If you have dived in Thailand before, please share your experiences: Dive spots you would recommend, which Dive Center you used, Fishes & Diving, Visibility, Currents, etc. Please post your comments in the section below, by doing so you will help fellow divers to plan their next trip
Thailand can be a first underwater adventure, a week of reef photography or a liveaboard journey between granite islands and offshore pinnacles. Its appeal is the variety: a sheltered training bay and a current-swept ocean rock may sit on the same operator’s destination list, but they are very different dives.
The Andaman Sea lies on Thailand’s west coast. Khao Lak and Phuket are useful gateways for the Similan Islands and northern routes towards Koh Bon, Koh Tachai and Richelieu Rock. Farther south, Phi Phi and Koh Lanta offer access to limestone reefs and, on suitable trips, Koh Haa and Hin Daeng–Hin Muang. Across the peninsula, Koh Tao and the neighbouring Gulf islands have their own dive calendar.
A good starting point is the type of holiday you want: easy access to courses, a comfortable shore base with day boats, or several nights offshore. That choice is more useful than trying to fit every famous site into one week.
A northern Andaman dive diary
Kenneth Tan’s March 2016 film follows a Similan and Surin-area voyage, including Koh Bon, Koh Tachai and Richelieu Rock. It is an archive of that trip, not a report of today’s reef conditions or boat availability. Watch on Vimeo.
In this page you will find more detailed information about scuba diving in Thailand.
Table of contents
Best Dive Review
A coast for each kind of trip
Khao Lak and the northern Andaman: the natural starting point for a liveaboard-focused holiday. Similan granite formations, Koh Bon’s exposed surroundings and Richelieu Rock’s smaller marine life make this more than a search for one large animal.
Phuket, Phi Phi and Koh Lanta: useful for divers who enjoy returning to a hotel in the evening. The selected site and boat journey matter: a gentle reef outing and a longer offshore trip should not be treated as interchangeable.
Koh Tao and the Gulf: a broad choice of dive schools, island-based diving and deeper pinnacles for appropriately experienced divers. Sail Rock trips can also depart from neighbouring islands; staying on Koh Tao is not the only way to reach it.
Khao Lak · Similan Islands · Phuket · Koh Phi Phi · Koh Lanta · Koh Tao
Sites to put the geography in perspective
This selection is separate from the cruise itineraries above. Locations are surface planning references, not entry points or a guide for use underwater. Access, depth and the route around a site belong to the current local briefing. Koh Bon lies beyond the main Similan island group; Richelieu Rock is in the Surin park.
The linked site descriptions remain available if the map cannot load.
1 · Christmas Point
Granite formations near the north-west of island 9; exposed conditions can change the plan.
Location reference · checked 12 November 2026
2 · Deep Six
Boulders off the northern end of island 7, with deeper sections and current.
Location reference · checked 12 November 2026
3 · West of Eden
Reef and boulder scenery on island 7’s western side.
Location reference · checked 12 November 2026
4 · Koh Bon
A separate northern stop beyond the Similan island group; the pin represents the main ridge area.
Location reference · checked 12 November 2026
5 · Richelieu Rock
An offshore pinnacle in the Surin park, reached on selected northern programmes.
Location reference · checked 12 November 2026
6 · Koh Haa Lagoon
A southern Andaman island-group stop; calm-looking surface conditions do not determine the dive plan.
Location reference · checked 12 November 2026
7 · Koh Bida Nok
A limestone island at the southern end of the Phi Phi group.
Location reference · checked 12 November 2026
8 · Shark Island
A surface-breaking pinnacle off southern Koh Tao, in the Gulf of Thailand.
Location reference · checked 12 November 2026
How to dive Thailand?
Day boats or a liveaboard?
A day boat keeps evenings free for food, beaches and non-diving companions. A liveaboard reduces repeated transfers and gives more time in offshore areas, but the exact route, cabin arrangement and number of nights vary considerably.
Northern Andaman programmes commonly combine some of the Similan Islands, Koh Bon, Koh Tachai, Richelieu Rock and Surin. A short cruise cannot be assumed to visit all of them. Southern programmes may include Koh Haa and Hin Daeng–Hin Muang; selected longer journeys continue towards Koh Lipe. Gulf day trips form a separate choice, rather than an extension of a Similan cruise.
The useful comparison is the total cost: accommodation category, equipment, Nitrox, park charges, transfers and any compulsory supplements. A dated departure quote is more meaningful than an old “from” price. The confirmed joining instructions should name the actual pier and pickup time.
Three different Thai diving journeys
A northern cruise, a southern cruise and a Gulf day trip are separate holiday choices. These operator examples connect regional stops in travel order; they are not navigation tracks, dive-entry coordinates or a promise of access. The southern Phuket and Koh Tao pins indicate gateway areas, not confirmed boarding piers.
Full descriptions remain available below if the map cannot load.
Northern Andaman · four-night example
The Junk’s Thap Lamu programme reaches the Similans and the northern pinnacles. Some departures use another joining port; the confirmed instructions determine the transfer.
- 1 · Thap Lamu, boarding.
- 2 · Similan island group.
- 3 · Koh Bon and 4 · Koh Tachai.
- 5 · Surin Islands and 6 · Richelieu Rock.
- 7 · Khao Lak coastal wreck area, then 1 · Thap Lamu.
The Junk operator programme · checked 12 November 2026. The wreck pin represents an area, not a guaranteed wreck stop.
Southern Andaman · four-night regional example
Deep Andaman Queen’s published Southern–Lipe example links the Phuket gateway with Koh Haa, the Lipe area and the southern pinnacles. The map groups nearby sites into regions. The operator’s page has inconsistent dive totals, so the number of dives and actual port need confirmation for the selected departure.
- 8 · Southern Phuket gateway area: airport pickup and boarding arrangements.
- 9 · Koh Haa, continuing towards 10 · the Lipe-area sites.
- 10 · Koh Lipe and surrounding diving.
- 11 · Hin Daeng–Hin Muang region, returning via 9 · Koh Haa.
- 12 · Bida islands / Phi Phi, with other final dives selected by the operator, then 8 · the Phuket gateway.
Deep Andaman Queen southern programme · checked 12 November 2026. Actual sites and order depend on conditions.
Gulf of Thailand · Sail Rock day trip
Big Blue’s Koh Tao example includes two Sail Rock dives followed by Shark Island. It returns to the island that evening and is a separate journey from an Andaman liveaboard.
- 13 · Koh Tao: departure arrangements with the dive centre.
- 14 · Sail Rock: two planned dives.
- 15 · Shark Island: third planned dive.
- 13 · Koh Tao: return.
Big Blue day-trip programme · checked 12 November 2026. Offshore conditions can change the plan.
Location references include PADI Sail Rock · PADI Shark Island · PADI Koh Haa · PADI Bida Nok. These are planning references, not underwater guidance.
Where to stay?
I usually use this website to book in advance my hotels in Thailand as they usually have the lowest rates I find. I like it because it's free to cancel and change the dates.
Best time to dive in Thailand
Andaman: the main offshore season generally runs from around mid-October to mid-May, depending on official park access and conditions. Similan National Park reopened on 15 October 2026. That is a confirmed opening date, not a promise that every route or dive site operates every day. More settled dry-season weather often develops from December.
Gulf of Thailand: the seasonal pattern differs. The northeast monsoon can bring rough seas and substantial rain late in the year, including November and December. Koh Tao diving operates across a broader calendar than the seasonally closed Andaman parks, but crossings and site choices remain weather-dependent.
Whale sharks and manta rays are possibilities, not appointments. The reef life, topography and suitability of the itinerary deserve to be the reasons for booking; a pelagic encounter is the bonus.
Official October 2026 Andaman reopening update · Thailand’s monsoon patterns
Top liveaboards in Thailand according to divers reviews
Dive courses
Koh Tao is a well-established training base, while Phuket and other coastal destinations also offer courses. A good fit depends on teaching language, group size, time in the water and the sites used for training, rather than price alone. A refresher can make a much more enjoyable start after a long break.
Advanced certification is not a universal entry ticket to every offshore site: an operator may also require recent dives, a minimum logged experience or a private guide. Thailand’s rules introduced in April 2025 include supervisor ratios and restrictions on underwater camera use; the published camera threshold is Advanced Open Water certification or at least 40 logged dives. This is not a rule that every certified diver needs 40 dives simply to enter the water.
Official explanation of Thailand’s diving activity rules
Scuba Diving conditions
Conditions vary between sheltered bays, open-water pinnacles and wrecks. A single national visibility or depth range hides those differences. Current, swell, thermoclines and recent rainfall can change the experience even at a familiar site.
Water is generally warm, but repeated dives, wind on deck and cooler water below a thermocline affect comfort. Local operators commonly describe upper-water temperatures around 28–30°C in parts of the northern Andaman and at Sail Rock during warmer periods; this is not a year-round guarantee for every depth.
Offshore diving may involve descending on a line, coping with current and making a buoy-assisted ascent away from the boat. The guide’s briefing and your training determine the plan. Wreck penetration is a separate technical consideration, not an activity implied by visiting a wreck on a normal recreational trip.
Snorkelling in Thailand
Shallow reefs can make a rewarding day for snorkellers, but a scuba itinerary does not automatically offer suitable surface conditions. Offshore rocks may have current, boat traffic and no sheltered resting place. A dedicated snorkelling trip or a confirmed supervised programme is the better match for someone who will not be diving.
Thailand’s published rules require snorkellers to wear lifejackets unless they hold a recognised freediving certification. The operator’s briefing and any additional park rules still apply. Coral is living habitat: good buoyancy and space between fins and the reef protect both the reef and the visitor.
Fishes and Coral
Whale shark
Its pale spots and enormous mouth are unmistakable. An occasional visitor on both coasts, it turns a good dive into a story without ever being a booking guarantee.
Leopard shark
The spotted adult zebra shark is usually called a leopard shark in Thailand. Its long tail and sandy colouring are worth noticing on an Andaman encounter.
Manta ray
A broad-winged visitor associated with exposed Andaman sites. Koh Bon and southern offshore rocks are among the places divers hope to meet one.
Moray eels
A head tucked into a reef crevice can be as captivating as an animal in the blue. Several moray species occur here; the illustration represents the group.
Clownfish
Anemones bring a reef dive down to an intimate scale. Their resident fish make rewarding subjects for a patient observer who leaves them room.
Barracuda
Long silver bodies and a pointed profile give them away. Schools can add a striking moving backdrop to a pinnacle dive, including around Koh Tao.
Representative illustrations, not photographs of local sightings. New whale shark, leopard shark, manta and clownfish artwork was generated with AI for Divezone in November 2026; other illustrations are reused from Divezone’s existing collection.
Coral condition varies by site and over time. Good buoyancy leaves room for the reef’s smaller residents: nudibranchs, shrimps and other details are often the reward for slowing down.
Diving Safety
If you are planning an upcoming dive trip or travelling to Thailand, it is a really good idea to invest in travel insurance for scuba diving, because you never know what could happen and when you might need it (because accidents do happen!). I recommend this diving insurance as they offer worldwide coverage and focus on providing scuba divers a quality insurance and medical assistance service.
Wrecks and the smaller details
Boonsung near Khao Lak and King Cruiser in the Phuket region offer a different setting from the islands’ reefs. Wreck condition, access and depth suitability need a current operator briefing; the structure is not a promise of safe penetration. A reef-focused itinerary can also reward macro photographers, especially those happy to slow down rather than chase a checklist.
Thailand diving questions
Which coast is better for a first course?
Both offer training. Koh Tao has a large choice of schools, while an Andaman base can fit a wider mainland holiday. The instructor, group size, course schedule and sheltered training conditions matter more than choosing a coast by reputation alone.
Does every Similan liveaboard visit Richelieu Rock?
No. Duration and route differ, and weather can change the plan. Richelieu Rock should be named in the actual departure itinerary if it is a priority for the trip.
Can a non-diver join?
That depends on the boat. Fare, supervised snorkelling, equipment and shore time need boat-specific confirmation. A hotel base with day diving often gives companions more freedom.
How long should I leave before flying?
DAN recommends at least 18 hours after repetitive or multi-day no-decompression diving for symptom-free divers; more demanding profiles require longer. A full non-diving day is a useful planning buffer, not a guarantee against decompression illness. The travel guide explains the distinction.
Share your Thailand dive experience
Thanks to Philippe Fleury of Koh Chang Dive Centre for contributing to the original review and photographs.
Further reading
PADI: diving in Thailand · PADI: Koh Tao · Big Blue: Sail Rock conditions and day trips · DAN: flying after diving
Photos Thailand
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Amazing Orange Black Nudibranch SwimmingPhoto by Rich Guest -
Nature Has No LimitPhoto by Rich Guest -
Yellow BoxfishPhoto by Rich Guest -
Koh Tao Underwater StructurePhoto by Jihye Lee -
Coral Dotted FishesPhoto by Rich Guest -
Purple Yellow NudibranchPhoto by Rich Guest -
Spiked Yellow White Black NudibranchPhoto by Jihye Lee -
Flamboyant CuttlefishPhoto by Rich Guest -
Swimming Yellow Black White NudibranchPhoto by Rich Guest -
White NudibranchPhoto by Rich Guest
Travel Guide
Now that you know all about the underwater world, you might want to start planning your scuba holiday! Check out our Thailand Travel Review for information about how to get there, activities and excursions, where to stay, and more.
Diving Reviews for this region
Khao Lak
A mainland base for northern Andaman liveaboards, island day trips and fish-filled local wrecks. The best choice depends on your experience, crossing time and the actual departure programme.
Surin Islands
Island reefs and the offshore spectacle of Richelieu Rock, with day-trip and liveaboard options. Surin snorkelling and a pinnacle dive are different experiences with different requirements.
Similan Islands
Granite boulder dives, reef photography and northern Andaman liveaboards. Day boats also visit the Similans; route choice, current and park access determine the right trip.
Phuket
Racha reef days, offshore wrecks and longer Andaman trips: Phuket offers several ways to dive, with the right choice depending on experience, season and time aboard.
Koh Phi Phi
An island base for Bida reefs, limestone walls and local dive trips, with courses and varied reef life close to Phi Phi Don.
Koh Lanta
Offshore reefs, island day trips and a relaxed beach base, with the right route matched to experience and season.
Koh Tao
An island base for learning, reef days and offshore pinnacles, with year-round diving shaped by Gulf weather.
Liveaboard Reviews in Thailand
MV Oktavia
Historical Oktavia images supplied through LiveAboard.com. They do not depict a verified current Orca Oktavia configuration.
MV Pawara
Pawara photo gallery: operator imagery supplied through LiveAboard.com. Photos are undated; the confirmed cabin allocation governs your booking.
South Siam 3
The 30 meters South Siam 3, also called Somboon 3, is a liveaboard operating in Thailand. Indeed, the dive boat offers flexible itineraries including the best dive sites of Thailand such as the Similan Islands, Koh Bon, Tachai, Surin and Richelieu Rock
South Siam 4
Thailand · Similan Islands & Richelieu Rock · Updated 9 November 2026
Andaman Tritan
Andaman Tritan images from Sunrise Divers’ identified boat gallery. Undated photographs of the documented configuration.
Gentle Giant
Gentle Giant makes room for both halves of Thailand’s Andaman Sea. Her four-night cruises concentrate on the Similans and northern pinnacles; selected six-night journeys continue south to Koh Haa and Hin Daeng–Hin Muang. That longer trip is the interes
Sawasdee Fasai
Sawasdee Fasai is a good boat for divers who like a full day underwater and room to spread out afterwards. Four nights carry the trip from the Similans’ granite scenery to the northern pinnacles, with Richelieu Rock given a full day in the sample progr
MV Smiling Seahorse
Photos: Smiling Seahorse operator gallery via LiveAboard.com.
The Junk
Three masts, a wooden hull and a history that began with charcoal rather than scuba tanks: The Junk brings a little romance to a Thai diving holiday. The appeal goes well beyond a photogenic silhouette. Eighteen guests share six ensuite cabins, and the
Thailand Master (The Phinisi)
Photos: Thailand Master operator gallery via LiveAboard.com.
Last month I dived with my friends with bb divers Koh Kood. We could choose to dive around Koh kood, Koh Maak, Koh Rang and Koh Chang. We went to Koh Kood. 2 of my friends don’t dive, so they went with us for snorkeling. We went to 2 different divespots, where we were the only dive school. So it was very quite and relaxing. We had 15m viz. We dived with Pui, a dive master who works already for years in this area. We saw a lot of beautiful fish, like parotfish, lionfish, big group of baracuda and fusilier, nudibranches and so in. The the corals are still so alive… Great. In between we went to a totally white small beach.. again nobody
it was a great day.. Staff professional and friendly, give us a lot of info about koh kood. For sure i go again to dive with them and enjoy the relaxing area of Koh kood.
Koh Tao has some awesome underwater scenery as well, Here are some wicked videos I took while snorkeling! I wasn’t even diving at the time! LINK REMOVED
Hi, Planning a trip with some friends to Thailand. We would love to dive there, but don’t really want to do a live-aboard type trip.
We have been given many conflicting opinions as to whether the east coast (Gulf) and west coast (Andaman) is better for diving.
Was hoping you could shed some light on the best places to go, where we can dive the best spots without having to base our whole trip around the dives.
Thanks
Bruce
Hi There,
My name is Natalia and I am planning to go to Thailand from the 22nd of November to the 9th of December 2012.
I would like to do some diving there and I am wondering where are the best places to go?
I have the AUSI: International Open Water (Level II), My partner doesn’t have any certification, so firstly we have to go to a place where we can get the open water diving certificate.
Afterwards, I would like to do with him the advance open water certificate aiming to see a wreck. I saw in your site that you mentioned two: Boonsung wreck and King cruiser Wreck, which one is better?
A friend of mine told me that she did her advance course in Koh Tao and she saw a submarine.
I would like to go to both sides of Thailand: Andaman sea and the golf of Thailand. Where would you go first?
The last question, I saw that in Thailand all diving clubs are PADI, Can I do my advance course with them since I do not have the PADI certificate but the AUSI?
Thanks very much in advance,
Natalia
which one is best to do scuba diving
similian islands or koh lanta ?
I dived this July (2012) in the Gulf of Thailand at Sail Rock, at South West Pinnacle, Shark Island and off Koh Tao. In most of Thailand one has to take a couple of hours of boat ride to get to good diving spots. The visibility was upto 15 meters though didn’t spot any large size sharks.
The dive companies are well organized and are economical. The company I dived with were friendly, well equipped and conscious about safety.
There are plenty of dive companies and one can get space on short notice.
Water temperature and dive conditions were ideal; I spotted plenty of Titan Tiger fish, Anglefish of lots of varieties, Butterfly, Grouper, Scorpian fish, Lion fish, Cuttlefish, Reef squid, Eel, variety of Stingrays, Urchins, Sponges, Plenty of Black-fin Barracudas and many many more.
The dive sites were seldom crowded.
Overall it was a rewarding experience.
hi
i am planning to visit thailand in november.
I don’t know swimming. but i wanna to experience scuba diving/ snorkelling .is it possible ?
Regards,
Kamana
To dive, yes you will have to know how to swim. One of the tests in the PADI open water qualification is a swim. To snorkel you might not have to be able to, just as long as your happy in the water and know how to float? Your call i guess
we are going up the coast of thailanl diving and just wondering if any one us been diving up there on a budget will spent on diving but accommodtion i will spend a little less any ideas please
Hi,
For those who are planning to dive at Southern Thailand (North/South Andaman/Similan Islands).
Some basic general info. below and hope it helps you to decide better:
Depth: 0 – 40m
Visibility: Good to Excellent (some up to 30m)
Currents: Please read through below “Best Time to Dive”.
Experience Level: It’s mandatory for beginners are accompanied by a Divemaster. Even if you are a DiveMaster yourself somewhere else, it’s advisable to follow the allocated or local Divemaster because they know where to bring you to the right spots without you wasting your time searching around or worst “lost”. Well, of course unless you have dived there multiple times before and also a qualified Masterdiver. then you can request to go in single pair.
Best time to dive: Some websites might claim that certain dive spots are good for all year round. That is not always true, traditionally some dive spots are closed by the local rangers during June – September. We are all happy to comply to it because this is the only time of the year those poor sea life are able to have a complete peaceful rest and also some privacy. You’ll be amaze to see the amount of divers underseas when dive season starts (October – May). Personally I always like to dive there between November – April, I found that October the currents is still quite rough (>3m) and visibility is just between average – good. Please don’t take my word for it, always check the weather forecasts before booking your trip. Here’s a local government’s website for weather forecasts: http://www.tmd.go.th/en/
Answer to Kamana’s question is: Yes, you can. Like all others, you’ll have to sit for a theory and practical test. There are many Padi and Navi certified dive schools at Phuket island, Tao Island, Chang Island, Samui Island etc. and I guarantee that Thailand is one of the cheapest place to earn a recreational diving license. As long as you do it right in the water, you’ll be safe and alright. I know at least 50 names who had this similar issue (some even aqua-phobia) are happy regular divers now.
Below taken from:
http://www.diveguidethailand.com/scuba-diving-andaman-sea-thailand.htm
“In general the Andaman Sea has more extensive coral reefs but similar visibility to the Gulf of Thailand, with most of the reefs around the offshore islands occurring on the east sides of the islands, due to the influence of the southwest monsoon; the west coasts tend to have rocky slopes descending to 10-30m in depth.
Towards the northern end of the Thai coastline, a series of granitic outcrops lie in deep, clear water with reefs descending to 25-30m and beyond in depth. These are the Similan and Surin Islands, whose breathtaking underwater scenery and great diversity of marine life have gained them a considerable reputation in the diving community.
Given their proximity to Phuket, it is not surprising that these two island groups are among the country’s most popular destinations for day trips and liveaboard excursions.”
My personal choice of operators:
1) http://www.thai-scubanet.com
2) http://www.khaolakscubaadventures.com/
Both serve very good food. excellent clean room, very friendly boat staff and excellent boat conditions. The only different between them is: http://www.khaolakscubaadventures.com divers are mainly foreigners. http://www.thai-scubanet.com divers are always almost local Thai divers.
REMEMBER!!
1) Always check from websites that belong to the local operators, because they know best and ask alot of questions.
2) Compare prices, dive trips/spots and boat conditions. If time and $$ are not concerned. Pick the liveaboard.
3) Check weather forecasts.
LAST but NOT LEAST!! PLEASE HELP to preserve the sea life, corals and Happy Diving!!
email me if you have questions and no I don’t own any of the webistes mentioned above. I’m a chopper builder. Cheers
hi, i am planning to go to thailand in aug. is it a good time to scuba. also does it rain there so much that the day gets spoilt?
i just had my very first sea-walking dive last friday and i have been thinking to go back coral island for volunteer program next year
(nikorn marine) the crew are helpful and very entertaining along the way! they placed sea urchin on our hand to see them move, provided us bread to feed hundreds of fishes to explored the water planet, it is awesome! i even got a kiss at the end of the trip from a dive instructor, so sweet 
reason for not showing my reviews?
STOP reading or writing your reviews for this website (dice zone.net), it’s prejudice and doesn’t allow fair reviews, comments and freedom of opinions. What’s the point of asking for readers’ review etc then??
Hello Scubajedi,
I just saw your comment. Did you have any problem posting you review? Reviews are ALL posted automatically and instantaneously. There is only a spam filter if you put more than 2 links in your review. I don’t find any trace of your review, I think there was only a technical problem. Please try to post it again.
Have a great day,
Julien
I just checked, your review was in the spam box as you put more than 2 links in it. I approved it, it is now published above. By the way thank you very much for this great review ;-).
Julien
Hi!
Can anyone give me advice on where to do an open water diving course in Thailand? I am unfortunately going in the peak of peak season but would still prefer a more quiet place with small groups, to learn in a calm and confident environment. I am thinking of Koh Lipe – any comments? Or Koh Lanta, but I am afraid it might be very crowded.
Thanks a million for any replies!
Kiti
Hey there
I am traveling Thailand by motorbike and don’t want to have to pay for to many ferrys to the Islands. Do you know of any good spots to dive off the mainland? If there was one island to go to for a week of diving that is easy to get to with my bike what one would it be?
Thanks
Kieran
Hi, I’ve done 2 dives in Koh Tao. It is Feb 2013 and what I’ve heard about the place made me come all the way from the Middle East. Here I’m in Koh Tao and after the 2nd dive is over, I’ll never make it to this place for diving again.
But why did I reach to this point. Here we go, started searching a dive trip and found the offers around 4500 Bhat. That’s a freaking $150, and trusts me when I say 4 dives back home wouldn’t cost me that amount.
Here is the trip schedule:
1. 7am Buss pickup from hotel in Koh Samui
2. 8am moving to Koh Tao with a speed boat.
3. Reaching at 9:30
4. Now let’s talk about the diving spots. My 1st dive briefing stated that the dive site name is Japanese Garden. It was 16 meter deep dive. Now, when it comes to life in there it’s rich yet tiny. And I was like this is nice but there is nothing so special about it! I mean I’ve seen almost the same home back home “UAE, east cost”
5. After an hour break the second dive briefing stated that the dive site name is Japanese Garden. And I was like wait that was our first dive site, aren’t we going to move to another dive spot. And guess what, Here is the instructor “ well, not really the other dive spots is not really good in this season since the currents are very strong” so we ended up diving in the same spot yet 30 meter away from our first spot.
6. The 2nd dive is over and you head to the boat for the lunch and you find your food in your plate served randomly!
7. You have just enjoyed your lunch and the crew calls for seat taking since they want to head back!!!
8. At 3 pm you are in Koh Samui!!!!
That was my worst diving trip ever. I should have don’t it back home or in the red sea.
I have been to Thailand once, 2 years ago and have dived on Phi Phi and it was amazing. One year before Thailand I have dived in Egipt and I think Thailand was definitely better place to dive
It’s awesome diving in fresh waters of Thailand. I’ve had a great experience and recommend diving classes in Thailand. It’s cold and crowded down under. Yes there are some lovely harmless fish. Be sure to take your underwater camera.
Hi Ria! Wow! I haven’t tried freshwater diving yet! Would you mind sharing your freshwater diving on Thailand here on Divezone? We would be delighted to have it here on our site. Happy Diving!
Hello, Im planning to go to Thailand for my dive master and instructor license with Padi. What areas would be recommended for diving during october, november, december?
Thanks!
Mike, you say you have dove in Egypt. Was it the Red Sea? We have yet to finx a place that was as clear, beautiful, and full of life as the Red Sea. Haven’t dove in Thailand yet. Would love to go on a liveaboard but get seasick. Yuck!
Hello Julien, my husband are first time divers and would like to stay in/around Phuket for three days early November. Where would be the best place to stay (easy transport from Phuket airport) to do amazing scuba diiving day trips and snorkeling? We are interested in the Similan islands but are afraid that it will be too far and waste precious time. The reason we want to be close to the airport is because we will be flying to Chiangmai and hope to arrive there early afternoon. Thank you! Grace
I’ve been lucky enough to dive both the Andaman sea and the Gulf of Thailand. In the Gulf I’ve dived the lower islands of Tao and Samui and the Eastern Seaboard of Pattaya and Samesan. All of these places add towards Thailand being an incredible place to dive in it’s different way.
On Phuket I took no dives but headed directly to the Simnilans with a company called Seaking Divers. Alistair the owner of Seaking overlooks each trip individually and they are very well run. I took two trips back to back with one to Phi Phi which was outstanding. I recommend driving Hin Daeng and Hin Muang.
In Pattaya I took my dive master training with Mermaids (http://www.learn-in-asia.com) and that was an eye opener. The training was hardy which was why I took it at Mermaids for the reputation but the diving was superb. I had never dived wrecks before but I managed to rack up 68 dives on the Hardeep, Kram and the Kut. The Hardeep has been sunk since world war two and is a great dive – massively recommended.
From what I saw in Thailand you’re pretty much guaranteed a great dive experience in all areas.
Just came back recently from a liveaboard in Similan Islands, and I must admit it’s as amazing as everyone says!
I Recommend every diver to go there, whenever they get a chance 
Koh Tao can’t compete with the Similan, even though it’s wonderful ther too 
I did a liveaboard in Similans (North) last Feb 2014 with Seadragon. The dives were good, visibility was amazing especially at Richelieu Rock. The water was crystal clear, from the deck before going into the water. Saw lotsa small critters & moray eels.. too bad i didnt get to see manta ray & sperm whale during my trip
The liveaboard trip with Seadragon was good. The DMs were friendly & knowledgeable about the dive area. The boat crews were awesome too, very helpful & friendly as well. We were well taken care of on the boat, food, drinks & snacks available all time. It cost about 16000 Baht for a 4d/4n trip, discount available if you are bringing your own dive gear. Would recommend to dive with them
Hi,
I am planning a trip to come to Thailand beginning of August until End of October/beg of November. The more I am reading about times to go, the more websites/books are saying visibility will be low and water maybe rough. What is your opinion about this. Also, if I went during this time where would you recommend to go? If the water and visibility gets bad, then I might try to move my trip to another time, but also want to go in the off season to avoid crowds and stay at places for cheap.
Thanks!
See pictures of the fish and coral taluisland here http://www.taludiving.com
Congratulations on your site! I really enjoyed it and have already brought useful information. At the moment I am planning a trip to Thailand for two weeks to learn to dive. My experience is negligible. Do you have some knowledge of good diving schools in Thailand, on the Andaman sea? With your experience, what would you recommend me? All tips are welcome! Thanks.
Got my diver’s certificate at Ko Lipe – it was an incredible experience, so much that I decided to go through every single PADI course needed for becoming a dive master.
My buddy and I wanted a short relaxing holiday in April, so took ourselves off to Koh Lak, where we could stay on the beach and take day trips off to the Similan Islands.
We dived with Sea Dragon, all diving staff were excellent, from DM to boat crew. However the administration staff can be a bit rude, I wonder if it’s because we weren’t European.
On diving, if you want the best of the Similan Islands, do only LOB. Not only do day trips cost more, they are not the best the islands have to offer.
If you are at least AOW or its equivalent, then head over to Koh Bon or Richelieu Rock. You see so much more, like Manta Rays at Koh Bon, with stronger drifts.
We are definitely doing a LOB the next time we visit.
Hi.. My husband and I are both open water 1 . We will be in Thailand 5-20 July and wondering if we can introduce our kids to scuba. They are 13 and 11.5 …. Do you have any suggestions please???
Hello there!
Trying to decide between a dive to Koh Lanta/Koh Noi or Koh Phi Phi islands. Note I am an an advanced diver with 50+ dive experience, and my partner has a 5 dive experience. I need a good rec – only coming to Thailand for a few days!
Best,
SML
oops!! i meant Koh Racha Noi and Koh Racha Yai!!
I hear there is a lot of coral bleechincoral. Where is the best place to go to avoid this?
I was just diving in Thailand in March. I went to Krabi and stayed at the Centara Beach Resort. It was really beautiful and pretty affordable for what you get.
There’s a dive shop there called Kontiki Divers. They were fantastic! The diving by the Bida islands and Phi Phi was great – clear water, lots of fish, reef sharks, turtles etc. I would totally recommend. The hotel offers other excursions as well to visit island, trek with elephants etc. Beware the other tours can get really crowded. I did the three island tour and there were so many people you could barely walk on the sand. Overall on of the best dive trips I’ve ever done.
We will be 9 advanced divers coming out in November 2017 for a 2week stay 1 of the weeks will be on a liveaboard & 1 week dryland diving can you send a itinerary for this period & prices and price for a house or a apartment that will take us all
Hi there,
So i am planning a trip to Thailand and found out that July is a good time to dive in Ko Samui. But the current weather shows that there are thunderstorms. Would diving still be good idea? Any suggestions?
Thanks
Sherry.
Hi Sherry,
I’m diving instructor and if you have any questions about diving in Thailand or current weather – just e-mail me.
weather in Thailand is almost always beautiful
I went diving on Koh Tao, Thailand in May 2016 and had an amazing time. I took courses from Roctopus dive; I ended up getting my Open Water, Advanced Open Water, Nitrox, and Deep Diving courses plus a handful of fun dives (and one UV Night Dive!! Highly recommended!) I always felt very safe with my instructors and I believe that I got a really good deal for the diving that I did. Vis wasn’t always fantastic, especially around the wreck, but we still got to see some awesome things. All in all, I would highly recommend Koh Tao for new divers, and Roctopus is a great option.
Hi , I am planning to come to thailand in January with my friends , never tried scuba dive, it’s my first time , we will be staying at Patong and also Krabi in this trip to Thailand ! So can any one suggest which is the best place to do scuba diving
Hi Madhu!
I would recommend Krabi, no hesitation. You’ll get more choices in term of places to dive from Krabi, and a lot of great shore dives. Try to get away from the crowds also, ask the locals about some stunning snorkeling spots.
Patong has lots of dive centers as well, so if the priority is to learn, you could as well find a good dive center to get your certification. Make sure you bet on quality over price! It’s a long term investment!
Safe bubbles & Travels!
At the time of year you’re visiting, the Andaman Sea has good diving. It’s worth looking into the highlights there such as Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta and diving from Phuket. There are plenty of dive centres and also both short and long liveaboards you could join once certified.
We have more information on our website about the different dive sites: liveaboard.com
I am staying on Koh Samui in March 2018 and would like to find a good dive shop that offers diving trips
For anyone learning to dive or wanting to experience a great place underwater not just through diving but in their spare time snorkeling. I seriously recommend Koh Tao. I took some underwater footage of the place and will post it below for you guys, this was all snorkeling so you can all experience these places as well without a dive certificate! LINK REMOVED
Sairee Cottage IDC November 2019 – What a ride!!!
Having just completed such a professional and in-depth programme I’ve came out at the end with more respect and enthusiasm for this industry than I could have ever imagined. As I enter the world of professional diving I never expected when I started this journey to receive the level of encouragement, mentorship and support that this group of Diving Professionals, Leaders and Mentors were willing to relentlessly give to myself and every member of our group, day in day out.
I first came to Sairee Cottage a couple of years ago, I did so on the positive recommendations and reviews found online and on their incredible website, which gave all the information you need to be confident that you have made the right choice by joining them on this amazing little piece of paradise, Koh Tao.
Back then it didn’t take me long to decide that I wanted to change my life forever, I went from thinking I was just a Diver, to soon realising this could actually be life changing. With the constant support of this incredible team, it truly was.
I knew Sairee Cottage Diving Koh Tao, was THE dive centre that has it all, from the dive shop itself and the always attentive staff, the amazing pool & pool bar and of course the classrooms where we spent many long days studying in comfort and in a relaxed manner which made the whole experience of completing the IDC very, very special.
As for the course itself, of which I have attended many courses in my lifetime, not one has come close to this. This is due to SCD’s incredible Course Director Marcel Van Den Berg.
Marcel’s experience, energy, passion and love for diving not to mention his personally related stories he has to tell is intoxicating. The effort he puts into his lectures makes you listen and learn, way and above what you need, to prepare you for the goal which of course is the PADI IE. He is always on hand, before and after class, morning, noon or night to answer any issues or concerns you have and that’s why you know you are in the best hands possible and gives you the confidence to not only become a PADI Instructor but be an amazing instructor where ever this world takes you and also to become a better person within yourself. He is truly inspirational and I cannot wait to begin this new journey in my life knowing I have been taught by the best, who has given me the confidence I need to be a success in the wonderful world of Professional Diving.
In the words of the man himself, one last thing……
Special mentions also go out to Maddy Baker on the Divemaster Training Course at Sairee Cottage, for her incredible mentorship and training getting me through DMT being fully prepared and ready for the next step with Marcel on the IDC. Also, to Nicolas Sleutelaar aka Flav and Martin Walsh who assisted Marcel during the course. All of their knowledge and passion throughout the course was inspirational and I thank you for being a part my journey so far.
Hi divers !
I’m roberto, started diving in thailand 3 years ago. From that time i started making course until i reached instructor level with the support of phuketdivemaster.com and various boar and dive center all around south Thailand.
Diving in the south of thailand it’s amazing, color , a lot of different species of marine life, so many dive sites that i can stay years and never been bored . There is every kind of dive sites, starting from easy beach dive with amazing reef, fantastic spot for night dive ! rocky wall, pinnacle like shark point and richeliu rock ( one of the best divesite in thai ) , wreck and more .
The average quality of dive center and dive boat are really high , there is to pay attention about the divecenter you choose od course, from my experience it’s better to avoid the cheaper , can lack about safety and experience of the staff, and there is to check that instructor and staff have needed work permit and insurance ( if an instructor doesn’t have work permit , an insurance will probably not pay and the mandatory insurance aswell )
Let’s go diving as soon as this virus free us , stay safe !
amazing! sharks were friendly