Similan Liveaboards - A World Class Similans Scuba Expedition

Similan Liveaboards - A World Class Similans Scuba Expedition

by Todd Lakes

Consisting of nine magnificent and pristine islands that run from north to the south off of the western coast of amazing Thailand, the Similan Islands National Park has quickly become one of the most popular diving destinations on the planet. Most easily accessed by Similans Liveaboard, the diving around the Similans and further north to the destinations of Koh Bon, Koh Tachai, and world famous Richelieu Rock are considered by many as the crown jewels of diving in Thailand. Liveaboard Diving Thailand is an experience that should not be missed by those seeking the best diving in all of Southeast Asia.

What characterizes the Similan Islands as a world class dive destination is the choice of dive sites and diving options it provides to divers of every level. Dive sites on the eastern side of the islands are characterized by an almost overwhelming collage of color, it is like being part of a magnificent Monet landscape. Imagine white sand slopes, brilliantly colored anemones, crystal clear bays, monolithic rock formations, combined with an explosion of fish life and you should have the picture. This is a macro photographer’s dream world come true and the photo opportunities are boundless.

West facing dive sites are decidedly different than those on the east side of the islands, and will certainly provide excitement for the more discerning diver looking for an adrenaline rush. Huge granite boulder’s covered with hard and soft corals litter the white sandy bottom. Many of these monoliths plummet well beyond recreational diving limits. These dives are certainly deep and not for inexperienced divers. Currents here are much stronger as well, providing an ample and rich supply of food for the larger pelagic’s such as Giant Mantas and the elusive Whale Shark. There is also an abundance of macro life to be found. Inspect the over hangs of coral bombies for ghost pipe fish, nudibranchs, and a variety of frog fish. Frog fish, although masters of disguise can be found by those with keen eyes and lots of patience.

The best time to dive the Similan Islands National Park is from mid October to early May, every year. It is during this time that the seas are glass like, the visibility is at its very best, and the large pelagic's, Whale Sharks and Manta Rays, are making their annual migrations to feed on yearly plankton blooms. The water temperature around the Similan Islands varies between 27 and 29 degrees Celsius, so most divers prefer a 3 mm wetsuit. Depending on environmental factors the water clarity ranges from 10 to 40 meters. Diving the nine islands of this amazing archipelago can either be done by Similans Liveaboard or day trip diving from Phuket Island. The Similan Islands National Park closes from May to October when western Thailand is experiencing the southeastern monsoons.

Thailand is one of the top dive travel destinations in the world and has something to offer to divers of every level. Booking your dive trip in advance is a must when visiting this destination. The Similan Islands are in a protected national park and space on a quality Similan Islands Liveaboard is limited. Reserve your space months in advance. We recommend diving on Similan Liveaboards rather than by a Phuket day trip as there is so much to see. One day is not enough to truly experience the totality of this world class diving destination, but it is an option for those limited on time. Macro to massive the Similans justifiably rank as one of the premier diving holidays to be found anywhere on the planet.

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