Category: Diving In Thailand

Trip Report: South to North Andaman from 20th-27th November 2023

6/12/2023

Exploring the underwater wonders of Thailand was an expedition that brought together a diverse group of adventurers hailing from Hungary, the USA, Malaysia, Romania, Switzerland, and France. Our journey was a kaleidoscope of breathtaking dives, vibrant marine life encounters, and awe-inspiring moments that stitched together unforgettable memories.
As we bid farewell to Phuket, our compass directed us towards Koh Haa fondly known “The 5 Islands”, where our check dive unfolded in the serene embrace of the "Lagoon." Within a first five minutes underwater, our first Ghost Pipefish of the cruise made an entrance, a testament to the beauty awaiting us this week. Traversing through vibrant coral reefs, we found ourselves amid a pristine white sand expanse, a picturesque lagoon that set the tone for our extraordinary voyage.

French divers, french lovers in the “Cathedral”.

For our second day, after cruising during the night, we wake up at Hin Muang/Hin Daeng, the purple and the red rock, in the middle of the sea, no land at sight! In Thai Hin means Rock, Muang means purple and Daeng means red. These colossal underwater structures, are named after the prominent colors of the soft corals covering them (in shades of purple and red). They house a bustling community of red tooth triggerfish and a majestic Manta Ray passed us by bestowing their grace upon us.

A big school of Jackfish making a donut. Dive spot: 8 miles

Venturing Easthward on Day 3, our destination was the Koh Lipe area, where the mystique of the 8 miles Pinnacle beckoned. The underwater show continued at the mysterious 8 miles Pinnacle where a school of Jackfish and giant trevali performed a captivating ballet.
However, the most astonishing surprise greeted us during our ascent—a breathtaking sighting of a Mobula, aka Devil Ray, gracefully gliding a mere 10 meters below the water's surface, right under the boat!

Day 4, we are back to Hin Muang/Hin Dang where we had a particularly spectacular / action packed sunset dive at Hin Muang with all kinds of creatures chasing their last meal before night.
This perfect day was perfectly finished with a perfect blackwater dive after nightfall—a tableau of post-larva octopuses, squids, and the elusive male paper nautilus in the blackwater dive.

Day 5 was the occasion to get initiated to cavern diving! The Cathedral and the Chimney beckoned, offering a unique exploration into the limestone. Delving into these pretty and easy caves, ascending to vast air chambers, and beholding the mystical realms illuminated by our flashlights left an indelible impression, a surreal experience etched into our collective memories.

Cave diving in the “Cathedral”. A very special moment

A breathtaking picture from the cathedral, Koh Haa

Transitioning to Day 6 in the Similan National Park, we explored infamous dive sites like Elephant Head, a giant underwater playground amidst colossal granite boulders where we go from one swim-through to another inhabited by colourful nudibranchs, ribbon eels. The fortuitous sighting of the White tip reef Shark added an exhilarating dimension to our underwater escapade.

On day 7th, we explored Koh Bon and Koh Tachai were some of us spotted a giant guitarfish and plenty of fish action!

Clownfish at home in there anemone

A guest enjoying the beauty of the dive site

A Jenkins stingray in Richelieu Rock

A crazy amount of glasfish around coral

Once again, Richelieu Rock proved to be a breathtaking sight, living up to its reputation of astonishing beauty on the 8th and last day of our South + North Expedition. Richelieu Rock is rated as one of the top 10 best dive sites in the world but it is always mind blowing to witness its breathtaking beauty, thriving biodiversity, and vibrant activity. Seahorses, harlequin Shrimp, Candy Crabs, schools of Longnose Emperor, Rainbow Runners, Giant Trevallies embellished our dives. However, the highlight was the remarkable congregation of Jenkins Sting Rays, a sight to behold, embellishing the sandy bottoms all around Richelieu Rock!

A big THANK YOU to everybody on The MV Smiling Seahorseboard for making this journey so special!

The MV Smiling Seahorse became our vessel of shared experiences, gratitude, and camaraderie, and we extend a heartfelt THANK YOU to everyone aboard for making this expedition a tapestry of unforgettable moments. A special acknowledgment goes to Beatrice B., a cherished reader of our blog, for her unwavering support and enthusiasm throughout our journey.
Each dive, each sighting, and every shared smile illuminated our voyage, crafting an expedition that shall forever linger in the depths of our fondest memories, beckoning us to return to the vibrant underwater tapestry of Thailand's marine wonders.

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Trip Report: North to South Andaman from 11th - 18th November 2023

28/11/2023

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Embarking on a Spectacular Underwater Journey Across Thailand's Pristine Waters...
Gathered from distant corners of the globe, a diverse band of adventurers—hailing from England, the USA, Switzerland, France, and Germany—joined us aboard for an expedition that promised not just a multinational escapade but a passage through time itself, courtesy of a vintage PADI Advanced Open Water certification from the enchanting year of 1985, graciously provided by the remarkable American guest, Craig.

a multinational and multi age crowd this week :)

Our underwater odyssey commenced with a lovely dive into the depths of Surin National Park, unveiling a canvas teeming with vibrant marine life. The check dive served as a tantalizing precursor to the grandeur awaiting us at Richelieu Rock. The iconic rock, a tapestry of vibrant soft coral in all colors and life, offered a dazzling showcase of aquatic wonders—seahorses, harlequin shrimp, and an array of captivating fish species turned the dive into an exhilarating spectacle.

rainbow runners in North andaman thailand

Journeying to Similan National Park: Encounters with Sharks and Barracudas...
Our vessel cruised towards the illustrious Similan National Park, where the ocean revealed its secrets in subtle yet profound ways. The sight of reef sharks, guitarfish, nurse sharks, and the majestic school of barracudas added a thrilling dimension to our underwater exploration, casting a spell of awe over our diverse band of intrepid voyagers.

Beautiful coral reef in Koh Lanta National Park

Wonderful moray eel and vibrant coral reef in Tarutao National Park

Exploring Koh Lanta National Park's Hidden Treasures...
Venturing further, we navigated towards the Koh Lanta National Park, a realm brimming with unexpected encounters. Some among us were graced by the presence of manta rays at Hin Meaung, while others delved into the mystique of ghost-pipefish sightings at Hin Deang. The expedition continued its southern trajectory, leading us to Tarutao National Park, where the depths unraveled an assortment of wonders.

Tarutao National Park's Kaleidoscope of Marine Marvels...
In Tarutao's embrace, our diving escapades transcended the ordinary. The ocean floor was an exhibition of rare and captivating marine life—a symphony of ghost-pipefish, seahorses, colossal pipefishes adorning the sandy bed, a juvenile cuttlefish, vibrant nudibranchs, and the charming sea moth delighted our senses, painting an unforgettable underwater tableau during the day and we could do a blackwater dive that night with many more creatures to discover.

Rediscovering Manta Rays and Final Encounters...
Returning to Hin Deang - Hin Meaung, we sought out the elusive manta rays once more. Some among our cohort were fortunate enough to witness their ethereal presence, marking a poignant highlight in our aquatic sojourn. As our expedition drew to a close, the pristine waters around PP Island and the final dive near Phuket revealed a parting gift—encounters with the elegant leopard shark, seahorses, and a myriad of colourful nudibranchs.

Gratitude and Farewells...
The Smiling Seahorse team extends heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed guests. Your trust in us to curate a memorable diving experience and enrich your holiday with unparalleled underwater adventures is deeply appreciated. We hope this journey has not only deepened your scuba diving prowess but has also etched indelible memories, infusing your vacation with unparalleled joy and wonder.

Your presence onboard has illuminated our expedition, transforming it into an unforgettable passage through Thailand's mesmerizing aquatic realms. As you continue your ventures beyond these azure depths, may the memories of this odyssey linger as cherished souvenirs, beckoning you to explore the uncharted depths of the ocean once more. Until we meet again, dive deep and savor the beauty of our world's hidden treasures.

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Trip Report: photo & video expedition from 5th to 9th November 2023

21/11/2023

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Welcome on board for this special photo and video expedition. The guests are coming from America, Germany, Switzerland, France, and Brazil. We are honored to have Mr. Walter Marti (a very talented underwater videographer) with us on board. During this trip, Walter and Franck shared their knowledge with our guests to improve underwater video and photos.
Here are a few photos from our guests. We are super proud of their results! Well done everyone!

Credit picture by Robert Vogt
A massive blotched stingray was encountered in Similan National Park. The reef was full of life in Richelieu Rock, with schooling barracudas, harlequin shrimps, and super fishy all around.

Credit picture by Merry-Jane Wolborsky
From left to right: A clark anemone fish portrait, white eye moray eel sharing home with a Fibrillated moray and a clown fish home!

Longfin batfish in Similan national park. Credit picture by Linda Blanchard

Small tooth emperor hunting with Bluefin trevally, two batfishes, school of chevron barracuda, huge school of trevally with curtain of glass fish, colourful reef with Redcoat squirrel fish at Richelieu Rock and our dear friend Julien enjoy sidemount diving!

Some nice nudibranches, tiger egg cowry, harlequin shrimps in Richelieu Rock and giant seafan in Koh Bon pinacle.

Longnosed emperor passing by a school of chevron barracuda.

Blackwater diving was epic with a curious flying fish coming into our lights. You can also see above a pelagic anemone, a larval moray eel (pretty hard shot to get sharp!), se butterfly and triggerfish...

A big thank you to our guest that make this amazing trip possible

A big thank you to all our guests for making this trip amazing.
Congratulation to Aline for her Advanced Open Wate and Nitrox certifications and to Corrine her Nitrox certification!
And a big thank you goes out to Walter for coming over, we look forward to the next photo and Video expedition with you next season!

Walter Marty's video of the cruise

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October 22nd-26th 2023 trip report: Unforgettable Adventure in the Mystical Waters of Thailand's North Andaman sea

6/11/2023

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trip report Thailand liveaboard october 2023

Cobias school! Who are they coming with?

Embarking on an expedition through the enchanting North Andaman waters was a voyage that transcended borders, uniting nine avid ocean lovers from the far reaches of America, France, Germany, Holland, and China. Their journey unfurled a tapestry of experiences that melded cultural diversity with the unifying language of underwater marvels.

The odyssey commenced with a thrilling dive into the depths of the Surin National Park, a trove of marine splendor. The check dive, revealed an expanse brimming with vibrant corals and teeming reef inhabitants. The mesmerizing underwater landscape was a sight to behold, a kaleidoscope of colours painted by nature's brush.

back to the vibrant colors of the Similan national park!

A swift transition to the renowned Richelieu Rock escalated the expedition to an exhilarating crescendo.

This dive site, a perpetual marvel, was a cornucopia of visual wonders. The explorers were enveloped in a paradise of soft corals, cascading curtains of glass fish, and a bustling metropolis of barracuda and long-nosed emperor fish, escorted by the regal blue-fin trevally. The symphony of marine life danced before their wide-eyed wonder, etching an indelible memory in their hearts.

The journey then led the intrepid voyagers to the captivating haven of the Similan National Park. Here, an immaculate aquatic sanctuary awaited, adorned with an array of marine treasures.

The keen-eyed adventurers were treated to a visual feast - encountering the whimsical nudibranches, elusive lobsters, and a breathtaking array of fishes that painted the waters with their vibrant hues.

Each dive was a chapter in an unfolding saga of underwater opulence, a communion with nature's raw magnificence. The diverse group of thrill-seekers shared not only the joys of discovery but also a bond forged through the shared awe of the ocean's secrets.

nudi party for the macro lovers

Night dives were also really interesting and the cruise was the occasion for most of our guests to try Blackwater diving for the very first time!

As the sun set on their final day, the memories of this transcendent expedition lingered, etched into the very fabric of their beings.

lucky divers onboard the smiling seahorse

This escapade into the depths of North Andaman's aquatic realm not only kindled a passion for adventure but also fostered a profound respect for the uncharted mysteries concealed beneath the ocean's surface.

The voyage was not merely an excursion; it was an immersive journey that sparked a collective thirst for further exploration and a testament to the captivating allure of our planet's underwater wonders.

The nine intrepid souls departed, carrying within them not just stories, but an insatiable appetite for future escapades and a shared camaraderie forged by the breathtaking marvels of the North Andaman waters. As they bid adieu to this aquatic paradise, they left with a promise to return, drawn by the siren call of the unexplored depths.

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The Colorful World of the Peacock Mantis Shrimp

25/10/2023

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If you've never heard of the peacock mantis shrimp, you're in for a real treat! These striking and enigmatic creatures are like the rock stars of the ocean, and they go by the scientific name Odontodactylus scyllarus. Let's dive into their vibrant world and uncover the answers to some of the most burning questions about these incredible marine marvel...
Before we get into the fun facts, let's give credit where it's due: the Latin name. Odontodactylus scyllarus may sound like a mouthful, but when you break it down, it makes sense. "Odontodactylus" translates to "toothed finger," and "scyllarus" is a reference to the Scylla, a sea monster from Greek mythology. So, in a way, the scientific name hints at the mantis shrimp's formidable appendages and its mythical aura.

In the world of marine biology, peacock mantis shrimp are the embodiment of beauty, strength, and mystery. Their striking appearance, lightning-fast strikes, and superhuman vision make them a true wonder of the ocean. The more you learn about them, the more you'll realize that there's never a dull moment in the colorful world of the peacock mantis shrimp.
So, the next time you think of oceanic wonders, don't forget to give these marine rock stars the attention they truly deserve! Whether you're a marine enthusiast or simply curious about the wonders of the seas, the peacock mantis shrimp never fails to captivate and astonish with its kaleidoscope of colours and extraordinary abilities.

4 incredible fun facts about the peacock mantis shrimps!

** Mantis Shrimp Fun Fact #1: The Peacock of the Sea**

The peacock mantis shrimp earns its dazzling nickname due to its vibrant and iridescent coloration. These marine gems come in a range of spectacular shades, including vibrant greens, blues, and fiery reds. Their bodies are adorned with intricate patterns, making them a true art piece.

** Mantis Shrimp Fun Fact #2: Super Smashers of the Ocean**

Peacock mantis shrimp are not just pretty. They are ferocious predators with a pair of specialised front limbs that can strike with the speed of a bullet! Their clubs can deliver blows with the force of a .22 caliber bullet, and they use this power to break open the shells of prey like crabs and snails they love. The mantis shrimp's hunting prowess is so legendary that it's even been known to break aquarium glass. It's not a pet you'd want to mess with!

Curious mantis shrimp in Koh Lanta National Park

Peakock mantis shrimp and amazing coral reef

** Mantis Shrimp Fun Fact #3: Color Vision Extraordinaire**

Mantis shrimp vision is the stuff of science fiction. While we humans have three color receptors, these oceanic superheroes have sixteen! They can see polarized light, ultraviolet, and colors that are beyond our comprehension. This super-vision helps them spot prey, predators, and mates with astonishing clarity.

** Mantis Shrimp Fun Fact #4: Mantis Shrimps are Neither Mantis, nor Shrimp

While the name "mantis shrimp" might suggest a curious fusion of a praying mantis and a shrimp, they're neither related to mantises nor actual shrimp. These captivating creatures belong to the stomatopod family, a group of marine crustaceans that have evolved into a unique and independent branch of the evolutionary tree. So, the next time you're pondering their peculiar moniker, just remember that mantis shrimps are in a league of their own, defying conventional categories in the animal kingdom.

An interesting life cycle

Mantis shrimp have a fascinating life cycle. Fertilized eggs are attached to specialized swimmerets on the female's abdomen using a sticky secretion. The female protects and fans the eggs, ensuring oxygen circulation and preventing the growth of harmful fungi or bacteria during the incubation period, which lasts several weeks.
Once ready to hatch, the female releases the eggs into the water, where they become tiny larvae known as nauplii. These larvae go through multiple developmental stages, feeding on plankton and small organisms until they reach maturity, just like other crustaceans. We can see them very regularily on our blackwater dives. After reaching maturity, they settle on the reef.

Very small larval mantis shrimp on blackwater dive

This alien face is a larval mantis shrimp

This little alien will become a beautiful mantis shrimp

Smasher vs Spearer Mantis Shrimp

The raptorial appendages of the mantis shrimp have different shapes depending on the species. Some have claw-like appendages known as "spearers," while others have appendages that resemble hammers, giving rise to the name "smashers."
The peacock mantis shrimps are "smashers" and are particularly fascinating because they can strike with a force greater than most other animals, despite their relatively small size. It is believed that this incredible punching ability is a result of the mantis shrimp's unique muscle structure, which combines spring-like mechanisms with a locking mechanism to store and release energy rapidly.
Below are a few photos of Spearing Mantis Shrimp (Lysiosquilla maculata). They are much lighter in colour and live in a vertical burrow in the sand, while peacock mantis shrimp prefers rocky areas on the reef.

Mantis shrimp camouflaged on the coral reel

Mantis shrimp well camouflaged in the sand

Now, let's answer some of the most common questions people ask about peacock mantis shrimp:

**1. Can peacock mantis shrimp see more colors than humans?**

Humans have three color receptors (red, green, and blue cones), allowing us to perceive a wide range of colours.
Peacock mantis shrimp have an astonishing sixteen (or more) colour receptors, enabling them to see colours beyond human comprehension, including ultraviolet light and polarized light.
In the underwater realm, the peacock mantis shrimp's eyes are a true anomaly. Their ability to see a rainbow of colors and polarized light sets them apart as one of the ocean's most visually gifted inhabitants. In comparaison, horses or dogs, are called dichromatic, meaning they have two primary color receptors or cones in their eyes. Less than humans and much much less than Mantis Shrimps!

Another great Frank's shot of a peakock mantis shrimp

Supersonic Vision!

Bullet fast punch!

**2. How fast is the peacock mantis shrimp's punch?**

The peacock mantis shrimp has one of the most powerful and fastest punches in the animal kingdom. It possesses specialized appendages called "raptorial appendages" that it uses to strike its prey. These appendages, also known as "smashers," are highly dexterous and possess incredible strength.
When a peacock mantis shrimp strikes, it accelerates its "hammer like appendage" at an astonishing speed of 23 meters per second. This unbelievable speed generates an impressive amount of force, with some estimates suggesting that it can exert up to 1,500 Newtons, which is equivalent to a bullet being fired from a .22 caliber rifle!

**3. Are peacock mantis shrimp dangerous to humans?**

While their punch can shatter shells and glass, mantis shrimps aren't a threat to humans. However, it's wise not to bring your fingers too close to their powerful hammers!!!

**4. How do peacock mantis shrimp communicate with each other?**

These mantis shrimp often use a combination of visual signals and body language for communication. They display various color patterns and postures to convey information about their intentions, such as territorial disputes or courtship rituals.

**5. What are some interesting behaviors of peacock mantis shrimp?**

Peacock mantis shrimp are known for their meticulous burrowing behavior. They construct intricate burrows with multiple chambers, which serve as both protection and a place to ambush unsuspecting prey. They are also quite territorial and will fiercely defend their burrows.

**6. Can peacock mantis shrimp regenerate their limbs?**

Yes, peacock mantis shrimp have a remarkable ability to regenerate their limbs if they get injured or lose one during battles or accidents. Their powerful resilience is another testament to their extraordinary adaptations.

**7. Where can you find peacock mantis shrimp in the wild?**

Peacock mantis shrimp inhabit the warm waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, particularly in the tropical coral reefs. You can often spot them in rocky crevices and burrows along the seafloor. While amazing and incredible creatures, Mantis shrimps are not rare in our dives and and our guides see them on every single one of our Andaman Sea adventures.

Wanna know more about the Marine Life of the Andaman Sea? Check out this page for reference!

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Triggerfish you can encounter while diving in the Andaman Sea

7/9/2023

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Trigger fish you can encounter while diving in the Andaman Sea

There are many species of trigger fish who belongs to the Balistidae family. They live in shallow water near coral reef except for the oceanic triggerfish (Canthidermis maculata) who's spend his life in the blue.

Oceanic triggerfish (Canthidermis maculata)

Titan Triggerfish (Balistoides viridescens)

The most know, specially for his aggressive behavior against divers, is the Titan Triggerfish (Balistoides viridescens). They are in fact protecting their eggs.

Female will lay their eggs few days before new and full moon after male and female will perform some prespawnings behavior like blowing and touching, to create their nest on sandy or rocky area. They will blow water to create a hole in the floor where the female will lays his eggs. The male will protect and defend the territory from any species swimming too close, and also from the other male triggerfish. Generally, a male will fecund the eggs of few females within his territory.

The impressive tooth of the titan triggerfish

Titan triggerfish are known to attack diver who are swimming to close to their nest

Beautiful titan triggerfish observing us

They are known to attack diver who are swimming too close to their nest, and a common diver mistake would be to escape them by shallowing up. Their territory is in a cone shape from the nest getting bigger while going up. So the good reaction would be to swim away horizontal to get out of their zone quickly, keeping our fins in the direction of the fish to avoid any harm.

Another good way to avoid any attack would be to observe their change of behavior.

They would rise their dorsal fin first, then lean on one side as a last warning, then finally if we are getting even closer to them, they will swim towards us trying to bite whatever they can catch.
This generally happen only when they are keeping an eye on their eggs...

Clown triggerfish (Balistoides conspicillum)

The beautiful "body painting" of the clown triggerfish

Another trigger fish we love is the clown triggerfish (Balistoides conspicillum) with its white dots on the lower part of the body and its yellow blotch on the back and the face.
They are less common than the titan, the redtooth or the yellow margin, but still can be found in the archipelago.

Redtooth triggerfish

The redtooth triggerfish (Odonus niger) live specially on our pinnacle and like when there is current.
They will go and hide in cracks and little cavities to rest. They form school and eat mainly plankton.

Yellowmargin triggerfish (Pseudobalistes flavimarginatus)

The yellowmargin triggerfish (Pseudobalistes flavimarginatus) is also very common in the archipelago. It lives in coral reefs and can grow up to 60 cm.

A titan triggerfish on the blue...

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Discover the magnificent species of sharks that you may encounter in the Andaman Sea.

11/7/2023

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Discover the magnificent species of sharks that you may encounter in the Andaman Sea.

The Andaman Sea in Thailand and Myanmar is a paradise for divers enthusiasts, boasting a diverse ecosystem that is home to an array of captivating marine life. Among the majestic creatures that roam these waters, sharks hold a special place in the hearts of many...

In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of sharks that you can encounter in the Andaman Sea...

9 species of sharks we most often encounter in the Andaman Sea

1. Leopard Sharks (Stegostoma fasciatum):

Leopard Sharks (Stegostoma fasciatum)

Also known as zebra sharks, these mesmerizing creatures can be found in the shallow waters of the Andaman Sea. With their distinctive patterns of dark spots and stripes, leopard sharks are a sight to behold. Despite their size, reaching up to 3 meters in length, they are docile and pose no threat to humans.

Type: The zebra shark is the sole member of the family Stegostomatidae.
It is found throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific, frequenting coral reefs and sandy flats to a depth of 62 meter.

Size: 1–3 meters.

Habitat: what site gives you the best changes to see Leopard sharks?
Divers often encounter them at Phuket Shark point resting on sandy bottoms or gracefully gliding through coral reefs.

Reproduction: Zebra sharks are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs instead of giving live birth. They can breed year-round without a distinct mating season. However, they tend to lay their eggs within a 112-day period, typically laying only 3-4 eggs at a time. The eggs are enclosed in brownish-purple casings known as "mermaid purses." After four to six months, the eggs hatch, and the juvenile zebra sharks can fend for themselves and search for food.

2. Whitetip Reef Sharks (Triaenodon obesus)

Whitetip Reef Sharks (Triaenodon obesus)

These sleek and slender sharks are commonly spotted in the Andaman Sea, particularly around rocky reefs and coral formations. Named for their prominent white-tipped dorsal and caudal fins, whitetip reef sharks are nocturnal hunters, often seen resting during the day in crevices or under overhangs. Although they can reach lengths of up to 2 meters, they are generally timid and pose little danger to humans.

Type: Requiem shark in the Carcharhinidae family

What site gives you the best changes to see White tip reef sharks? Divers often encounter them close to deep drop offs in the Similan islands such as elephant head rock or 3 trees.

Reproduction: this species is placental viviparous. Fertilization occurs internally, and the embryos receive nourishment initially from the yolk sac. Later, the yolk stalk converts into an umbilical cord, and the yolk sac transforms into a placenta.
This placental connection allows the embryos to receive nourishment and engage in metabolic exchanges with the mother shark during the gestation period, which lasts for at least five months. This aslo means these sharks have a belly button! Litters of white tip reef sharks consist of 1-5 pups. The length of the newborn pups ranges from 52 to 60 cm. There is no parental care provided by the mother shark after giving birth to the pups.

3. Blacktip Reef Sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus):

Blacktip Reef Sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus)

One of the most recognizable shark species in the Andaman Sea, blacktip reef sharks are renowned for their distinctive black-tipped fins and slender bodies. These agile swimmers are commonly found in shallow, nearshore waters, patrolling coral reefs in search of small fish and crustaceans. Divers can witness their graceful movements and occasionally observe them leaping out of the water.

Type: Requiem shark in the Carcharhinidae family

What site gives you the best changes to see Black tip reef sharks?
Divers often encounter them in shallow waters and Bida Nok in Phi Phi national park gives you the best chance to see several of them if you remain motionless and quiet.

Reproduction: Black tip reef sharks are viviparous, meaning they give live birth to fully developed pups. After a gestation period lasting seven to sixteen months, varying by geographic location, two to four pups are born, they measure 30 to 50 cm. The female possesses two separate uteruses, each dedicated to nurturing an individual embryo.

4. Nurse Sharks (Nebrius ferrugineus)

Nurse Sharks (Nebrius ferrugineus)

Nurse sharks, with their robust bodies and barbels on their lower jaw, are a common sight in the Andaman Sea. These bottom-dwelling sharks prefer sandy or muddy habitats, often resting during the day and becoming more active at night. Despite their size, which can exceed 4 meters, nurse sharks are generally placid and pose no threat to divers unless provoked.

Type: Carpet shark in the Ginglymostomatidae family

Size: 27cm at birth to up to 4 meters

What site gives you the best changes to see Nurse sharks? The best site to see Nurse shark in our area is around the Burma banks and quiet caves in Mergui Archipelago. While they can be spotted in Thailand, it is more of a rare, less predictable occurance.

Reproduction: an aplacental viviparous species (without a yolk-sac placenta). 20-50 pups per litter. DNA analysis has shown that litters contain young from multiple males.

5. Tiger Shark (Galeocerdo cuvier):

Tiger Shark (Galeocerdo cuvier)

The tiger shark is a captivating and powerful predator found in the North Andaman Sea and Burma. With its distinctive striped pattern and formidable presence, it commands attention. Known for its opportunistic feeding habits and adaptability, the tiger shark is a skilled hunter, preying on a variety of marine life. While encounters may be less common than with other shark species, the Andaman Sea's diverse ecosystem provides a suitable habitat for tiger sharks. Keep an eye out during your explorations for a chance to witness these impressive creatures in action.

Type: Largest of the Carcharinid Sharks

Habitat/ What site gives you the best changes to see Tiger sharks? Tigersharks are very rarely spotted in Thailand and Myanmar, we've seen 3 individuals in 12 years of diving the Andaman Sea! Encounters occurred at the Burma Banks, Surin islands and Shark point int he south of the Similan islands.

Reproduction: The tiger shark is the only aplacental viviparous carcharinid, lacking a placental connection to the uterus. Embryos develop in protective shells with a yellowish fluid. They have partially everted stomachs, potentially absorbing extra nutrients from the fluid, resulting in larger pups at birth. Do not confuse Tiger shark and sand tiger sharks. Unlike sand tiger sharks (Carcharias taurus), tiger sharks (Galeocerdo cuvier) do not practice intrauterine cannibalism, refraining from consuming their siblings in the womb.

6. Silvertip Shark (Carcharhinus albimarginatus)

Silvertip Shark (Carcharhinus albimarginatus)

The silvertip shark is a sleek and striking predator that patrols the ocean with grace. Named for its distinctive silver-tipped fins, this species possesses a streamlined body built for speed and agility. With its sharp senses and excellent swimming abilities, the silvertip shark is an adept hunter, often preying on schools of fish. It is known for its bold and curious nature, making encounters with this magnificent creature both exhilarating and unforgettable.

Type: Requiem shark in the Carcharhinidae family

Habitat/ What site gives you the best changes to see Silvertip sharks? While it generally prefers offshore habitats, it can also be encountered in the Andaman Sea, including the waters around Burma.

Reproduction: Silvertip sharks are a viviparous species with a yolk-sac placenta. Each litter typically consists of 1 to 11 pups. The gestation period of silvertip sharks lasts around 12 months. During this time, the embryos develop inside the mother's uterus, receiving nourishment from a yolk-sac placenta.

7. Gray Bamboo Shark (Chiloscyllium griseum):

Gray Bamboo Shark (Chiloscyllium griseum)

Let's take a closer look at the delightful grey bamboo shark! While information about these Thailand-dwelling sharks is somewhat limited, one thing is clear: they have a knack for hiding. These elusive creatures prefer the seclusion of caves or the shelter of coral, making it challenging to gather extensive details about their habits and behaviors.

The grey bamboo shark, with a maximum length of around 80cm, prefers a diet consisting mainly of shrimp, crabs, worms, and other small fish. These sharks have a more leisurely pace and tend to stick close to the ocean floor or find cozy hideouts. It's worth noting that they often get mistaken for other bamboo shark species or even their distant (much larger) relative, the nurse shark.

Type: Carpet shark in the Hemiscylliidae family

Size: Maximum size 80cm. Size at birth less than 13-18cm.

Habitat/ What site gives you the best changes to see bamboo sharks? Volcano and square rocks at the south of Mergui Archipelago have plenty of hiding spots favoured by bamboo sharks but as they lay quite deep into the cracks, you will need the help of a good guide to find them!

Reproduction: bamboo sharks are oviparous. A single egg case develops in each uterus.
Their eggs hatch after 14 to 15 weeks of incubation. One captive female stored sperm for 45 months before fertilization!

8. Coral Catshark (Atelomycterus marmoratus)

Coral Catshark (Atelomycterus marmoratus)

The coral catshark, is a species that is commonly found in the Andaman Sea, including the waters around Burma.

The coral catshark is known for its distinctive appearance, with a marbled pattern of dark spots and blotches on its body. It is a small shark species, typically reaching a maximum length of about 70 centimeters. These sharks are primarily found in shallow, tropical waters, often inhabiting coral reefs and rocky areas.

Like other catsharks, the coral catshark is nocturnal and spends much of its time resting on the seabed during the day. At night, it becomes more active, hunting for small fishes, crustaceans, and other invertebrates. These sharks have slender bodies and are well adapted to navigating through the crevices and coral structures of their reef habitats.

In the Andaman Sea and Burma, the coral catshark is one of the many species that contribute to the rich biodiversity of the region's marine ecosystems. It serves as an important part of the food chain and plays a role in maintaining the balance of the reef ecosystem.

Type: is a species of catshark in the Scyliorhinidae family

Habitat/ What site gives you the best changes to see coral Catsharks?

Steps, a dive site near Koh Lipe in our South Andaman itineraries is your surest bet to sea coral catsharks.

Reproduction: Cat sharks are oviparous (meaning, they lay eggs that hatch after 1 to 6 weeks of incubation). Their eggs are layed in pair.

9. Whale Sharks (Rhincodon typus)

Whale Sharks (Rhincodon typus)

Undoubtedly one of the most majestic creatures in the ocean, the gentle giant known as the whale shark occasionally graces the waters of the Andaman Sea. Despite their enormous size, reaching lengths of up to 18 meters, these filter-feeding sharks pose no harm to humans. Snorkelers and divers are blessed with unforgettable encounters as they swim alongside these magnificent creatures, observing their peaceful nature.

Type: Filter feeding sharks in the rhincodontidae family

Habitat/ What site gives you the best changes to see Whale sharks?
While Whalesharks can be spotted anywhere in Thai waters, the Andaman Sea offers several prime locations for shark encounters, such as the Richelieu Rock in the North or Hin Deang, Hin Muang and 8 Mile Rock in the South of Thailand. Renowned for their abundance of marine life including whale sharks, the Mergui Archipelago in Myanmar is also a great spot where divers can witness a diverse range of shark species including whale sharks.

Reproduction: Limited information is available regarding the reproductive process of whale sharks. Male whale sharks are considered sexually mature when they reach a length of 8-9 m and can be identified by the presence of claspers near the pelvic fin. However, the size at which females reach maturity is unknown, as well as the existence and location of specific breeding grounds.
Whale sharks are believed to be ovoviviparous (aplacental viviparity), meaning that eggs develop inside the female's body and hatch internally. The embryos lack a placental connection with the mother and are initially nourished by the yolk sac, followed by uterine milk secreted by villi in the internal uterine wall. Once the embryos reach full term, they are live born.

A female whale shark harpooned off the coast of Taiwan contained approximately 300 embryos in her two uteri, ranging in size from 42 to 63 cm. It is suggested that newborn pups typically measure between 55 to 64 cm in length. Similar to other shark species, parental care is not observed in whale sharks.
Learn more about the mystery of baby whale sharks here.

Final Thought

It's important to note that responsible diving practices, such as maintaining a respectful distance and refraining from touching or feeding the sharks, are crucial to protect both the sharks and the delicate marine ecosystem they inhabit.

Diving in the Andaman Sea presents a thrilling opportunity to witness the beauty and grandeur of these fascinating sharks. As ambassadors of the ocean, it is our duty to cherish and respect these magnificent creatures, ensuring their preservation for generations to come.

Attention passionate divers! If you're eager to dive deeper into the world of gentle giants, then the Whale Sharks Special Expedition is an absolute must for you!

Join us on an unforgettable journey through the North and South Andaman Sea, where you'll have the incredible opportunity to learn about these magnificent creatures firsthand. Our expert marine biologist, Kirsty Magson from the esteemed Thailand Whale Shark Project, will provide captivating daily presentations on the mesmerizing world of Whale Sharks. Prepare to be enlightened, inspired, and amazed by this unique expedition!

So, gear up, dive in, and embark on an unforgettable adventure with the sharks of the Andaman Sea onboard The MV Smiling Seahorse !

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Trip Report: South to North Andaman from 20th-27th November 2023

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Trip Report: photo & video expedition from 5th to 9th November 2023

Walter Marty's video of the cruise

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An interesting life cycle

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Now, let's answer some of the most common questions people ask about peacock mantis shrimp:

Triggerfish you can encounter while diving in the Andaman Sea

Discover the magnificent species of sharks that you may encounter in the Andaman Sea.

9 species of sharks we most often encounter in the Andaman Sea

Final Thought

The Smiling Seahorse Diving Blog

Authors

Categories

Archives

See also...

The Smiling Seahorse

Our dive cruises

More information

Trip Report: South to North Andaman from 20th-27th November 2023

Trip Report: North to South Andaman from 11th - 18th November 2023

Trip Report: photo & video expedition from 5th to 9th November 2023

Walter Marty's video of the cruise

October 22nd-26th 2023 trip report: Unforgettable Adventure in the Mystical Waters of Thailand's North Andaman sea

The Colorful World of the Peacock Mantis Shrimp

4 incredible fun facts about the peacock mantis shrimps!

An interesting life cycle

Smasher vs Spearer Mantis Shrimp

​Now, let's answer some of the most common questions people ask about peacock mantis shrimp:

Triggerfish you can encounter while diving in the Andaman Sea

Discover the magnificent species of sharks that you may encounter in the Andaman Sea.

9 species of sharks we most often encounter in the Andaman Sea

Final Thought

The Smiling Seahorse Diving Blog

Authors

Categories

Archives

See also...

The Smiling Seahorse

Our dive cruises

More information

Now, let's answer some of the most common questions people ask about peacock mantis shrimp: