Embarking on a PADI Liveaboard trip to explore the best dive sites in Thailand is a dream for many divers. The Similan Islands, Koh Bon, Koh Tachai, and Richelieu Rock are renowned for their stunning underwater landscapes and vibrant marine life. Led by experienced dive guides, these liveaboard adventures promise unforgettable encounters and spectacular dives. Below, we dive into some of the top liveaboard dive sites in the Similan Islands, perfect for your next underwater adventure.
Hin Luang, or “Yellow Rock,” is a must-visit on any liveaboard trip. Named for the beautiful yellow soft corals covering the site, this deep pinnacle is a diver’s paradise. The top starts at 18 meters, requiring a challenging “negative entry” due to strong currents. With a maximum depth of 50 meters, it’s ideal for advanced divers. Look out for Leopard Sharks, Marble Rays, and the elusive Sponge Snail.
Type of Dive: Pinnacle
Depth: 18 – 50 meters
Visibility: 10 – 30 meters
Difficulty: Advanced
Koh Bon, part of the Similan National Marine Park, is a top spot for Manta Ray sightings. The western ridge, with its steep slope and vibrant coral-covered reef, is perfect for intermediate to advanced divers. The strong currents attract large pelagic fish, making it one of the best dive sites in Thailand for thrilling marine encounters.
Type of Dive: Wall, Slope, Reef, Drift
Depth: 10 – 40 meters
Visibility: 10 – 30 meters
Difficulty: Intermediate / Advanced
Known as “The Dome,” Koh Tachai’s submerged pinnacles are a highlight of any PADI Liveaboard adventure. The site features massive granite boulders, colorful corals, and abundant marine life. Expect to encounter Barracudas, Manta Rays, and even Whale Sharks. The topography, combined with excellent visibility, makes this site a favorite among experienced divers.
Type of Dive: Boulder
Depth: 12 – 40 meters
Visibility: 10 – 30 meters
Difficulty: Intermediate / Advanced
Richelieu Rock is arguably the crown jewel of Thailand diving. Discovered by Jacques-Yves Cousteau, this isolated pinnacle offers an extraordinary diversity of marine life, from Seahorses to Whale Sharks. The purple corals and sheer walls make it a photographer’s dream. Due to its size, multiple dives are recommended to fully explore this iconic site.
Type of Dive: Boulder/Wall
Depth: 5 – 40 meters
Visibility: 5 – 30 meters
Difficulty: Intermediate / Advanced
East of Eden, located on Koh Pa-Yu, is a versatile dive site suitable for all levels. The reef slopes from 5 to 40 meters, hosting a variety of corals and marine life. The site is famous for its large fan corals and Frogfish sightings, making it an excellent choice for both beginner and intermediate divers.
Type of Dive: Reef/Drift
Depth: 5 – 40 meters
Visibility: 20 – 40 meters
Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate
West of Eden offers a unique combination of Similan dive experiences. With its granite boulders, canyons, and colorful coral walls, this site is perfect for those looking to explore the underwater landscapes of the best dive sites in Thailand. Ribbon Eels, Frogfish, and Ghost Pipefish are just some of the critters you’ll encounter here.
Type of Dive: Boulder/Wall
Depth: 12 – 35 meters
Visibility: 15 – 30 meters
Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate
North Point, also known as Rocky Point, is a diverse dive site featuring submerged rocks and fringing reefs. The site is ideal for all skill levels, with its swim-throughs, deep pinnacles, and coral gardens. Divers can spot Ghost Pipefish, Pygmy Pipehorses, and even Leopard Sharks in the sand channels.
Type of Dive: Boulder/Reef
Depth: 10 – 35 meters
Visibility: 20 – 25 meters
Difficulty: Intermediate
Anita’s Reef is a beginner-friendly site that spreads between Similan Islands #5 and #6. The reef slopes gently to a sandy bottom, with vibrant coral gardens and plenty of marine life, including Clownfish, Nudibranchs, and Ghost Pipefish. It’s the perfect start to any PADI Liveaboard experience in the Similans.
Type of Dive: Reef
Depth: 5 – 30 meters
Visibility: 20 – 40 meters
Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate
Mantaqueen Fleet powered by KSALiveaboards offer some of the best dive sites in Thailand, making them a top choice for any liveaboard trip. Whether you’re seeking thrilling pelagic encounters or exploring colorful coral gardens, the diverse dive sites around the Similans, Koh Bon, Koh Tachai, and Richelieu Rock have something for every diver. Book your next PADI Liveaboard adventure and discover the underwater wonders of Thailand. Contact us today! @ksaliveaboard
