Enjoy the Natural Beauty by Taking a Liveaboard Diving Tour in Similan Island

Thailand has a lot of dive spots that can give you the opportunity to discover and explore the breathtaking and mysterious life under the sea. The Similan Islands are one of the most popular scuba diving destination, and the best way to explore them is by taking a liveaboard diving tour. In this type of tour, you will live on a yacht or a boat that is specially crafted for diving trips. The boats are large enough for small to big groups. Liveaboards offer the best diving tours and cruises that can let you make the most of your visit to Similan Island, and the best opportunities are offered by seasoned specialists who organize liveaboard diving packages in Thailand.

You can find Liveaboard diving tours in Similan Islands as packages that come with the best deals, like dives to Richelieu Rock, Koh Tachai, Koh Bon, and Surin National Marine Park. Diving tours can be arranged as daily or multi-day trips on a Similan liveaboard. Together with the Surin Islands, the Similan Islands cover about 140 square kilometers, so you will need a few days or more to explore every dive spot they have to offer, including Shark Fin Reef. Many islands are uninhabited and unspoiled, so it may feel like you are in a completely different world as you explore their beaches, behold their majestic boulders, enjoy different activities and experiences, and take in the breathtaking views.

Under the sea, the most outstanding scenes and venues await to be explored via a liveaboard diving tour in Similan Island. The seas around the islands are home to a very rich marine life that includes whale sharks and manta rays. Mild temperatures and clear water make ideal diving conditions, and when you join a liveaboard diving tour, you will be accompanied by PADI certified divers, too.

5 Things to Keep in Mind When Going for Scuba Diving Tours in Phuket

Warm weather and beautiful seas make Phuket one of the best destinations for scuba diving tours. Scuba divers of every age and skill level will find Phuket a wonderful venue for diving and exploring the sea life, and specially crafted tours are designed to make their trip more convenient and cost-effective. Scuba diving tours in Phuket offer a great way to enjoy the activity with your companions or in a group, but there are five things you should keep in mind before you go:

1. Pick the right tour provider – Make sure it is an established company that offers a wide range of scuba diving tour packages and courses in Phuket. Find out how long they have been operating and make sure they are a licensed business. One of the leading providers of scuba diving tours in the island has been in business for over 20 years, making them among the most established and reputable companies trusted by local and visiting scuba diving enthusiasts.

2. Explore the options – Find out the tour options and packages being offered by a particular provider. Scuba diving tours and trips typically provide access to major dive areas like the Phuket West coast, Shark Point, the Racha Islands, Ko Phi Phi, the Tarutao group, the Hin Daeng and Hin Muang group, Anemone reef, and the King Cruiser wreck.

3. How can you get to the diving sites? - Reputable scuba diving tour providers in Phuket have a yacht that can take you to the dive sites comfortably and safely. The boat is specially crafted for diving, with specific areas for equipment, lounging, eating, and for getting in and out of the ocean.

4. The number of people who can join the trip – There is safety in numbers, including the maximum number of people who are allowed to join in a group. This way, overloading the yacht can be avoided and you can be sure that it will not be too crowded and that the dive guides can provided personalized attention to everyone.

5. PADI certified – Make sure that you are booking scuba diving tours with a PADI certified dive center. This means that Divemasters and SCUBA instructors are certified PADI too and that they are qualified to accompany you or teach you how to dive.

Scuba Diving in Phuket – The Pearl of The Andaman

Phuket is situated around 862 kilometers south of Bangkok and it is one of the must-see destinations in Thailand, especially if you love water sports and scuba diving. Its nickname, ‘Pearl of the Andaman Sea,’ will make a lot of sense when you see how beautiful it is with its limestone cliffs, vast and tranquil bays, white beaches with powdery sand, and lush tropical forests. Phuket itself is the largest island of Thailand, and its waters have plenty of diving sites that are waiting to be explored by you.

Scuba diving is one of the top activities you should not miss in Phuket. PADI-certified divers go there for a challenge or for fun dives, and beginners and casual divers go there to learn or hone their skill. The best time to go scuba diving in Phuket is during hot season, which is from November to April. That way, you can experience the clearest skies, crystal clear waters, and the freshest sea breeze, and enjoy a pleasant temperature, which averages between 28 to 33 degrees Celsius.

Families, couples, groups of friends, and individuals can arrange scuba diving adventures through a reputable provider of diving trips, holidays, liveaboards, and certified diving lessons in Phuket. Be sure to find provider that is recognized as the leader in the local diving industry and recognized by PADI as a reputable diving center with the best standards for teaching and guiding its students.

Phuket offers many different dive sites such as Racha Noi, a tropical island known for its hard coral reefs, big granite boulders, and excellent visibility that lets you enjoy a view of the underwater life with plenty of fish and manta rays. The King Cruiser wreck is another attraction to see when scuba diving in Phuket. The ferry sank in May 1997 near a reef, and since then, it became inhabited by many species of fish, making it a fascinating diving destination for average to expert divers.

3 Beautiful Phuket Scuba Diving Sites

Scuba diving in Phuket is one of the best experiences you could ever have. Arranging a dive in Phuket should be easy if you book with a specialized provider that offers PADI-certified diving courses and reasonably priced diving trips. Trips are designed for beginners and more experienced divers, and they always come with certified instructors and guides to ensure your safety. There are three beautiful Phuket scuba diving sites you should not miss:

1. Racha Islands – Situated less than two hours south of Phuket, Racha consists of two islands: Racha Yai (the north island) and Racha Noi (south island). These are two of the best local dive sites for first-time or amateur divers. There are more than 10 sites here with many different attractions to see. 

Racha Yai is known for its good visibility that lets you clearly behold abundant reef fish and coral reefs. From there, you can consider a trip to the Harruby wreck located between Bay 1 and Bay 2. At 18 meters deep, you should be able to find spotfin lionfish, different kinds of nudibranchs, some batfish or even yellowtail barracudas. 

Racha Noi is 45 minutes south of the northern island and it is known for its good visibility, too. The underwater environment consists of a white sandy bottom with huge granite boulders. Whale sharks, spotted eagle rays, mantas, and other large pelagics frequent the island because of its current and depth.

2. Koh Phi Phi – Located 46 kilometers east-south-east of Phuket lies the Phi Phi Islands, which boasts turquoise waters and verdant limestone hills highlighting the main island. Scuba diving is one of the main activities in this area where you can find local reefs consisting of soft and hard corals and a diverse marine life. Koh Phi Phi is ideal for all scuba divers regardless of their skill level and expertise.

3. Koh Dok Mai – This small limestone island has hard coral on the west, so the east wall is commonly frequented by divers. Cracks and crevices can be found at all depths, but the popular one is the big and small caves on the east side. The small cave is recommended only to scuba divers who are certified or have obtained specialty in caverns. 

Enjoy This Holiday Season with a Wonderful Scuba Diving Experience in Phuket

The holiday season is coming up. Why don’t you take advantage of your vacation days and head over to Phuket for scuba diving? The high season starts in November and ends in March or April. It’s a great time to visit Phuket and enjoy all the diving sites it has to offer at optimum conditions.

Perfect Weather Diving

The winds change at some point in October, so the sea becomes calm and flat by the time November comes along. This improves underwater visibility for scuba divers and kicks off the best scuba diving season in Phuket. The water is cooler during the rainy season – around 27C but from November starts to get warmer as the high season progresses.

Did you know that some Phuket and Similan’s dive sites are closed from May to September? The government mandates this in order to give the underwater attractions a well-deserved rest from visitors, and also to prevent boating and diving accidents that may be caused by large waves and heavy storms. But don’t worry - they open again in time for the holiday season. This means that you won’t have problems diving famous national parks like the Similan Islands as well as the Surin Islands during this time, well after the monsoon months.

Plan Early

Because the holiday months of November till March are known for providing the best visibility, thousands of divers from all over the world flock to Phuket during this period. Be sure to plan your trip early and book everything at least two months before your arrival. If you want to take diving lessons, inquire about packages as soon as you have confirmed your trip because slots most of the time runs out. And if you intend to join a liveaboard diving cruise, sign up as soon as you’re able if you want to secure your place.

5 Reasons Why Scuba Diving Is Good for You

Scuba diving is a great way to experience another world underwater. Not all people will have the opportunity to scuba dive, so when given the privilege, be sure to take it and give it a shot. Not only is it pleasurable and fun—it may do wonders for your health, too. Read on to find out the five reasons why scuba diving is good for you:

1. It’s a great form of exercise. Scuba diving may be a low impact activity, but spending an hour in the activity can help you burn an average of 300 to 600 calories. That is the same as taking a walk, except you are exploring a mysterious and wonderful underwater scenery. A dive can last about 30 minutes to an hour, and a trip usually consists two to three dives. And because it is a low impact activity, it can be great for those who have bad joints, hips, or knees. A crew is typically there to assist with a heavy tank. Scuba diving may help increase your physical strength, too.

2. Scuba diving can improve blood circulation, since it requires you to use all muscles in your body. Hence, you are experiencing a full cardio workout. Likewise, scuba diving may help your feet and legs become more agile.

3. It lets you get up close and personal with nature. Scuba diving lets you explore an unusual world under the sea, and the breathtaking scenery may help reduce stress levels and make you feel more peaceful and relaxed. You may get to interact with some sea creatures, too, like dolphins and sea turtles.

4. Scuba diving is a good way to relax. It may help relieve stress, especially when you get used to the water and you are more confident and comfortable with your skills. When you scuba dive, it puts you ‘in the moment’. Hence, it lets you forget everything else but the activity. You can focus on what you can see, your buoyancy, and your breathing, and in a way, it can be meditative, too. Likewise, scuba diving can serve as an escape from the real world.

5. Meet new people, make new friends. Scuba diving trips typically involve people from all walks of life and from different countries. Hence, they may provide the opportunity to widen your social circle, too.

Top 3 Local Dive Sites to Explore When Scuba Diving in Phuket

Often called Southeast Asia's Dive Pearl, Phuket is one of the best jumping off points for scuba diving adventures in Thailand. You can choose to join a liveaboard cruise if you want to spend most of your holiday exploring the region’s underwater attractions. Top scuba diving tour operators in Phuket will send you off with PADI-certified professional instructors and divers to make your scuba diving adventures fun and safe. 

There are so many local dive sites to explore in Phuket. Below are just some of them.

1. One of the most popular local dive sites is Racha Noi, which is great for dipping your toes into the many patches of underwater paradise in the Similan Islands. This scuba diving site is known for its colossal granite boulders, highly diverse ocean surface topography, and of course, its rich sea life. Here you will spot tuna, manta rays, jacks, and whales. 

2. Another Phuket scuba diving site you should not miss is Shark Point, which is famous for being home to bamboo sharks as well as leopard sharks. The corals in the area are breathtaking as well. During your dives, you will likely be surrounded by schools of glassfish and spot the usual pufferfish, boxfish, and angelfish. The famous King Cruiser wreck is only a mile from Shark Point.

3. Koh Dok Mai (which means Flower Island in Thai) is another must-see scuba diving attraction in Phuket. It is technically a limestone islet that juts vertically out of the gorgeous sea, perfect for wall dives and practicing penetration techniques. Koh Dok Mai is quite famous with diving enthusiasts because of the diversity and beauty of its walls. If you look hard enough, you will spot yellow tiger-tail seahorses amongst gorgonian sea fans. Can’t see them? Don’t worry—your dive guide will point them out to you, along with other majestic creatures like harlequin ghostpipefish and white-eyed moray eels. Bring your underwater camera because there are lots to photograph here. 

All4Diving Offers Best Scuba Diving Courses in Phuket

Are you looking to take up a scuba diving course during your holiday in Thailand? All4Diving Academy has been a leader in the Phuket diving industry for over two decades. You will feel safe with this company knowing that has made it to the list of the most awarded PADI centers not just in Southeast Asia but also in the world. In fact, this diving school is a PADI 5 Star Career Development Center—the highest distinction given to dive academies.

All4Diving in Phuket provides professional as well as recreational diving education, so you are welcome to enroll no matter what your current skill level is. You will be under the mentorship of friendly PADI Awarded Elite Instructors, so you’re always in good hands.

A quick Google search will reveal that All4Diving Academy has earned hundreds of 5-star reviews from its many satisfied diving students—and it’s easy to see why. The air-conditioned center is well equipped with everything you will need to learn how to dive properly, from spacious classrooms to large private swimming pools designed specifically for training dives. All4Diving also has its own boat named MV Mermaid—and it has already earned a reputation for being the best diving boat in Phuket. MV Mermaid is made of steel and features stabilizing wings that ensure safety and comfort even when the weather goes bad. Aside from this, All4Diving also owns two luxurious liveaboard boats named MV Mermaid I and MV Mermaid II. These liveaboards navigate Indonesian waters and have become crowd favorites in the liveaboard diving community.

Do you need to buy equipment and accessories for snorkeling and diving? All4Diving has a spacious retail shop where you can find whatever you require, and all from top range manufacturers. You will also feel good knowing that you are enrolling in a diving course offered by an environmentally-aware diving academy. All4Diving supports PADI project AWARE, Thailand Authority of Tourism, Shark Guardian, and GoEco Phuket. 

The Breathtaking Scuba Diving Experience in Phuket

Phuket attracts all sorts of divers—from super active families to backpackers to experienced diving enthusiasts. The island is a bustling base for taking PADI courses and is a great jumping off point for diving daytrips as well as liveaboard adventures to the Similan Islands and beyond.

Racha Noi is one of the best of the local dive sites in Phuket. It can give you an impressive taste topography of the Similans and is known for its hard coral formations. The area’s resident manta rays, tuna, and jacks are sure to entertain you.

Shark Point is another excellent site that is alive and truly healthy. Don’t worry—there are no deadly sharks here, only leopard sharks. The real attractions here are the pristine corals. You will also see an abundance of pufferfish, angelfish, and boxfish. Schools of glassfish are a normal sight.

A diving expedition in Phuket won’t be complete without a trip to the King Cruiser passenger ferry. This vessel sank almost 20 years ago without loss of life. It now serves as a shelter for thousands of fish. The wreck is quite deep and the current is mid to strong, so absolute beginner divers might not feel comfortable here. That said, anyone who has logged several dives can enjoy the wreck’s resident mackerel, barracuda, trevally, and much more.

As the gateway to some of Thailand’s best scuba diving spots, Phuket is home to a number of dive shops offering liveaboard diving trips up the west coast to the Andaman Sea. Living on a boat for several days is the most efficient way to truly make the most of your diving holiday in Phuket. It’s more practical than staying in a resort and making do with short day trips. A Similan liveaboard will take you to Koh Bon, Koh Tachai, and Richelieu Rock. You can choose to a package that suits your budget.

Explore and Discover Wonderful Similan Islands with Liveaboard Boats

Similan liveaboards provide an exciting and unique way to explore the stunning underwater world of the Andaman Sea. The duration of these trips range 2 nights to 8 nights, and there are all sorts of packages for all types of budgets. Budding as well as experienced divers always have lots of fun venturing out to the Similan Islands.

A multi-day liveaboard diving trip is often better than a daytrip because it lets you do more dives and cover more areas. You sleep, eat, and basically live on a boat for the duration of the trip which means you don’t have to waste precious hours going back and forth from Phuket. Liveaboard expeditions are perfect for diving enthusiasts looking to get the most of their holiday, as well as beginners who want to get as much diving experience as they can in one trip.

Below are just some of the key benefits of a Similan liveaboard experience:

•              Economical and efficient

•              More dives and more time at dive sites

•              Great way to improve your diving skills fast

•              Great food (and lots of it)

•              Safe diving schedule

•              Option to explore further afield

•              Great way to meet new diver friends from around the world

All transfers, food and accommodation are included in a liveaboard arrangement, so if you do the math, it’s really not that expensive. You will probably spend more if you choose to stay in a hotel in Phuket and go on multiple diving daytrips.

Most Similan liveaboard holidays will take you to Koh Bon, Richelieu Rock, and Koh Tachai. You will get to immerse yourself in all of these stunning dive sites because you don’t have to hurry back to Phuket. Are you disappointed about missing out on Phuket’s nightlife because you’ll be on the water for several days? Don’t worry—nights on the boat are just as fun and social because you are in the company of other avid divers. The glow of the moon and stars is quite breathtaking, too.

Taste the Fun and Adventure with Professional Diving Lessons in Phuket

Are you traveling to Phuket to go diving? Then you will need to take professional diving lessons on the island. The beach is lined with all kinds of dive shops offering courses—and the selection can be overwhelming. Here are some tips to evaluating a diving center so you can make an informed choice.

First of all, choose a school that uses the latest instructional principles emphasizing hands-on, real-world dive training. The best dive schools are recognized and even recommended by PADI. They boast modern class rooms and a low instructor-to-student ratio (usually 1:2), so you can get personalized attention and instruction. The best providers of professional diving lessons in Phuket have their own large and private swimming pools as well as their own yachts for open sea training.

Also remember to look beyond the price. Are the lessons too cheap to be true? Go somewhere else. Always put your safety above the urge to save money. In the world of professional diving lessons, you truly do get what you pay for.

Here’s another tip: Look around the diving store or office. Does it look well maintained? The condition of the shop or office is often an indication of their work ethic. Check their rental equipment and assess if they are up-to-date. You should also ask questions like the following:

• Can you have a look at their latest test certificates? (These are usually displayed on the walls)
• What is their safety record?
• Are boat logs available?
• Do their instructors have instructor cards? (Ask to see them.)
• Is the dive agency affiliated with PADI?
• How often do they service / repair / clean their equipment?

Do not be shy to ask the staff any questions you might have. After all, it’s their job to answer you and make you feel safe. If the staff seems unwilling to answer you or does not seem to know what they are doing, walk away and go to a different professional diving lesson provider.

Incredibly Fascinating Diving Experience with Similan Liveaboard

Joining a Similan liveaboard trip is an exciting and efficient way to explore the Andaman Sea’s wonderful underwater attractions. Liveaboards range from short 2-day/2-night adventures to weeklong trips, and from cheap-and-cheerful to high-end. No matter what your diving skill level and budget, you will find a Similan liveaboard package that is suitable for you.

There are many benefits to choosing a liveaboard arrangement instead of staying in a hotel. Below are some of them:

1. Save time – Why waste previous hours making the trip to and from the mainland every day when you can live in a boat? You get to relax under the starry sky at night and wake up to dive early the next day way ahead of the day trippers—which means you can enjoy the dive sites before the crowds pile in.

2. Learn more – If you are a beginner diver, a Similan liveaboard adventure immerses you fully in the wonderful world of diving. You will likely meet more experienced divers in the boat and learn from their stories and experiences. Just a few days out at sea and you will soon feel confident underwater. Don’t worry—most adventures start off at the beginner-friendly dive sites and move to advanced sites throughout the journey.

3. Save money – A Similan liveaboard is an economical way to access the best dive sites in the Similan National Marine Park. It is often cheaper than staying in a hotel and joining multiple day trips. A Similan liveaboard allows you to get more dives for your dollar compared to Similan daytrips. Food, drinks, accommodation, and transfers are often included, so you save even more money.

What’s more, you might get to go on night dives! Some Similan liveaboard outfitters provide night dive packages that let you see the nocturnal creatures of the sea. Night diving is often only possible on liveaboard because the sites are too far to access at night from the mainland.

Learn Recreational Diving and Advanced Diving Courses in Phuket

Phuket is one of the best place to explore great dive sites. What makes Phuket so attractive is the fact that is offers different sites suitable for different divers in all levels. So whether you’re an expert diver or a first-timer in exploring the deep blue, Phuket has interesting spots just for you.

Before you choose a diving course in Phuket, it is better to find tour operators or diving centers first. They can gauge what your diving level is and recommend a suitable course. You’ll want a dive center that is instructed by PADI Awarded Elite Instructors and preferably given a five star CDC. The best dive centers can cater to all types of divers, from beginners to professionals as well as budget to luxury travelers.

Kids as young as 8 years old can take a certification diving course. It will only take 1 day and will include 2 pool dives of 35- to 45-minute each in areas. Before you get into the sea, it is important to take a short class and listen to instructors discuss the basics of diving. Throughout the dive, you will be guided and supervised by PADI instructors.

If you want to take a certification PADI course, take a PADI open water diving course where you will get an in-depth understanding of diving. This 3 days course will also usually involve basic swimming pool training & instruction on the first day. For the following two days, you will be brought to beginner-appropriate diving sites in Phuket.

If you are interested in advanced diving courses, you must be a PADI Open water diver. You can expect more training dives on your first day and a combination of training and fun dives in the days after. Always check what is included in the diving course before you sign up. Aside from the necessary equipment, materials, certification, and guidance, it also helps if the course already includes insurance, transfers, and on-board food.

Choose Similan Diving Liveaboards on Your Next Holiday

The Similan Islands is one of the best places to visit in Phuket, Thailand, especially if you are an avid diver. Composed of 11 islands spread in the Andaman Sea, the Similan Islands are best explored via a liveaboard holiday package. It can be a hassle (and a waste of time and money) to go back and forth to your land accommodation after each day of island hopping. Why not live on a boat for the duration of your adventure? When you choose Similan Diving Liveaboard, you will have more time diving and exploring the treasures of the Similan Islands.

With dozens of tour operators in Phuket, you are sure to find the right one to help you enjoy your holiday. Go to a 5 Star dive center where they have elite PADI instructors. It also helps if the dive center can cater to all types of divers, whether you are a beginner looking for a budget option or an expert wishing to go at your own pace with a private liveaboard. Here are some factors to consider when choosing you’re a liveaboard diving provider:

• Diver certification – If you are going on a group dive, you must have the same diver certification or level as everyone else to fully enjoy your trip. Dive centers usually provide dive courses.

• Privacy – Are you looking to meet new friends during your trip or would you rather have a private one all to yourself? Choose from private boats to rooms with twin, triple, or quad cabins.

• Dive sites to visit – If you are with a group, there’s usually an itinerary already for the trip. Check if you are interested in visiting these locations so you don’t end up wasting time.

• Facilities and amenities – If you want a luxurious trip with deluxe amenities and even a private chef, check out First Class live boards or private deluxe yacht live boards. 

Experience Underwater Fun with World Class Diving Courses in Phuket

Scuba diving is not as easy as it seems; it’s not a matter of simply strapping on an oxygen tank and jumping into the water. In order to enjoy safe underwater fun during your Phuket holiday, you need to be educated on scuba diving basics. You will need to attend diving courses offered in Phuket for all kinds of divers. There are three types of available:

1. Beginner diver course – This is where you learn the most fundamental techniques in scuba diving – from the kind of suit to wear to the specific gear to use. You will undergo hands-on training in a swimming pool where the instructor can safely teach you the skills you need. The instructor may also take students like you to a shallow spot in the open sea to give you a taste of what a real scuba diving experience will be like.

2. Intermediate diver course – This course is a good opportunity to put your scuba diving skills to the test. The intermediate course allows divers to experience real diving expeditions in the open water. This is a great chance to prepare yourself for a full-course dive in more challenging sites.

3. Advanced diver course – For those who want to take on more challenging and thrilling dives, the advance course can be extremely fun and useful. Here, you can choose to further your diving skills and even learn other underwater activities such as digital underwater photography, drift and wreck diving, night diving, and the like.

If you are interested in enrolling in one of these courses, be sure to contact PADI accredited companies in Phuket. This ensures that you can learn from the best diving instructors. Also, make sure that you are physically fit to take a diving course. Ask for a clearance from your physician.

Blog Source URL: http://www.scubadiving-phuket.com/all4diving-thailand/2016/05/experience-underwater-fun-world-class-diving-courses-phuket/

Discovering Similan Islands with Liveaboard Diving – More Entertaining Diving Experience

The Similan Islands is a group of splendid granite landmasses scattered on southern Thailand’s turquoise Andaman Sea. It is home to world-class diving sites that are rich in marine and underwater life. The best way to enjoy everything the Similan Islands has to offer is to sign up for a live aboard diving expedition. This is a great and more entertaining way of spending your holiday because not only will you get to see the all the dive sites you wish to see—you also get to meet new people and learn more about the Thai culture.

Be sure to book with a reliable diving holiday provider in Similan Islands to assist you with all the things you need for your liveaboard diving expedition. If you are on a budget, you can consider an economy type of package that allows you to see all the major dive sites and get maximum value for your money. An economy package will allow you to meet and make friends with a lot travelers and divers from different parts of the world, as you will be traveling with them on the same liveaboard package. Do you want a little more privacy during the trip? Don’t worry – the comfort class liveaboard package offers private rooms (with bathrooms).

First class liveaboard packages, on the other hand, are the perfect choice if you want to experience a 5-star accommodation during the entire expedition. Superb meals and even massages are just some of the many things you’ll have the liberty to enjoy during the trip.

Whether you are aiming for a first-class or a comfort class liveaboard package, make sure to get in touch with a reputable PADI-endorsed company so that you can have the best accommodation and experience. With their crew and staff being well-trained and well-experienced, you can be assured that you will be taken good care of throughout your liveaboard diving experience in the Similan Islands.

Blog Source URL: http://www.scubadiving-phuket.com/all4diving-thailand/2016/05/discovering-similan-islands-liveaboard-diving-entertaining-diving-experience/

Discovering Similan Islands with Liveaboard Diving – More Entertaining Diving Experience You are here:HomeBlog

The Similan Islands is a group of splendid granite landmasses scattered on southern Thailand’s turquoise Andaman Sea. It is home to world-class diving sites that are rich in marine and underwater life. The best way to enjoy everything the Similan Islands has to offer is to sign up for a live aboard diving expedition. This is a great and more entertaining way of spending your holiday because not only will you get to see the all the dive sites you wish to see—you also get to meet new people and learn more about the Thai culture.

Be sure to book with a reliable diving holiday provider in Similan Islands to assist you with all the things you need for your liveaboard diving expedition. If you are on a budget, you can consider an economy type of package that allows you to see all the major dive sites and get maximum value for your money. An economy package will allow you to meet and make friends with a lot travelers and divers from different parts of the world, as you will be traveling with them on the same liveaboard package. Do you want a little more privacy during the trip? Don’t worry – the comfort class liveaboard package offers private rooms (with bathrooms).

First class liveaboard packages, on the other hand, are the perfect choice if you want to experience a 5-star accommodation during the entire expedition. Superb meals and even massages are just some of the many things you’ll have the liberty to enjoy during the trip.

Whether you are aiming for a first-class or a comfort class liveaboard package, make sure to get in touch with a reputable PADI-endorsed company so that you can have the best accommodation and experience. With their crew and staff being well-trained and well-experienced, you can be assured that you will be taken good care of throughout your liveaboard diving experience in the Similan Islands.

Blog Source URL: http://www.scubadiving-phuket.com/all4diving-thailand/2016/05/discovering-similan-islands-liveaboard-diving-entertaining-diving-experience/

Experience Underwater Fun with World Class Diving Courses in Phuket

Scuba diving is not as easy as it seems; it’s not a matter of simply strapping on an oxygen tank and jumping into the water. In order to enjoy safe underwater fun during your Phuket holiday, you need to be educated on scuba diving basics. You will need to attend diving courses offered in Phuket for all kinds of divers. There are three types of available:

1. Beginner diver course – This is where you learn the most fundamental techniques in scuba diving – from the kind of suit to wear to the specific gear to use. You will undergo hands-on training in a swimming pool where the instructor can safely teach you the skills you need. The instructor may also take students like you to a shallow spot in the open sea to give you a taste of what a real scuba diving experience will be like.

2. Intermediate diver course – This course is a good opportunity to put your scuba diving skills to the test. The intermediate course allows divers to experience real diving expeditions in the open water. This is a great chance to prepare yourself for a full-course dive in more challenging sites.

3. Advanced diver course – For those who want to take on more challenging and thrilling dives, the advance course can be extremely fun and useful. Here, you can choose to further your diving skills and even learn other underwater activities such as digital underwater photography, drift and wreck diving, night diving, and the like.

If you are interested in enrolling in one of these courses, be sure to contact PADI accredited companies in Phuket. This ensures that you can learn from the best diving instructors. Also, make sure that you are physically fit to take a diving course. Ask for a clearance from your physician.

Blog Source URL: http://www.scubadiving-phuket.com/all4diving-thailand/2016/05/experience-underwater-fun-world-class-diving-courses-phuket/

Scuba Diving In Thailand - Great Adventure

Thailand is one of the best places to go scuba diving. Just head to the island of Phuket and you will be minutes away from fabulous, world-class dive sites where you will come upon both natural and artificial reefs that are ideal for all levels of divers. To be able to enjoy scuba diving, you should take PADI courses first. Dozens of PADI dive centers are in Phuket, but it’s always best to choose a center with a 5-star rating to ensure professionalism and the highest standards of safety.

One of the best ways to enjoy scuba diving in Thailand is to using a liveaboard package. You can save a lot of time on travel and enjoy the open waters for much longer. In a liveaboard arrangement, you stay on a boat or yacht instead of hotels on land. Liveaboards offered are ideal for all types of travelers, whether you are on a budget or looking to splurge. Just book your liveaboard scuba diving adventure with a reputable PADI center or travel operator. There are usually four types of liveaboards:

1.    Economy – For the budget-conscious, economy liveaboards are an excellent way to meet other travelers who also share your love for adventure or diving.

2.    Comfort – One step up from economy, comfort liveaboard offers private accommodation and boats with more amenities.

3.    First Class – This type of liveaboard usually includes delicious and world-class meals. Some ships even have massage services onboard as well as housekeeping.

4.    Luxury – If you don’t want to follow a particular itinerary and want to travel around Phuket’s Andaman Sea as you please, this is the liveaboard for you. Almost anything you wish can be arranged, from the cuisine that you want to be served to drinks that you want onboard, like champagne and wine.

Phuket - An Amazing Destination for Scuba Diving

Scuba diving is one of the top reasons why visitors come to the island of Phuket. This area is an excellent jump off point for visiting the world-class dive sites of Thailand. Here are some locations you might want to visit while there:

•    Koh Doc Mai – This limestone island looks a little bit like a muffin. It has a garden of soft and hard corals and is ideal for all levels of divers. The current can be moderate to high, and visibility is up to 15 meters. You can spot octopuses, sharks, moray eels, and tropical fishes in Koh Doc Mai.

•    Racha Islands – To the south of Phuket lies Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi. Both granite islands have hard and soft corals and usually have moderate currents. These islands are suitable for beginners. Scuba divers can usually find moray eels, stingrays, turtles, and tropical underwater. If you are a little apprehensive of diving or are with non-divers, Racha Islands are also ideal for snorkeling.

•    Anemone Reef – Its name Hin Jom translates to Submerged Rock. This limestone pinnacle is ideal for beginners to advanced divers. Some of the sea life you can spot include schools of lionfish and clownfish.

•    Richelieu Rock – If you want to spot some manta rays and whale sharks, this is the place to go. Only advanced divers are allowed to go to Richelieu Rock as the current is usually high.

If you are going to Phuket, book with a PADI dive center beforehand to get the best advices and prices. When intending to visit during high or peak seasons, you need to book your diving course way in advance because slots run out. Those who are looking to enjoy the full-on experience of visiting Phuket can also try a liveaboard package. Don’t forget to complete your PADI diving course for a better and safer experience.

Things to Consider When Choosing Scuba Diving Courses in Phuket

With the high demand for diving courses increasing in Phuket, dozens of PADI dive centers have set up shop in and around the island. If you are looking for a scuba diving course for your next vacation, here are some factors you need to consider:

·         Scuba Diving Level – Are you a beginner, a novice, or an experienced diver? No matter what your level is, it’s important to choose the scuba diving course accordingly. If you sign up for a scuba diving course that is beneath your level, you might get bored. If you choose a course that is way too advanced for you, however, you might not be able to keep up, or have a fun underwater.

·         Instructors – You also have to take into account who will be teaching you when you choose a diving course. Aside from being fully qualified to teach scuba diving courses, the instructor should be highly experienced and knowledgeable about the dive sites in Phuket. Even the most seasoned scuba divers can experience troubles underwater if they are diving in new dive spots and environments.

·         The diving center – You also need to take into account the PADI dive center where the scuba diving course is being offered. Check out the services offered as well as the on-site facilities and logistics. For beginners, it can be helpful if the PADI dive center has its own and private dive pool. Check if the dive center is accredited. Some of the best ones have earned awards and are 5 Star PADI dive center.

·         Pricing – Most dive package prices are in the same ballpark. What you have to consider is the quality of service as well as inclusions. For example, will your scuba diving course already include the price of air tanks, gears, water transportation?  Also, keep in mind that scuba diving involves classroom courses. You have to sit down for a class before you put on your scuba gear.  Make sure the package includes this as well.

Experience Tremendous Fun with Scuba Diving Courses in Phuket

According to statistics, more than 29 million tourists visited Thailand in 2015. This number is estimated to reach 100 million in the next two decades, and 40% are expected to go to Phuket. It’s easy to see why. After all, Phuket is one of the most exciting diving spots in the world. It is home to rich marine life, coral reefs, and even a boat wreck now inhabited by sea creatures. Consider a scuba diving course for your trip in Phuket. Here are some PADI diving courses in Phuket you might consider:

·         PADI Discover Suba Diving – This type of scuba diving course is ideal for visitors who simply want try out scuba diving in the sea. You can try this with your kids as long as they’re at least 10 years old. Dives will last for about 35 to 45 minutes and a professional PADI Instructor will take care of you.

·         PADI Open water Diver – This is the first step to becoming a scuba diver. An open water course will usually be comprised of three phases, including classes for knowledge development and training at a private swimming pool to help gain confidence. You will get to dive in famous Phuket dive sites like Kata Reef and the Racha islands.

·         PADI Advanced Open Water Diver – If you are ready to take things to the next level, an advanced open water diver course will allow you to visit even more wonderful diving locations in Phuket.

·         PADI Rescue Dive Course – Diving is usually just about you enjoying the excellent marine life and the sea. If you take the rescue dive course, you are able to further your diving education. It’s not just about fun anymore but also function. You will learn to how rescue and act during emergencies.

·         PADI Go Pro – If you think that diving might be a career path for you, it’s time to go pro. This type, of course, is for divers who are looking to become dive masters and PADI instructors.

Gain Revitalizing Experiences at Different Diving Destinations of Thailand

The Andaman Sea offers itself to scuba divers of every skill level. This part of Thailand has some of the best scuba diving destinations in the country, if not the world, among the most sought after of which are the Red and Purple Rocks (Hin Daeng and Hin Muang dive sites), which offer world-class dive spots that deserve to be in every diving enthusiast's top 10 dive sites to take on. Apart from these locations, other amazing sites to target include the Surin and Similan Islands.

October through early May or April is the best times to visit the Andaman Sea. If you want to catch a glimpse of giant manta rays and whale sharks, they arrive at the Similans between the months of January and April. However, heavy rainfall usually hits in May, starting at the West Coast. Heavy downpours usually continue until September, during which the East of the country is a better option for diving. Here, the best diving is found in Koh Tao, but you may want to avoid the crowds during peak months.

Thailand is known for its crystal clear waters. The average sea temperature is a relatively comfortable 28 degrees, which is good for most divers. Because many of the dive sites around Thailand are considered national treasures, Thai authorities are very strict in protecting their natural environment, particularly the coral reefs, even closing dive sites when necessary. They have strict control over their Marine National Parks, which is also why these places have retained their beauty and diversity throughout the centuries.

The maximum dive depth in marine parks is 40 meters and as a rule, no diver may do more than four dives per day. Across Thailand are a total of 26 marine parks, 16 of which can be found in the Andaman Sea, while the remainder can be found in the Gulf of Siam.