WELCOME TO THE SIMILAN ISLANDS
Everything you need to know about Similan Scuba Diving, Similan Snorkelling, Similan Live-aboards and Similan Day Trips, including how to get to the Similan Islands, Similan Dive Site Guides, Similan Accomodation, Similan Sailing Charters and Similan Dive Boat Charters. Reliable information and booking services, Thailand Dive & Sail has over 11 years local experience and work only with reputable, environmentally friendly operators to ensure your perfect trip.
NOTE: The Similan Islands National Park is closed until end of October 2013!
Until then, no liveaboard operations and no daytrips will take place. If you have any questions concerning a visit to the Similan Islands ask our experts.| read here: |
quick links:
Diving Liveaboard Trip Quickfinder: |
Immerse yourself in clear blue waters, play on peaceful white sand beaches and spend your days discovering the abundant tropical wildlife ecosystems of the Similan Islands. Located 65 kilometers off the coastline of Phang Nga province in southwestern Thailand, and established as a National Park marine reserve in 1982, the Similans are a must for all visitors seeking the adventure and beauty of isolated island landscapes and a stunning underwater world teeming with unique marine life.
Named for the Malay word for nine -Sembilan- the formation of nine individual islands are known by both their names and their numbers. In 1998, the National Park was extended to encompass the two neighboring islands Koh Bon and Koh Tachai. World-famous Richelieu Rock and the islands of neighboring Mu Koh Surin National Park are also only a short journey away.
Characterized by huge granite boulder formations, wooded jungle hillsides and a huge array of both woodland and marine plant and animal species, the islands are an ideal, easy-to-reach destination for dive safaris, sailing and snorkeling trips, hiking and birdwatching. The immense diversity of the islands and marine sites guarantees each and every visitor an unforgettable experience, above and below the surface of the water. Welcome to the Similans!
SIMILAN ISLAND FACTS
| Name: | Mu Koh Similan National Park |  |
|
| Location: | Phang Nga Province, Andaman Sea, Thailand | ||
| Founded: | 1982 | ||
| Area: | 140 km² (80,000 Rai) | ||
| No. of Islands: | 9 + 2 | ||
| Season: | November 1 to April 30 | ||
| Weather: | North Eastern Monsoon. More | ||
| Activities: | Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Sailing, Camping, Bird Watching, Kayaking | ||
| Accommodation: | #4 Koh Miang and #8 Koh Similan. More | ||
| Wildlife: | Similan Islands Nature & Wildlife Guide | ||
| Geology: | Similan Islands Geology Guide | ||
| Fees 2013-2014: | 500 THB general admission + 200 THB per day per diving guest | ||
back to top
HOW TO GET TO THE SIMILAN ISLANDS
Many roads lead to Khao Lak, the main point of departure to the Similan Islands. Here is where the adventure begins! From Khao Lak it is short journey to your waiting boat at Thap Lamu Pier. Divers and snorkelers will usually be picked up at their Khao Lak accommodation, or meet at the dive centre, for a group taxi ride to Thap Lamu. Safari boats also depart to the Similans directly from Phuket, or provide a direct taxi transfer from Phuket to Thap Lamu. Thailand Dive & Sail will gladly advise you of your exact itinerary and best options for travel.
 |
||
| National Park HQ: | Situated on the road to Thap Lamu pier, 14 km south of Khao Lak, 4 km off Highway 4 | |
| Thap Lamu Pier: | 500 m past National Park HQ | |
| From Bangkok: | Daily flights to Phuket or Krabi Town with Bangkok Airways, Thai Airways and Air Asia, then taxi or bus to Khao Lak, taxi to Thap Lamu Pier | |
| From Phuket: | Taxi, mini-van or hourly bus service leaving Phuket Town to Khao Lak, then taxi to Thap Lamu Pier | |
| From Krabi Town: | Taxi, mini-van or hourly bus service departs Krabi Town to Khao Lak, then taxi to Thap Lamu Pier |
back to top
SIMILAN ISLANDS SCUBA DIVING
Our experience has proven the Similans to be one of the most diverse and unique dive destinations in the world. For divers wishing to combine relaxation and service with a comprehensive visit to all the dive-sites of the Similans, live-aboard safari trips for every budget level are the ideal option. For those with less time to spend in the islands, we recommend a day-trip, in which you will have the opportunity to discover two to three of the best dive-sites in the Similans, or at Richelieu Rock and Koh Bon.
For detailed and updated info read our updated Similan Diving guide from July 2013
| Season: | 1 November - 30 April | |
| Best Time to go: | January - March | |
| Experience: | Suitable for all levels | |
| Water Temperature: | 29-30˚C average surface water temperature. More | |
| Visibility: | 12 - 40 meters. More | |
| Tides/Currents: | Weak to moderate; stronger at full and black moon. More | |
| Salinity: | 30 - 33% per thousand. More | |
| Depths: | 0 - 50 meters /dives generally limited to maximum 30 meters | |
| Types of Sites: | Fringing, sloping reefs; granite and limestone rock pinnacles; boulder and hard coral reef gardens. To view our Dive-Site Guide, click here | |
| First Aid: | All dive-staff trained in emergency first response, first aid and secondary care; all boats carry 100% emergency medical oxygen; evacuation plans in place; doctor stationed at Island #4 | |
| Recompression: | Located at Bangkok Hospital Phuket; representative based in Khao Lak | |
| Fees: | In addition to the 400 THB general admission fee, diving guests will be charged 200 THB per diving day | |
| Training: | PADI, SSI | |
| Nitrox: | see our list of dive operators offering Nitrox |
The conditions in the Similans are usually close to perfect during high season, however, this is not always the case. For basic information about Similan weather and sea conditions please read more here.
SIMILAN ISLANDS DIVE-SITE GUIDE
With a great array of different dive-sites, and of course many different ways to dive each of them, the Similans are so diverse that visitors return again and again, each time discovering something new. From soaring underwater rock pinnacles to flourishing hard and soft coral garden reefs to giant boulder formations and swim-throughs, the dive terrain is unique at each dive-site. Marine life indigenous to this particular area of Southeast Asia abounds, with sightings of rare species, both large and small, common. The underwater world of the Similans provides a myriad of subjects for the passionate photographer, both macro and wide-angle.
Click on the dive site name for a more detailed individual description:
| Christmas Point |  |
|
| North Point | ||
| Breakfast Bend | ||
| Turtle Rock | ||
| Beacon Reef | ||
| Elephant Head Rock | ||
| Deep Six | ||
| West of Eden | ||
| East of Eden | ||
| Anitas Reef | ||
| Hideaway Bay | ||
| Honeymoon Bay | ||
| Shark Fin Reef | ||
| Boulder City |
back to top
KOH BON, KOH TACHAI & RICHELIEU ROCK DIVE-SITE GUIDE
Three absolutely fantastic dive-sites lie a short journey north and northeast of the Similans â Koh Bon, famous for frequent Manta Ray sightings and it's awesome limestone wall and pinnacles; Koh Tachai, popular for its vast plateau, fringing granite rock formations and leopard sharks; and world-class Richelieu Rock, a huge, breathtaking horseshoe-formation just breaking the surface of the water, home to abundant rare marine life and stunning, soft purple coral gardens and sea fans.
These dive sites are reached most conveniently on a liveaboard, please refer to Similan Liveaboards how to best reach them and the Similan Islands in one go.
Mu Koh Similan National Park was extended in 1998 to include the two northerly islands of Koh Tachai and Koh Bon, while Richelieu is such an unforgettable and nearby dive-site that all three of these attractions are usually included in most every live-aboard trip to the Similans. Day-trips to both Koh Bon and Richelieu Rock are also available. No dive-safari to the Similans is complete without a visit these sites.
Click on the dive site name for a more detailed individual description:
| Koh Bon Ridge |  |
|
| Koh Bon Pinnacle | ||
| Koh Tachai | ||
| Richelieu Rock |
back to top
SIMILAN ISLANDS SNORKELING
An exceptional and safe opportunity to discover the underwater world for the non-diver. The coastlines near the beaches of the Similan Islands are studded with beautiful bommies, coral gardens and rock formations at shallow depths, allowing for a birds-eye view over the expansive seascape. Swim with turtles and mantas, skin-dive amongst schools of tropical fish and perhaps even follow the divers at sites far below the surface. Experienced professionals on every boat are there to guide you for your safety.
| Season: | 01 November 2010 - 30 April 2011 | |
| Experience: | Suitable for all levels | |
| Tides/Currents: | Weak to moderate; strong at full and black moon | |
| Types of Sites: | Fringing, sloping reefs; granite and limestone rock pinnacles; boulder and hard coral reef gardens. | |
| First Aid: | Doctor stationed at Island #4; evacuation plans in place | |
| Fees: | 400 THB general admission fee | |
| Recommended Sites: | Anita's Reef, Hideaway Bay,Beacon Beach and Reef, Breakfast Bend, East of Eden, Koh Bon Ridge, North Point to Christmas Point, Princess Bay. For maps of these snorkel spots please see our dive-site guide | |
| Equipment: | Buoyancy jackets, mask, snorkel and fins in all sizes are provided by your boat operator. You may prefer to bring your own. | |
| Clothing: | A swimsuit is sufficient, though we recommend more sun protection in the form of a long-sleeved rashguard, t-shirt and shorts. | |
| Protection: | Please make sure to wear high-spf sunscreen while snorkeling, ideally all over, but pay attention to the back side of your body, as the sun will be shining directly onto you. Don't forget to protect your neck, ears, back, thighs, shoulders, upper arms, etc.! We cannot stress this point enough. | |
| Contact Lenses: | If you wear lenses, please bring a spare set just in case you lose one. | |
| Wildlife: | Similan Islands Wildlife | |
| Note: | Island #1, #2 and #3 are Royal Thai Navy marine reserves and turtle breeding grounds! While snorkeling is permitted, access to the beaches is strictly prohibited. |
back to top
SIMILAN ISLANDS SAILING
Experience the beauty of the Similans on your own sail boat! For individuals, groups and families of sailing enthusiasts, the islands are the ideal tropical destination and stunning basis for extensive diving, snorkeling and island exploration. Moor in stunning bays and enjoy the peace and relaxation of a remote, uninhabited island atmosphere. Adventure on your own time and at your own pace in an environmentally-friendly manner.
Let us charter your sail boat, skipper and crew to the Similans, arrange diving and snorkeling gear and customize your independent sailing trip itinerary. We are able to recommend and book charters with or without crew, as well as introduce you to experienced freelance dive staff and guides to accompany you on your adventure. If you are sailing independently throughout the local area on your own boat, please feel free to contact us regarding marine conditions, equipment and insightful tips and information about sailing the islands. Diving and snorkeling sites are listed in our Similan Island Diving Guide / Snorkeling Guide. Please also refer to Similans Islands at a Glance, as well as our Wildlife Page.
| Moorings: | Always available in picturesque, sheltered spots around the islands and in the bays. To protect the environment, please DO NOT drop anchor in the Similans or Surins, but use the moorings provided. | |
| Water: | Non-potable water sources available on Island #8. Fresh drinking water is not available in the Similans, please make sure to stock bottled water! | |
| Provisions: | Can be arranged by Thailand Dive & Sail | |
| Food: | Small, simple restaurant on Island #4 and Island #8 | |
| Refuse: | Please do NOT dispose of any garbage or non-biodegradable items on the islands or in surrounding waters. Take it back with you. Large bins and dumpsters are available at the main piers in Phuket, Thap Lamu and Khuraburi for disposal. | |
| Waste: | Please do not empty holding tanks or bio-degradable items in the vicinity of the islands. | |
| Pets: | Domesticated animals are not allowed in the National Park. If you have house pets with you on your own boat, please leave them on board. | |
| Flags: | All marine vessels are required to fly a Thai flag when sailing Thai waters. | |
| Immigration: | Ranong, Phang Nga and Phuket provide immigration checkpoints and stamp-in for around-the-world travelers. Advance arrangements may be made via Thailand Dive & Sail. | |
| Diving: | If you are certified, equipment rental available via Thailand Dive & Sail, dive boats in the vicinity offer air and Nitrox filling service for approximately 200 THB per tank, some may also provide a guide. Please see our Similan Island Dive Guide. | |
| Snorkeling: | Unlimited. Please see our Snokeling Guide for recommended sites. | |
| Wildlife: | Similan Islands Wildlife | |
| Note: | Island #1, #2 and #3 are Royal Thai Navy marine reserves and turtle breeding grounds! While snorkeling is permitted, access to the beaches is strictly prohibited. |
back to top
SIMILAN ISLANDS ACCOMMODATION
Escape the crowds and enjoy quiet, relaxed days on the fine sand beaches of Similan Islands #4 and #8. Simple accommodation and facilities are available for adventure-seekers and nature-lovers alike, with a host of island wildlife to discover and sunsets to watch from the rocky outcrops high above the bays. Bungalows and tents are basic and clean, maintained by the National Park Service. Click on our Similan Island Accommodation Guide for a thorough overview.
| Island #4 - Koh Miang:
Accomodation options include bungalows, longhouses and tents. Facilities include electricity from 6:00 pm to 6:00 am daily, a simple restaurant and gift shop, public bathrooms and a doctor on duty. As there is no source of fresh drinking-water on the island, please remember to drink only bottled water. |
|||
| Bungalows: | 20 simple, clean and air-conditioned wooden bungalows with en-suite bathrooms, bedding included, most with a view of Princess Bay. Cost: 2000 THB per night, reservations a must. | ||
| Longhouses: | Two five-room wood and bamboo longhouses with fans, bedding included, communal bathrooms. Cost: 1000 THB per room per night / reservations a must. | ||
| Tents: | 35 large, simple tents located right next to the beach, bedding, floor pad and mosquito net included, communal bathrooms. Cost: 570 THB per night, reservations a must. | ||
| Island #8 - Koh Similan:
Accomodation in tents only. Communal facilities include electricity from 6:00 pm to 6:00 am daily, a simple restaurant and gift shop, as well as public bathrooms. As there is no source of fresh drinking-water on the island, please remember to drink only bottled water. |
|||
| Tents: | Large, simple tents located right next to the beach, bedding, floor pad and mosquito net included, communal bathrooms. Cost: 570 THB per night / reservations not possible. You may also set up your own tent on Koh Similan for a minimum fee. | ||
| Contact: | Mu Koh Similan National Park 93, Mu 5, Ban Thap Lamu, Phetkasem Rd., Lamkaen Sub-District Amphur Thai Muang, Phang Nga Thailand 82210 Tel: +66.7645.3272 / Fax: +66.7645.3273 |
||
back to top
by Ric Parker
Four days of fantastic diving with Thailand Dive and Sail
"We contacted Thailand Dive and Sail beginning August 2012 for our October holiday. Having booked into a resort we requested daytrip diving plus OWD courses for our two teenagers. Rick had the complicated task of satisfying this request outside normal diving season and he came up trumps. A great French speaking instructor was provided for our kids and we now have an additional two qualified OWD in the family. We did two day's diving from Phuket, one exclusive day's diving on the local Boonsung Wreck and one day's diving in the Similans. Rick and Clive personally did the transfers to Phuket in their fun pickup, all the equipment provided was brand new Aqualung and we had a fantastic four days diving. Don't hesitate to use Thailand Dive and Sail for your daytrip organisation. We will be back to test their live on-board services in the near future. Thanks guys for Diving with a smile ;)"
★★★★★ by Ziquet68 28.10.2012
TAT Number: L.34/00715
Top Diving Sites