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Similan Islands Diving
Introduction
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This archipelago of nine granitic islands sits 90km northwest of Phuket. The islands cover an area of about 128 sq km. They feature lush rainforests inhabited by squirrels and bats, and a variety of bird-life.
A noticeable characteristic of the Similans is the contrast between the east and west coastlines. The east is subject to the relatively gentle north-easterly monsoons, and features superb sandy beaches and sheltered bays. |
| The western coasts, however, experience the full force of the harsh south-westerly monsoons and are more commonly characterized by rugged weather-beaten boulders, a pattern that continues underwater. |
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The Similans justifiably lay claim to being one of Asia’s top dive destinations. The dramatic underwater terrain is highlighted by thriving reefs and abundant soft corals, and the tremendous diversity of marine life includes many of the more exciting, larger pelagics. |
During late March and early April, Thailand’s hottest period, rising sea temperatures cause plankton blooms, which attracts a wealth of the larger animals into the area, resulting in chance encounters with, amongst others, schooling chevron barracuda, giant trevally, rainbow runners and reef sharks. There’s also a selection of rays including eagle, marbled and enormous but graceful manta.
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In general, the east-facing dive sites feature gently sloping reefs and drop-offs with impressive gardens of sea anemones, flourishing hard and soft corals, and teeming fish populations. With negligible currents and mostly moderate depths, these sites are suitable for any level of diver.
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| The archipelago’s western sites are quite the opposite. Here giant boulders tumble down to the seabed in depths of 40m or more. Currents have kept the gaps between the boulders free from build-ups of sand, leading to the development of tunnels, archways and caverns that provide exciting swim-throughs. |
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The currents also provide nutrients for masses of gorgonians, crinoids, sea fans and lush soft corals.
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Similan Islands Dive Sites
Similan / Richelieu Dive Packages
The Similans are often dived as multi-day liveaboard trips scheduled from Phuket and Khao Lak.
Click here for prices and a departure schedule for all 45 Similan liveaboard boats.
Click here for more diving around Khao Lak. Click here for a guide to all the dive sites in Thailand.
Andaman Sky, Co., Ltd, 23/8 Moo 2, Ao Nang, Thailand
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