the
chamber before their symptoms completely disappear.
Five Badalveda Diving Medicine Centres are operating in Bangkok, Koh Tao, Koh Samui,
Koh Phuket and Pattaya
40
HEALTH & SAFETY
for divers
42
HEALTH & SAFETY
for divers
• Asthma
• Epilepsy
• Cardiovascular disease
• History of lung injury or disease
• High blood pressure / Hypertension
• Middle air or chronic sinus problems
• Gastrointestinal problems
T
hailand has much to offer the visiting diver and
snorkeller. There is a vast range of exhilarating sites of
many different kinds, providing something for both
recreational and technical divers alike, regardless of their
qualification levels or experience.
With the Andaman Sea to the west and the Gulf of Thailand
to the east, Thailand is unique in that it borders two distinct
oceanic zones, each with their own peculiarities and marine
life. Many dive sites all around the coast share common
species, but on others the underwater terrain and reef
communities show marked differences between the two
sides of the peninsula’s coastline.
Andaman Sea
Extending from Myanmar down the west coast of Thailand to
beyond the Malaysian border, the Andaman Sea forms part of
the Indian Ocean. Many of the 155 islands in the Andaman Sea
are uninhabited (apart from communities of Chao Ley – ‘sea
gypsies’), and are crowned by lush primary vegetation tumbling
down to shorelines punctuated by idyllic sandy beaches.
Further to the north in Myanmar is the Mergui Archipelago, The most southerly established dive sites in the country are
recently opened to foreigners, offering real wilderness diving to the south of Koh Lanta. They feature pristine corals and
over unusual underwater terrain, with the added attraction spectacular fringing reefs in potentially excellent visibility.
of shark encounters. Here are some of the finest dive sites in the country, such
as Hin Mouang, which features the deepest drop-off in
The coastline of Phuket itself offers little for the experienced Thailand, with depths in excess of 70m, and Hin Daeng, one
diver, although there are dive sites that can be (and are) used of the few remaining dive sites where both manta rays and
for training and are also a good option if bad weather prevents whale sharks are regularly encountered.
boats getting to the better sites.
Another dive destination in the Andaman Sea that is still in
These offshore sites are mostly to the south, and can be its infancy is Mu Koh Tarutao Marine National Park (just north
reached by relatively short boat rides of between one and of the Malaysian border), where dugongs have been seen.
two hours. They are all well worth the journey, but two in
particular (Shark Point and Anemone Reef) stand out as The Gulf of Thailand
being special in terms of the abundance of marine life. The Gulf of Thailand coast, at 1,840km well over twice as
long as the Andaman Sea coastline, follows a great parabola
Further south, the coastline at Krabi offers shallow fringing from the border with Malaysia on the south coast around to
reefs around impressive limestone formations (ranging in Cambodia and the southwest tip of Vietnam. The Gulf itself
size from underwater pillars to whole islands). Some of the is a vast, shallow depression – generally less than 60m deep
best snorkelling sites in the country are to be found here. and reaching a maximum of 85m – which, while incredibly
productive, does not have continually great visibility.
Offshore, the Phi Phi islands, with their palm-fringed beaches,
have been growing in popularity as a dive base for the last two This is largely due to the turbid waters from river outlets being
decades. This is not surprising as the local waters experience trapped in the Gulf by an underwater shelf that stretches
across the mouth of the Gulf from Malaysia to Vietnam. True
Just one of the numerous tiny critters found in Thai waters reefs do not occur further north than those found in the Ban
Krut area in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, just over 300km
south of Bangkok.
There are 112 islands in the offshore waters of the Gulf, many
with fringing reefs interspersed with rocks and soft seabed.
Visibility around their shorelines tends to be better than
the mainland, where inshore waters are affected not only
by turbidity but by freshwater runoff and urban/industrial
pollution. The offshore reefs have a lower diversity than the
reefs of the Andaman Sea, but marine life is still prolific, with
Indo-Pacific species predominating.
Some of the best dive sites in the Gulf of Thailand are around
Koh Tao, 80km from the mainland. Sheer wall dives around
submerged pinnacles, tunnels and archways carpeted with
radiant hard and soft corals, colourful schools of reef fish
and an exciting selection of visiting pelagics, including
giant barracuda, sharks and whale sharks. Easy snorkelling
from the beaches over impressive coral gardens is another
highlight of Koh Tao.
48 49
WDS Deluxe Marker
The complete system
» Webbing Deployment System WDSTM
» Emergency Signal Mirror
» Best Visible Orange/Yellow Combo
» SOLAS Reflective Tape
» Large 175 cm Buoy
www.surfacemarker.com
Making it safer & simpler to deploy your
Safety Sausage or
Delayed Surface Marker Buoy from your
safety stop.
Only from Surface Marker
Surface Safely
Always Be Visible
Watch the Webbing Deployment System
Video demonstration on:
www.surfacemarker.com info@surfacemarker.com
DIVING & SNORKELLING POCKE
PO KE T GUI
UIID
DE DIV
DIV
VE TTHAILA
HAILAN
ANND
D
DIVING - INTRODUCTION
in and around
Thailand
Koh Phangan, 47km south of Koh Tao, is a Bohemian paradise. Thailand’s easternmost diving and snorkelling area covers
The fringing reefs around the island are of limited appeal, but the waters around and to the south of Koh Chang, in Trat
two sites to the north – Sail Rock and Samran Pinnacles – are province. This is an up and coming destination and one
truly world-class, spectacular wall dives, acting as a magnet for well worth visiting. Aside from a great diversity of dive sites
numerous schools of pelagics. including reefs, walls and pinnacles the associated marine
life is as diverse as it is high and includes regular encounters
Koh Samui, further south, has a well developed tourist with all sizes of marine life from minute invertebrates up to
infrastructure and some enjoyable dive sites on its fringing enormous whale sharks.
reefs. Visibility around Koh Samui is only slightly better
than that around Koh Phangan, and most people use it as Diving seasons
a convenient (and fun) base from which to dive sites to the The weather on either side of the Kra Isthmus and diving
north of Koh Phangan or around Koh Tao. conditions in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand
are dominated by two opposing monsoons, the northeast
Further to the south, the clear waters around Koh Losin, located and southwest monsoons. The northeast monsoon sweeps
above the Malaysian border, are occasionally dived from across the Gulf of Thailand between mid October and mid
liveaboard excursions and are a great place for encountering December, bringing heavy rain and strong winds – some dive
manta rays, whale sharks and large schools of trevally. sites become inaccessible during this time as they suffer from
strong currents and reduced visibility. It’s during this period
Working eastwards from Bangkok, Pattaya has a well that many tourists switch, as if by magic, to the west coast.
developed dive industry for both recreational and technical
divers. The nearest dive sites here are located around the ‘Far Those that stay on in the Gulf during this short time will find
Islands’ group, offering fringing reefs of hard and soft corals themselves on nearly empty beaches, with the sun regularly
and a selection of four enjoyable wrecks. Pattaya’s dive sites appearing from behind the clouds. An anomaly is that the
also include the islands and islets off the small fishing village easternmost diving regions in Trat province remain sheltered
of Samaesan 17kms further south. during this period.
A cornucopia of colour awaits below
photo by © Mark Strickland
52 53
photo courtesy of Asia-Pacific Boating
email. gren@catamaransailingphuket.com
Tel. +66 (0)83 106 1457
www.catamaransailingphuket.com
Composite Catamarans Co., Ltd.
90/5 Moo 2, Chaofa Road West, Vichit, Muang, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 7626 4491 Fax: +66 (0) 7626 4454
DIVING & SNORKELLING POCKE
PO KE T GUI
UIID
DE DIV
DIV
VE TTHAILA
HAILAN
ANND
D
DIVING - INTRODUCTION
in and around
Thailand
The Andaman Sea is sheltered from the worst effects of the Dive operators
northeast monsoon, and diving and snorkelling is at its best There are many top-notch dive centres in both the Andaman
from November to April. Underwater visibility ranges from 5m Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. PADI and SSI are the main
to 30m or more during this period. From May to October the certification agencies, in both recreational and technical
southwest monsoon strikes this region, bringing in its wake diving tuition. There are also a number of BSAC, CMAS and
towering seas and strong currents and increased turbidity. NAUI training facilities along with IANTD, ANDI and TDI
for the ‘Tekkies’. Entry-level courses through to Instructor
Conversely, the dive sites in the Gulf of Thailand are at their programmes and specialities like cave diving and underwater
best during this season, with only minimal winds and light photography are widely available.
showers to disturb the tranquillity of the beaches and seas.
Visibility can sometimes equal that of the Andaman Sea Most of the larger and better-established dive operators
during this period. There are always dive sites on either maintain their equipment to high standards, with a good
side of the Isthmus that are sheltered enough to be dived selection of sizes. BCDs, masks, fins, regulator and pressure
whatever the weather so, if you find in the wrong place at the consoles are obtainable everywhere; however, wetsuits,
wrong time, don’t despair! diving computers and underwater cameras are generally
only available at the more established facilities.
Water temperatures in Thailand generally range from 27˚C to
31˚C. A thin wetsuit or lycra suit is recommended, not simply Renting equipment
for protection from exposure but also as a barrier to marine When you rent equipment − for your own safety and
hazards such as stinging cells which can be present. Oceanic comfort − you should remember to check the following:
sites (such as the Similans and the Burma Banks) are subject Buoyancy Control Device (BCD)
to sudden cold currents or thermoclines which can chill the • Select the correct size. The last thing you want is a
water by up to 10˚C and, although these temperature dips BCD that restricts your breathing because it is too tight.
are localized, most divers still prefer to don 3-4mm wetsuits Conversely, if it is too large, you may feel you are about to
for thermal protection. slip out of it.
Thai waters are equally inviting for snorkellers • Select a style or make that you are familiar with and take
into consideration belts, buckles and fastenings.
• Check there are no leaks.
• Ensure that the low-pressure inflator connector is securely
tightened.
• Ensure that both the deflator and power inflator buttons
function correctly and do not stick.
Mask
• Ensure the mask fits correctly and does not leak.
• Check the skirt for damage or tears.
• Check the strap for signs of wear and tear. Bear in mind
that if you lose the mask you might have to pay for it.
• Ask for an optical mask if required. Some larger operators
carry a wide selection of prescription lenses.
Regulators
• Check ease of breathing through both regulators.
• Ensure regulators mouthpieces are in good condition and
that the bite lobes are okay.
• Purge regulator before putting it in your mouth – in the
tropics, you never know what might have crawled inside!
• Check the pressure gauge; satisfy yourself that it does not
stick.
Fins and booties
• Be careful to get the size right: too small can result in
cramp, too large and they may fall off.
56 57
LEARNING TO DIVE POCKE
PO KE T GUI
UIID
DE DIV
DIV
VE TTHAILA
HAILAN
ANND
D
LEARNING TO DIVE
in Thailand
“T
here’s never been a better time to learn to dive!” you All the top training agencies are omnipresent in Thailand and,
seem to hear it everywhere around Thailand these wherever there’s diving, there will be dive centres affiliated
days; in coastal resorts, on boats during passages to to one of them. Training mainly comes ‘The Professional
coral fringed tropical islands and even in the larger cities! Association of Diving Instructors’ (PADI) and ‘Scuba Schools
International’ (SSI), followed by the British Sub Aqua Club
But when talking about taking that memorable first breath (BSAC) in third place. CMAS and NAUI are here too, but with
underwater, the sales pitch is not only inaccurate, it can be a much smaller presence.
seen as intimidating − to say the least. A much better approach
is: “It’s always a great time to learn to dive in Thailand.” Why? Starting slowly
Simple. The water is clear and warm and filled with exciting Not everyone feels comfortable or has the time to jump
adventures and creatures to meet and explore. Golden in at the deep end and enrol in a multi-day commitment
opportunities arise all year round and your dive course will be without first getting a taste of the fun. But not to worry as,
fun and relaxing without the hustle and bustle of city life. in appreciation of this, the major training agencies offer
non-certified experience programmes. These are still under
What with great training facilities and calm and warm waters the guidance of a qualified dive professional and obviously
complemented by a second-to-none diversity of marine life, follow the highest of safety standards.
all readily available in many picture-postcard destinations,
this has to be one of the world’s top places to learn, continue Experiences range from taking that first breath underwater
learning or even create a career based around the planet’s in a swimming pool or just off the beach, to going on a dive
fastest growing recreational pastime of scuba diving. with an instructor in the open ocean. No corners are cut and
training covers all the basic skills needed to submerge and
Instruction is available in a number of forms, from freelance ascend safely. The only difference between these experience
instructors providing a small and personal service up to programmes and a certifying course is that, after completion,
five-star training centres with self-contained resort facilities you must still be accompanied by a diving professional at all
offering career development services allowing those who times and you cannot dive anywhere else. The advantage
want to learn to choose the style that best suits them. is that the course takes a short time and, even better, your
experience may count toward your certification (depending
Learning to dive is not something that can be self-taught. on the training agency) and you’ll be more than ready to sign
Instruction is essential and standard safety practices need up for a certifying course when time permits.
to be applied and upheld throughout, no matter the size of
operation. Thankfully this is the case in Thailand. There are For the family
also a number of award-winning facilities around the country As the interest and participation in scuba is on the increase,
proudly displaying their credentials − fine role models for images of black rubber-clad men immersing themselves
others to follow. in the abyss, whilst groups of ladies anxiously look on, are
Diver training doesn’t always begin in the ocean Students prepare to follow the descent line during a training dive
60 61
ISLAND DIVERS
Phi Phi Island
www.islanddiverspp.com
info@islanddiverspp.com
Tel/Fax. +66 (0)75 601082
Mobile. +66 (0)89 873 2205
See listing on Page 147
LEARNING TO DIVE POCKE
PO KE T GUI
UIID
DE DIV
DIV
VE TTHAILA
HAILAN
ANND
D
LEARNING TO DIVE
in Thailand
64 65
FULLY INCLUSIV
DIVEMASTERPADI
E
u c k & INSTRUCTOR
s t
g et c e ! INTERNSHIP
S
n ’ t p l a
D o ne
in o
ome
e re n t lo cations in s
diff
om up to 3 Thailand a
nd
Choose fr ts a ro u n d
h us!
t dive spo aining wit
of the bes te a ll th e tr
or comple ture
Australia, de n ts and adven
r stu
r gap-yea
Perfect fo More flexibility over
travellers your finances and
scheduling, we are so
confident in our
Tel: +66 (0)38 422133 internships that we offer a 3-easy-payment,
Find out more on pay-as-you-learn scheme
www.divinginternships.com
Personalised Training System - Guaranteed!
Visit
www.divepattaya.com All recreational diving courses are conducted
Contact us on...
with a maximum of two students per class.
info@divepattaya.com Internships commence on a monthly basis
to learn about our
complete range
and include full accommodation and a
of services personal set of scuba diving equipment.
See listing on Page 189
LEARNING TO DIVE POCKE
PO KE T GUI
UIID
DE DIV
DIV
VE TTHAILA
HAILAN
ANND
D
LEARNING TO DIVE
in Thailand
in the evenings or over a weekend, whichever is most alongside those in other popular diving destinations around
convenient. Once the required skills and knowledge have the world. Very few compare favourably to Thailand.
been mastered, students can then be referred to an affiliated
branch or dive centre to complete the open water sections Courses
of the course, or any other uncompleted part of it for that At the end of the day, whichever training agency you adopt,
matter! they all operate to high safety standards.
Continuation does not need to be done immediately but there Entry level courses introduce students to the underwater
is a timescale involved; the instructor will advise how long the environment and how to comfortably adapt to the new-
completed training is valid for before it would need repeating. found surroundings, how to use the unfamiliar equipment
On a broader scale, this popular option of splitting the training and above all else – how to dive safely and relax.
(known as a referral) over more than one destination is
available internationally. On successful completion the newly certified divers are
qualified to dive unaccompanied by a diving professional, in
As long as all the training is completed within the designated the same conditions and to the maximum depth experienced
period and successful completion of the initial training can during training. However, with the great selection of dive
be proved, students from literally anywhere in the world centres around, you have the choice of joining any number
can complete their courses here, taking advantage of what of daily trips with the option of dives being led by trained
diving in Thailand has to offer, without committing to a full diving professionals.
course during their stay.
There’s no extra charge for this service as it’s included as
However, the majority of visitors opt to do the whole course standard in the dive trip price and it’s a great way to build
here – a sensible decision, as prices are extremely competitive confidence and familiarity for novice divers. Plus, if you don’t
Students repeating safety skills in the ocean (photo courtesy of SSI Thailand) Learning to dive is a fun experience (photo courtesy of PADI)
68 69
See listings on Pages 169 & 181
LEARNING TO DIVE POCKE
PO KE T GUI
UIID
DE DIV
DIV
VE TTHAILA
HAILAN
ANND
D
LEARNING TO DIVE
in Thailand
have a buddy, one will be provided for you. So now you’ve ‘Enriched Air Diver’. After all, dives are not likely to be cut
learnt to dive in warm and inviting waters, are seeing things short or be few and far between due to cold conditions!
you once could only dream of and are rapidly making new The list of speciality topics is endless; there are even special
friends – not a bad start really. It’s no wonder diving is so courses that have been individually written to suit the very
popular! surroundings. Just ask at the dive centre to find out what’s on
offer! But don’t expect to get signed up for any ice diving!
The next step is to fine-tune those skills already learned, and
be introduced to new ones. Advanced diving courses are Next on the list are rescue courses which should seriously
really great underwater adventures. Even though the term be mandatory for every diver. Course topics covered include
‘advanced’ may imply they are demanding and stressful – in self-rescue, problem management and how to help divers in
reality they are quite the opposite. stressful situations and, better still, how to avoid them in the
first place.
Safety and fun are high on the agenda and the results are
extremely rewarding. In fact, it’s surprising they aren’t As any diver will know, you never dive without a buddy!
compulsory, especially as some dive sites are restricted to But are you both actually capable of looking after each
divers certified as advanced and above. other? If not, then learn! The rescue diver courses are great
value in Thailand and are just as comprehensive as they
There’s a stream of associated speciality courses that open up are anywhere else in the world. Certification requires CPR
the chance to take the knowledge learned during advanced and First Aid training, which is also available alongside the
training to an even more in-depth level. Thailand’s tropical course. In a nutshell, what you learn is all you need to know
waters make particular courses extremely attractive; for in order to look after yourself and others, both under the
instance, the warm waters are more appealing to deep and water and on the surface during everyday life. So you might
night diving enthusiasts; the water has been exposed to high as well learn in comfort and at a good price.
levels of warming sunlight during the day, thus reducing the
likelihood of uncomfortable chilly encounters. The highest level of recreational diver certification is ‘Master
Scuba Diver’ or equivalent, depending on the training
The generally high water clarity opens up splendid vistas of agency’s certification title. To achieve this rating, or status,
colourful reefs and curious inhabitants, making ideal subject divers need to complete all the above courses and be certified
matter for underwater photographers and videographers, in a predetermined number of different specialities, as well as
two more popular choices of speciality dive courses on offer have completed a designated number of dives. There’s also a
at many of Thailand’s dive centres. ‘Junior Master Scuba Diver’ rating for the over 12-year-olds!
With such enjoyment on the cards, divers may wish to Thailand also provides a comprehensive range of technical
increase their safety levels and obtain the qualification of diving courses, from using enriched air up to diving on
Success - another happy qualified diver (photo courtesy of PADI) Underwater navigation is an invaluable skill to master (photo courtesy of SSI Thailand)
72 73
British owned and managed, Scuba Cat Diving
operates as a PADI 5 Star CDC Center, Go Eco
Operator and Reef Check Center. They also are
certified trainers for the International Association
for Handicapped Divers.
www.scubacat.com
email: info@scubacat.com
Telephone: +66 7629 3120
Fax: +66 7629 3122
Mobile: +66 898722026
http://bit.ly/Scubacat
See listing on Page 102
LEARNING TO DIVE POCKE
PO KE T GUI
UIID
DE DIV
DIV
VE TTHAILA
HAILAN
ANND
D
LEARNING TO DIVE
in Thailand
76 77
See listings on Pages 103 & 112
LEARNING TO DIVE POCKE
PO KE T GUI
UIID
DE DIV
DIV
VE TTHAILA
HAILAN
ANND
D
LEARNING TO DIVE
in Thailand
taught over a longer period, thus allowing participants to gain Many operators include complimentary accommodation
some work experience along the way. As the whole focus of for the duration of a diving course, especially for beginners.
the qualification is based around taking care and control of However, a number of the larger centres have taken things
others, rather than just to display a badge of completion, this one step further and created tailor-made internship packages
is a great way to learn. And, with plenty of places in which do which, in some cases, include everything needed to sign up
a course, it’s a popular option indeed. as a non-diver and leave as a qualified diving professional
complete with a job, either locally or in another country!
Setting up a temporary base in one of the diving destinations
is not really a problem − more of a dream. The weather’s good, These packages can also be joined at anytime during a
the food tasty, the social life usually relaxed and friendly − diver’s career, no matter where they are qualification-wise;
and prices for everything are reasonable. In fact, the perfect and, as they can include equipment and accommodation in
conditions in which take the next step of qualifying to be a the overall ‘package’, it’s a great opportunity to focus on the
diving instructor. matter in hand without all the worry of having to plan day-
to-day expenses and practicalities.
There are several levels of instructor, with the top of the
ladder being a ‘Course Director’, who trains divers to be The standard of training is high, as is the essential advice on
instructors. Course Directors cannot certify instructors how to survive in the diving industry after completion. Once
though; this has to be done by examiners from the training again, these centres are situated in all of the country’s diving
agencies themselves, who are flown in from all over the destinations.
world. Instructor courses, termed as Instructor Development
Courses, or IDCs for short, are scheduled on a regular basis, In fact the only thing difficult about learning to dive in
as are the Instructor Examinations (IE). Thailand is deciding where to sign up!
80 81
See listing on Page 104
Bunaken, Lembeh Straits North Sulawesi
TWO resorts with ONE operator The BEST diving in Indonesia
Fantastic location
1 Meridien Reef
Location: Between Patong and Karon Beaches.
Depth: Average 7m / Maximum 18m
This site has comparatively few hard and soft corals and fish-
life is only sporadically present – although you might discover
1
a blue-spotted ribbontail ray hiding beneath one of the rocks,
and very occasionally may encounter a small white-tip reef
2
shark. However, the site is a very good one for training or for
3 5 introducing new divers to scuba: students can concentrate on
4 6
7 learning to dive, without their attention being distracted by
deep waters, strong currents or too many fish!
8
2 Kata House Reef
Location: Western end of Kata Beach.
9 Depth: Average 5m / Maximum 12m
10 Entry to the site off the beach brings you to the fringing
11
reef, at a depth of 5m. As you follow it around the headland
12
the depth gradually increases to 12m. This is a training and
introduction site similar to meridian reef, but shallower
and slightly more enjoyable. Barracuda, tuna, and trevally
Thailand’s largest island, Phuket, is the second most are often present. The reef just breaks the surface in low
developed (after Pattaya) of the country’s tourist destinations. water. Blue-spotted ribbontail rays and white-tip reef sharks
The island is separated from the mainland by a narrow are sometimes seen. Reef-fish are present but tend to be
bridged strait. The island’s west and south coastlines are scattered over the area rather than dominating particular
liberally sprinkled with beaches, many of them long, curving areas. The site is accessible during inclement weather
arcs of golden sand with mounds of boulders separating conditions and suitable for night-diving enthusiasts.
them from the neighbouring beaches. With an international
airport and good transport links to the rest of the country, 3 Koh Pu
Phuket makes a good base for exploring further afield or as Location: Approx 1km west of Kata House Reef.
the jumping-off point for other popular destinations such as Depth: Average 18m / Maximum 24m
Khao Lak, Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta. The island is fringed with fallen rocks; these are larger around
the northwest area, and are the main feature of the site.
Diving around Phuket The gaps between some of the rocks offer swim-throughs;
Phuket is the largest dive centre in Thailand and the beneath the rocks are heaps of broken oyster shells, obscure
main base for liveaboards heading for destinations in the nudibranchs and a few cowrie shells. There are no pelagics or
Andaman Sea. For those not having the free time to join a big fish of note, but you’re likely to see small schools of fusiliers
and snappers, moorish idols, squirrelfish and rabbitfish.
90 91
photo by © Paul Lees
98 99
DIVE CENTRES POCKE T GUIIDDE DIVVE THAILAN
HAILA
ANND
D
DIVE CENTRES - PHUKET
Phuket
100 101
DIVE CENTRES POCKE T GUIIDDE DIVVE THAILAN
HAILA
ANND
D
DIVE CENTRES - PHUKET
Phuket
102 103
DIVE CENTRES POCKE T GUIIDDE DIVVE THAILAN
HAILA
ANND
D
DIVE CENTRES - PHUKET
Phuket
104 105
DIRECTORY PO
P OC
CKKET
K EETT GU
UIID
ID
DEE DDIVE
IVEE THAILAND
THA
AILAND
DIRECTORY - PHUKET
Phuket
How to get there two full tanks, weight system and – if required – Divemaster
Phuket can be reached directly by air, road and sea. services. Equipment rental and Nitrox fills can be extra. Divers
who have been out of the water for over six months either
By air: It’s possible to directly access the island’s international follow a refresher course or accompany an instructor during
airport from a number of neighbouring countries, or via their first dive; there’s a minimal charge for this important
Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport. Bangkok’s and necessary service.
Don Muang Airport also operates flights to Phuket.
Liveaboard excursions
A few budget airlines serve the Bangkok–Phuket route but Many divers come to Phuket for the selection of liveaboard
timetables change regularly. There are also direct flights excursions, giving access to far-off dive sites. Excursion
between Koh Samui and Pattaya. The three main carriers are: styles differ, but all share high standards. Prices include
Bangkok Airways: Within Thailand, Tel. 1771; from outside diving, meals/snacks and accommodation, but not alcoholic
Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)2 265 5555. Nok Air: Within Thailand, beverages or scuba equipment.
Tel. 1318; from outside Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)2 900 9955. Thai
Airways International: Tel. +66 (0)2 356 1111. Hospitals
Bangkok Hospital Phuket, in Phuket City
By bus: VIP air-conditioned buses depart from Bangkok’s
24 Hr Contacts Centre: Within Thailand, Tel. 1719; from
Southern Bus Terminal daily to Phuket City. Trip time is
outside Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)76 254425
around 14 hours. At Phuket City bus terminal visitors continue
their journeys by taxi or local bus, unless a pick-up by their Phuket International Hospital, on by-pass road, between
dive operator has been arranged. For further information on Tesco Lotus & Central Festival
bus services, contact Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal: Tel. Emergency Ambulance: Tel. +66 (0)76 210935
+66 (0)2 435 1199, (0)2 435 1200. Recompression chambers
Badalveda Diving Medicine Network in Bangkok
Where to eat
Hospital Phuket, Phuket City
There are countless restaurants across the island; for the Diving Medicine Hotlines
best up-to-date information on the island’s eateries, look Tel. +66 (0)81 989 9482, +66 (0)86 272 4618
for Image Asia’s comprehensive publication Where to Eat in vedainfo@badalveda.com | www.badalveda.com
Phuket. It’s also an online at: www.wheretoeat-phuket.com.
Hyperbaric Services of Thailand, in Phuket International
For more information and insight on where and what to eat, Hospital
see Pocket Guide FOOD Thailand − launching first quarter of PG Hotline Tel. +66 (0)89 871 2335
2010 − and its online version, www.foodguidethailand.com
Dive courses
Dive facilities
Local diver training follows BSAC, CMAS, PADI and SSI systems.
Scuba diving here is big business. The larger centres cater The majority of internationally-recognised certifications are
for divers from all over the world; courses and dive trips are accepted in any of the dive centres; certification cards and log
generally supervised by multilingual staff, but English remains books will be requested. The course price structures are mostly
the main language. Several larger centres provide a transfer the same at different operators. The open water sections of
service to and from Phuket International Airport. the courses can be completed locally or amalgamated with a
liveaboard excursion.
Dive Trips
There are two main types of dive trip available. All operators Generally prices are inclusive of instruction, study materials,
run daily trips, and the larger, more established, schedule equipment, dive trips and certification. Introduction courses
regular liveaboard excursions on their own boats around the include full equipment, whereas other courses are inclusive of
Similan and Surin island groups and the Mergui Archipelago. tanks and weight systems only. Additional equipment can be
Some arrange short excursions to southern destinations rented from all centres at a discounted price. You’ll need two
around Koh Rok and Hin Daeng. passport sized photographs for certification in all courses.
Page 125
Page 126
Page 124
Page 124
Page 118
One thing that sets Khao Lak aside from many other seaside
destinations is that you don’t have to cross a road to reach
the beach! Tourism is slowly but surely taking off here,
particularly for divers, which is hardly surprising as some of
the county’s best diving is right on its doorstep.
110 111
DIVE CENTRES POCKE T GUIIDDE DIVVE THAILAN
HAILA
ANND
D
DIVE CENTRES - KHAO LAK
Khao Lak
112 113
DIVE CENTRES
Khao Lak POCKET GUIDE ...The Series PG
SIAM ADVENTURE DIVERS
Khao Lak
POCKET GUIDE D I V E
THAILAND
www.diveguidethailand.com
INCLUDING THE M ERGUI A RCHIPELAGO
flexible schedules in order to fit in with their guests’ budgets THAILAND THAILAND AUSTRALIA
INCLUDING HOLE DESCRIPTIONS INCLUDING F AVO U R I TE, TO P, S E C RE T I NCLUDING PAPUA N EW G UINEA
& PLAYING TIPS AND RENOWNED REGIONAL RECIPES
and, just as importantly, their travel plans.
From November through May, Siam Adventures have an
array of vessels to transport divers and holiday-makers
to the tropical paradise of the Similan islands. The range
of packages on offer includes speedboat transfers and
snorkelling trips, day-boat diving, overnight packages and
liveaboard safaris to both the Similan islands & the Mergui
Archipelago in Myanmar.
www.golfguidethailand.com www.foodguidethailand.com www.diveguideaustralia.com
PAUL LEES PG 2009 EDITION PAUL LEES PG FIRST EDITION PAUL LEES PG FIRST EDITION
& Mike Staples & John Williams
Australia A$17.60 (incl. GST) Europe €11 Singapore S$22.50 (incl.GST) Australia A$17.60 (incl. GST) Europe €11 Singapore S$22.50 (incl.GST) Australia A$17.60 (incl. GST) Europe €11 Singapore S$22.50 (incl.GST)
Thailand B450 UK £7.50 USA US$14.50 Sweden SEK105 Thailand B450 UK £7.50 USA US$14.50 Sweden SEK105 Thailand B450 UK £7.50 USA US$14.50 Sweden SEK105
www.diveguideindonesia.com w w w.spasandhealth.com
Australia A$17.60 (incl. GST) Europe €11 Singapore S$22.50 (incl.GST) Australia A$17.60 (incl. GST) Europe €11 Singapore S$22.50 (incl.GST)
Thailand B450 UK £7.50 USA US$14.50 Sweden SEK105 Thailand B450 UK £7.50 USA US$14.50 Sweden SEK105
116 117
DIVE SITES
Mu Koh Similan
1
2
3
5 11
6
10
There are two staffed park offices (on Islands #4 and #8), but
otherwise the islands are uninhabited.
Two dive sites around the northern islands of Koh Bon and
Koh Tachai are also included in this section.
The Similans are dived as both multi-day liveaboard 3 Donald Duck Bay
excursions and daily dive trips, scheduled from Phuket Location: In the small sheltered bay on the northwest coast
and Khao Lak. For details of dive centres, see pages 99-105 of island #8.
(Phuket) and 109-114 (Khao Lak). Depth: Average 8m / Maximum 14m
A popular night diving site. Scattered coral mounds and
A spearing mantis shrimp peers out from its lair
boulders provide sleeping quarters for a host of marine life,
but their formation forces the nocturnal creatures into areas
of open sand in search of sustenance. Thus night-divers can
observe them with much greater ease and frequency and in
larger numbers. Attracted by the lights of dive boats, cuttlefish
and squid are often everywhere. Crabs, small lobsters and a
wealth of other invertebrates scurry across the sand at night.
4 Beacon Beach
Location: The reef spans the length of the south-eastern
coastline of island #8, about 200m offshore.
Depth: Average 12-18m / Maximum 34m
The reef-flat is in just over 5m and features many small
boulders of lesser star and brain corals, interspersed with
familiar clusters of staghorns, all rich in colourful reef-fish like
damsels, wrasse, parrotfish and surgeonfish, as well as large
numbers of inquisitive triggerfish.
120 121
DIVE SITES POCKE
PO KE T GUID IDE DIV
DIV
VE THAILA
THAILAND
AND
DIVE SITES - MU KOH SIMILAN
Mu Koh Similan
To the north are areas of foliaceous corals, such as lettuce 7 East of Eden
and carnation, with many colourful reef-fish: bird and lunar Location: South-eastern fringing reef of island #7.
wrasse, powder-blue surgeonfish, squirrelfish, soldierfish Depth: Average 22m / Maximum 34m
and Indian lionfish are all plentiful. The bottom is punctuated This is a steep sloping hard coral reef consisting of mostly hard-
with large, impressive coral mounds and rocks, which are coral laminates. Unusually for an east-facing reef, there are
covered with soft corals in diverse hues, encrusting sponges soft corals in the shallower waters at about 12m. Also on view
and various tubeworms and featherstars. are schools of snappers and fusiliers, and occasionally turtles
and leopard sharks. There’s a stunning bommie (coral head)
5 Beacon Point in the middle of the reef, starting in around 9m and going
Location: The southern extension of Beacon Beach Reef. down to 30m; it features one of the finest concentrations of
Depth: Average 16m / Maximum 55m corals in the Similans and should not be missed.
The site is very like Beacon Beach Reef but with more fish
and larger corals, especially in the deeper waters. Also, you 8 Shark Fin Reef
have a good chance of seeing manta and eagle rays, plus Location: Around the rocks that break the water at low tide;
large pelagics, in the deeper southern waters, away from 3km southeast of island #3.
the headland. The reef-flat features many small boulders of Depth: Average 16m / Maximum 40m
lesser star and brain corals, interspersed with familiar clusters The north-eastern side features a sloping reef, whereas the
of staghorn corals, all rich in colourful reef-fish like chromis, south-western side is a more dramatic sheer drop-off: rocks
wrasse, parrotfish and surgeonfish. The coral cover remains resembling fallen hexagonal pillars, are the highlight of this
constant around the apex, with individuals increasing in size side of the site. At the south-eastern end of these formations
with depth – especially gorgonian sea fans at about 30m. is a large swim-through; this provides an almost purpose-
built opening to the site’s opposite side. Large Napoleon
6 Elephant Head wrasse have also been seen around this section as have
Location: The giant rocky outcrop off island #8’s southern tip. passing sharks and rays.
As you approach the site from the west the outcrop resembles
a partially submerged elephant – hence the name. 9 Boulder City
Depth: Average 24m / Maximum 70m Location: Immediately south of Shark Fin Reef.
Huge boulders, some with frames measuring over 30m, sit Depth: Average 19m / Maximum 32m
individually or are stacked to form daring swim-throughs The site consists of a collection of enormous submerged
comprising arches, caverns, gullies and tunnels at all depths. granite boulders running southeast-northwest, which are
more typical of a west-facing coastal rock formation. They
There’s plenty of marine life residing in the site’s shallower fancifully resemble rocky mountains separated by wide
sections. Around the boulders are angelfish, triggerfish and valleys, their sheer sides punctuated occasionally by clusters
schools of fusiliers and juvenile snappers. This is an ideal of soft coral and radiant crinoids; with small crevices housing
place for spotting small reef sharks. a diversity of marine life.
Thailand’s reefs abound with photographic opportunities
Photo by © Mark Strickland
122 123
DIVE SITES POCKE
PO KE T GUID IDE DIV
DIV
VE THAILA
THAILAND
AND
DIVE SITES - MU KOH SURIN
Mu Koh Similan
10 Koh Bon MU KOH SURIN
Location: Off the south west corner of Koh Bon.
Depth: Average 21m / Maximum 40m
The island’s perimeter here takes the form of a series of small
wall-like sections which drop to meet a fringing reef at 32m
before sharply dropping to 40m to reach gently sloping
sand. Huge sponges and sea fans can be found along the
reef in depths of 30-40m.
11 Koh Tachai 3
Location: 40km south of Koh Surin Tai.
Depth: Average 22m / Maximum 30m
This submerged plateau is divided into three reefs, each
dominating a different depth with different structures and
reef inhabitants. Mu Koh Surin Marine National Park is located 80km due west
of Ranong Province along Thailand’s west coast.
Off the island’s southern point, two submerged pinnacles The largest island is Koh Surin Nua which has an area of
stand proud of many large boulders and smaller rocks, 19 sq. km and a highest point 240m above sea level. To its
providing great swim-throughs. This, the southernmost area immediate southwest lies the slightly smaller Koh Surin Tai;
of the site, is part of the deepest of the three reefs, ranging between the two is a strait only 200m wide, which can be
from 25m to 30m. This section is a fairly reliable spot for crossed on foot during low waters.
catching glimpses of manta rays and whale sharks which
both frequent the area. The only residents on Koh Surin Nua are the park officials,
although Koh Surin Tai has small communities of Chao Ley
The second, or central, section of the reef is slightly shallower sea gypsies on some of its eastern beaches.
and is constructed mainly of hard corals and large rocks,
around which schools of spadefish – such as pinnate batfish Diving around Surin
– are tended to by common cleanerfish. Clinging to the rocks Sites follow along fringing reefs that slope gently to the sea-
are gorgonian sea fans, featherstars, colourful crinoids and bed and in contrast along the walls of sheer pinnacles. The
areas of carpet sea anemones. Large bullethead parrotfish reefs and their inhabitants are thankfully now protected,
and even larger Napoleon wrasse share these waters with but this hasn’t always been the case. Sadly there are isolated
moorish idols, schooling bannerfish, juvenile snappers and a areas of damage which have restricted the selection of listed
variety of triggerfish, including titan and orange-striped. sites. However, the jurisdiction extends to include the whale
shark magnet of Richelieu Rock.
The third and shallowest section of the site sits in 12m. Here
you will encounter many Indian lionfish amongst backdrops The sites are dived as both multi-day liveaboard excursions
of gorgonian sea fans and giant clams. Other schooling fish from Phuket and Khao Lak, as well as daily dive trips from
life includes batfish, sweetlips and juvenile yellowtail and Khao Lak. For details of dive centres, see pages 99-105
chevron barracuda. (Phuket) and 109-114 (Khao Lak).
124 125
DIVE SITES POCKE
PO KE T GUID IDE DIV
DIV
VE THAILA
THAILAND
AND
DIVE SITES - MERGUI ARCHIPELAGO
Mu Koh Surin
1 Turtle Ledge MERGUI ARCHIPELAGO
Location: Koh Surin Tai’s south-eastern coastline.
Depth: Average 8m / Maximum 20m
The site was awarded its name from the frequent sightings of
turtles. It is also excellent for night-diving.
2 Koh Torinla
Location: Off the southwest tip of Koh Surin Tai. 2
Depth: Average 12m / Maximum 27m
The eastern area has a small garden of magnificent sea
anemones which are hosted by pink skunk and Clark’s 3
rocks.
The rocks in the shallows host hermit crabs, urchins and In 1997 the Mergui Archipelago in the south of Myanmar
cleaner shrimps, and are rich with colourful featherstars. (Burma) was opened up to foreigners for the first time in over
This is one of the few locations in Thai waters where large fifty years. Back in the 17th Century the port of Mergui used
numbers of bumphead parrotfish are still frequently seen. to be the main gateway to the Gulf of Siam and beyond – all
passing boats came to the port to offload cargo or replenish
3 Richelieu Rock supplies.
Location: 14km east of Koh Surin Nua and Tai.
Depth: Average 19m / Maximum 45m Since then the Mergui Archipelago has been left largely alone
As this is the only food source in the immediate area, it is and today it is an area of some mystery. Numerous islands
excellent for encountering large pelagics. Rainbow runners, remain unexplored, and the region presents the possibility
great and chevron barracuda, trevallies and tuna are all of hundreds of exciting new dive sites. Even now, trips here
frequently seen. The rock is also among the world’s top listed maintain an exploratory feel, with visitors being amongst the
locations for sighting whale sharks. first foreign faces ever seen by local nomadic Moken people
(Burmese sea gypsies).
Predominantly, this is a wall-dive which follows around a
main outcrop surrounded by smaller submerged pinnacles Diving the Mergui Archipelago
whose peaks range from 3m to 10m below the surface. In the Coral representation is sporadic, and the underwater terrain
deeper waters around the three southernmost pinnacles is a is quite rugged and not as colourful as that around Mu Koh
collection of large gorgonian sea fans, immediately beneath Similan Marine National Park. However, the area’s waters are
radiant hermetypic corals. certainly not without their own special attractions. Sites such
as Black Rock attract a variety of sharks as well as manta, eagle
Around the corals is a wide diversity of marine life: residents and marbled rays, whilst The Three Islets has a healthy array of
include schooling bannerfish, a variety of snappers and smaller reef life which is second to none. Virtually all the diving
lionfish, moorish idols, titan triggerfish, and even shovelnose around the Archipelago is done from liveaboard excursions
rays. Also present are bearded scorpionfish, stonefish, moray operating out of Phuket and Khao Lak. For details of dive
eels, seahorses, shrimps, crabs and nudibranchs. centres, see pages 99-105 (Phuket) and 109-114 (Khao Lak).
126 127
DIVE SITES
Mergui Archipelago
1 Black Rock
Location: A 50m wide outcrop equidistant between North
Eastern Little Torres and North Twin Island.
Depth: Average 22m / Maximum 40m+
This is a tremendously exciting dive site, with frequent
possibilities of spotting sharks of different sizes and species. It
is primarily a wall dive, underlined with small boulders. This is
the place to observe larger apex predators such as scalloped
hammerheads, bull, grey reef and white tips. The sharks patrol
the waters away from the rocky mass, passing through and
around patch reefs and boulders that have settled to form
wide U-shaped gullies on the seabed.
2 North Twin
Location: 36km to the south of Black Rock.
Depth: Average 15m / Maximum 22m
A wide plateau at 20m, covered by numerous hard and soft
corals, crinoids and small reef fish. Eggshell and tiger cowries
sit on display, while small groups of goatfish fidget about
between the rocks and over the coral substrate bottom.
Juvenile harlequin sweetlips are in evidence, and around
one particularly compact cluster of sea fans, schools of
checkerboard wrasse and small fish fry congregate.
3 Three Islets
Location: These three rocky outcrops lie 30 km to the
southeast of North Twin Island.
Depth: Average 20m / Maximum 30m
This is the favourite site in the archipelago as there’s simply
so much to see. The islet is split in two from west to east by
a canyon and is a great place to encounter grey reef sharks 1
and marbled rays as they pass through. The whole site is
2
literally teeming with shrimps, eels, seahorses, anglerfish
and basketstars. Macro photographers could spend days
here and still not photograph everything. 3
4
4 Western Rocky 5 7
Location: A collection of small rocky outcrops 82km 6 8
southwest of the departure point of Kaw Thaung. 9
10
Depth: Average 20m / Maximum 30m
The underwater terrain here consists of pinnacles, both
outcropping and submerged. The largest outcrop has a cave
that cuts right through it and branches into a narrow and Had Nopparat Marine National Park
low exit; the tunnel itself is filled with painted lobsters, crabs Krabi Province is 940km south of Bangkok and has long been
and small invertebrates. The smaller exit of the tunnel is best a popular destination for budget travellers. An international
avoided since its exit is occasionally blocked by a couple airport and high end resorts attract a broad spectrum of
of large though harmless resident tawny nurse sharks. The visitors to the beaches, particularly families.
presence of tiny invertebrates continues around the other
pinnacles in the form of porcelain crabs, harlequin shrimps The area features some of Thailand’s most stunning landscape.
and squat lobsters. There’s also a variety of other smaller Sheer limestone cliffs are crowned with elevated jungles and
attractions around this site, including cowrie shells, seahorses coconut palms clad the hillsides above glorious beaches.
and ribbon eels. A variety of small reef sharks can be seen in The rugged cliff-faces are scarred with numerous caves and
the deeper waters. crevices, many of which are climbed by adventurous sports
Just one of many splendid vistas around the archipelago climbers.
130 131
DIVE SITES POCKE
PO KE T GUID
IDE DIV
DIV
VE THAILA
THAILAND
AND
DIVE SITES - KRABI
Krabi
1 Koh Ma Tang Ming 4 Koh Mae Urai
Location: Immediately north of Koh Podah Nai. Location: 1km southwest of Koh Podah Nai.
Depth: Average 6m / Maximum 14m Depth: Average 9m / Maximum16m
Although this is not one of the area’s better sites, it merits a This rocky outcrop features two underwater tunnels. As you
mention as it has reasonable diversities of both marine life and pass through the easternmost tunnel its exit acts as a natural
hard corals making it a rewarding introduction dive to the area. frame for glorious soft corals in whites, pinks, blues, oranges
Close inspection of the submerged rocks is recommended, and yellows. Beyond this coral garden, the sea-bed tapers
as numerous members of the scorpaenidae family – such as gradually down past shelves of rocks crowned with colourful
bearded scorpionfish and stonefish – are concealed on the featherstars and orange encrusting sponges. Magnificent
rocky ledges. Small yellow boxfish, rock basslets, moorish idols sea anemones host a variety of anemonefish.
and bannerfish add colour, as do trees of soft corals.
5 Hin Bia Rhlua
Hard corals are represented by staghorn, brain and some small Location: 500m southeast of Koh Mae Urai.
boulders of coral porites. The best area for snorkellers is around Depth: Average 9m / Maximum 16m
the eastern side where, close to the rock, there are many sea One of the local favourites. The southern side of the main
whips, large plate corals and associated reef inhabitants. outcrop is the deepest section of the dive, which gradually
gets shallower as it heads north and is mainly dominated
2 Koh Podah Nai by terraces of foliaceous corals. Below these are many small
Location: The largest of the offshore islands and islets, just boulders of lesser and greater star corals with the familiar
over 6Km south of Ao Nang Beach. punctuation of plume worms and sea whips. There’s a
Warning: Due to high volume of boat traffic, extreme care must narrow gorge in the northern apex of this site. Along its floor
be taken when snorkelling at this site. parrotfish peck away at hard corals and black-banded sea
Depth: Average 5m / Maximum 12m kraits weave in and out of the nooks and crannies along its
The northern beach of Koh Podah Nai slopes gently down to walls. Some sections of this site are relatively shallow, and
an extensive reef-flat, which continues outwards for a further are suitable for snorkellers to enjoy.
50m before it reaches an almost sheer slope which drops to
12m. At high tide the corals are covered with only 2m of water 6 Koh Ya Wa Sam
or less; at lower tides many coral heads actually break the Location: About 2km west of Podah Nok.
surface. These conditions render the particular area suitable Depth: Average 9m / Maximum 17m
only for snorkelling. The reef-slope off the southern outcrop climbs over many
rocks which provide the main structure of the site. Juvenile
Better corals and marine life are found a little way out. The black-tip reef and grey nurse sharks often rest among the
reef consists mainly of small clusters of staghorn, cauliflower rocks, with leopard sharks out on the sand.
and a number of leaf and plate corals. There are many narrow Tigertail seahorse
crevices and ledges that cut into the rocky walls of the island
itself, these are well worth investigating as tigertail seahorses
often conceal themselves within.
134 135
DIVE CENTRES PO
P OCKE T GU
GUIID
DE DDIV
IV
VE THAILAN
THAILA
THA
HAILAN
AILAND
ANND
D
DIVE CENTRES - KRABI
Krabi
Instruction | Day trips | Liveaboard | Nitrox | Gear Rental Kon-Tiki Krabi in Ao Nang is a fully equipped 5 Star IDC and
National Geographic Dive Center. With more than 30 years of
Retail | Snorkelling | Accommodation experience providing top-quality diving and snorkelling trips
If you are thinking of taking a diving course, or are already throughout Thailand, Kon-Tiki have become one of the most
a qualified diver, the professional and friendly staff will respected dive centres in the country. They promise you will
be pleased to look after you. 12 years of experience and learn something new on every trip with them and for your
professionalism were endorsed when Ao Nang Divers were comfort and safety, they offer Nitrox for Free.
announced as the winner of the 2006 PADI Tourism Award Kon-Tiki has won several awards for its commitment
for the Asia Pacific Region, which recognises excellence in and work towards a better understanding of the marine
the planning of tourism infrastructure and services. environment, with the latest being the ‘Project AWARE
As a certified diver or a snorkeller, enjoy day trips onboard Marine Environmental Award 2008’.
Ao Nang Divers, purpose built, comfortable and spacious Kon-Tiki offers the full range of PADI Dive education
25m diving vessel the Petchmanee 10. from entry-level to Instructor courses with highly trained,
The Ao Nang Divers travel section offers many services multilingual staff, who will make sure you have good fun and
such as accommodation, transfers and all kind of excursions the experience of a lifetime. You’ll find Kon-Tiki in all major
within the Krabi area. Drop them an email to find out more dive destinations in Southern Thailand from Khao Lak and
about their outstanding service. Phuket to Krabi and Koh Lanta.
136 137
DIVE CENTRES POCKE T GUIID
DE DIVVE THAILAN
HAILA
ANND
D
DIVE CENTRES - KRABI
Krabi
138 139
DIRECTORY PO
P OC
CKKET
K EETT GU
UIID
ID
DEE DDIVE
IVEE THAILAND
THA
AILAND
DIRECTORY - KRABI
Krabi
How to get there Dive facilities
Krabi can be reached directly by air, road and sea. Most of the area’s diving services are on Ao Nang Beach, either
as stand-alone dive centres or associated with the larger
By air: Krabi International Airport can be accessed from resorts or hotels. There is also one listed operator on Railae
a number of neighbouring countries, or via Bangkok’s West Beach. All the operators offer diving instruction and daily
Suvarnabhumi International Airport. Domestic flights are diving trips to the local sites and those further afield.
also scheduled between Krabi and Bangkok’s Don Muang
Airport. Domestic flight times average 80 minutes. There are Dive trips
also flights between Krabi and Koh Samui.
Dive trips run on a daily basis. All trips depart from Ao Nang
with pick-ups from Railae on the way to the dive sites, and
The three main carriers are: Bangkok Airways: Within
include light refreshments, fruit, drinking water, lunch and
Thailand, Tel. 1771; from outside Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)2
Divemaster services. On the majority of the local diving trips,
265 5555. Nok Air: Within Thailand, Tel. 1318; from outside
the surface interval can be spent on the island of Koh Podah
Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)2 900 9955. Thai Airways International:
Nai. Snorkellers can enjoy the reefs around this and Chicken
Tel. +66 (0)2 356 1111.
Island.
By boat: Longtail boats from Krabi Town to Ao Nang and
Day trips to the further destinations of Shark Point, Anemone
Railae take 40 minutes to reach Railae and another 5 minutes
Reef, King Cruiser Wreck and the Phi Phi Islands are also
to Ao Nang. Longtail boats also provide a regular service
available on a daily basis and snorkellers and non-divers are
between the two beaches.
welcome to join any of the trips. Hin Daeng and Mouang are
also visited.
Large passenger boats depart daily from Ao Nang, Railae
and Krabi Town to Koh Phi Phi, and to Koh Lanta from Krabi
Town. Hospitals
Krabi Provincial Hospital
By bus: VIP air-conditioned buses leave Bangkok’s Southern This hospital is in Krabi Town, but it’s basic.
Bus Terminal daily. The local bus terminal is just outside Krabi Tel. +66 (0)75 611227-8. If you do require treatment it’s
Town and takes 12 hours to reach. For further information advisable to get to Phuket.
regarding any bus services contact Bangkok Southern Bus
Terminal: Tel. +66 (0)2 435 1199, (0)2 435 1200. The Bangkok Hospital Phuket has a permanent
ambulance based in Krabi Town which serves the area.
Where to eat Emergency Ambulance: Tel. 1719
Ao Nang Beach: The larger hotels and resorts at Ao Nang all Diving Medicine Hotlines
have their own restaurants, but that’s not to say that they Tel. +66 (0)81 989 9482, (0)86 272 4618
are the only option for lunch or dinner. There are many
Recompression chambers
good eateries along the beach road, as well as along a
walkway that continues on at its northern end. The nearest recompression chambers are those on
Phuket. For details see page 107
At the opposite end of the beach, nestled amongst the shady
trees directly behind the beach, is the Last Café. This is an
ideal and unique place if you’re looking for light meals and Dive courses
beach snacks during the day. Courses for the complete beginner are very popular here,
as there’s a good selection of shallow sites. Local instruction
Railae: This beach differs from Ao Nang in that virtually all follows CMAS, NAUI, PADI or SSI diver training programs and
the restaurants are associated with individual beach resorts. is available in a variety of languages; the prices are similar
Family-run rustic-style cafés serve fantastic seafood dishes. and are fully inclusive of all equipment and certification.
140 141
dive sites
Koh Phi Phi
5
6
144 145
dive sites POCKET GUIDE dive thailand
dive centres - koh phi phi
Koh Phi Phi
variety of marine life, including small reef sharks, schooling
pelagics (barracudas, trevally, kingfish and tuna) and, for shark- Island Divers
spotters, bamboo, black-tip reef and leopard sharks. Reef Ton Sai Bay
inhabitants include angel and butterflyfish, morays, octopus, Tel/Fax. +66 (0)75 601082
seahorses and the occasional turtle! Mobile. +66 (0)89 873 2205
e. info@islanddiverspp.com
7 Koh Bida Nok w. www.islanddiverspp.com
Location: Outer outcrop directly south of Phi Phi Ley.
Depth: Average 19m / Maximum 30m Set on the beautiful Phi Phi Islands,
Gorgonian sea fans, sea whips and colourful soft corals Island Divers is one of the most
abound. Small scorpionfish disguise themselves amid the professional dive centres in this
rocks; lionfish hover between. Varying sizes and species of region. They have been established since 1996 and divers of
all levels have enjoyed Island Divers’ high standards of safety,
colourful parrotfish and wrasse, along with large schools of friendly, professional service and world class dive sites.
moorish idols and hunting trumpetfish, are at all depths. On
the higher ledges are numerous sea anemones populated by Instruction | Day trips | Gear rental | Retail | Snorkelling
clownfish. Expect encounters with leopard sharks and, on a Fully qualified Divemasters from Island Divers offer certified
grander scale, manta rays and whale sharks. divers daily tours of the spectacular Phi Phi Marine National
Park and it’s neighbouring dive sites, King Cruiser Wreck, Hin
8 Hin Bida Daeng and Koh Ha.
Location: Outcrop 8km southeast of Koh Phi Phi Ley.
Island Divers also offers international SSI and PADI dive
Depth: Average 12m / Maximum 18m courses from one day beginner right through to Divemaster
Relatively shallow at around 5m, the area due north of the every day of the year. Their commitment to diver safety
outcrop is covered with scattered rocks; in calm conditions ensures a safe and fun dive course with small groups,
snorkellers and divers can enjoy schools of colourful reef- maximum 4 students per instructor.
fish, including blue-lined snappers and harlequin sweetlips,
DIVEMASTER INTERNSHIPS are also available from Island
and more static attractions like multicoloured plume worms, Divers. In just two months they can take you from a novice
featherstars and crinoids. diver to a dive professional with an international qualification.
All this fun while making sure you are taught to the highest
This location’s secondary name (Phi Phi’s Shark Point) refers possible standard.
to the overwhelming presence of leopard sharks. There
are also lots of cuttlefish, squid and titan triggerfish. Large
undulated and golden morays, spiny lobsters and octopi
attempt to obscure themselves within the many craggy
holes and crevices.
Relax on one of Phi Phi’s long beaches
146 147
dive centres POCKET GUIDE dive thailand
dive centres - koh phi phi
Koh Phi Phi
148 149
diRECTORY POCKET GUIDE dive thailand
directory - koh phi phi
Koh Phi Phi
How to get there
Hospitals
There are daily boat transfers to and from Krabi, Koh Lanta
The nearest hospitals are those in Krabi Town and on
and Phuket. For information on how to get to: Krabi see
Phuket. It’s advisable, if possible, to get to one of the
p140, Koh Lanta p160 and Phuket p106.
hospitals on Phuket.
Where to eat Krabi Provincial Hospital: Tel. +66 (0)75 611227-8
Narrow streets and walkways on Koh Phi Phi Don traverse Recompression chambers
both the isthmus and follow along the two coastlines and The nearest recompression chambers are on Phuket.
are substantially punctuated by a range of restaurants, cafes For details see page 107.
and bakeries purveying a broad selection of European and
Thai menus. Pizzerias, hamburger and steak joints, ice cream
parlours and, as you would expect, seafood restaurants are
For more information on Koh Phi Phi contact Tourism
all but a short stroll away from each other.
Authority of Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)76 212213, (0)76 211036.
For best information and insight on where and what to eat, Hand-painted korlae fishing boat
see Pocket Guide FOOD Thailand − launching first quarter of PG
2010 − and its online version, www.foodguidethailand.com
Dive facilities
The majority of Koh Phi Phi’s dive operators are located in
the small, and only, town in Ton Sai Bay on Koh Phi Phi Don.
Diving is a big attraction here and there are plenty of dive
centres in order to cater for the demand. The standard of service
is high with virtually all the major languages being spoken.
Dive trips
Trips run twice daily, departing at around 08.00hrs and 14.00hrs:
most offer light refreshments, fruit, lunch and Divemaster
services. Not all operators include equipment in the price.
The larger dive boats carry fresh water tanks for rinsing
photographic equipment, but longtail boats do not.
Snorkellers and non-divers are welcome to join any of the
scheduled diving trips; masks and fins are available for hire.
If you want to organise your own snorkelling trip you can hire
a longtail from Ao Ton Sai or Hat Yao for a reasonable charge.
Dive courses
Courses for the complete beginner are very popular here, as
there is a good selection of shallow sites. Local instruction
follows CMAS, PADI, NAUI and SSI diver training programmes;
prices are similar and are fully inclusive of all equipment and
certification.
150 151
dive sites
Koh Lanta
1
3
2
5
6
The most tourist facilities are found on Koh Lanta Yai; there
are numerous bungalow resorts and even a couple of luxury
spa and hotel complexes – and even more on the way.
154 155
dive sites POCKET GUIDE dive thailand
dive centres - koh lanta
Koh Lanta
7 Hin Daeng
Location: 500m from Hin Mouang. Ko Lanta Diving Center
Depth: Average 25m / Maximum 35m Saladan
A series of wall dives with intermittent shelves at varying Dive Centre. +66 (0)75 668065
depths. There are more soft corals than hard, but the main Hotline. +66 (0)86 983 6118
attraction is the seemingly endless diversity of marine e. info@kolantadivingcenter.com
inhabitants, including leopard sharks, turtles, moray eels, w. www.kolantadivingcenter.com
lionfish, bannerfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, pipefish, sea kraits,
crabs, shrimps and lobsters. This is due to the fact that this, and Instruction | Day trips | Nitrox | Rebreather
neighbouring Hin Mouang, are the only reef-type communities Cave diving | Gear rental | Retail | Snorkelling
or feeding grounds within the area. Individually, though, they Accommodation
have different attractions. For instance, the deeper waters
around this site are one of the few remaining places in the Ko Lanta Diving Center was the first dive shop on the island
country where grey reef sharks can be encountered. Manta and was established in 1992 by underwater photographer
rays and whale sharks are also regular visitors. and author Christian Mietz. They were the first TDA Diving
Association member and CMAS 5 Star Examiner Academy in
the country. They are also a CMAS 5 Star TEC Academy.
8 Hin Mouang
Location: 27km west of Koh Rok. The full range of recreational and TEC diving courses up to
Depth: Average 23m / Maximum 70m+ Instructor level are available including Nitrox and rebreather
courses.
This is one of the best dive sites in Thai waters. A series of six or
more submerged pinnacles heads southwest, the shallowest Daily trips visit all the best spots in the southern Andaman
being about 8m beneath the surface. The site gets its name Sea including Hin Daeng and Mouang and the Koh Ha group
courtesy of the carpet of purple sea anemones which cloak of Islands onboard their purpose built 20m diving boat M/V
Choksomboon 1.
its upper surfaces. This is a very colourful and exciting site.
Large pelagics often visit, including enormous barracuda Diving is conducted in small led groups, or those experienced
and very large tuna. Manta rays and whale sharks regularly enough can explore the reefs without direct guidance. Nitrox
frequent the surrounding waters, as do large stingrays. and rebreathers are available for qualified divers.
Harlequin ghostpipefish outside the cave at Koh Ha Yai Special cave diving tours around the provinces of Phang Nga
and Krabi are also scheduled.
156 157
dive centres POCKET GUIDE dive thailand
dive centres - koh lanta
Koh Lanta
158 159
directory POCKET GUIDE dive thailand
directory - koh lanta
Koh Lanta
How to get there Dive facilities
Koh Lanta Yai can be reached by scheduled boat services The majority of the island’s operators are located in Saladan.
from Krabi Town, Koh Phi Phi Don, Phuket and Ban Baw The main operators also have booking offices at a number of
Muang pier northwest of Trang Town. To reach the island via the island’s resorts.
the town, transfer by minibus or taxi to the pier at Ban Baw
Muang, around 40km north of town. The recommended way All the operators on the island offer dive education and daily
to access Koh Lanta Yai is to arrive at Krabi Town and transfer dive trips. Some of the more established dive centres carry a
to the boat service or arrive at the airport and have the dive retail selection.
operator arrange the connecting road transfer.
Dive trips
By air: Koh Lanta can be reached from the nearby airports
in Krabi and Trang. Whichever airport is used, a transfer will All trips depart from the northern fishing port of Saladan
need to be arranged to the island. This takes around an hour at around 08.00hrs and return during the late afternoon.
from either airport and is best arranged in advance through Included in the price are refreshments, fruit, drinking water,
one of the dive operators. lunch and Divemaster(s) services.
Via Trang. Daily flights depart Bangkok’s Don Muang airport.
The cost of day trips varies depending on the destination.
Flight time is 90 minutes. For more information contact
Snorkellers and non-divers are welcome to join scheduled
Nok Air: Within Thailand, Tel. 1318; from outside Thailand,
diving trips; snorkelling equipment is available. The larger
Tel. +66 (0)2 900 9955.
dive boats will carry fresh water tanks for rinsing diving and
Via Krabi. Daily flights depart Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi photographic equipment.
International and Don Muang airports. Flight times average
80 minutes. There are also flights from Koh Samui. The
three main carriers are: Bangkok Airways: Within Thailand,
Hospitals
Tel. 1771; from outside Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)2 265 5555.
Nok Air: Within Thailand, Tel. 1318; from outside Thailand, The nearest hospitals are in Trang Town.
Tel. +66 (0)2 900 9955. Thai Airways International: Tel. +66 Racha Damnern Hospital, Tel. +66 (0)75 211203
(0)2 356 1111. Watana Pat Hospital, Tel. +66 (0)75 218332
By bus: VIP air-conditioned buses leave Bangkok’s Southern Trang Chatasongkroh Hospital, Tel. +66 (0)75 218060
Bus Terminal twice daily. Journey time is 17hrs. For Note that, if possible, it is better to head for the amenities
information on the bus service contact Bangkok Southern and emergency services on Phuket. The Bangkok Hospital
Bus Terminal: Tel. +66 (0)2 435 1199, (0)2 435 1200. Phuket has a permanent ambulance based in Krabi Town
By Boat: There are daily boat transfers to and from Krabi which serves Koh Lanta, Tel. 1719
Town, Koh Phi Phi and Phuket.
Recompression chambers
By train: Three types of service run from Bangkok to Trang
The nearest recompression chambers are on Phuket.
and as it is a 15hr journey it is advisable to travel sleeper
For details see page 107.
class. Trains can be booked up to 90 days in advance –
recommended as they fill up quickly. For information
regarding train service contact Hua Lumphong Railway
Station, Tel. +66 (0)2 223 7010. Dive courses
Local instruction has a choice of CMAS, PADI and SSI training
Where to eat programmes, the complete range of which is available,
Virtually all the island’s resorts have their own eateries. If including the professional levels of Divemaster and Instructor.
they don’t, it’s only a short stroll along the beach to one that There are also a number of speciality courses, which run over
does! There are a few independent restaurants and bakeries two to three days. The courses’ timetables are structured to
around the island. The port of Saladan has a worthy selection suit both students and dive centres.
of local fare, seafood restaurants, pizzerias and bakeries.
For best information and insight on where and what to eat, For more information on Koh Lanta contact Tourism Authority
see Pocket Guide FOOD Thailand − launching first quarter of PG of Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)76 212213, (0)76 211036.
2010 − and its online version, www.foodguidethailand.com
160 161
dive sites
Koh Tao
1 4
5
6
Around and beyond the rocks the fish life becomes more The resident fish are dominated by blue-spotted and red
prolific. There are lots of bullethead parrotfish, checkerboard coral groupers, bannerfish and moorish idols. Fusiliers and
wrasse, red-tailed butterflyfish and emperor angelfish, and snappers are found in small groups in the deeper waters. This
large white snappers, cuttlefish and jacks. is a fairly reliable place to see green and hawksbill turtles.
164 165
dive sites POCKET GUIDE dive thailand
dive centres - koh tao
Koh Tao
7 Ao Leuk
Location: Koh Tao’s southeast coast. Big Blue Diving Resort
Depth: Average 6m / Maximum 12m Sairee Beach
This is really a diver-training site, and provides an excellent Tel. +66 (0)77 456415
alternative to the two at Nang Yuan: if weather makes one +66 (0)81 920 5698
inaccessible, the other will not be. The seascape is ideal for Fax. +66 (0)77 456772
those taking their first breaths beneath the ocean’s surface. e. info@bigbluediving.com
w. www.bigbluediving.com,
The sand is broken by small mounds of staghorn corals www.bigbluelog.blogspot.com
and numerous patches of long-spined black sea urchins.
Mushroom corals lie individually scattered, as do small Instruction | Day trips | Nitrox | Gear rental | Retail
sponge-encrusted rocks. Snorkelling | Accommodation
Big Blue Diving Resort, on Sairee Beach has three dive boats
The dominating species among the many fish around these to cater for all levels of diving experience and offers up to 10
undulating rocks are parrotfish, wrasse, juvenile snappers, different dive sites each day.
squirrelfish and soldierfish. Away from the rocks, numbers of
They offer all PADI & SSI dive courses from the beginner
yellowtail barracuda and schooling bannerfish pass by. certification course of Open Water up to the professional
level of Instructor training. They also have a lively beach
8 Red Rock (Shark Island) bar with a great restaurant with free wi-fi, that is offered to
Location: 1km off the southern tip of Koh Tao. everyone diving or staying in either their beach bungalows
Depth: Average 15m / Maximum 28m or fan & air-conditioned rooms.
The good thing about this site, provided access is possible, Big Blue Resort also offers a laundry service and free taxi
is that you can virtually always have a pleasant dive; it also services to and from the pier twice a day.
offers very good night-diving. The site consists of a steeply
Great reputation, great service, great diving. They also have
sloping reef.
their own profile on the social networking website ‘Facebook’
where they regularly share all the latest updates.
The shallower part, around the northeast section, varies
from 4m to 2m and is an excellent place to snorkel. Lavish
sea anemone gardens and table corals are interspersed
with large flat-topped rocks, providing a playground for a
multitude of reef-fish: titan triggerfish, pairs of blue-ringed
angelfish, lunar and bicolour wrasse, large parrotfish and
fusiliers. In the sand, blue-spotted stingrays can be seen.
There have also been reliable sightings of hawksbill and
green turtles, and as the name implies, reef sharks!
9 Southwest Pinnacles
Location: About 7km southwest of Koh Tao.
Depth: Average 17m / Maximum 28m
These three submerged pinnacles represent a series of short
wall-dives. The more noticeable of the surrounding reef-life
includes groupers, schooling bannerfish, moorish idols and
humpback snappers. In the gullies between the rocks are
many bushy black corals, sea whips and gorgonian sea fans,
all in relatively good health. Butterflyfish, including raccoon
and threadfin, share these waters. The walls of the pinnacles
have many Neptune barrel sponges, which increase in size the
deeper they are.
Away from the rocks there are many pelagics, including great
barracuda and juvenile yellowtails, mackerel, trevallies, dog-
faced tuna, rainbow runners and big-eye jacks.
166 167
dive centres POCKET GUIDE dive thailand
dive centres - koh tao
Koh Tao
168 169
directory POCKET GUIDE dive thailand
Koh Tao
How to get there For best information and insight on where and what to eat,
Koh Tao can be reached directly by sea and indirectly by air, PG see Pocket Guide FOOD Thailand − launching first quarter of
rail and road. 2010 − and its online version, www.foodguidethailand.com
By air: There are no airports on Koh Tao, but flights to Dive facilities
neighbouring Koh Samui provide relatively easy access to the
Many operators display high certifications of merit from their
island. Flight routes are as follows:
various affiliated training agencies for all-round service, and
Bangkok Airways: Daily flights from (domestic) Krabi, Phuket rightly so; the average standards found throughout the island’s
and Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport and from diving community are impressive. All operators have their
(international) Hong Kong and Singapore to Koh Samui. own, or are associated to a nearby source of, accommodation.
Contact: Within Thailand, Tel. 1771; from outside Thailand, The larger resorts all have their own restaurants. If they don’t
Tel. +66 (0)2 265 5555. there’s one close by. Internet services are also becoming more
Thai Airways International: Daily flights from Bangkok’s commonplace in the island’s dive centres.
Suvarnabhumi International Airport to Koh Samui and Surat
Thani (on the mainland). Contact: Tel. +66 (0)2 356 1111. Dive trips
Nok Air: Daily flights from Bangkok’s Don Muang Airport to Most of the diving facilities have their own dive boats. Some
Surat Thani. Contact: Within Thailand, Tel. 1318; from outside trips include fruit and soft beverages whereas others provide
Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)2 900 9955. only drinking water. Weather permitting, local dive sites are
Transfer to connecting boat services is by air-conditioned visited twice daily, once in the morning and again in the
minibus. Two high speed catamarans depart twice daily afternoon. Day trips to Sail Rock and the Samran Pinnacles
(weather permitting). Both boats stop off at Koh Phangan to leave only in the morning and include lunch. All trips offer
pick up and drop off passengers. The overall trip takes around two dives and include equipment.
two hours and is the preferred way to reach Koh Tao from
the neighbouring islands. The catamarans also sail between
Hospitals & recompression chambers
Chumphon and Koh Tao on a daily basis. For further information
contact Lomprayah High Speed Catamaran: Tel. +66(0)77 The nearest hospitals and recompression chambers are
247401 or Seatran Discovery: Tel. +66 (0)77 246086-8. those located on Koh Samui. See page 183 for details.
By bus and boat: All-in packages from Bangkok to Koh Although hospitals do not exist on Koh Tao, there’s a
Tao are available daily. They generally depart Khao San physicians clinic on Sairee Beach which is affiliated with
Road early evening and travel overnight to arrive on Koh the Bangkok Hospital Samui on Koh Samui. The clinic’s
Tao the following morning. Packages include both bus resident doctor is proficient in diving medicine and regularly
and boat. For more information contact Seatran Discovery: consults with the Badalveda Diving Medicine Network.
Tel. +66 (0)77 246086-8.
Alternatively, VIP air-conditioned buses travel from Bangkok The clinic has a number of beds and there’s an evacuation
daily. The journey breaks in Chumphon Town; the passenger procedure to the recompression chamber at Bangkok
ferry pier on the Thapao River is 30 minutes by local bus or Hospital Samui, which can be contacted via the Diving
taxi. For more information on bus services contact Bangkok Medicine Hotlines. Tel. +66 (0)86 272 4618, (0)81 989 9482
Southern Bus Terminal: Tel. +66 (0)2 435 1199, 02 435 1200.
By train and boat: Express and Sprinter trains depart
Bangkok Hua Lumphong Railway Station daily. For further Dive courses
information regarding train services contact Hua Lumphong This is a great place to indulge in diver training; the facilities
Railway Station: Tel. +66 (0)2 223 7010. are good, the accommodation comfortable and the courses
are both enjoyable and economical. Instruction on the island
Where to eat follows BSAC, CMAS, PADI and SSI training structures. It’s
The majority of the dive resorts are self-contained with their possible to become certified to all levels of recreational and
own restaurants. If they’re not, it’s a short walk to the nearest technical training, including instructor.
eatery – and it’s not all local fare! If you fancy sampling a
delicious meal of international favourites, including Indian,
Italian and Mexican, drop into one of the many restaurants in For more information on Koh Tao, contact Tourism Authority
Mae Haad and on Sairee Beach. of Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)77 281828.
170 171
dive sites POCKET GUIDE dive thailand
dive sites - koh phangan
Koh Phangan
1 Koh Ma
Location: Off the northwest coast of Koh Phangan.
Depth: Average 9m / Maximum 30m
This is considered the most interesting Koh Phangan site.
The marine life is good and the corals reasonably healthy.
1 Away from the reef are schools of fusiliers, red snappers and
blue-striped grunts; groups of cuttlefish occasionally mingle
with pairs of Imperial and blue-ringed angelfish. Honeycomb
groupers, parrotfish, wrasse and butterflyfish stay closer to
KOH PHANGAN the reefs, and anemones and sponges encrust it. The reef itself
consists mainly of numerous boulders of lesser star, double
star and brain corals of varying sizes; the deeper waters have
2
black corals dividing up the rocky borderline.
174 175
directory POCKET GUIDE dive thailand
directory - koh phangan
Koh Phangan
How to get there For best information and insight on where and what to eat,
Koh Phangan can be reached indirectly by air, rail and road PG see Pocket Guide FOOD Thailand − launching first quarter of
and directly by sea. 2010 − and its online version, www.foodguidethailand.com
By air: There are no airports on Koh Phangan, but flights to Dive facilities
neighbouring Koh Samui provide relatively easy access to the
Koh Phangan is becoming an increasingly popular diving
island. Flight routes are as follows:
destination and there’s a selection of facilities on the island
Bangkok Airways: Daily flights from (domestic) Krabi, Phuket ranging from small dive centres up to 5-star resort operations
and Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport and from to meet the growing demand. These are backed up by
(international) Hong Kong and Singapore to Koh Samui. numerous booking offices, which − although found along the
Contact: Within Thailand, Tel. 1771; from outside Thailand, island’s beaches − mainly concentrate along the west coast.
Tel. +66 (0)2 265 5555.
Thai Airways International: Daily flights from Bangkok’s Dive trips
Suvarnabhumi International Airport to Koh Samui and Surat
The price per diver for visiting the local sites is inclusive of all
Thani (on the mainland). Contact: Tel. +66 (0)2 356 1111.
equipment, boat, Divemaster, fruit and soft drinks. Day trips to
Nok Air: Daily flights from Bangkok’s Don Muang Airport to Ang Thong Marine Park, the Samran Pinnacles and Sail Rock
Surat Thani. Contact: Within Thailand, Tel. 1318; from outside are also all-inclusive and you even get lunch and breakfast!
Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)2 900 9955. Local dive trips include a number of sites accessed directly off
By bus: Daily VIP air-conditioned buses from Bangkok’s the beach as well as some dived from Longtail boats.
Southern Bus Terminal. The journey to Surat Thani takes 12
hours. Buses connect with the Express Boat in Surat Thani, Hospitals & recompression chambers
or continue for an extra hour’s journey to join the ferry boat The nearest hospitals and recompression chambers are
in Donsak. For information contact Bangkok Southern Bus those located on Koh Samui. See page 183 for details.
Terminal: Tel. +66 (0)2 435 1199, (0)2 435 1200.
Phangan Medical Center in Ban Tai, to the south of Thong
By boat: Express boats depart five times daily from Surat Sala, is run by Bangkok Hospital Samui and is open 24
Thani pier, and there is a passenger ferry (day and night) from hours. Tel. +66 (0)75 239599
Donsak, east of Surat Thani town. The journey to Koh Phangan Diving Medicine Hotlines
takes two and a half hours. All boats arrive at Thong Sala jetty. Tel. +66 (0)86 272 4618, (0)81 989 9482.
Express Boats leave Na Thon pier regularly between 07.00hrs
and 17.00hrs and arrive at Thong Sala 45 minutes later.
Dive courses
Boats also depart from Koh Samui’s Bo Phut pier and arrive at
Haad Rin beach 30 minutes later. Two high speed catamarans The full range of dive courses is available on the island, up to
depart Koh Samui twice daily (weather permitting). For further and including the level of Instructor. There is also a range of
more contact Seatran Discovery: Tel. +66 (0)77 246086-8 or technical diver training. Course prices are typical of the area
Lomprayah High Speed Catamaran: Tel. +66(0)77 247401. and there are good deals available for group and multiple
bookings. Courses are available in a variety of languages.
By train: There are two worthy train services from Bangkok
to Surat Thani. The ‘Express’ train, which leaves Bangkok Hua For more information on Koh Phangan contact Tourism
Lumphong Railway Station every hour or so and takes around Authority of Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)77 281828.
12 hours, and the ‘Sprinter’ train, which departs five times Sail Rock
daily and takes around nine hours. For further information
regarding train services, contact Hua Lumphong Railway
Station: Tel. +66 (0)2 223 7010.
Where to eat
Aside from all the eateries and bustling activity found at the
two Haad Rin beaches, the majority of the island’s resorts
have their own restaurants. Most have a good selection of
dishes following Thai and European recipes, and of course
there’s always the delicious local seafood.
176 177
dive sites POCKET GUIDE dive thailand
dive sites - koh samui
Koh Samui
Diving around Koh Samui
2 There are several enjoyable dives to be had around Koh Samui
1
itself, all but one of which are reached by 10-90 minutes boat
trips. However, the best sites are further north, requiring
boat trips. More experienced divers can enjoy exciting and
exhilarating deep wall-dives; divers of all levels can enjoy a
variety of fringing reefs.
1 Samran Pinnacles
Location: About 19km north of Koh Phangan.
Depth: Average 18m / Maximum 28m
Pelagic enthusiasts will find this site terrific, as you encounter
school after school of great barracuda, threadfin trevally, big-
eyed jacks, Spanish mackerel and dog-faced tuna. There are
three main pinnacles – the top of the tallest is 12m below the
surface – plus a mountainous terrain of scattered rocks large
enough to swim around and explore. The larger of these
rocks are obscured by healthy masses of soft corals, featuring
3 shimmering whites, reds, oranges and yellows. Marine life
around the pinnacles consists mainly of honeycomb groupers,
juvenile morays and schooling bannerfish. Large red and white
5 snappers and fusiliers wander in the deeper waters.
6
4
2 Sail Rock
Location: 8km east of the Samran Pinnacles.
Depth: Average 22m / Maximum 34m
This site is probably the finest in the Gulf of Thailand. It is a wall-
dive surrounded by a number of smaller but still impressive
pinnacles. On the northern wall; at a depth of 16m, is a great
example of a Neptune barrel sponge. This impressive section
of the wall is also heavily encrusted with orange sponges;
many oysters and clams cling to the craggy surface.
6 Koh Wao
Location: To the southwest of Hin Nippon
Depth: Average 6m / Maximum 20m
The bottom composition comprises of small mounds of
lesser star boulder corals punctuated with plume worms:
there are also mixed table staghorns and good examples of
cauliflower, lettuce and vase corals. Into the deeper waters,
the reef becomes steeper. There are many sea anemones,
and pink anemonefish.
5 Koh Man Wichai – east reef Associated reef inhabitants are also plentiful. As you arrive,
Location: About 2km south of Koh Klung Baden. moorish idols, fusiliers and snappers often shy away into
Depth: Average 12m / Maximum 15m the darker recesses. This wreck can be penetrated, although
The sea-bed is littered with numerous clumps and mounds of a number of snagged nets restrict some passageways and
smooth porite corals. Most of the corals are in large patches, caution is required. Many of the steel plates, doors and
not fringing reefs, as with most of this area’s sites. The water portholes remain in place, and the engine is intact.
deepens towards the south; an elongated plateau is covered
in gardens of sea anemones, together with their abundant 9 Koh Rong Khon
symbiotes: Three-spot dascyllus and pink anemonefish. The Location: Off the northeast tip of east of Koh Chuang.
waters are good for snorkellers. Depth: Average 9m / Maximum 60m
When entering the water in an incoming tide start at the
6 Koh Rin Bay southern end of the rocks and drift in the current along the
Location: About 1km southwest of Hin Khao. length of the two islands. When reaching the northern end
Depth: Average 7m / Maximum 14m follow the rocks around to the other side and into calmer
A steadily sloping reef, consisting of fallen rocks covered waters. The northern tip of these islands is very deep and is
with a few foliaceous corals, falls dramatically to the north popular with Tech divers.
in the south east bay. A higher percentage of corals slowly Scorpionfish awaiting prey behind a sea anemone
begin to dominate the rocks to a depth of 12m, where you
find sea whips and black coral bushes.
The diversity of marine life is above average for the area, with
many examples of harlequin sweetlips, snappers, squirrelfish
and lionfish. Communities of magnificent sea anemones,
three-spot dascyllus, basslets and chromis are restricted
to the rocky ledges. Neptune barrel sponges lodge among
the crevices and are inhabited by moray eels and a range of
invertebrates. The shallow bay is ideal for snorkelling.
188 189
directory POCKET GUIDE dive thailand
Pattaya
How to get there Trips are all-day affairs which depart in the morning and
return in the late afternoon, they include transfers to and from
It’s possible to access the Pattaya area by air, road and rail; air
the dive boat, two dives and lunch onboard. For the trips to
and road are the better options.
the southern sites divers are transferred to the fishing village
By air: Pattaya is best served by Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi of Samaesan by local bus where they join the dive boats at
International Airport. Journey time to central Pattaya by one of the jetties. There are also occasional overnight trips to
road is between one-two hours. The three main carriers are: the sites around Koh Chang.
Bangkok Airways: Within Thailand, Tel. 1771; from outside
Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)2 265 5555. Nok Air: Within Thailand,
Tel. 1318; from outside Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)2 900 9955. Thai Hospitals
Airways International: Tel. +66 (0)2 356 1111. There is also There are three main hospitals that serve the area. Two
an airport at U-Tapao served by Bangkok Airways. are in the city centre, the other is slightly north of the
town on the main route (Sukhumvit Road) to Bangkok.
By bus: Air-conditioned buses leave Bangkok every 30
Bangkok Hospital Pattaya on Sukhumvit Road
minutes from the Eastern Bus Terminal. The journey takes
24 Hr Contacts Centre: Within Thailand, Tel. 1719; from
just under three hours. From Pattaya bus terminal to the city
outside Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)38 259999
centre and Jomtien, take one of the local taxi-buses from the
terminal. For more information contact Bangkok Eastern Pattaya International Hospital on Beach Road
Bus Terminal: Tel. +66 (0)2 391 2504, (0)2 391 4900. 24 Hr Emergency contact: Tel. +66 (0)38 428374
Pattaya Memorial Hospital on Central Road
Where to eat Tel. +66 (0)38 429422-4
While the majority of Pattaya’s hotels have good restaurants,
the general trend is to eat out. Locals claim that it’s possible Recompression chambers
to eat in a different restaurant every night of the year and The nearest chamber is part of the Badalveda Diving
still miss some! Medicine Network and is located in the Bangkok
Hospital Pattaya.
The range of eateries is vast; all the well known fast food Diving Medicine Hotlines
establishments have premises here. There’s also a good +66 (0)81 989 9482, (0)86 272 4618
selection of economical restaurants with plenty of Pizza e. vedainfo@badalveda.com, w. www.badalveda.com
parlours, steak houses, brasseries, bistros and bakeries.
Upmarket restaurants are also countless, with menus from
virtually every country in the world. Local fare is also well Dive courses
represented with specialities including extravagant lobster PADI and NAUI recreational and IANTD diving courses are
dishes and hot and spicy dry curries, originating from Laos. offered in a variety of languages. Prices can vary between
A similar scenario exists along Jomtien Beach. agencies and individual operators. Diving Internships, where
individuals get the chance to go from complete beginner to
For best information and insight on where and what to eat,
the professional level of diving Instructor or Divemaster over
see Pocket Guide FOOD Thailand − launching first quarter of PG a defined period of time, are big news in Pattaya.
2010 − and its online version, www.foodguidethailand.com
These all-in packages can include all training, materials,
Dive facilities equipment and accommodation. Aside from the recreational
While the diving is divided into two main areas, the operators dive training, technical training is a big thing here. There
are mostly based in Pattaya City, and there’s a variety to is also an Association of Scuba Service Engineers and
choose from. Services range from small booking kiosks in the Technicians (ASSET) training centre in Jomtien for those
street up to multilingual 5-Star facilities and training centres. wishing to become dive industry technicians, or increase
A few of the more established centres maintain a healthy their current level of qualification.
retail selection.
3
4
5 6
7
9 8
10
11
5 Hin Rap
Location: Around 300m south of Blueberry Hill.
Depth: Average 11m / Maximum 16m
This site can be divided into two dives. The first is around the
rock, and is a good place to spot turtles, batfish, stonefish,
porcupine fish, stingrays, and morays amongst both hard
and soft corals. Away from the reef barracudas frequently
pass by. The second, northern section is a bit deeper and
displays more corals along with a lovely small canyon. Fish
life in evidence includes anemonefish, angelfish, groupers,
parrotfish and triggerfish. Rays and morays are also regular
encounters as is the occasional turtle. The waters here
are more often than not very clear and are popular with
snorkellers.
194 195
dive sites POCKET GUIDE dive thailand
dive sites - koh chang
Koh Chang
6 Koh Wai 9 Koh Rang Pinnacles
Location: Immediately east of Koh Khlum. Location: West of Koh Tien West.
Depth: Average 9m / Maximum 20m Depth: Average 15m / Maximum 30m
This is a nice shallow fringing reef, consisting of mainly hard A great multi-level site and a strong favourite with underwater
corals with soft corals along the deeper part of the reef-slope. photographers. Of the two main pinnacles, one is at 12m, the
The best features are at depths shallower than 12m, making other at 5m; the seabed between them is at 21m. There is a
the site suitable for the less experienced. good shelf of coral on the deeper pinnacle, at about 15m.
The site’s western side consists of coral drop-offs. Parrotfish
The shallower parts of the reef are characterised by a plentiful are plentiful and reef sharks are often spotted. Smaller blue-
range of reef-fish and small invertebrates. An attraction of spotted ribbontail rays are on view at about 12m. Pelagics
the deeper waters is that you may be lucky enough to spot often intrude into the surrounding waters, most of which are
a leopard shark or a stingray on the sandy bottom. Being barracuda, but there are also cobias.
reasonably sheltered, this is a fine site for night diving.
10 Koh Yak and Koh Laun
7 Koh Kra Location: About 1 km to the east of Koh Rang.
Location: Off the northeast shore of Koh Rang Yai. Depth: Average 8m / Maximum 12m
Depth: Average 7m / Maximum 12m These small islands are fringed with a very beautiful coral
Although snorkelling is the major appeal here, these islands reef, with a rich diversity of marine life. Both islands are small
also offer some beautiful diving. The rocks are pitted with enough to dive around, and due to the shallow depths there
numerous crevasses rich in marine life, and the corals are should be enough time to explore them in detail.
very healthy and varied, including big tables of staghorn
corals co-existing with anemones of all sizes and colours. 11 Hin Kuak Ma
Further down, on the sandy bottom, you should be able to Location: About 1km east Koh Yak and Koh Laun.
spot a blue-spotted ribbontail and blotched rays idling. Depth: Average 10m / Maximum 16m
This is one of the best dives in this area. The south side of
8 Koh Tien West the site is a rocky wall, where it is good to spot a variety of
Location: Off the northwest coast of Koh Rang. marine life such as eels, nudibranchs and stonefish. The
Depth: Average 10m / Maximum 16m opposite side of the rock is a slope, covered in coral, and
On the south side of the island is an enormous staghorn coral with an abundance of fish. Amongst the common residents
formation well worth exploring, as many fish shelter amongst of reef fishes, blue-spotted ribbontail rays and morays are
the sharp coral branches. Also a great snorkelling site. occasionally encountered, along with bamboo sharks and
turtles. The waters around this site, also referred to as Three
The Koh Chang Archipelago’s clear waters are perfect for snorkelling too. Finger Rock, are good for snorkelling.
196 197
dive centres POCKET GUIDE dive thailand
dive centres - koh chang
Koh Chang
Tel. +66 (0)39 551518, Fax. +66 (0)39 551519 Instruction | Day trips | Liveaboard | Nitrox | Tec diving |
e. kohchangdivesupply@gmail.com Gear rental | Retail | Snorkelling | Accommodation
w. www.kohchangdivesupply.com This English owned and operated PADI 5 Star Dive Center
evolved from Tecevolution and is now based on the island of
Dive and snorkel equipment sales and service Koh Chang, offering everything from snorkelling to rebreather
diving. PADI and TDI courses run throughout the year with a
This is the main wholesale and retail outlet for all kinds of diving 100% safety record around fantastic corals and wrecks.
and snorkelling equipment on Thailand’s eastern seaboard,
stretching from Pattaya to Koh Chang into Cambodia. The standard of the boat and all equipment are high, the
latter being replaced every 12 months. The dive boat, M/V
Koh Chang Dive Supply offers and stocks a wide variety of Evolution has two spacious decks offering a huge kitting
major brand names including Bauer, Deep Blue, Luxfer, PADI, up area and massive platform for easy entries. Different
Pelican, Saekodive, Scubapro, Seac Sub, Suunto, Trident and dive sites are visited everyday to suit beginner to advanced
many more, ensuring that customers have a really good divers. Breakfast is served on the comfortable upper deck
choice. and a lunch of Thai and western food between dives. Free
With experience and qualifications, they also provide a soft drinks are available all day long.
repair and service centre for all types and brands of dive There are three centres on the island; White Sand Beach, Kai
equipment. Bae and Lonely Beach, each packed full of equipment for
snorkellers to tec-divers. Scuba-evolution is also the island’s
main suppliers of Apeks, Beuchat, Mares, Technisub, Ripcurl
and Ocean Dynamics brand names.
198 199
dive centres
Koh Chang
2009: Issue 5
are IDC’s and internship packages. Alle in der
All diving courses, daily diving and snorkelling are conducted
on a choice of either a large dive boat complete with
Familie
• Ausrüstung für Kids
sundeck, shower and toilet or luxury speedboat and include
LAUNCH ISSUE
2009: Issue #103
www.ScubaDiverAA.com
WE ARE GOING
PLACES!
200
directory POCKET GUIDE dive thailand
directory - koh chang
Koh Chang
How to get there Nitrox is available for those qualified, and for those not,
Koh Chang can be reached indirectly by air and road and instruction is available. Night diving is offered, but its best
directly by sea. to enquire in advance as timetables vary. Overnight diving
safaris to the area are occasionally organized by Pattaya Dive
By air: Bangkok Airways fly to Trat airport on a daily basis, Centre in Pattaya City (See listing on Page 189).
where taxis can be arranged for the transfer to the island. For
more information contact Bangkok Airways: Within Thailand,
Dive courses
Tel. 1771; from outside Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)2 265 5555. Dive courses are available in several languages. Full equipment
and certification is included in all the course prices. Courses
By bus: Air-conditioned buses leave daily from Bangkok’s available are non-certification try-out experiences as well as
Eastern Bus Terminal. The journey to Trat Town takes around the full range of recreational courses from beginner up to the
five hours. On arrival, passengers transfer to the pier as Laem professional level of instructor are scheduled on a daily basis.
Ngop. For further information contact Bangkok Eastern Bus
Terminal: Tel. +66 (0)2 391 4900.
Hospitals
By boat: Car and passenger ferries depart every 30 minutes There is one hospital and one international clinic on Koh
from Laem Ngop for the short crossing. Chang.
Koh Chang Government Hospital in Ban Dan Mai, on
Where to eat the northern section of the western coast
The island’s resorts have their own eating facilities, and most Tel. +66 (0)39 521657, (0)39 586131.
have a good choice of local seafood dishes and a European Koh Chang International Clinic on White Sand Beach
menu. There are also plenty of independent eateries on all (associated with the Bangkok Hospital Trat)
the main beaches and dotted along the roads in-between. Tel. +66 (0)39 551151-2, (0)81 863 3609.
Bangkok Hospital Trat in Trat Town on the mainland
One particular place worth checking out is the series of 24 Hr Contacts Centre: Within Thailand, Tel. 1719; from
seafood restaurants along the narrow jetty at Bang Bao, here outside Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)39 532735
you can pick and choose your menu from what’s on display.
Recompression chambers
For best information and insight on where and what to eat, There is a hyperbaric chamber in the Koh Chang
see Pocket Guide FOOD Thailand − launching first quarter of PG Government Hospital, with a trained nurse on standby,
2010 − and its online version, www.foodguidethailand.com but not a qualified doctor.
Koh Chang Government Hospital
Dive facilities
Tel. +66 (0)39 521657, (0)39 586131.
There’s a good selection of operators, large and small, mainly
The next nearest chamber is located over 160km away
down the western coastline. Most have associated booking
in Pattaya’s Bangkok Hospital Pattaya and is part of the
offices and facilities in various resorts and shopping plazas.
Badalveda Diving Medicine Network.
Testament to the warm, friendly atmosphere is the high level Bangkok Hospital Pattaya
of repeat business making up a large part of the clientele. Many 24 Hr Contacts Centre: Within Thailand, Tel. 1719; from
dive centres also offer a retail selection; if they don’t have an outside Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)38 259999
item in stock, they can have it delivered on the same day.
Diving Medicine Hotlines
Dive trips Tel. +66 (0)81 989 9482, +66 (0)86 272 4618
vedainfo@badalveda.com | www.badalveda.com
Dive trips visit all the local sites, either on dedicated dive
boats or speedboats. Trips commence in the morning
when divers and snorkellers are collected from the various
resorts around the island and taken to the awaiting dive
boats. Trips return in the afternoon at various times For more information on Koh Chang, contact Tourism
depending on which destination has been visited. Authority of Thailand, Tel. +66 (0)38 427662.
202 203
alphabetical index POCKET GUIDE dive thailand
alphabetical index
PG PG
204 205