Koh Phi Phi, a picturesque island group located in the Andaman Sea, is a top destination for divers seeking vibrant marine life, stunning coral reefs, and thrilling underwater adventures. With its crystal-clear waters, diverse dive sites, and a vibrant island atmosphere, Koh Phi Phi offers a diving experience that is both exhilarating and serene. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, Koh Phi Phi has something for everyone. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about diving in Koh Phi Phi, from the best dive sites and the optimal time to visit, to getting there, costs, marine life, and recommendations for dive shops.
Top Dive Sites in Koh Phi Phi
1. Bida Nok and Bida Nai:
These twin islands are among the most popular dive sites in Koh Phi Phi, located just south of Phi Phi Ley. Bida Nok offers a variety of underwater landscapes, including steep walls, sandy bottoms, and vibrant coral gardens. The site is teeming with marine life, from leopard sharks and blacktip reef sharks to colorful schools of fish and fascinating macro critters. Bida Nai, its smaller sibling, is known for its rocky formations, swim-throughs, and the chance to spot large pelagics, including manta rays and whale sharks during the right season.
2. Hin Daeng and Hin Muang:
Located about 50 kilometers south of Koh Phi Phi, these two dive sites are considered among the best in Thailand. Hin Daeng (Red Rock) and Hin Muang (Purple Rock) are famous for their stunning vertical walls that plunge deep into the blue, offering divers the chance to encounter some of the ocean’s giants. Manta rays are frequent visitors, and whale sharks are also spotted here. The vibrant soft corals that cover the rocks add a burst of color to the underwater scenery, making these sites a must-visit for experienced divers.
3. Shark Point:
Shark Point, as the name suggests, is famous for its regular sightings of leopard sharks resting on the sandy seabed. This dive site is a series of submerged pinnacles covered in colorful corals and home to a diverse range of marine species, including moray eels, lionfish, and various nudibranchs. The gentle currents and clear visibility make Shark Point a favorite for both novice and advanced divers.
4. King Cruiser Wreck:
The King Cruiser Wreck is a sunken ferry that offers a unique diving experience near Koh Phi Phi. The wreck is now an artificial reef, attracting a myriad of marine life, including barracudas, trevallies, and scorpionfish. The structure is covered in soft corals and sponges, providing shelter for smaller reef creatures. The site is best suited for experienced divers due to the depth and occasional strong currents.
5. Anemone Reef:
Anemone Reef is a submerged pinnacle known for its vast fields of sea anemones that sway gently with the current. This dive site is a haven for photographers, with its vibrant colors and abundant marine life. Expect to see schools of snapper, barracuda, and perhaps even a bamboo shark hiding among the corals. The reef’s stunning beauty and relatively shallow depth make it accessible to divers of all levels.
6. Maya Bay:
Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach,” is not only a stunning location above water but also an exciting dive site below. The shallow reefs and clear waters are perfect for beginners and those looking to enjoy a relaxed dive. The bay is home to a variety of coral species, reef fish, and the occasional blacktip reef shark. While diving in Maya Bay, you can enjoy the tranquility of the underwater world while surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
Best Time to Dive in Koh Phi Phi
The best time to dive in Koh Phi Phi is during the dry season, from November to April. During this period, the weather is calm, and the sea conditions are ideal for diving, with visibility often exceeding 30 meters. The peak season, from December to February, offers the best conditions but can also be the most crowded.
From May to October, the monsoon season brings increased rainfall and choppier seas, which can reduce visibility and limit dive site access. However, diving is still possible, and the reduced crowds can provide a more peaceful experience.
Getting to Koh Phi Phi
Koh Phi Phi is accessible by ferry from several locations on the mainland and nearby islands. Most travelers reach Koh Phi Phi from Phuket or Krabi, with ferry rides taking about 1.5 to 2 hours. Ferries operate multiple times daily, and tickets can be purchased online or at the ferry terminals. If you’re flying into Thailand, Phuket International Airport (HKT) or Krabi International Airport (KBV) are the most convenient entry points.
For those already on nearby islands like Koh Lanta or Koh Lipe, speedboats and ferries also connect to Koh Phi Phi, providing a scenic and quick journey.
Prices
Diving in Koh Phi Phi is relatively affordable, offering good value for the quality of diving available. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:
- Open Water Course: Prices range from 12,000 to 15,000 THB, which includes instruction, equipment rental, and certification.
- Advanced Open Water Course: Typically costs between 11,000 to 13,000 THB, covering five adventure dives.
- Fun Dives: The cost per dive usually ranges from 1,000 to 1,500 THB, with discounts available for booking multiple dives.
- Accommodation: Budget accommodations start around 500 THB per night for a basic room, with more luxurious options available for those seeking comfort and amenities.
Marine Life
Koh Phi Phi is renowned for its diverse marine life, which includes both large pelagic species and intricate reef ecosystems. Some of the highlights include:
- Leopard Sharks: Commonly seen resting on the sandy bottoms around sites like Shark Point and Bida Nok.
- Manta Rays: Frequently encountered at deeper sites like Hin Daeng and Hin Muang, especially between February and April.
- Whale Sharks: The elusive whale shark can sometimes be spotted, particularly around Hin Daeng, Hin Muang, and the King Cruiser Wreck.
- Turtles: Hawksbill and green turtles are a common sight, gliding gracefully over the reefs.
- Reef Fish: A kaleidoscope of reef fish, including parrotfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, and more, adds to the vibrant underwater landscape.
- Macro Life: For those interested in the smaller wonders of the ocean, Koh Phi Phi offers sightings of nudibranchs, seahorses, and other fascinating critters.
Dive Shop Recommendations
Koh Phi Phi is home to numerous dive shops, each offering a range of courses and dive trips. Here are a few that stand out:
- Phi Phi Scuba Diving Center: Known for its professional instructors and personalized service, this dive shop offers a variety of courses and fun dives. Their focus on small groups ensures a more intimate and safe diving experience.
- Moskito Diving: One of the oldest dive shops on the island, Moskito Diving has a reputation for safety and quality instruction. They offer courses in multiple languages and cater to all levels of divers.
- Blue View Divers: This eco-friendly dive shop is known for its commitment to marine conservation. Blue View Divers offers a relaxed and environmentally conscious diving experience, with a focus on sustainability.
- Princess Divers: Located conveniently in Tonsai Bay, Princess Divers is known for its friendly staff and excellent customer service. They offer a full range of PADI courses and fun dives, with flexible schedules to suit travelers’ needs.
Conclusion
Koh Phi Phi offers a diving experience like no other, combining stunning underwater landscapes with an array of marine life. Whether you’re looking to explore vibrant coral reefs, dive with sharks, or encounter manta rays, Koh Phi Phi has it all. With its diverse dive sites, excellent conditions, and range of diving options, Koh Phi Phi is a must-visit destination for any diving enthusiast. Whether you’re a beginner looking to take your first plunge or an experienced diver seeking new adventures, Koh Phi Phi is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the underwater world.
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