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Explore Phang-nga

Phang-nga, nestled along the Andaman Sea in southern Thailand, is a diver's paradise renowned for its spectacular underwater landscapes and vibrant marine ecosystems. Its prime location offers easy access to the famed Similan and Surin Islands, which are celebrated for their diverse corals, thriving marine life, and exquisite reefs. These islands form part of protected national marine parks, ensuring that the underwater environment remains pristine and inviting for divers from around the globe. Here, one can explore an array of dive sites ranging from tranquil shallow waters to deeper sites with currents, making it suitable for novice and advanced divers alike.

Beyond the colorful reefs, Phang-nga's waters are teeming with a delightful mix of marine species. Divers can marvel at macro critters like nudibranchs and shrimp or swim alongside larger inhabitants such as leopard sharks, manta rays, and even the occasional majestic whale shark. Notable dive spots like Richelieu Rock and Koh Bon Pinnacle are famed for these encounters, adding an element of thrill to each dive. The region also boasts captivating wrecks and intriguing underwater caves, perfect for those looking to add variety to their diving adventures.

The tropical climate of Phang-nga ensures excellent diving conditions year-round, with the peak season from November to April offering the best visibility and calm seas. This region's welcoming dive centers cater to all preferences, from laid-back shore dives to exhilarating liveaboard excursions that explore the deeper mysteries of the Andaman Sea. With its stunning natural beauty and rich underwater life, Phang-nga remains an essential destination for any diving enthusiast seeking a memorable and diverse experience.

Top Regions to Explore

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Shark Ecology for Snorkelers DUO

Shark Ecology for Snorkelers DUO

1. Why Take This Speciality Course?Take a fresh look at the ultimate guardians of the ocean. Sharks are often feared and misunderstood, yet they are essential to the health and balance of coral reefs. The SSI Shark Ecology specialty dispels common myths and reveals the fascinating biology, senses, and behaviors of these magnificent predators. By understanding how they hunt, communicate, and navigate, you will replace fear with respect and turn every shark encounter into an unforgettable highlight of your dives.Species Identification: Learn to recognize key shark species, including Leopard sharks, Blacktip reef sharks, and Whitetip reef sharks found in Koh Lanta.Sensory Adaptations: Discover their extraordinary superpowers, from detecting electrical fields to sensing movement from hundreds of meters away.Ecological Importance: Understand why coral reefs depend on apex predators to maintain species balance and healthy fish populations.Open to Everyone: Academic course accessible to scuba divers, freedivers, and snorkelers.2. Course Curriculum (1 day in ocean)The course combines interactive online learning on the MySSI app and a topic presentation at the center with your instructor (with a practical application during your ocean dives).Key Topics Covered:Biology & Evolution: Anatomy, reproduction, and the evolutionary history of sharks over 400 million years.Local Species of Koh Lanta: Focus on Leopard sharks (Stegostoma fasciatum) at Koh Bida and Blacktip reef sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus).Behavior & Interactions: How to read shark body language and practice responsible, safe, and respectful diving/snorkeling habits.3. PrerequisitesNo diving prerequisites required (also accessible to non-divers, freedivers, and snorkelers).Minimum Age: 6 years old for non-divers.4. Your International CertificationAt the end of the course, you will earn your SSI Shark Ecology Specialty Certification.Recognized worldwide5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)Do I need to scuba dive or snorkel for this specialty?No, it is not mandatory! The Shark Ecology specialty can be completed entirely as a 100% dry course.If you are a non-diver or prefer to stay out of the water, you can earn your certification by completing the interactive classroom or online sessions.However, if you are a diver or snorkeler, adding in-water sessions is highly recommended: it’s the perfect opportunity to apply your new knowledge on the reef and practice identifying sharks in their natural habitat!Will we get to dive or snorkel with sharks during this course?While wild animal sightings are never guaranteed, sites around Koh Lanta—such as Koh Bida and Hin Bida—are renowned for regular encounters with Leopard sharks and Blacktip reef sharks.Is it dangerous to dive or snorkel with sharks?Not at all! Sharks are naturally cautious creatures. This specialty teaches you how to interact calmly and respectfully, ensuring a safe experience for both you and the sharks.

Apo Dhatu Divers, 490 Moo 3, 81150, Saladan, Koh Lanta, Krabi, THA
October 1, 2026 +241 More
$121.60
THB 4,000.00
First Dive - Basic Diver DUO

First Dive - Basic Diver DUO

1. Why choose the Basic Diver program?The ideal experience to get started right in the ocean and build confidenceIt allows you to complete hands-on learning exercises right in the calm, shallow waters of national parks, followed by two exploration dives in the heart of Koh Lanta’s coral reefs.100% in the ocean over 1 day: No need to go through the pool—you’ll enjoy a full day right on the boat.2 exploration dives: Descend to a depth of 12 meters, guided by your instructor.Progressive Certification: Your experience is recorded in the MySSI app and can be credited in full if you decide to continue on to the Scuba Diver or Open Water Diver course within 6 months!Maximum of 2 participants per instructor: For comfort and constant attention.2. The Day’s ScheduleA personalized experience, tailored to your paceWondering what it feels like to breathe underwater for the first time?The SSI introductory dive (Try Scuba / Basic Diver) is the perfect way to discover the underwater world without the commitment of a long training course.Under the guidance of our experienced French-speaking instructors, you’ll explore the underwater world in a safe and supportive environment.How does your trip go?Briefing & Preparation: Introduction to equipment, simple safety guidelines, and underwater communication signals.Gentle Introduction: Take some time to acclimate in shallow water to get your bearings and take your first breaths without stress.Reef Exploration: Discover the tropical fish and colorful corals of Koh Lanta at depths of up to 12 meters (or 5 meters for the introductory course).3. The Benefits of “Apo Dhatu Divers”Safety & Supervision: A maximum of 2 participants per instructor to ensure constant attention.Stress-Free & Serene: A patient and passionate instructor who provides constant attention.French-language training materials: Easy-to-understand theory accessible via the MySSI app before your dive.Transportation: Pickup from your hotel and return. Additional fees may apply depending on the distance from your accommodations.All-inclusive onboard: Breakfast, hot lunch (dietary options available), snacks, beverages, and fresh fruit.Full equipment provided: Diving gear that is regularly maintained for maximum safety.Insurance: Free for the duration of your activity.4. PrerequisitesBe at least 10 years old and in good general health (a simple medical questionnaire must be completed).No prior experience required.5. Your International CertificationOnce your day is over, you’ll receive a certification recognized within the SSI system. For 6 months, this certification allows you to take guided dives to depths of up to 12 m with an SSI professional, or save time and money on your future Scuba Diver or Open Water training.6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)Do you need to be a strong swimmer for a first-time dive?You don’t need to be a strong swimmer; being in reasonably good physical condition is sufficient. Your instructor will stay by your side at all times to manage your buoyancy and ensure your comfort underwater.At what age can someone take a trial dive?The open-water program is available to participants ages 10 and up. (An adapted program limited to 5 meters is available for younger participants ages 8 and up, in a pool setting only.)What if I want to continue after my introductory dive?If this experience makes you want to take it further, your SSI introductory dive can be credited directly toward the first step of your SSI Open Water Diver certification!

Apo Dhatu Divers, 490 Moo 3, 81150, Saladan, Koh Lanta, Krabi, THA
October 1, 2026 +241 More
$145.92
THB 4,800.00
Open Water Diver DUO

Open Water Diver DUO

1. Why Take The Open Water Diver Course?Take a fresh look at life below the surface Learning to dive is one of the most transformative adventures you can experience. The SSI Open Water Diver course is your globally recognized entry ticket into the underwater world. Combining interactive digital theory, hands-on pool training, and four incredible ocean dives in the warm waters of Koh Lanta, this course equips you with the fundamental skills, safety knowledge, and buoyancy control needed to dive independently with a buddy anywhere on the planet.Globally Recognized Certification: Earn an international license allowing you to dive down to 18 meters (60 feet) with a certified buddy.Comprehensive Training: Master dive theory, safety protocols, equipment management, and core underwater skills at a comfortable pace.Unforgettable Ocean Dives: Complete four open water training dives at world-class sites like Koh Haa or Koh Bida, surrounded by tropical marine life.Open to Beginners: Designed specifically for first-time divers with no prior experience required.2. Course Curriculum (3 Days - 4 dives)The course combines flexible online learning on the MySSI app, practical skill development in confined water, and 4 dedicated open water dives from our boat:Key Topics Covered:Digital Academics & Briefings: Understanding dive physics, physiology, equipment functions, and dive planning principles.Confined Water Skill Workshops: Practicing mask clearing, regulator recovery, buoyancy control, hovering, and emergency air-sharing procedures.Open Water Ocean Dives: Applying your skills in the real ocean, building underwater confidence, navigating, and exploring coral reefs.3. PrerequisitesPrerequisites: Able to swim 200 meters (or 300 meters with mask, fins, and snorkel) and float/tread water for 10 minutes. No prior diving experience required.Minimum Age: 10 years old (Junior Open Water Diver certification for ages 10–14).4. Your International CertificationAt the end of the course, you will earn your  SSI Open Water Diver CertificationDigital SSI Open Water Diver certification card recognized worldwide.Valid for life, allowing you to rent scuba gear, book dive trips, and enroll in advanced specialty courses.5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)How long does the Open Water Diver course take?The course is typically completed over 3 full days, which includes 1 day of pool/confined water training followed by 2 days on our boat completing your 4 ocean dives.What if I struggle with a specific skill during training?Our experienced instructors teach with patience and flexibility. You will work through skills step-by-step until you feel completely comfortable and confident before moving on to the open ocean.

Apo Dhatu Divers, 490 Moo 3, 81150, Saladan, Koh Lanta, Krabi, THA
October 1, 2026 +241 More
$425.59
THB 14,000.00

Dive Activity

Diving in Phang-nga

Phang-nga, nestled in southern Thailand, offers an array of exceptional dive sites that attract enthusiasts from around the globe. Among the top spots, the Boonsung Wreck stands out as a notable wreck dive, teeming with marine life such as barracuda and lionfish. This artificial reef is a haven for macro photography, making it a must-visit for underwater photographers. For those seeking the thrill of shore dives, Ao Sane Beach offers easy access to vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine species. The region also provides unique opportunities for night dives, where divers can witness bioluminescent plankton and the nocturnal behaviors of marine creatures. Whether opting for shore or liveaboard diving, Phang-nga ensures a balanced experience, catering to both convenience and adventure.

Dive Centers

Dive Sites

The best Months to dive in Phang-nga

Phang-nga offers exceptional diving conditions throughout the year, making it a popular destination for divers. The water temperatures are warm, ranging from 27°C to 30°C, providing a comfortable experience for divers in all seasons. Typical visibility ranges from 10 to 30 meters, though it can vary depending on the time of year and specific dive sites.

Diving is possible all year in Phang-nga, although the best conditions are generally from November to April when the seas are calmer, and the weather is more predictable. During the monsoon season, from May to October, divers may encounter less favorable conditions with stronger winds and currents, which can affect visibility and accessibility to certain dive sites. However, many experienced divers find opportunities even in the off-season by selecting more sheltered locations.

Top Wildlife Sightings in Phang-nga

Phang-nga, located in southern Thailand, is renowned for its vibrant marine life, particularly around the Similan and Surin Islands. Typical reef inhabitants include an array of colorful fish such as parrotfish, butterflyfish, and angelfish. These species are commonly spotted throughout the year, providing a lively underwater spectacle for divers. Seasonal highlights include sightings of majestic manta rays, which are more frequent from February to May, and whale sharks, often seen between February and April. Green and hawksbill turtles also frequent the reefs, with a higher likelihood of encounters from November to April. These seasonal visitors make Phang-nga a sought-after destination for divers eager to experience diverse marine wildlife.

Wildlife Sightings are Based on User Generated Content

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 200

Moray Eel

Moray Eel

11k Sightings
J
1.5k
F
1.8k
M
2k
A
1.5k
M
329
J
53
J
99
A
127
S
65
O
406
N
1.3k
D
1.6k

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 27

Barracuda

Barracuda

6.6k Sightings
J
809
F
1.3k
M
1.4k
A
925
M
175
J
44
J
50
A
84
S
43
O
255
N
664
D
870
Green Turtle

Green Turtle

1.7k Sightings
J
220
F
223
M
345
A
214
M
59
J
28
J
36
A
44
S
23
O
44
N
136
D
278

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 600

Wrasse

Wrasse

1.6k Sightings
J
174
F
376
M
499
A
206
M
20
J
3
J
0
A
1
S
0
O
55
N
146
D
153

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 300

Octopus

Octopus

1.3k Sightings
J
203
F
264
M
262
A
134
M
27
J
2
J
4
A
3
S
0
O
11
N
176
D
212
Hawksbill Turtle

Hawksbill Turtle

544 Sightings
J
60
F
77
M
135
A
84
M
21
J
14
J
16
A
8
S
12
O
17
N
35
D
65

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 28

Clownfish

Clownfish

9.4k Sightings
J
1.2k
F
1.7k
M
2.2k
A
1.3k
M
255
J
65
J
114
A
171
S
87
O
333
N
920
D
1.2k

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 100

Parrotfish

Parrotfish

8.3k Sightings
J
1.1k
F
1.4k
M
2k
A
1.1k
M
178
J
40
J
63
A
102
S
58
O
295
N
874
D
1.1k

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 12

Lionfish

Lionfish

8.3k Sightings
J
1.2k
F
1.4k
M
1.4k
A
1.1k
M
278
J
72
J
71
A
135
S
53
O
341
N
874
D
1.3k

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 90

Angelfish

Angelfish

8.1k Sightings
J
1k
F
1.5k
M
1.8k
A
1.1k
M
212
J
46
J
85
A
124
S
61
O
267
N
802
D
1.1k

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 130

Butterfly Fish

Butterfly Fish

7.2k Sightings
J
870
F
1.3k
M
1.7k
A
919
M
172
J
50
J
85
A
121
S
74
O
225
N
658
D
986

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 40

Triggerfish

Triggerfish

6.3k Sightings
J
839
F
1.1k
M
1.3k
A
798
M
166
J
28
J
53
A
69
S
41
O
213
N
782
D
872

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 8

Bannerfish

Bannerfish

6.1k Sightings
J
706
F
1.1k
M
1.5k
A
786
M
157
J
37
J
42
A
86
S
57
O
213
N
722
D
769

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 130

Pufferfish

Pufferfish

6k Sightings
J
830
F
1.1k
M
1.1k
A
797
M
189
J
40
J
60
A
99
S
41
O
247
N
685
D
886

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 150

Sweetlips and Grunts

Sweetlips and Grunts

4.5k Sightings
J
631
F
827
M
1.2k
A
606
M
77
J
19
J
19
A
49
S
35
O
125
N
384
D
554

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 85

Surgeonfish

Surgeonfish

4.2k Sightings
J
504
F
866
M
1.1k
A
537
M
53
J
3
J
18
A
29
S
13
O
114
N
434
D
512

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 40

Jackfish

Jackfish

3.7k Sightings
J
429
F
673
M
915
A
580
M
74
J
14
J
2
A
10
S
15
O
111
N
408
D
463

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 250

Grouper/Basslets

Grouper/Basslets

3.7k Sightings
J
418
F
650
M
729
A
530
M
124
J
12
J
18
A
35
S
36
O
128
N
439
D
562

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 110

Snapper

Snapper

3k Sightings
J
361
F
635
M
707
A
339
M
46
J
14
J
16
A
19
S
19
O
86
N
321
D
446

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 90

Goatfish

Goatfish

2.8k Sightings
J
296
F
570
M
788
A
310
M
77
J
24
J
16
A
48
S
29
O
89
N
298
D
298

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 25

Boxfish

Boxfish

2.8k Sightings
J
335
F
565
M
571
A
432
M
101
J
22
J
24
A
31
S
14
O
90
N
242
D
341

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 350

Damselfish

Damselfish

2.5k Sightings
J
235
F
591
M
799
A
223
M
52
J
5
J
10
A
43
S
23
O
74
N
218
D
275

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 250

Scorpionfish

Scorpionfish

2.5k Sightings
J
306
F
443
M
539
A
322
M
86
J
16
J
13
A
45
S
15
O
104
N
271
D
347

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 3000

Nudibranch

Nudibranch

2.2k Sightings
J
294
F
398
M
485
A
352
M
62
J
6
J
1
A
13
S
4
O
82
N
190
D
320

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 80

Stingrays

Stingrays

1.9k Sightings
J
292
F
316
M
316
A
274
M
75
J
26
J
32
A
37
S
25
O
60
N
192
D
294

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 60

Soldierfish

Soldierfish

1.8k Sightings
J
178
F
350
M
545
A
166
M
39
J
2
J
15
A
35
S
18
O
103
N
127
D
204

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 15

Tuna

Tuna

1.7k Sightings
J
225
F
357
M
422
A
230
M
18
J
2
J
1
A
0
S
1
O
51
N
182
D
225

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 3

Trumpetfish

Trumpetfish

1.7k Sightings
J
213
F
321
M
322
A
198
M
46
J
1
J
29
A
23
S
11
O
64
N
184
D
260

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 3400

Shrimp

Shrimp

1.6k Sightings
J
188
F
342
M
407
A
287
M
67
J
4
J
0
A
1
S
3
O
17
N
105
D
206

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 80

Emperor

Emperor

1.2k Sightings
J
107
F
289
M
369
A
149
M
40
J
1
J
0
A
15
S
0
O
48
N
69
D
121

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 20

Porcupinefish

Porcupinefish

1.1k Sightings
J
109
F
222
M
281
A
83
M
32
J
16
J
4
A
19
S
15
O
52
N
115
D
172
Common Seahorse

Common Seahorse

1.1k Sightings
J
123
F
220
M
221
A
188
M
58
J
0
J
0
A
20
S
14
O
28
N
83
D
111

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 7000

Crab

Crab

918 Sightings
J
112
F
222
M
185
A
144
M
23
J
1
J
1
A
11
S
0
O
11
N
72
D
136

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 120

Cuttlefish

Cuttlefish

902 Sightings
J
133
F
114
M
145
A
50
M
15
J
0
J
10
A
17
S
16
O
47
N
135
D
220

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 130

Pipefish

Pipefish

900 Sightings
J
134
F
170
M
188
A
127
M
55
J
1
J
0
A
1
S
0
O
25
N
96
D
103

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 60

Squirrelfish

Squirrelfish

732 Sightings
J
42
F
160
M
302
A
42
M
19
J
0
J
0
A
23
S
18
O
35
N
35
D
56
Blacktip Reef Shark

Blacktip Reef Shark

689 Sightings
J
103
F
97
M
193
A
91
M
8
J
18
J
0
A
19
S
13
O
10
N
52
D
85

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 15

Garfish

Garfish

689 Sightings
J
75
F
115
M
230
A
73
M
20
J
0
J
1
A
12
S
0
O
11
N
60
D
92

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 30

Stonefish

Stonefish

595 Sightings
J
98
F
75
M
127
A
71
M
20
J
1
J
3
A
6
S
3
O
33
N
67
D
91
Zebra Shark

Zebra Shark

568 Sightings
J
58
F
56
M
78
A
106
M
68
J
29
J
11
A
31
S
20
O
24
N
44
D
43

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 3

Cornetfish

Cornetfish

559 Sightings
J
60
F
147
M
139
A
73
M
16
J
0
J
0
A
0
S
0
O
24
N
42
D
58

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 55

Lobster

Lobster

447 Sightings
J
52
F
92
M
82
A
72
M
6
J
0
J
0
A
0
S
0
O
5
N
43
D
95

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 60

Spiny Lobster

Spiny Lobster

398 Sightings
J
58
F
74
M
89
A
43
M
4
J
3
J
0
A
0
S
0
O
8
N
61
D
58
Whitetip Reef Shark

Whitetip Reef Shark

376 Sightings
J
32
F
59
M
80
A
36
M
25
J
19
J
21
A
15
S
11
O
15
N
13
D
50

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species approx.: 2

Tarpon

Tarpon

362 Sightings
J
36
F
76
M
145
A
43
M
0
J
0
J
0
A
0
S
0
O
1
N
18
D
43
Ribbon Moray Eel (Ghost Eel)

Ribbon Moray Eel (Ghost Eel)

335 Sightings
J
56
F
58
M
69
A
41
M
24
J
0
J
0
A
0
S
0
O
0
N
21
D
66
Garibaldi Damselfish

Garibaldi Damselfish

282 Sightings
J
19
F
80
M
99
A
24
M
3
J
0
J
0
A
1
S
0
O
0
N
14
D
42

Curated by Interest

Events by Lifestyle Category

Underwater Beginner