Explore Richelieu Rock

The beautiful Andaman Sea that surrounds the Similan and Surin Islands is a world-class diving destination near Phang-nga province.. It’s in the heart of Thailand’s rich tropical ocean that is teeming with vast volumes of diverse marine life of all sizes. The area boasts iconic dive sites, including Koh Tachai and Koh Bon, but the one that towers above all is Richelieu Rock. Having been referred to in the past as a “whaleshark magnet”, this exciting site is a must for those who are on the hunt for the ocean’s largest fish.

Deep sea upwellings and currents bring in nutrient-rich waters, allowing massive plankton blooms which in turn attract an array of fish, and of course, the much-loved manta ray and whaleshark. This horseshoe-shaped island has much more on offer, including shoaling fish, a massive range of reef fish, colorful hard and soft corals, and lots of macro critter action.

As it’s a large dive site with depths varying from 5-35 meters, you can dive it multiple times and each will feel like a different dive. This in addition to its prolific marine life makes it a favorite location for day trips and liveaboard safaris.

If staying on a boat isn’t your thing, fear not, for dive centers and resorts, particularly from  Khao Lak, also send day trips to this area, though do be aware of long travel times. You may even be able to dive Richelieu Rock as part of a dive course, depending on sea conditions.

Entry is normally on the southwest corner, where you’ll continue along the east side or simply follow the contours of the pinnacle. It can experience current as it’s exposed to open ocean, so it may be better suited to experienced divers or those at an intermediate level. It’s recommended to have a minimum of an open water certification, and dive operators normally prefer you to have experience diving in currents. Make sure you pay attention to your dive guide, not only due to possible currents, but also because the site can be quite busy throughout the high season, as it beckons divers from all around the world. To avoid the most crowds, try to dive Richelieu Rock very early in the morning before the masses arrive, or in the evening when they’ve already departed.