Diving sites in and around Phuket

Phuket, with the picturesque Andaman Sea caressing its shores has numerous breath-taking diving locations. The topography of these sites varies from reefs to underwater elevations and slopes to bulwarks. Phuket’s diving sites are among the top ten in the world and popular with tourists from all over the world. Due to the presence of numerous diving locations, they are not very crowded. Since each site has unique and exotic sceneries, divers enjoy a higher level of pleasure when diving here.

In Phuket, there are dive operators who conduct dive expeditions to various sites frequently. You can book for a place in one of these expeditions. This is the easiest and safest way to go diving in Phuket.
Similan Islands: The Island has the most famous dive site in Phuket. The Island, which consists of a group of islands in Andaman Sea, offers excellent diving conditions like visibility of above 100m and splendid sea creatures, vegetation and colorful fishes. Whale sharks are also found in plenty here.

Shark Point: This huge rock formation is home to a large population of Leopard Sharks, after which the diving site is named. Unlike its impressive name, leopard sharks are small in size and gentle in nature. They do not pose any threat to the divers. As the elevation of the seabed varies vastly, the Shark Point offers exciting diving opportunities with multiple depths. The sea around the Shark Point is teeming with tropical fishes, soft coral and sea fans.

Koh Phi Phi: Located at a two-hour distance from Phuket Island, the diving site has special limestone peaks jutting out of water. These are overgrown with vegetation and measures almost 500m above water level. The seabed has diverse topography with reefs, walls and shallow caves. Tourists can stay in the island for a few days and enjoy the diving experience at leisure.

Racha Yai and Racha Noi: Called by locals as Raya or Rajah, the diving sites in these small islands are safe and thrilling throughout the year. The two small bays near the north end of Racha Yai offer serene atmosphere and warm water all through the year. You can drift dive at leisure at the east coast of the island. Racha Noi, even though smaller in area, has deep diving sites and strong currents, suitable for professional divers. Manta Rays and Whale sharks are the attractions of this diving location.

Richelieu Rock: This can be described as the best place to swim with Whale sharks. During the months of February to April, spotting of whale sharks is easy. Whale sharks are gentle monsters and swimming with them is completely safe. It is an experience no swimmer will forget for a long time.