Dive Site: Anemone Reef

About Anemone Reef

Anemone Reef, locally known as "Hin Jom" or "submerged rock," is a significant limestone pinnacle entirely hidden beneath the Andaman Sea's surface. Located about an hour's boat ride east of Phuket's Chalong Bay, this marine sanctuary is celebrated for its unique topography and rich biodiversity, often considered a rival to the renowned Similan Islands. The pinnacle's highest point rests around 5 to 6 meters below the surface, gradually sloping down to a sandy seabed at depths between 25 and 28 meters. Its north-south orientation creates a rugged, wall-like structure with numerous crevices and ledges. These features are carpeted by magnificent sea anemones, particularly *Heteractis magnifica*, giving the reef its name and forming a vibrant living habitat. The reef attracts an impressive array of marine life due to its isolation and concentrated ecosystem. Expect to encounter diverse reef fish, leopard sharks resting on the sand, moray eels, and several species of anemonefish thriving within their anemone hosts. Occasional whale shark sightings are also reported, adding to the thrill. Diving here typically involves a boat entry and careful planning around potential currents. The site became a marine sanctuary in 1992, enforcing strict conservation practices. Its historical link to the 1997 sinking of the King Cruiser ferry, which struck the pinnacle, adds another layer of intrigue to this resilient and biologically rich dive spot.

Dive site facts: Anemone Reef

Depth

4–28 m

Current

Mild to strong

Visibility

5–25 m

Water temperature

27–30°C

Entry

Boat dive

Level

Open Water recommended, current experience helpful

Dive type

Reef, pinnacle, marine life

Region / port

Phuket, Andaman Sea

Coordinates

7.755, 98.535

Conditions & Currents

Anemone Reef can experience currents ranging from mild to strong, varying significantly with tides and local conditions. While generally considered mild, divers should anticipate potential ripping currents, making careful dive planning with the tour leader and boat captain essential. Visibility usually spans 10 to 28 meters, but can drop to 5 meters during plankton blooms or strong currents, which can also bring in larger pelagic species. Entry is always a boat dive, requiring divers to be briefed on entry, exit, and backup procedures. While thermoclines are not typically a concern, surface conditions can be choppy, especially during windy periods in December, even during the favorable northeast monsoon season.

Marine life & sighting chances

Magnificent Sea Anemone

common

Leopard Shark

occasional

Tigertail Seahorse

occasional

Short-tailed Pipefish

occasional

Ornate Map Pufferfish

occasional

Golden Trevally

occasional

Moray Eel

occasional

Skunk Anemonefish

common

Red Saddleback Anemonefish

occasional

Clark's Anemonefish

occasional

False Clown Anemonefish

occasional

Porcelain Crab

occasional

Lionfish

common

Whale Shark

rare

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Dives at Anemone Reef typically begin with a boat entry, often as a negative entry depending on currents. The dive plan usually follows a north-to-south orientation around the limestone pinnacle, which is entirely submerged. You will descend directly onto the top of the reef, which starts at approximately 5-6 meters, offering immediate access to the vibrant anemone carpets. From there, you can explore the various ledges and plateaus, gradually descending to deeper sections that reach a sandy bottom at 25-28 meters. Common routes involve circling the pinnacle, observing marine life along the current-swept sides, and checking the sandy areas for leopard sharks. The shallower parts of the reef also serve as an excellent area for safety stops, allowing for extended observation of the diverse macro life.

Underwater photography

Anemone Reef offers abundant photographic opportunities, particularly for wide-angle and macro shots. The dense carpets of magnificent sea anemones and colorful soft corals are perfect for wide-angle lenses, especially when capturing the overall grandeur of the pinnacle. For macro enthusiasts, the reef is a treasure trove: focus on the various species of anemonefish with their host anemones, look for tigertail seahorses and short-tailed pipefish, or capture the intricate details of porcelain crabs. Given the potential for strong currents, maintaining good buoyancy is crucial to avoid damaging the delicate coral and anemone structures. Strobe positioning should be mindful to illuminate subjects without overexposing the vibrant colors, especially when photographing the reflective anemone tentacles. Be particularly considerate of subjects like the False Clown Anemonefish, as some reports suggest they may be sensitive to excessive light from strobes.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Shark Point

  A neighboring dive site with similar diverse marine life and topography, often combined with Anemone Reef in day trips.

• King Cruiser Wreck

  The car ferry that struck Anemone Reef in 1997, now a popular wreck dive nearby.

• Koh Dok Mai

  A wall dive known for its diverse macro life and interesting crevices.

• Koh Phi Phi — Bida Nok

  Offers vibrant reef diving with a chance for pelagic encounters.

Getting there & logistics

Access to Anemone Reef is primarily via day boats departing from Chalong Bay in Phuket, approximately a 16-mile journey taking about one hour. Phuket International Airport (HKT) serves as the main entry point for international and domestic travelers. Most dive tours to Anemone Reef are offered as part of a 3-dive day trip, often combined with Shark Point and the King Cruiser Wreck, reflecting its central position in local dive itineraries. While liveaboards primarily focus on farther destinations like the Similan Islands, Anemone Reef is a popular day trip destination. No specific park fees are mentioned beyond standard dive trip costs, but it's essential to confirm with local operators. Permits are generally handled by dive operators as it is part of a marine sanctuary.

Safety & environment

Anemone Reef is a marine sanctuary, meaning specific regulations protect its ecosystem, and divers must adhere to no-touch protocols. Currents can range from mild to strong, so divers must always follow the lead of their dive guide and captain, especially regarding entry, exit, and backup procedures. Plan dives conservatively, staying within certification limits, particularly given the maximum depth of 28 meters. The nearest recompression chamber is located in Phuket, typically requiring boat transport to shore and then road transfer, emphasizing the importance of adequate dive insurance. While the site is suitable for Open Water certified divers, those with experience in currents will find it more manageable. Staying close to your buddy and maintaining awareness of your surroundings are crucial for a safe dive.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Anemone Reef FAQ

Liveaboards diving Anemone Reef

These liveaboards may visit Anemone Reef on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Mandarin Queen 9

Thailand

26 guests37.5 m

Manta Queen 8

Thailand

24 guests

$127/day

The Junk

Thailand

18 guests33 m

$163/day

Deep Andaman Queen

Thailand

23 guests30.5 m

$194/day

Explorer

Thailand

16 guests25 m

$150/day

Andaman

Thailand

20 guests26 m

$108/day

Stingray

Thailand

8 guests24 m

$245/day

Seatopia

Thailand

24 guests24 m