Explorer · Thailand · 14D13N
Embark on an extensive two-week diving safari exploring the entire Andaman Sea archipelago, from the Similan Islands to the world-renowned Richelieu Rock. This comprehensive itinerary allows for in-depth exploration of Thailand's best dive sites. You will experience a wide variety of underwater terrains, from the immense granite boulder formations and swim-throughs of the Similans to the vibrant soft coral gardens of Richelieu. The nutrient-rich waters attract an incredible density of marine life, with regular encounters with manta rays at Koh Bon and the chance for a whale shark sighting in the north. With up to four dives scheduled on most days, this trip is a dream for passionate divers looking to maximize their underwater time.
m. at Thap Lamu pier. Guests will check into their cabins, followed by a welcome briefing and dinner. The vessel will depart in the evening, cruising overnight to the Similan Islands.
The first full day of diving explores the Similan Islands. This area is renowned for its dramatic underwater landscapes, featuring massive granite boulders that create intricate swim-throughs and canyons. Divers can expect to discover diverse reef ecosystems and a variety of macro life amidst the sandy channels.
Diving continues around the Similan Islands, including visits to Koh Bon and Koh Tachai. Koh Bon is often visited by manta rays at its cleaning station, while Koh Tachai offers dynamic drift dives over its pinnacle, attracting pelagic species. These sites are recognized for vibrant soft corals and abundant schooling fish.
Today's dives are focused on the Surin Islands, known for their pristine hard coral gardens and less-frequented dive sites. The area offers a chance to explore shallow reefs teeming with macro life and various reef fish. Strong currents are less common here, making for relaxed explorations of vibrant coral ecosystems.
The expedition continues north to Richelieu Rock, an isolated pinnacle often considered one of Thailand's premier dive sites. It is celebrated for its incredible biodiversity and vibrant purple soft corals that blanket the rock. This site is a magnet for pelagic species and offers the possibility of whale shark sightings.
Dive sites: Richelieu Rock
Today's dives revisit Koh Tachai Pinnacle, a submerged rock known for attracting large schools of pelagic fish. The site can experience strong currents, making for exhilarating drift dives. Divers frequently encounter chevron barracuda, batfish, and various tuna species congregating around the pinnacle.
Dive sites: Koh Tachai
The vessel returns to the serene Surin Islands, offering another opportunity to explore its extensive and healthy hard coral reefs. Dives here often feature gentle drifts over vast stretches of staghorn and table corals, providing a calm environment for observing resident reef inhabitants and feeding turtles.
Another full day is dedicated to Richelieu Rock, allowing for further exploration of this renowned site. Divers can focus on discovering its intricate macro life, including seahorses and harlequin shrimp, or observe the dynamic pelagic action in the blue. The possibility of encountering a whale shark remains a highlight.
Dive sites: Richelieu Rock
Returning south, the day's diving takes place in the Surin Islands, known for healthy and extensive hard coral reefs. These dives provide another opportunity to appreciate the pristine coral ecosystems and abundant reef fish. The calmer conditions often make for a relaxing diving experience.
One final visit to Richelieu Rock is planned, offering a last chance to experience its famed biodiversity. Divers can focus on specific areas they wish to explore further, whether seeking macro wonders or observing the larger pelagic species. This site truly offers something new on every dive.
Dive sites: Richelieu Rock
The journey southward continues with dives at Koh Tachai and Koh Bon. Koh Tachai offers thrilling drift dives around its pinnacle, attracting pelagic species, while Koh Bon is a well-known cleaning station for manta rays. Expect diverse action and a variety of marine encounters at these popular sites.
Dive sites: Koh Tachai, Koh Bon
The penultimate day of diving brings a return to Koh Bon and the Similan Islands. This offers a final chance to encounter manta rays at Koh Bon's cleaning station, or explore the varied topography and abundant reef life of the Similans. These sites provide a fitting conclusion to the diving adventure.
Dive sites: Koh Bon, Similan Islands
The final morning of diving is spent in the Similan Islands, maximizing underwater time before the journey back to the mainland. These dives offer a relaxed opportunity to enjoy the stunning landscapes and marine life one last time. The boat will begin its cruise back to Thap Lamu in the afternoon.
Dive sites: Similan Islands
Enjoy a final breakfast on board before disembarkation at Thap Lamu pier. Transfers to your onward destination can be arranged, concluding your Andaman Sea diving adventure.