subject: Enjoy The Enchantment Of Scuba Diving In Thailand [print this page] Thailand has become one of the most popular diving destinations in the world, thanks to its crystal clear waters, diversity of sea life and, of course, the friendly hospitality of the Thai people.
As an international travel hub, traveling to Thailand is simple, cost effective and hassle free and are some reasons why so many people choose to travel to this part of the world for activities such as scuba diving in Thailand.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver there is something for everyone. There are multiple courses to suit every level, and you can choose exactly what kind of underwater adventure you want, as diving is well established all over the country the operators have good reputations and have the necessary qualifications to provide a safe but fun dive trip.
Choose between half day trips, day long excursions with lunch and relaxation included, and a week or two on a live aboard boat that include berth, catering, equipment and professional dive master. Whichever you choose, you will not be disappointed.
You can dive on both east and west coast, although the most spectacular diving is in the Andaman Sea on the west. Optimum time is between October and April-however during the rainy season between May and October the diving on the east in the Gulf of Thailand is preferable and has the most consistent conditions throughout the year with visibility between 10-20m.
During peak season for the Andaman coast the visibility can reach up to 30m plus. The most popular scuba diving in the gulf of Thailand is in Koh Chang, Pattaya, Samui and Koh Tao. Koh Tao is the place to be if you are looking on doing your PADI course as the prices are some of the cheapest in the world. For more technical dives and wreck diving, head to Pattaya.
The Andaman Sea has some phenomenal dive spots for you to explore. Visit Koh Lanta, which is surrounded by several of Thailand's best sites, such as Hin Daeng and Hin Mouang- home to leopard sharks, morays, barracuda and stunning carpets of coral. Further south is Koh Lipe and the Tarutao marine park, home of many un-explored islands which make for great scuba diving spots with a wealth of marine life.
Koh Phi Phi has a reputation for fantastic marine life, black tip reef sharks are regular visitors and the island itself has a laid back and friendly atmosphere. Diving in the Similan Islands are world renowned and amongst the best diving in the world can be found here, and are breathtaking in their variety of marine life seen through crystal clear water, as are the Surin Islands, famous for the regular sightings of Whale Sharks.
Wherever you choose to go, you will be absolutely spoilt for choice. With its warm waters, tropical weather, amazing atmosphere and friendly people, you will fall in love with scuba diving in Thailand.