Deep down below Thailand’s shimmering, crystal clear waters lay stunning natural reefs teeming with life. There is almost too much choice for those looking to dive and snorkel in Thailand.
However, if you head to the right places, you have an opportunity to create an adventure of a lifetime that will remain etched in your mind forever!
For experienced divers, one of the best ways to enjoy all that Thailand’s oceans have to offer is on board a Thailand liveaboad or yacht charter. These truly unique and customised journeys allow you the freedom to explore at your own pace, whilst receiving expert guidance and knowledge.
Furthermore, on board there are a plethora of high-end toys - jet boats, jet skis, kayaks, paddle boards, diving equipment and snorkelling sets – a full tool box for ocean explorers!
There are also lots of dive centres on the mainland and beautiful Thai islands in places like Koh Tao and courses and excursions are very affordable.
Whichever way you decide to travel, here are some of the top Thailand dive destinations to consider going to see.
1. King Cruiser Wreck, Phuket
Nestled some 33 metres deep below the surface is the majesty of the great King Cruiser Wreck.
After crashing into the Anemone Reef in 1977, the 500 passengers on board were forced to plunge into the ocean where thankfully they all managed to survive.
Having been submerged for over 40 years, provides divers with an opportunity to glimpse the strange marriage of natural and human made worlds, as they seamlessly blend together to create one harmonious ecosystem.
2. Mu Koh Lanta National Park
Off the coast of the island Koh Lanta, you will find the world famous dive sites of Hin Daeng and Hin Muang.
With depths of up to 60 metres in places and waters rich in plankton, it is here you may just find yourself meandering amongst graceful manta rays and magnificent whale sharks.
3. Shark Point
For the truly courageous, a dive at shark point is a must. This stunning reef site, full of soft and hard corals is a place to come face to face with not one but many leopard sharks! Thankfully, courageous or not, leopard sharks are docile and harmless to humans, so you can relax and enjoy this close encounter with these curious fish without any fear.
4. Koh Dok Mai
A stunning limestone pinnacle above the water with crevices and hidden caves below the surface, Koh Dok Mai is not far from Shark Point and can be explored in the day or night. The marine life here is spectacular, with the chance to glimpse moray eels and ornate ghost pipe fish.
5. Ao Mae Yai Bay
Found off the island of Koh Surin Nuea, this bay is one for those of you preferring to snorkel instead of scuba diving. The pristine waters and striking coral are home to a sheer abundance of marine life – this is where you will find nemo (aka clown fish)!
6. Hin Bai (AKA Sail Rock)
Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Hin Bai attracts a diverse range of aquatic life. Amongst the coral laden rocks and ledges, you can expect to glide though large schools of barracuda, snappers and queenfish, plus you may just catch a glimpse of eels, stingray, angelfish and scorpionfish.
7. Ang Thong National Marine Park
In Thailand’s Surat Thani province, you will find Ang Thong National Marine Park. Made up of over 40 islands, there is a wealth of rich ecosystems lurking under the calm waters. Here you can encounter species such as angelfish, rays, butterflyfish and if you’re lucky it is may be possible to see some reef sharks.
7. Turtle Island
The name gives it away really, doesn’t it?! In this diving spot, also known as Koh Tao, you guessed it; you can swim amongst great swarms of sea turtles! The main turtle species you can encounter here are the Green Turtle, which is the third largest species of turtle and the Hawksbill Turtle.
8. Chumphon Pinnacles
Located near Koh Tao, this huge granite pinnacle reaches depths of up to 35 metres and is one of the most beautiful diving locations in the area with an abundance of marine species - anemones, grouper, lionfish, rabbitfish and batfish.
Plan a Dive Trip to Thailand
If you are looking to book a scuba diving holiday there are so many reasons to choose Thailand. You can find dive trips for all levels and abilities, whilst enjoying the Thai cullture, temples, beaches and islands. If you want to see more of the country check out Thailand tours.
