Similan Islands
The most spectacular scuba diving in Thailand is found off the west coast of the country, in the Similan Islands and surrounding waters. A marine nature park, the Similans are comprised of nine islands that are so pristine that they offer much above the water line. Fine, white powdery sands and the clear waters dazzle even the most seasoned of divers and snorkellers.
Accommodation is very basic on the islands, with just a few government-run bungalows and tents. The best way to see the islands and to dive the Similans is to take a live-aboard dive trip from Phuket or Khao Lak. A variety of boats are available to suit most budgets. One of the most luxurious dive trips you can take is aboard the Ocean Rover, operated by Fantasea Divers. With its professional crew and IMO safety certification, this award winning cruise is one of the best diving experiences in Phuket and has plenty of other activities for non-divers. They offer eight- to ten-day trips to the Similans, Burma Banks and Mergui Archipelago, with supreme service and amenities in private en-suite cabins.
On the other side of the spectrum are Similan Diving Safaris and Sea Dragon Dive Centre, both located in Khao Lak, one hour north of Phuket. They both offer less expensive four-day trips to the Similan Islands. Those who don’t want to dive can still go on a liveaboard trip, usually at a discounted rate, and enjoy some snorkelling.
There are also many shops on Phuket and in Khao Lak that offer daytrips to the Similan Islands on speedboats. While these are much less comfortable than live-aboard trips, they are good for those with limited time or those not as interested in diving.
Although some might worry about the status of the islands after the 26 December 2004 tsunami, there was a little damage to the coral on a few of the sites but the Similans are still beautiful. Visitors should take note that the islands close during the wet season (April to October) and should check ahead.
Scuba divers will be pleased to find good dive sites where they can dive up to the recreational limit of 40m, with some plunging much lower. There is an assortment of marine life, ranging from mantas, to ghostpipefish, to sharks. Whalesharks are sometimes seen in the Similans as well, although much less than in the past.
The Similan Islands have a bit of an exclusive character to them. If you can manage to find your way there you’ll find an unspoilt island inhabited by few, but there aren’t popular packages that attract hordes of people. A bit of forward planning and roughing it might be necessary to enjoy these islands, unless you are prepared to sign up for a live-aboard excursion.
- Diving on or near Phuket
- Phuket day trips
- Guide to Koh Phi Phi
- Guide to the Surin islands
- Yao islands guide
