Phuket Beach, Hotels Phuket Beach Resort,

Thailand | Phuket | Phuket Diving

Phuket Diving

Phuket island is often referred to as the 'Pearl of the South' and for scuba divers it's certainly the crown jewel of the Andaman Sea; and rates among the top 10 scuba diving destinations in the world. This island paradise lies only 8^o north of the equator, enjoying a tropical climate with average water temperature of 24^oC (78^o F) with an unmatched variety of aquatic life. The best time to dive is between October and May between the two monsoons, however scubadiving is available all year. Spectacular reefs, Unusual underwater rock formations, and huge variety of marine life provide great opportunities for divers at all levels. A fleet of dive boats now roam the azure blue water of the Andaman Sea that for thousands of years served as the main trade route for merchant vessels, pirates, explorers and missionaries from India, the Arab nations and Europe on their way to China, ancient Siam (Thailand), and Japan.

In spite of its strategic location and long maritime history, many areas of the Andaman Sea remain largely unexplored. This underwater frontier continues to yield exciting new dive sites that are only now being made available. Even today, in some areas like Hin Daeng to the south and the area around the Burma Banks to the north, and virtually the entire Mergui Archipelago, you may enjoy the added pleasure of being one of the first ever to dive in many sites.

For divers, the true treasures of the Andaman Sea are hidden below the surface where the vast panorama explodes into a virtual symphony of colors and corals. The warm, clear nutrient rich water draws vast schools of tropical fish, manta rays, a host of other pelagic fish, and the awe inspiring Whale Shark. The diverse underwater scenery, and abundant marine life combined with good (and sometimes great) visibility will delight underwater photographers and marine naturalists. The dive sites available vary enormously and offer a full range of dive-profiles. Start with a lazy drift dive through vast gardens of coral, or try swimming through some of numerous caves and grottos, exploring a ship-wreck, or maybe embarking on a multi-level dive along a sheer granite wall with a different creature in every nook and cranny.

With countless number of dive operators offering daytrips and liveaboards to pretty much every dive spot in the area and beyond you really are spoilt for choice. With an international airport, more accommodation than you can shake a stick at and nightlife that never stops Phuket is the place to be.

Phuket Diving Map