Similan Diving

Marine Life of the Similan Islands - Frogfish

2009-07-15T19:36:00.003+07:00

All of our staff have their passion for the sea. Today we look at one of Marcel's favorite marine life species in the Similan Islands: The Frogfish

One of the things I like best about diving is that you can be completely surrounded by amazing life. If you walk in the jungle or go on a safari, you might be lucky to catch a glimpse of a rare animal in the trees or far a way from you. But anyone who has made a dive knows how much life there is under water. Things might look boring when you are on the surface, but as soon as you put a mask on and pop your head under water, you find an amazing new world, rich in life. This is particularly true when you dive coral reefs. There are so many different species in such a small area and they come in all shapes, colors and sizes. Diving the Similan Islands is a truly remarkable spot. You can find anything here, from tiny Gobies to massive Manta Rays or Whalesharks. I would like to introduce you to my top ten of favourite marine life that can be seen here.

On the first place comes the elusive Frogfish (family Antennariidae), also called Anglerfish. They have the amazing ability to get diveguides extremely excited when they find one. I have seen adult diveguides cheer like a child in his regulator. I remember a dive on Koh Tachai, where we found 2 frogfishes very well hidden deep in a piece of staghorn coral. All divemasters all got very excited, started to hug each other and slap each other on the shoulders. It took a bit longer for the customers to find out what got them so excited.

When you see a picture of a frogfish, you might think "that's a nice fish, but why the excitement?". Well, the fact that they are so well camouflaged and so difficult to spot, make it a challenge for every diveguide to find one. And when do find one and take a closer look, you will find out that Frogfishes are amazing animals. They can sit motionless for a long time and are able to blend in completely with their surroundings. Sometimes they hide but even when one sits smack on top of a coral head, most divers will pass it without ever knowing. They often stay in the same place for months, but even when you know in which area it hangs out, they are always difficult to spot. And when you point one out to divers, it often takes a while before they realize that you are not pointing to a rock or piece of coral, but actually a fish.

Currently there are 45 species known in 12 genera. They vary in size between a few up to 30 centimeters. One very interesting fact is the way they catch their prey: The first dorsal spine is modified as a fishing lure to attract prey. The lure consists of the illicium (the spine) and the esca (the bait), and may resemble a worm, crustacean, or small fish. This lure is dangled, flicked and moved around in front of the Frogfish's head. If a fish wants to catch this make-believe prey it becomes prey itself - fast as lightning the Frogfish greatly expands its mouth thus creating suction pressure and engulfs the animal. This behavior is called aggressive mimicry. Frogfishes do not swim in the conventional way; instead, they "walk" on their pectoral fins or use 'jet propulsion' (forcefully expelling water from the small opercular opening generally behind and below the pectoral fins).

They are mostly bottom-dwelling fish, typically living amongst coral, at up to 100 metres (330 ft) depth, where they lie in wait for prey. They are able to change their colour to match the background with high precision, and their camouflage is further aided by numerous warts and filaments on their skin, giving them an appearance similar to rough coral, a sponge or even a piece of drifting weed.

Typical divesites in the Similan Islands to see one are Richelieu Rock, Koh Bon, Koh Tachai, Elephant Head, West of Eden, East of Eden and the Boonsung Wreck, but I am sure they hang out everywhere, the problem is just finding them.

So next time you are on a dive and all of a sudden your guide starts to get excited, gives a lot of funny handsignals and points at something that looks exactly like a piece of ordinary coral, chances are he has found you a Frogfish.

Check out this link: http://www.frogfish.ch/ to find more info on frogfishes.

Next one: harlequin shrimps

-Similan Diving

Current guidelines for Diving with Diabetes

2009-07-14T20:11:00.000+07:00

Is it okay to go diving if you have diabetes?

Table 1: Guidelines for Recreational Diving with Diabetes - Summary Form
Selection and Surveillance

Age ≥18 years (≥16 years if in special training program)

Delay diving after start/change in medication

Three (3) months with oral hypoglycemic agents (OHA)

One (1) year after initiation of insulin therapy

No episodes of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia requiring intervention from a third party for at least one year

No history of hypoglycemia unawareness

HbA1c ≤9% no more than one month prior to initial assessment and at each annual review
– values >9% indicate the need for further evaluation and possible modification of therapy

No significant secondary complications from diabetes

Physician/Diabetologist should carry out annual review and determine that diver has good understanding of disease and effect of exercise
– in consultation with an expert in diving medicine, as required

Evaluation for silent ischemia for candidates >40 years of age
– after initial evaluation, periodic surveillance for silent ischemia can be in accordance with accepted local/national guidelines for the evaluation of diabetics

Candidate documents intent to follow protocol for divers with diabetes and to cease diving and seek medical review for any adverse events during diving possibly related to diabetes

Scope of Diving

Diving should be planned to avoid:

depths >100 fsw (30 msw)

durations >60 minutes

compulsory decompression stops

overhead environments (e.g., cave, wreck penetration)

situations that may exacerbate hypoglycemia (e.g., prolonged cold and arduous dives)

dive buddy/leader informed of diver’s condition and steps to follow in case of problem

dive buddy should not have diabetes

Glucose Management on the Day of Diving

general self-assessment of fitness to dive

blood glucose (BG) ≥150 mg·dL-1 (8.3 mmol·L-1), stable or rising, before entering the water, complete a minimum of three pre-dive BG tests to evaluate trends: 60 minutes, 30 minutes and immediately prior to diving

alterations in dosage of OHA or insulin on evening prior or day of diving may help

Delay dive if BG is:

<150>

>300 mg·dL-1 (16.7 mmol·L-1)

Rescue medications

carry readily accessible oral glucose during all dives

have parenteral glucagon available at the surface

if hypoglycemia noticed underwater, the diver should surface (with buddy), establish positive buoyancy, ingest glucose and leave the water

check blood sugar frequently for 12-15 hours after diving

ensure adequate hydration on days of diving

log all dives (include BG test results and all information pertinent to diabetes management)

-Similan Diving

Khao Lak Health questions - your answers are here!

2009-07-14T14:50:00.000+07:00

Khao Lak Health Questions:

Medical Services
General practitioners, dentists and opticians are readily available throughout Thailand. Doctors and staff in the larger hospitals generally speak good English. Every major town in Thailand will have a public hospital, but these can be poorly equipped and overcrowded. However, there is a good number of private hospitals and we recommend these for easier communication and better service. In Bangkok are two world-class hospitals that have services at least as good as if not better than in European countries. Phuket has two very good hospitals of international standards.

In Khao Lak there is no hospital, though there are two clinics, one run by a local pediatrician. The other is run by nurses. Takuapa – 30 Km north and Thai Muang – 35 Km south both have small regional hospitals. For all major emergencies Phuket has two hospitals with international standards – Phuket International and Bangkok Phuket. Ambulance Service is readily available

If in Bangkok - Ask for "long-piya-barn ekachon" - private hospital.

The local Clinic – Dr. Chusak Clinic is open from 17:00-19:00 most nights. Currently the fee for seeing the doctor will be around 100-200 Baht, and the total bill, including medication, should be no more that 500 Baht. Medicine is very reasonably priced.

Throughout Thailand hospitals also offer a walk in service, where you can see a general practitioner, during the daytime. Many also offer a 24-hour emergency room service.

Emergency ambulance services differ from those found in most western countries. All hospitals have ambulances but they are mostly used to transfer patients. Emergency numbers are only useful if you can speak Thai! Khao Lak has two ambulances located right in town, so service is fast and prompt.

In the event of car accident, an ambulance is not always called. In many instances, a passing motorist will take the injured to hospital.
Common Ailments
Many of the problems that visitors encounter are minor and would not cause much concern in their home country. However, a minor problem can quickly grow into a bigger one, due to the heat. Don't wait too long if you think you need treatment. Don’t concern yourself with costs either, as it is usually a small fraction of the cost in the first world. Remember that tests, which might take days in your home country, can often be conducted with in an hour or so at the local polyclinic, and the appropriate medication prescribed. You can then be back on your feet ready to enjoy the rest of your holiday in a very short period of time.

Vaccination

At the current time there is no compulsory immunization required for Thailand. Medical opinions also vary as to which immunizations are advisable. The following vaccines are generally recommended for adults:

* Polio (up to date)
* Typhoid
* Tetanus (up to date)
* Hepatitis 'A' (Gamma Globulin, or Havarix)
Pharmacies

A pharmacy will be found on most streets throughout Thailand. They sell a wide range of products, both locally and internationally produced. However they may not have your particular brand – double check for a generic alternative. If you have special requirements it is a good idea to consult your doctor at home and bring adequate supplies with you, or make sure you know the generic name for any medication that you may require. In some cases pharmacies are able to sell you medications that would require a doctors prescription in your home country.
If in doubt – check online directories. Both for names and dosages. Most importantly check for drug interactions if you are currently taking any medications.

In all tourists areas you will find condoms, feminine hygiene products, birth control pills and even pregnancy tests. In the more remote places you may not find sun screen.

Health Insurance

By international standards the cost of medical treatment in Thailand is surprisingly low. Nevertheless health and accident insurance is strongly recommended. For diving, we can’t emphasize enough – please get diving insurance before arriving.

If you are planning a medical procedure you might want to consider a medical vacation.

Acclimatization

On first entering a hot, humid place like this - don't overdo it. Your body needs a few days to adjust to the higher temperatures and new humidity, so gradually increase your daily activity and exposure to the sun. This will help build up your defenses, providing you drink plenty of water. Take your time, relax and enjoy.

Adjusting to the tropical climate of Thailand can take a while, but you can lessen the degree of discomfort by heeding a few suggestions.

* Wear loose-fitting, natural fiber clothing and open shoes, which give good skin ventilation. Perspiration and dampness can cause bacterial and fungal growth, which cause itching and rashes.
* Don't worry about getting a sun tan, the sun will find you. The sun is very strong, and you can become sunburned in a very short period of time. Wear a hat to protect you head and a sun block to protect exposed areas of the body. Don't forget to anoint your feet as well, if you are wearing sandals.
* Increase fluid intake to prevent dehydration. Water and fruit juices are best. Sachets of re-hydration powder are readily available at pharmacies. When mixed with water the powder forms a refreshing drink designed to rebalance the levels of salt in the body. This is especially useful if you have had a bout of "Bangkok Two-step"
* Introduce your stomach gradually to all the new hot spicy foods. Street foods are generally safe, it’s the spices that will cause your biggest challenges.
* Most inhabitants avoid doing too much at the hottest time of day. You should do the same. Adopt the siesta mentality and arrange vigorous activity for the early morning or late afternoon. We heartily recommend hammocks!
* After bathing, dry thoroughly and apply powder.
* Use a fan to circulate air instead of air-conditioning. This will greatly speed up the process of acclimatization.
The Water

Tap water comes from various sources. In most towns it will have passed through a treatment plant, however, this is no guarantee of its purity.

Bottled water is available everywhere and for very little money. We strongly recommend mineral waters rather than the simply “purified water” as that has been stripped of all minerals and value. Imported water such as Evian, Perrier, Volvic etc is also available, but quite expensive.

Ice cubes served in drinks at established restaurants are not a problem as they are usually prepared from boiled or bottled water.

Malaria

Malaria is not a problem in the major tourist centers like Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai and Phuket. However it is wise to take sensible precautions to avoid insect bites at all times.

Windows are generally fitted with screens so that air can be allowed in, whilst keeping out the bugs. The sensible use of an insect spray to kill any attackers is recommended. Several different brands are available in the shops.

To avoid insect bites the use of an insect repellent is recommended. Several international brands are available in the shops, but we particularly recommend the local product called Sketolene. It is reasonably priced and very effective.

If you plan to travel away from the major tourist areas then you should take medical advice about the type of anti-malarial medication required. Some strains of Malaria are now resistant to the more commonly prescribed anti-malarial drugs. It is important to check on this information as early as possible, as some drugs need to be taken for a period of time before possible exposure to the disease. This may mean starting the course of drugs before you leave home.
Toilets

How do they work? Well…this is one of the most embarrassing questions we get. Toilets come in a few varieties, the most common being the bucket and the butt-gun.

The bucket is more difficult to use for the first time visitor. These are essentially pits with bucket of water and a small pan or scoop in the water. With careful balance and good hand work you can pour down your backside or front side. With either splashing or rubbing you cleanse your nether regions. This sounds messy, but after a few tries, it gets easier. A god option is to carry a small pack of tissues or baby wipes. Please dispose of paper products in the trash, not the toilets.
The butt-gun is more easily understood and used. Not unlike the spray gun on your kitchen sink, the butt-gun is well...a spray gun for your butt. The first couple of times will leave you a bit wet and embarrassed, but after that – a great tool. You will feel cleaner, and more refreshed – very suitable for the tropical environment.

Similan Diving

Turtle Education & Conservation in Thailand

2009-07-12T21:21:00.001+07:00

Dive with Turtles in Thailand

Turtles are among the most popular of our aquatic friends. They are docile, curious and very serene. Whether you had the chance to see one in the wild, or at an aquarium - they are very memorable. In Thailand humans have had quite a profound affect on their numbers and locations. Fortunately they can be still be found frequently in the Similan Islands and the nearby regions.

In November and December of 2009, Wicked Diving presents the opportunity to experience them first hand! The Similan Turtle & Reef Exploration trip will take 12 lucky guests on an educational tour of the most common sighting areas.

Education and Conservation are the essential themes on these trips. A portion of the proceeds will be given to a local UN sanctioned Conservation program. The participants will all help clean up the reefs as well as gain more knowledge of the species and their environment.

All participants will also be certified as Ecological divers - a certification only a few schools int he world can issue

As we may encounter more than one species on the trip - we will be taught how to identify the different species and how the interact with their environment, with each other and how our (human) activities have an affect on them

Here is a bit of information about the turtle...

"The distribution of turtles in Thai waters is spread out along the fine sand quiet beaches of the coastline and islands in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. These two geographical areas also reflect different nesting times of the turtles. In the Gulf of Thailand the most important nesting areas for green and hawksbill turtles are Khram and adjacent islands which are located in the inner Gulf, Chonburi Province. There are some islands along the east coast from Chonburi, Rayong and Trat Province and some islands in the middle Gulf of Chumphon and Surat Thani Province where sea turtles are occasionally found. In the Gulf areas, green and hawksbill turtles lay their eggs all year round with the peak from May to August. In the Andaman Sea coastal areas of Thailand, the main nesting areas are north-west coast of Phuket, and Phang Nga provinces. In particular these areas include Thai Muang Beach and Phrathong Island, Maikhao beach Phuket, Tarutao Island and Adang-Rawi Islands of Satun Province . Olive ridley and (occasionally) Leatherback turtles are found in these areas. The green and hawksbill are found at the Similan Islands, Surin Islands and Tarutao Islands. The nesting season of sea turtles in the Andaman Sea region occurs only from October to March with a peak from mid-November to mid-January."

As taken from the Similan Islands Marine Life - Turtle Page

-Similan Diving

Similan Islands - Life above the water

2009-07-12T19:02:00.000+07:00

Similan Island Wildlife:

Above the sea surrounding each island lies Beach forest, which steadily becomes Tropical forest further inland. A large diversity of important tree species can be found. While Wicked Diving is (obviously) focused on the marine life - we are also very intrigued by the animal life we find as well!

Similan Islands Birds

A survey conducted in 1992 revealed that 39 species of birds are found on the nine islands. Resident species include the Brahminy Kite, and the White-breasted Waterhen. Commonly found migratory species include the Pintail Snipe, and Grey Wagtail. Temporary migratory species include the Barn Swallow, Cattle Egret, Watercock and the Roseate Tern. The most commonly seen species include the Pacific Reef-Egret, Nicobar Pigeon, Pied Imperial Pigeon, White-bellied Sea-Eagle, and the Collared Kingfisher.

The environment of Similan Islands is obviously that of a small island - wherever you go, you are not far from the sea. Natural fresh water reserves are limited, and as a result large mammal species cannot exist.

Mammals

However surveys have revealed that 27 species of small mammals exist within the park, including 16 species of bats namely: the black-bearded tomb bat, the lesser false vampire bat, the intermediate horseshoe bat, the lesser bent-winged bat, and the hairless bat. 3 species of squirrels can be found including the gray-cheeked flying squirrel. 4 species of rats: the yellow Rajah rat, the ricefield rat, roof rat and noisy rat can be seen scurrying around as well.

The more unusal but fairly common residents include the bush tailed porcupine, common palm civet, flying lemur and the bottlenosed dolphin (though these are rarely found ON the islands).

Reptiles

22 species of reptiles and amphibians can be found in the Similan Islands National Park: including the banded krait, reticulated python, white-lipped pit viper, common pit viper, garden blue lizard, hawksbill turtle, leather turtle, bengal monitor lizard, common water monitor lizard, ornate froglet, common asiatic frog, marsh frog, and the common bush frog.

Crabs!
Among the most interesting species located in the Similan islands is called the hairy leg mountain land crab. This crab is found in such large numbers you will be sure to see many just by walking around a bit in the early morning or evenings. The best spot is on Island #4 near the main capground. No matter where you are on the island seeing this creature will be a reminder you are never far from water.

Similan Diving

Stay in Thailand - for free!

2009-07-11T22:19:00.000+07:00

Get a fee-free Thailand visa until 2010

In an effort to help encourage Thailand’s travel and tourism industry, the Royal Thai Government has agreed to extend the exemption of the Thailand visa fee for tourist visa applications until 4 March 2010.

The exemption will apply to all applicants for a Thailand visa on arrival at all international airports in Thailand as well as those applying at Thai embassies and consulates abroad for stays longer than the period for which they are normally eligible.

Thailand currently gives a Visa on Arrival for citizens of 20 countries for a stay not exceeding 15 days. Citizens of another 42 countries are allowed a visa-free stay in Thailand not over 30 days.

Visitors who wish to stay longer than those periods have to apply for Thailand visas at the Thai embassies or diplomatic missions abroad before their arrival in the country.

The extension is one of several measures taken by the Thailand tourism industry to invigorate itself after a number of global and local events that have led to a temporary drop in visitor arrivals.

TAT Chairman, Mr. Weerasak Kowsurat says, “As a result of the global economic downturn, the worldwide travel and tourism sector has declined as people have become more cautious about spending on leisure and business travel. Hence, the government has implemented many measures to enhance Thailand’s competitive advantage and strengthen our country’s unique qualities.”

This offers a great opportunity to sign up for a 60 or 90 day visa. Stay in Thailand longer, do a Similan Liveaboard or even consider doing your Instructor Training!

The Signs and Symptoms of Nitrogen Narcosis

2009-07-08T19:07:00.002+07:00

More of our guides to help everyone be a safer diver

What are the signs and symptoms of nitrogen narcosis?

You can spot signs of nitrogen narcosis in your buddy by looking out for:

Slow reaction time to signals
Poor coordination and confused movement
Foolish behaviour and a disregard for safety
Anxiety or panicked movements

You can spot the symptoms of nitrogen narcosis in yourself by looking our for:

Feeling of wooziness / giddyness / drunk
Feeling of euphoria
Disorientation
Loss of balance
Loss of manual dexterity
Slowing of reaction time
Fixation of ideas
Inability to focus

-Similan Diving

Information on Similan Islands from the Wikipedia

2009-07-06T15:56:00.000+07:00

information about getting to the Similan Islands from Khao Lak....

The national park of the Similan Islands 50 kilometers west of Khao Lak. It is considered the best place in Thailand for divers.

Understand
The park covers 140 square kilometers in total, 14 of those being land in the shape of an archipelago consisting of nine islands. They are Ko Bon, Ko Bayu, Ko Similan, Ko Payu, Ko Miang (two adjoining islands), Ko Payan, Ko Payang, and Ko Huyong. For simplicity they are often referred to by their number instead - 1 through 9 starting from the south. Recently, the park was expanded to include the two remote islands Ko Bon and Ko Tachai, but since "Sembilan" is Malay for "nine" this doesn't seem to stick in people's minds and those are not visited as often as the original nine.

History
The islands were created by upwellings of hot magma during the Tertiary-Cretaceous period some 65 million years ago, then smoothed by glacial ice and the erosion by the sea. The coral reefs are about 5000 years old and hence the oldest in Thailand. In 1982, the national park was established and now it is scheduled to become a World Heritage.
The 2004 tsunami left the islands and the underwater landscape almost unharmed, since the waters are very deep around the islands.

Landscape
The nine granite islands are postcard perfect images of paradise, covered in tropical jungle and equipped with beaches of chalk-white sand. As if this was not enough, the views under the water surface are even more impressive - this is the best dive site in Thailand. Skin-Diver Magazine has acclaimed the Similans to be one of the ten most beautiful places in the world.

Flora and fauna
There is an enormous diversity in species - both in fish and corals. The visibility is the best you will find in Thailand. You will see plenty of colorful fish such as lionfish and clownfish (Nemo), and if you're lucky you may spot a bigger one like a manta or even a whale shark.
On Ko Huyong Thai Marines run a turtle breeding facility, but access to the island is limited.

Climate
High season in the Similans is from December until April, when the monsoon stays far away. The best period to visit is March, when the winds are calm and the water clear. The national park is closed from May 16 to November 15.

Get in
There are several dive trips going to the Similan from Phuket and some from Khao Lak. Both day trips and live aboard cruises are available. Dedicated cruises where your boat picks your group up from your destination and cruises around usually start at 4 days and 4 nights in length. Many shorter trips are available, often with operators who have a large vessel on the islands over summer and who do regular transfers using smaller speed boats.
Note that there is a national park entry fee of 400 baht per traveller and a further daily usage fee of 200 baht per diver per day. Most boats do not include this in their quoted price. It is paid to your dive operator before the trip.

From Khao Lak

Diving liveaboards:

Similan Liveaboard, 4/17 Moo 7, Khao lak, Takuapa, Phang-Nga, ☎ +66 76 485 868 (info@wickeddiving.com, fax: +66 76 485 878), [8]. From 15900 baht.
Overnight Diving Tours:
Similan Overnight Tours, 4/37 Moo 7 Khuk Khak, Takuapa, Phangnga, ☎ +66 76 486 868 (pland@wickeddiving.com), [9]. Wicked Diving offers unique 3 day/2 night diving adventures. Nights are spent on the the islands, days are spent at various dive sites. Trips depart Monday and Friday 15,900 baht.
Snorkeling only liveaboards:
Similan Tour, 1/6 Khao Lak, Lam Kaen, Thai Muang, Phangnga, ☎ +66 76 443 258 (info@similantour.co), [10]. Similan Tour have a snorkeling-only liveaboard for 3 days and 2 nights, departing Tuesdays and Fridays. 7400 baht.
Day trips:
Similan Scuba Adventures, 4/56 Moo 7, Tambon Khuk Kak, Amphur Takua Pa, Phang Nga, ☎ +66 76 485 610 (fax: +66 76 485 610), [11]. Similan Scuba Adventures have a day trip where divers and snorkelers go to different sites to get the most out of the experience.
Similan Diving - Wicked, 4/37 Moo 7 Khuk Khak, Takuapa, Phangnga, ☎ +66 76 485 868 (pland@wickeddiving.com), [12]. Wicked Diving Offers one day trips to the Similan Islands with safe, secure guides. Guides speak English, Swedish, Norwegian, German and Italian. 5000 Baht.

-Similan Diving

Careful about waht you do with your trash!

2009-07-05T13:30:00.001+07:00

How Biodegradable Is Your Trash?

The following chart outlines the estimated amount of time it takes these everyday household items to decompose when they are exposed to light and air.*

Banana peel	2 months
Notebook paper	3 months
Comic book	6 months
Wool mitten	1 year
Cardboard milk carton	5 years
Wooden baseball bat	20 years
Leather baseball glove	40 years
Steel can	100 years
Aluminum soda can	350 years
Plastic sandwich bag	400 years
Plastic six-pack ring	450 years
Polystyrene foam cup	Maybe never
Car tire	Maybe never
Glass bottle	Maybe never

-Similan Diving

A helpful list of the EU's banned arilines...

2009-07-02T22:12:00.000+07:00

It was brought up by that recent crash off the Comoros Islands.

2 years ago we had a bad plane crash here. It was from the only banned airline from Thailand. Using untrained pilots and landing against the advice of the flight tower in extremely bad weather.

http://ec.europa.eu/transport/air-ban/list_en.htm

However, flying in Indonesia is a concern. Not one Indonesian airline is allowed to enter EU airspace. At all.

However all US based airlines are allowed to fly.

Economic Solutions to Overfishing?

2009-07-02T10:45:00.000+07:00

Here are Wicked Diving we are always looking for ways to get reduce the amount of fishing going on - particularly right here! The impact from overfishing is obvious on almost dive site in the world. Locally we can see the results. On the Similan Islands there is a certain amount of protection and the government enforces the no-fishing rule (sometimes)

However the greatest way to make changes is to make economic changes. AS areas are overfished - there is less money in the act. To replace that with something that pays more and is easier is definitely a great option.

An article In Dive Magazine Uk talks about the Shark Diving in Fiji on destroyed reefs. They not only generate a large amount of income - but they are a famous destination for those wanting to experience Sharks. Personally I am not a fan of feeding fish - but I am a fan of showing how there are many ways to generate income in small communities that create a viable alternative to fishing.

http://www.divemagazine.co.uk/news/article.asp?uan=5243

Great Alternatives are artifical reefs - either manmade of through shipwrecks. Here in Khao Lak, the local dives are done from converted fishing longtails. The drivers earn much more per day than at fishing, and do less work. We are working on some other options in the near future that will offer more alternatives to these fisherman.

-Similan Diving

When is the best time to dive the Similan Islands?

2009-07-01T20:28:00.002+07:00

When is The best Time to Dive the Similan Islands in Thailand?

The Similan Islands are renowned as home to the best diving in Thailand. Great dive sites with sloping reefs, deep boulder sites and virtually untouched pinnacles abound. However the weather plays a much bigger factor in the diving there than almost anywhere else in Thailand.

The factors that make the Similan Islands such a pleasure to dive also make them off-limits for 5 months of the year. The deep ocean currents in the Indian Ocean can bring in nutrient rich waters – as well as the monsoons! While the Similan Islands have great diving almost year-round, the monsoons make them unsafe to visit from May to October of each eyar.

The Government of Thailand takes this into account by making all visits to the islands off-limits – and illegal – from May 15th to November 1st. There are some nefarious operators who will offer trips during this time frame – but they are not only breaking the law – but also risking YOUR life. It is unwise to take them up on these offers.

From November to May the Similan Islands are open to diving. As the whole Similan Islands National Park lies just shy of the continental Shelf, the coral is well-fed from the nutrient waters. In addition the Islands are far enough off-shore to avoid the pollution and damage from the mass tourism of Phuket.

The very best time to dive the Similan Islands is in February and March. There are virtually no winds, the seas can be like a mirror and many of the large pelagics (Manta Rays, Whale Sharks and others) are playing in the local waters.

If you do plan on visiting – please book early. The Similan Liveaboards, for which the region is famous are often sold out (or at least the popular and safe ones – be very wary of “Last Minute Specials”). Daytrips to the Similan Islands, Koh Bon and also Richelieu Rock depart from Khao Lak each day. Leaving by speedboat, the Similan National Park is only 1 hour away. However, Phuket is still 120 km south, so one day trips are not feasible or sensible.

-Similan Diving

Diving With Turtles in Thailand

2009-06-28T16:45:00.003+07:00

Sea turtles have lived on this planet for 130 million years. Now the 7 global species of Marine Turtles are all in serious decline throughout most of their range. Habitat degradation, pollution, egg poaching and over-fishing threaten to make them extinct. Historically, five of these species have been found in Thai waters, although there have been no records of the loggerhead turtle in the last 15 years. The four species of marine turtles that can still be found in Thai waters are below

In Novmeber and December We will be offering an incredible opportunity to learn about and dive with Turtles on the Similan Islands

Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas)
The green turtle is found in scattered areas in both the Andaman and South China Sea coasts, nesting in both areas. They are listed as globally threatened by the World Conservation Union (IUCN) and are protected by International Law (CITES) and Thai Law. Seen occasionally at East of Eden

The Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)
Hawksbill turtles are found near off-shore islands in the coastal waters of the Andaman Sea, and the northern Gulf of Thailand. They are listed as "Critically Endangered" in IUCN's Red List. It is listed in CITES, and is protected by Thai Law. Frequently seen on Breakfast Bend.

The Olive Ridley Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea)
The number of nests on three major nesting beaches has declined dramatically between 1985 and 2002. Olive Ridley's are listed as "Endangered" by IUCN, and are protected by CITES and Thai Law. Not observed on Similan Islands many years

The Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)
The leatherback is only known to nest on the Andaman Coast. The leatherback has been listed as globally endangered since 1970, and was confirmed as "Critically Endangered in Thailand" in 1996. It is listed in CITES, and is also protected by Thai Law. While not seen on the Similans, they have been observed nesting on several beaches in the area.

The sea turtle is a reptile which spends all of its life in water. It obviously needs to go to the surface from time to time, to breathe air. Bear in mind they can actually drown if frightened by divers.
The natural longevity of the sea turtles is not entirely known, but they grow very slowly taking about 15 years to reach maturity.The sea turtle's diet includes sponges, marine worms, corals and even jellyfish
The distribution of turtles in Thai waters is spread out along the fine sand quiet beaches of the coastline and islands in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. These two geographical areas also reflect different nesting times of the turtles.
In the Gulf of Thailand the most important nesting areas for green and hawksbill turtles are Khram and adjacent islands which are located in the inner Gulf, Chonburi Province. There are some islands along the east coast from Chonburi, Rayong and Trat Province and some islands in the middle Gulf of Chumphon and Surat Thani Province where sea turtles are occasionally found. In the Gulf areas, green and hawksbill turtles lay their eggs all year round with the peak from May to August.
In the Andaman Sea coastal areas of Thailand, the main nesting areas are north-west coast of Phuket, and Phang Nga provinces. In particular these areas include Thai Muang Beach and Phrathong Island, Maikhao beach Phuket, Tarutao Island and Adang-Rawi Islands of Satun Province . Olive ridley and (occasionally) Leatherback turtles are found in these areas. The green and hawksbill are found at the Similan Islands, Surin Islands and Tarutao Islands. The nesting season of sea turtles in the Andaman Sea region occurs only from October to March with a peak from mid-November to mid-January.

The females come ashore after dusk, but they have been observed nesting until just before dawn. They select their nesting site and dig a small pit 18 inches deep using their rear flippers. A clutch of between 40 to 180 eggs will be laid, after which the pit will be carefully concealed by sand before they return to the sea. The whole process usually takes about one hour. During the egg laying, the eyes of the turtle will be covered by a colrless mucus to prevent dehydration and keep out the sand grains.
After an incubation period of 60 days, the hatchlings dig their way up to the surface of the pit, usually at night when the sand is cooler. Hatchlings locate the water's edge by orienting themselves to the horizon, but distant house lights can disorient the youngsters so that they actually crawl away from the sea.
Turtles are most commonly seen in shallow reefs on similan dive sites such as East of Eden or Breakfast Bend but you may see them deeper on rocky sites such as Elephant Head Rock or Deep Six. The usual sightings are Hawksbill and Green turtles.
At Thai Muang (National Park) beach, Leatherback and Olive Ridley are often seen nesting. There is an annual 7 day event here, usually during the first week of March, to release young turtle hatchlings, which have been raised by the Fisheries Department, back into the sea.

THREATS TO MARINE TURTLES IN THAILAND

Sea turtles have lived on this planet for 130 million years, but egg poaching, habitat degradation, pollution, and over-fishing threaten to make them extinct.
The main threats to turtles in Thailand can be summarized as follows:
* Threats to marine turtles from fisheries
* Entanglement (mostly accidental) and drowning in long-line fisheries and shrimp trawling nets
* Much of both the coastal and open seas areas used by turtles is also used by fishermen. Because of this, each year, many turtles are killed (often unintentionally) by entanglement in fishing gear and drowning. Some injured and exhausted turtles are released from nets before they die, but their subsequent fate is uncertain.
* Threats to marine turtles from consumption and trade
* Turtle eggs are also easy to collect, and highly nutritious. In some cultures they are also suggested to have aphrodisiac properties. Turtles have also been hunted for their shells that are used for ornaments, sunglasses and in jewelery. Their hides are cured for leather. In Asia, there has been a long tradition of consuming turtle flesh and eggs for thousands of years. Historically turtle shell has also been traded in the region for hundreds of years.
* Threats to marine turtles from coastal development
* The construction of seawalls, hotels, marinas, and other infrastructure associated with coastal tourism and commerce, have destroyed large areas of turtle nesting beaches around the world.
* Disruptive activities on or near nesting beaches during nesting season, such as activity, noise, lights, etc.
* Turtle reproductive behavior evolved in an environment of deserted, intact beaches. Nowadays, light and noise pollution frequently deter or interrupt many females from successful laying. Hatchlings locate the water's edge by orienting themselves to the horizon, but house and street lights can disorient newly hatched turtles so that they actually crawl away from the sea.
* Pollution of the oceans, including chemical contamination
* The ingestion of plastic bags and other garbage

If you are interested in Turtles - why not join us in November & December for a our Similan Turtle Tour - Diving and snorkeling with turtles while learning about them and how you can help their continued survival?

-Similan Diving

Great News for Visitors to Thailand

2009-06-27T09:38:00.002+07:00

It's been a week of good news for those planning on visiting Thailand!

The Thai government has suspended all fees for tourists visas! So you can apply for longer stays - for free! This is great news - especially for those doing Divemaster Internships of Instructor Courses.

Air Asia - the major budget carrier in the region has also dropped administrative fees from their tickets. This means flights from London to Kuala Lumpur are less than $200!!!! It also drops the prices of flights in the region. So the next season is turning out to be a great season to visit.

It's also a great season to visit with all our exciting projects coming up! We just announced our Turtle Education Trips in November & December. We will also be conducting our Whale Sharks
& Manta research trips, Wrecks & Pinnacles as well as The Shark Diver tour in April. That's only the beginning....

Instructor Courses in October

The Divemaster Training is half full already!

Our Similan Liveaboard is ready to take you around the best dive sites in the region.

And turn to our revised website as a resource for all your Similan Needs! Dive Sites, Marine Life, Safe Snorkeling and diving guidelines.

-Similan Diving

Khao Lak ...changes and a bit of heartache

2009-06-26T12:37:00.004+07:00

I have lived here in Khao Lak for several years. It is what I call home. In all this time there has been ups and downs - good and bad. But it has retained a certain charm that always made me feel comfortable.

4000 hotel rooms and still not one one national chain (except for the opticians - which has never been explained to me?). In fact, the small town atmosphere was really made special by the fact you had to find a local restaurant - no matter what.

Sure, the 7-11 popped up a few years ago - but if you wanted/needed anything aside from sugar bread, sugar water, beer and/or liquor you had to find a local market.

There has been no regulation, no zoning laws to prevent big chains from moving in, but they just never did.

I understand growth, and the changes in markets - our business is directly related to that! But this is the first, really painful slap in the face about the price you pay for developing into a tourist mecca.

It is with great pain that I see the new McDonald's sign. I feel as though my trust has been violated.

Yet, it will bring more jobs than our shop can. The Local population feel that their tiny town is finally respectable! No other town in this province has a McDonalad's - or any fast food at all! In fact the nearest Fast food is one hour south at the airport. So it's a big deal.

Just to make a point - I am only talking about Western fast food too. There are several small Thai oriented places. And if you count the little food carts - there are quite a few. And our shop is just a small foreign owned place that caters to foreigners - so locally no one would care if we open or close.

Over the past years I've kind of shrugged at the "progress" that has happened. So when I walked the 100 meters to take that picture - I barely noticed the person asking me if I want a Taxi, the guy trying to get me to buy a suit or the squealing women at the massage place (a note - it is ACTUALLY massage, but that will change soon enough). And these are all people who have been here in Khao Lak for several years.

So all in all, I guess the McDonald's helps the town. Yet I feel like something bad has happened.

-Similan Diving

Diving in Thailand - Never Boring

2009-06-26T10:18:00.000+07:00

I Asked Marcel from Similan Diving, "Do you ever get bored of diving the same dive sites each day?"

As a dive instructor I have made over 2000 dives all over the world. Most of the dives were in Thailand, but I have also dived a lot in Holland, Indonesia and the Caribbean.This question is quite simple to answer: NO, I never get bored of diving and it doesn't matter if I do the same dive sites over and over again. First of all, compared to the office I used to work in day in - day out, the underwater world is much more exciting. Second: conditions are never the same and you never know what you can expect underwater. And third, the people we teach or take our diving are different each time. So it doesn't matter how many dives you make, no dive will ever be the same.

OK, you don't see whale sharks, mantas, sharks, turtles or seahorses on each dive. And visibility is not always 30+ meters, it can be 2 meters as well. It can be cold and there can be currents or you have to share the dive site with 200 other divers right in front of you. Your mask might be fogging up or your buddy can be quick on air. In fact, I think that on most of the dives there has always been something, but that just comes with diving. I remember one dive in Holland where the only living creature I saw during the whole dive was in fact my dive buddy. But it all doesn't matter. Give me some dive gear and water and I am happy. Being submerged in the water, breathing and weightless calms me down and gives me a great feeling, over and over again. So anything you experience on top of it, is just a bonus.

And next to that, there are many different things you can do, to make each dive even more interesting. If the visibility is "less than ideal" (3 meters), you can practice your navigation. If you can find the boat back in these conditions, you can find it back anytime. Or when there are no big fish to be found, you start looking for the smaller stuff. Everyone can spot a Manta Ray, but you have to be very good to find a tiny Nudibranch or a Frogfish. And if I do find yourself with more divers than fish in the water, I just start watching the divers, they too come in all colors and shapes! What if your buddy is quick on air? Well, then we just go a bit shallower and maybe we can do some bouyancy exercises to improve the air consumption for future dives. And if you feel you are running out of options, well why don't you try out Technical Diving? Or under water photography? Or even Freediving? There are so many possibilities and so many dive sites all over the world that you can spend a lifetime under water without getting bored. Once you become an Instructor it's even better! You can share your passion for diving each day!

Another interesting thing is the choice of the dive ites. I really don't mind doing a certain dive site twice on the same trip, especially if conditions are good or let's say there is a whale shark hanging around there. I also don't mind doing exploratory dives, jumping in at new places. This is great fun, it can be all or nothing. And a good site doesn't only depend on what's written in the guidebooks. It depends on the conditions at that moment, how may other boats you see there and also on the interest and experience level of the other divers in your group. But again, in the end it doesn't really matter for me where we jump in, as long as I can be under water... in a safe way of course!

Marcel is an Instructor Trainer in Khao Lak. There are Instructor Courses starting in October of 2009!

Thanks Marcel

-Similan Diving

Dive with Turtles - Learn about Coral Reefs - Best Dive trip in Thailand

2009-06-25T21:01:00.002+07:00

Dive with Turtles in Thailand

All participants will also be certified as Ecological divers - a certification only a few schools int he world can issue

Here is a bit of information about the turtle...

As taken from the Similan Islands Marine Life - Turtle Page

-Similan Diving

2009-06-20T15:47:00.001+07:00

As taken from the Wikipedia - helpful information about getting to the Similan Islands from Khao Lak....

The national park of the Similan Islands 50 kilometers west of Khao Lak. It is considered the best place in Thailand for divers.

From Khao Lak

Similan Islands Diving - Similan #9 Dive sites

2009-06-17T20:53:00.001+07:00

Similan Dive Sites

If you've never been here (or forgot) we'll be putting together some of the these entries to help orient everyone to the various sites in the region.

Island #9 (Koh Ba-Ngu) is the furthest North of the actual Similan Islands. It has a few very small beaches, So no time lazing about in the sun here! However - under the water this little island packs a punch.

With the great Western boulder/slope site of Christmas Point you can't go too wrong! Frequent sightings of Napolean Wrasse, all manner of sharks (Leopard, Grey Reef, White-tip and Black Tip) Ribbon Eels, Rays and more! Combine the Western slope with the fact this is also the farthest North - and you get lots of passing pelagics, plankton blooms and heaps of interesting life.

Up at the top is North Point (pretty clever name huh?) with the big fans, nice scenery and frequent sightings of Mantas a lot of people get kick out of this site. In the deeper areas you'll find some really gorgeous scenery - but only for the deep-diver trained!

On the Eastern Side comes one of our favorite reef dives in all of Thailand - Breakfast Bend. Great drift dive with lots of the little stuff (Nudi's, Snakes) but also Turtles and Sharks. Best enjoyed early in the morning to maximize the light.

Finally there is Snapper Alley. While this was never a mind-blowing sites, it was one we did a lot because it was perfect academic dive, whether Open Water or Advanced. So we all knew it very well. Past Tense? Yup, due to the Geography of this site, it was the worst hit by the tsunami. All the current was channeled into the narrow passage between Islands 8 & 9 and this site took the brunt of it. At the rate of recovery we should see this site back on it's feet in a few years.

Of course there a lot of variations in names (North Point is also called Rocky Point) and in point of fact most of the sites are actually large enough to be broken into several dives (Christmas Point - deep and shallow are two distinctly different eco-systems). And you get yourself into the middle of an argument about how best to do Breakfast Bend - let alone where it starts and ends!

Similan Diving

Similan Diving - Clean Air for Divers!

2009-06-14T18:43:00.001+07:00

Clean Air – don’t assume it’s there! Wicked Diving wants you to protect yourself!

While many divers assume the air they are breathing is clean – it’s not always true! One year ago in the Maldives 1 diver died and 9 others were hospitalized when the air they were breathing was severely contaminated.

Why? The dive operator was too cheap to properly maintain their compressors, had not properly trained their staff and failed to observe basic safety precautions.

The machine

The air you breath needs to be clean. Much more so if you are diving. The compressors that fill your tanks need to have good, clean, uncontaminated air supplies. The air intake hose needs to be located in a position that provides this.

On liveaboards even more caution needs to be taken. The exhaust from the engines, from people smoking, from cooking all need to be taken into account. In addition the Splash from the ocean and rain needs to be avoided. Even then the air is further purified through filters that remove impurities and moisture.

The Maintenance

One of the biggest fears is carbon monoxide build up. This can come from exhaust and cigarette fumes. The highest acceptable limit for Carbon Monoxide in scuba tanks is 15 ppm (parts per million). In the above mentioned incident – the tanks were tested at 150ppm! The intake hoses were cracked AND were directly in the line of exhaust from the boats engines.

Compressors use filters to rid themselves of impurities. Some compressors run on electric engines and some work on combustion engines (typical of portable compressors). The two kinds also have different filters to meet the different demands. Needless to say the compressors on that liveaboard were fitted with the less expensive filters that were not intended for their compressors.

The Training

Dive staff and the boat crew need to be aware of how to change the filters, which filters to use and how often to change. Their should be a log of servicing as well as an hour meter tracking how long the compressor has been running.

Regular inspections of the equipment as well as frequent filter changes are required for compressors to operate correctly. If these guidelines are not followed – the air you breathe can be bad!

So when choosing your diving holiday and boat – do some research! Are the staff trained? How often is the compressor (or any equipment) serviced? Is the compressor (and equipment) serviced by factory trained and certified technicians? Where is the air intake?

Or to look at things differently – do you choose the cheapest parachute? If two dive operators offer the same service – but one is significantly cheaper – where are the savings? If you would like to be very thorough – ask to see the service log books and records. And always smell the air on your tank before diving!

How safe is your dive operator?

At wicked diving all our Similan Liveaboard staff are trained Gas blenders – for both regular air and Nitrox. We have all records of the service performed and we appreciate our guests asking to see them. In addition we do extensive safety training in case of accidents – with at least one Dive medic on staff at all times.

Safe Travelling in Thailand - Health Questions answered

2009-06-14T11:21:00.007+07:00

Similan Marine Life - additional resources for our guests

2009-06-13T14:35:00.002+07:00

The Similan Islands' present an endless diversity in dive sites - but also in Marine Life! These uninhabited tropical islands are home to one of the most dynamic and vibrant underwater ecosystems in the world.

And that's just the start! With hundreds of species of corals, fish and crustaceans - The diversity of Similan Islands Marine Life can actually be overwhelming! When you can't see the reef because of too many fish - well that may mean you have to enjoy the fish instead!

With a small start to the selection - some sharks, rays, smaller fish and of course - Manta Rays and Whale Sharks - we offer our guests a bit of the extra information and insight that makes Wicked Diving THE selection for any Similan Diving tour.

If you keep returning to the Marine Life page, you will also find plenty of new additions over the next few months!

-Similan Diving

Similan Diving in the News again!

2009-06-11T12:49:00.002+07:00

Today the Phuket Gazette used pictures from our website - from our friend Lia Barrett - in an article documenting the amount of sea debris in the region.

http://www.phuketgazette.net/archives/articles/2009/article7461.html

Several of the points made in the article are correct - there is lots of debris in the water. However I do recommend that anyone wanting to solve a problem like this clean their own porch first.

Request your dive/snorkel operator keeps all waste on the boat.
Request your dive/snorkel operator - BEFORE joining a trip what they do with their rubbish
Request your dive/snorkel operator to supply bins for appropriate disposal of waste
Never throw your waste overboard - who cares what the other people are doing!

Ask if the meals are served in a responsible way - on recycle-able plates, not styrofoam.

And do all you can to be a role model.

-Similan Diving

Enjoy Similan Island 4 - Koh Miang

2009-06-10T17:53:00.002+07:00

Island 4

A popular island with day trippers, snorkels and those who want to experience the serenity of the Similans without the help of a liveaboard. As with all of Thailand’s islands, Island 4 is the property of the Princess who occasionally visits the island. If this is the case then the island is closed to visitors and the surrounding islands are closed to divers. However, when the Princess is not on holiday, Island 4 is one of the two islands (Island 8 being the other) which is open to the public.

The island is also the headquarters for the Similan National Park, who provide basic accommodation as well as a resident medic. It is possible to book a speedboat trip to the island and to stay on the island in either a large canvas tent (which comfortably sleeps two people) or in a bungalow. Food can be purchased from the one restaurant although the selection of meals offered is limited. Do take mosquito repellent and flash lights for the evening.

It is possible to organize beach diving through the National Park. However, for more varied diving prior to departure organize for a day boat to collect you and take you diving around the nearby islands.

For those visiting the island for the day there is plenty to pass the time. The two beaches are Honeymoon Bay and Princess Bay. The former is the larger of the two and more sheltered making it an ideal spot for introductory dives, refresher courses as well as a lovely snorkeling spot. However, do watch out for boat traffic as this tends to be a busy spot. Both the beaches are perfect for sunbathing with fine golden sand and large wooden swings to jump when you feel the need for a little activity. Princess Bay tends to be quieter until after four o’clock when the day boats have departed.

A great little excursion is to follow the signs for the ‘Adventure Trail’ which begins in the middle of the island and continues via a jungle path to a stunning viewpoint, providing a panorama of the Similan Islands, and on a good day includes Koh Bon and the mainland. The trail takes about twenty minutes and includes pulling yourself up rocks with the help of a couple of ropes – but it is great fun and the view is definitely worth the effort. Trainers or barefoot is preferable to open-healed sandals which will prevent you from defying gravity quite so easily!

Most liveaboards will provide transportation for divers during a surface interval on the first day, providing a welcome opportunity to stretch your legs. If not the boats are usually moored close enough to the island to allow for a short swim or snorkel around the bay.

If you really want to enjoy your time on the islands - and would prefer to skip out on the diving - why not try a Similan Overnight Snorkeling Tour?

Similan Island #4 - Koh Miang...

-Similan Diving

Similan Islands - Island #8

2009-06-09T20:11:00.000+07:00

Home to Donald Duck Bay, Island 8 is the one of the two Similan Islands open to the public. However, unlike Island 4 the only accommodation on the island is for National Park Staff (this should change for next season).

The island is popular with snorkelers and day trippers, while the bay is often used as a docking area for liveaboards and sailing boats. There is a great walk up to a view point, which is slightly more accessible than the trail on Island 4. Although it includes the same series of ropes to aid your ascent it is only a short ten minute walk, and once again it is definitely worth the view.

This is also the only West facing beach on the Similans. Due to that there is more chance of larger fish – Reef Sharks, Porcupine Rays and Leopard Sharks to be seen while diving or snorkeling.The snorkeling around the bay is lovely. There is rarely any current although there can be a slight surge and the speed boat activity can often cause unexpected waves.

There are several resident turtles in the bay who often get fed by snorkelers and boat crew. PLEASE avoid this, as they stop being afraid of boats and during the monsoon season fishing boats moor in the bay (illegally) and the turtles get taken aboard and eaten!!! Don’t feed them, try to discourage others to not feed them and remember the only thing to take home, are pictures and the only thing to leave behind are footprints.

This also makes a great launching point for the dive trips in the area. Many of the best sites are just a few minutes away.
We do usually have our lunches right on the beach when we are diving the Northern Similans during our Similan daytrips on the speedboat from Khao Lak.

If you look at the map, you'll notice that there are two dive sites just outside of Donald Duck bay - Turtle Rock and Waterfall bay. Because of their proximity to the mooring lines, these sites are quite popular for sunset and night dives.

Finally, the sunsets here are gorgeous. Taking in the whole of the Similans, and gazing across the Andaman sea....the world is really at your fingertips.

Similan Diving