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Thailand's Marine National Parks : why seasonal closures are key to their beauty

15/5/2025

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why closing national parks in thailand is necessary to preserve them

The Importance of Seasonal Closure of Marine National Parks in Thailand

Thailand is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine ecosystems. Its marine national parks, such as the Surin and Similan Islands in the North or Koh Phiphi, Koh Lanta and Tarutao National parks in the South, are among the top destinations for scuba divers and other nature lovers.

When Are Marine National Parks Closed in Thailand ?
Thailand’s marine parks enforce seasonal closures primarily between mid-May and mid-October, coinciding with the monsoon season. This period brings strong winds and heavy rains, making it unsafe for visitors while also providing much-needed rest for the environment. The following parks are among those affected : 

- Similan Islands National Park: A diver’s paradise, temporarily closed to allow coral reefs and marine life to recover.​
- Surin Islands: Known for pristine beaches and rich biodiversity, this park shuts down during monsoon months.

- Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park: Home to the famous Maya Bay, which limits visitor access to protect fragile ecosystems.
- Mu Ko Lanta National Park: Iconic sites like Ko Rok Nai and Ko Rok Nok are off-limits during the rainy season.
- Tarutao National Park: Known for great diving around Koh Lipe, the park is closed  from June 1st to September 30th.
seafan and butterfly fish during the diving season
fish needs a quiet place to flourish during the off season
While these closures may seem inconvenient, they are crucial for the long-term health of Thailand’s marine ecosystems.
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Why Are Marine Parks Temporarily Closed?
Seasonal closures serve several critical purposes, balancing conservation efforts with sustainable tourism.

1. Protecting Wildlife and Biodiversity
Many marine species depend on undisturbed habitats for breeding and nesting.
Seasonal closures help safeguard their survival by minimising human interference. For instance:
Sea turtles return to the exact beach where they were born to lay their eggs. However, if they detect human activity or disturbances, they may abandon their nesting attempt, which can significantly impact their population.
Fish populations flourish in quiet, healthy reefs, but excessive diving activity can create significant stress for marine species. Furthermore, diver's bubbles, and boat engines contribute to a disruptive noise pollution, that may affect migration patterns. 
Migratory birds rely on secluded islands for rest during their long journeys. They are highly sensitive to human interaction, which can cause them to abandon crucial stopover sites, leading to exhaustion and lower survival rates.


​2. Coral Reef Regeneration 
Coral reefs are among the most delicate ecosystems on the planet. Activities like diving, snorkeling, and boat traffic can damage these fragile habitats. Seasonal closures allow corals to regenerate, improving their health and resilience. This ensures a more vibrant experience for visitors once the parks reopen.

3. Safety
This period corresponds to the monsoon season, with strong winds coming from the west and big waves forming between the Indian continent and Thailand's west coast. While navigating might be possible on some days, it is usually not safe to do so.
Manta ray in Similan islands
sea turtle in the andaman sea

I'm visiting Thailand between May and October. Where can I go diving?

1. Explore Alternatives Near Phuket
Phuket Thailand’s largest island, is an excellent starting point for exploring marine attractions. During the off-season, consider visiting:

- Racha Islands: These islands offer some of the best diving conditions in Thailand, even during the rainy season.
- Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai: Located in Phang Nga Bay, these islands remain serene and welcoming throughout the year.
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2. Discover Year-Round Destinations 
While the Andaman Sea's national parks may be closed, other diving locations remain open all year round in the gulf of Thailand: 

- Koh Tao: A diver’s destination known for its calm waters and cheap diving, Koh Tao is the perfect place to refine your skills. With a variety of diving schools, you can take courses in underwater photography, technical diving, freediving, or even work towards becoming a dive Master. The island's fun atmosphere and affordable training options make it an ideal destination for divers of all levels.
- Koh Samui and Koh Phangan: Slightly bigger, these tropical islands offer excellent snorkeling opportunities, stunning beaches for relaxation, and diverse wildlife encounters. Beyond their natural beauty, they also boast a vibrant nightlife scene, making them an appealing destination for both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind.
whale shark and cobias
Visit us when national parks reopen!!!
Conclusion:
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Planning Your Trip Around Seasonal ClosuresThailand’s marine national parks are a treasure trove of natural wonders. While seasonal closures may require adjustments to your itinerary, they are essential for preserving the delicate balance of these ecosystems. By planning your visit carefully, you can enjoy the best of Thailand’s marine biodiversity, whether during the open season or through alternative destinations that stay open year-round. From vibrant coral reefs to unique animals, these parks offer experiences that are well worth visiting. Respect the closures, travel responsibly, and prepare for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Thailand’s natural beauty.
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Why you should dive Nitrox on your next liveaboard?

23/4/2022

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Why you should dive Nitrox on your next liveaboard?

What’s the difference between air and Nitrox?

The air we breathe everyday is as a gas made of 21% oxygen, 78 nitrogen and 1% other gas.
Nitrox, also called enriched air, is a mix of the same gaz but in a different proportion, we enrich the air with extra oxygen so the oxygen proportion is bigger. Its name: Nitrox comes from the combination of Nitrogen and Oxygen.
We refer to Nitrox according to its oxygen percentage, for example a Nitrox 32 contains 32% oxygen and is the most commonly used.
What are the advantages of using Nitrox?

What are the advantages of using Nitrox?

If you remember your Open Water theory class, the amount of nitrogen entering your tissues is what limits the time you can spend at a certain depth.
The more nitrogen in the body, the more we risk a decompression sickness. Using Nitrox allows the diver to have less nitrogen in his blood within a given diving time, which gives Nitrox divers many advantages:
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  • The ability to stay longer at a certain depth before reaching the same nitrogen blood level.
  • For example, if you dive at 30 meters, you could spend about 20 minutes on air before a decompression stop becomes compulsory, 30 minutes with a nitrox 32 and 40 minutes with a nitrox 36!
  • Having less nitrogen in your body also means your surface intervals could be shorter (which is a big advantage in some situation when you want to squeeze in 2 dives in a limited time).
  • I’m planning to dive with my friend who dives one air, what’s the point diving nitrox? Even if you follow the same dive profile as air divers, you will be far less tired then if you were diving on air and far safer as you will be further away from a risk of decompression sickness.
  • The nitrogen tissues desaturation is what tires you so much after a long dive. The less you have nitrogen in your blood, the less tired you will fill.
What are the advantages of using Nitrox?

What are the disadvantages of using Nitrox?

The “depth level” notion is the main disadvantage of Nitrox: the less nitrogen in your nitrox, the more oxygen you breathe. Oxygen becomes toxic with depth and it is important not to exceed a certain partial pressure or you risk in water-convulsions (which may lead to drowning!) These events are extremely rare and easily avoidable if you follow the brief. Nitrox is safer than air if used within its limits.

Can I dive deeper with Nitrox?

It is generally believed that Nitrox is used for very deep dives, but the reality is that it is a gas allowing longer diving time in mid-deep waters, perfect for recreational dives between 20 and 30 meters deep.
The only thing you need to know to dive using Nitrox is that beyond a specific depth, the oxygen becomes toxic. Nitrox being rich in oxygen, it becomes dangerously toxic, faster (less deep) than normal air.
But don’t get scared, after your course, you will know very well what will be your maximum depth on any given nitrox mix and plan your dive accordingly to stay safe!
Can I dive longer with Nitrox?

Can I dive longer with Nitrox?

Nitrox will make your NDL (no deco limit) time longer but if you breath through your gas fast, you will still need to ascend before being “out of air”. So it will make your dive longer only if you are good with air consumption. While Nitrox has many advantages, reducing your breathing rate isn’t one of them and you should not see any noticeable change on your air consumption when switching to Nitrox.
Can I dive longer with Nitrox?

Where can we dive with Nitrox?

Nitrox is used everywhere in the world, and it becomes really advantageous when doing multiple dives a day such as on dive cruises.
Do I need another certification to dive nitrox?
Nitrox is used everywhere in the world

Do I need another certification to dive nitrox?

Yes! Because of the danger associated with diving nitrox, which are different from the dangers of diving with air (which you have learned during your open water course), you will need to learn a few more things to dive safely with Nitrox.
The Nitrox course is the most taught speciality in the diving industry, not only it is the easiest and quickest diving course, it can be done without even getting wet.
On the MV Smiling Seahorse, we teach Padi Enriched Air Nitrox for 6000 THB. It can be easily done onboard in a few hours but can also be done online before coming through PADI e-learning. Don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions!
Want to reed more fishy stories? Check our most popular blogpost!
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Sunscreens harmful to corals are now banned in Thai marine national parks!

3/12/2021

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sencreens harmful to corals prohibited thailand
The good news came at the beginning of August 2021: Sunscreens harmful to corals are now banned in Thai marine national parks!
This new legal victory will not fail to delight the defenders of the oceans amongst which The Smiling Seahorse :)

Please note however, that we will no longer tolerate these products on the boat, please check that your cosmetics, and in particular your sunscreen, do not contain any of the ingredients listed below before applying it to your body to enjoy the sundeck.

Fines can be as high as THB 100,000, which is currently about USD 3,000 (EUR 2,610.91).
Thailand corals
Healthy soft coral reef Similan Islands

What ingredients are banned by Thailand in sunscreens?

Lotions containing oxybenzone, octinoxate, 4-methylbenzylidene camphor or butylparaben are now banned.
Reef-friendly alternatives are already available in Thailand and have long been sold on The Smiling Seahorse.

Oxybenzone

The most "aggressive" ingredient is oxybenzone (also known as benzophenone-3 or BP-3), which disrupts coral reproduction, causes bleaching and damages coral DNA.
Oxybenzone is found in more than 3,500 sunscreen products worldwide and even remains commonly used in FDA-approved sunscreens labeled as "Reef friendly."

So take a good look at the ingredients in your cream.

Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate)

This ingredient filters UV light and causes premature bleaching of coral reefs.

4-Methylbenzylid Camphor (4MBC)

Another sunscreen ingredient that causes coral bleaching, 4MBC is permitted in Europe and Canada, but not in the U.S., Japan, nor Thailand.

Butylparaben (butyl p-hydroxybenzoate)

A preservative ingredient that causes coral bleaching.

Zinc oxide

Yes, zinc occurs naturally in the environment and in seawater, however, zinc-based sunscreens that are advertised as "clear" can be coral-damaging. If you see MSDS as a component, know that it is highly toxic to aquatic organisms...
Think about the cream-free alternative!
We don't think about it enough, but using rash guards (also called "anti-UV tee-shirt", "top", "body" or "lycra"), are by far the best way to protect yourself from the sun without cream: cheaper because you only buy it once, a protection of +50SPF, they are light and flexible, and good news, we have a stock on board the Smiling Seahorse.
rashguards uv protection
Using rash guards are by far the best way to protect yourself from the sun without cream

Coral reefs threatened by the use of certain components in our sunscreens

Between 6,000 and 14,000 tons of sunscreen are used each year by swimmers and divers in the oceans. These creams are added to the already heavy pollution that arrives on coastal areas via wastewater discharges and contribute to the disappearance of our coral reefs...
A real ecological disaster: It should be known that more than 50% of our corals have already disappeared since 1950.
corals protection thailand
Orange cup coral
coral bleaching
Coral starting to bleach
corals threatened by sunscreens
Alcyonarian soft coral
coral bleaching
Coral bleaching due to ocean warming is one of the many treats to coral reefs

Why are sunscreens so harmful for corals?

Corals need sunlight to live and the simple fact of blocking their access to this vital light causes them irreparable damage, not to mention the additional toxic effects of some of their chemical components...

How to choose your sunscreen?

Global warming, pollution and other human activities pose additional and significant threats to the survival of coral reefs. 
The results of sunscreen studies should also be taken seriously and if you plan to swim, scuba dive near coral reefs, you should use a coral reef friendly or reef safe sunscreen.

How do I know if a sunscreen is coral reef safe?

CAUTION: "Reef Safe Sunscreen" or "Reef Friendly Sunscreen" labels are not regulated and therefore potentially meaningless.
You really need to look at the ingredients listed to make sure they comply with this new Thai law.

If the sunscreen of your choice contains any of the ingredients listed in our article, it's best to choose a different one! 

Congratulations: You've chosen an environmentally conscious operator!

Since its inception in 2012, The Smiling Seahorse has been committed to ocean preservation and reef conservation.

  • Reef-friendly sunscreens have been available on board for a long time, as well as "rashguards" that protect you from the sun without the need for any chemicals.
  • We have also selected eco-friendly soap/ shampoo and hair conditioners for you to use in our ocean view showers (produced for luxury eco resorts in the Maldives).
  • We use as much as possible organic detergents for the maintenance of the boat and the diving equipment (we rinse your wetsuits in bio detergent for example).
  • Aluminum bottles are provided to limit the use of plastic bottles onboard and for many years after ....

What sunscreen do we recommend?

Locally produced, tested and approved by all our team, ReReef can be used by the whole family to get good reef friendly sun protection and can be bought online or onboard: https://rereef.co/product/40g-reef-safe-sunscreen-spf50/.
reef safe sunscreen
Reef friendly sun cream
Using a rash guard is by far the best way to protect yourself from the sun without cream: it's less expensive because you only buy it once, it protects well (+50SPF) and the Smiling Seahorse stock on board.
To learn more about our commitment and to know the reference sites for the conservation of the oceans, please visit our page "Conservation of the marine environment".
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The exclusivity of Surin Islands for this VVIP trip

25/11/2021

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trip report 19-25 nov 21
A very intimate atmosphere for this last cruise in the Surin Islands: indeed, we welcomed 4 guests who had the chance to enjoy the boat and the crew to themselves! And since we were the only boat on a cruise this week, we also got to enjoy being the only divers underwater, from the first to the last day.
The sea was lovely and calm, life under the water buzzing and amazing.


The Smiling Seahorse now offers blackwater dives on every cruise and this week, our blackwater dives were a success: We were able to observe many species at the larval and pelagic stage: flounder, jellyfish, pineapple fish, nudibranch, squids, shrimps, trigger fish, barracudas, worms ...
larvae flounder
Larvae flounder
jellyfish
Jellyfish
Barracuda
Barracuda
Undefined worm
Undefined worm
Scribble Filefish running after a jellyfish
Scribble Filefish running after a jellyfish
Pelagic nudibranch
Pelagic nudibranch
Sea butterfly larvae
Sea butterfly larvae
Squid
Squid
Pineapple fish
Pineapple fish
baby trigger fish
Baby trigger fish
shrimp
Shrimp
Pelagic sea snake
Pelagic sea snake
We also twitched our itinerary slightly this week, in order to be able to do a twilight dive at Richelieu Rock: a magical moment! The colors under and on the water were fabulous, to the delight of all our photographers on board.
barracuda scribble filefish jellyfish
bannerfish and jellyfish
jellyfish
Jellyfish have many enemies but I love them equally!
spanish dancer's eggs
spanish dancer s eggs close up
Spanish dancer eggs ribbon, a wonder to see underwater. New spot for blackwater diving?
Scorpion fish
Scorpion fish
All photographers onboard used our dedicated photo room and we shared some editing moments to share our shots and tips to improve our underwater and blackwater photography.
blurry effect
Trying out the blurry effect. What do you think? Tell us in the comments below.
Another very nice group with whom we really enjoyed diving and living on the boat. Thank you to this team from all over the world for these few days.
relaxing time for divers
divers team
If you would like more information about our itineraries, our boat or our various training courses, do not hesitate to contact us.

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Breaking news: a tiger shark has been sighted in Similan Islands in Thailand

18/11/2020

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What a fantastic start to this much awaited diving season on Thailand's Andaman Sea! A Tiger shark has been sighted by several divers in Similan National park this week.

A tiger shark in Thailand's waters!

breaking news, a tiger shark spotted in similan islands thailand
A first time for Darren King and his buddies who has been diving in Thailand since 2005. 
"We dropped usual place in Elephant Head Rock, Similan: southern side of the main rock, before the channel and the tiger shark came up from the deeper water to check us out. It came very close and there was no doubting it. "
Unfortunately this time the divers didn't have a camera to capture the moment but what a thrill!!!
​Tiger sharks are very rarely sighted by divers as they usually prefer to live in deeper/ colder waters.
​The Smiling Seahorse guests were also very lucky to spot a tiger shark twice last season at the nearby Burma banks : in March 2019 and November 2019.
Tiger shark spotted at the Burma Banks, myanmar in March 2019
Tiger shark photographed at the Burma Banks, Myanmar in March 2019 by The Smiling Seahorse
Another tigershark has been spotted and photographed by snorkelers in Surin islands in December 2019 but such sightings are so exceptional they are making the news!
snorkeling with a tiger shark in Surin islands, Thailand December 2019
Tiger shark photographed by a snorkeler in Surin islands in December 2019

Is there hope for Thailand's Sharks population?

Sharks have been slaughtered for decades for the meat and fins and shark population has decreased dramatically: some sharks number have seen a 90 percent cut in the last 50 years!

Finning, a practice where fishermen cut the shark's fins before discarding the rest of the body in the Ocean is now illegal in 52 countries but only 12 countries have banned shark fishing altogether. Unfortunately the practice is still legal in Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia.

A recent study done by WildAid and Rapid Asia in Thailand, found that 57 percent of Thais living in urban areas have consumed shark fin at some point.
Shark finning still legal in Thailand
In recent year more and more campaigns have raised awareness about this cause and eating shark fin soup is loosing popularity. 

In China, 85 percent of respondents to a recent survey reported they had stopped eating shark fin soup.
Such sightings of Tiger sharks in Similan, Thailand sure give us hope for the future of Shark population in Asia. Thailand still has a bountiful Marine life to explore!

Want to know more about these wonderful creatures? Check out our blog answering all the questions you may have about Tiger sharks.

And if you want to try your luck, come dive with us to Surin and Similan islands!
We still go room on these 3 trips in December 2020 with a 20% Discount!
join us in the hunt of this tiger shark in Thailand
Join us from 4th to 7th of january
similan and surin dive cruise in December 2020 Thailand
Spend Christmas or New year at sea and Dive Surin and Similan with us!
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12 blogs every Underwater Photographer should follow to get inspired ...

1/7/2019

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Browsing underwater photography blogs is not only a pleasure for the eyes but also a window to a wonderful world that encourages dreams and makes you want to take a plunge ...

This list is try to highlight some of the best blogs about underwater photography that can be found on the web.
The ranking was compiled tracking hundreds of photographer's blogs. The top underwater photography sites that made this list are ranked according to Alexa (33.3%), Domain Authority (33.3%), Page Authority (33.3%) indicators.
The list doesn't reflects our personal opinion in any way.
The ranking is updated once every year with new blogs and up-to-dated scores.
The data was collected in December 2020 for the current list.
​
You can find the entire list of 25 blogs on this website: 
TOP 25 UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAPHY BLOGS OF 2021
​

HERE, WE PRESENT YOU THE TOP 15, with a little introduction for each nominated...
The work of these underwater artists will surprise you both in the content and the form: you will encounter some fun critters and new photo techniques to experiment on your next dives! 
If you are looking for a new way to capture the wonders of the sea, you've got to check these out!
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1. Dive photo guide
http://www.divephotoguide.com/underwater-photography-scuba-ocean-news/​

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The site Dive photo guide offers specialized articles on underwater photography, travel stories, advice, tips for divers and underwater photography enthusiasts.
Whether you're just beginning in underwater photography, simply looking to improve or fine tuning your established skills you will find usefull informations.
Buying underwater photography or video equipment can be an exciting process, but it can be very confusing. Whether you're looking for an underwater housing for a compact, SLR or video camera, a waterproof camera, underwater strobes, video lights, focus lights or other accessories, the DPG Equipment Guide will help you sort through the options and browse reviews.

2. Scott's Underwater Photography Guide
https://www.uwphotographyguide.com/blog​

At UWPG they constantly publish new articles on all aspects of underwater photography and video. they cover macro, wide-angle, dive destinations, gear reviews, tutorials and techniques, post-processing, marine life, photo essays, dive adventures, dive travel tips and other useful info for underwater photography.
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They also have a section devoted to sharing the best photo tutorials, techniques and tips for all types of underwater photography.
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3. Wetpixel
https://wetpixel.com/​

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Do we really need to introduce you to the well known Wetpixel?...
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"Wetpixel is the premiere community website dedicated to underwater photography and videography. With up-to-date news, articles, gear reviews, photo contests, and dive expeditions, Wetpixel is a strong, focused community of over 20,000 underwater photographers."
Wetpixel was established in 2001 by Eric Cheng and is now owned and published by Adam Hanlon. 

4. Blue Water photo
https://www.bluewaterphotostore.com/blog/​

Bluewater Photo & Travel stems from the creators behind of the Underwater Photography Guide, an online resource for learning underwater photography. Whether you're new or looking to refresh up on your skills.
The Underwater Photography Guide is the place to go for FREE online resources for learning underwater photography.  You can start off with teir Beginner's Guide to Underwater Photography and various tips and tricks for all levels.
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4. Sealife 
https://www.sealife-cameras.com/sealife-blogs/​

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- Underwater photography accessories
​- Underwater photography blog
"Being submerged in the incredible undersea world is an amazing experience for the first time snorkeler and to the seasoned diver.
For over 25 years, SeaLife has created underwater cameras, lighting, lenses and accessories that allow you to capture and keep these remarkable memories.
SeaLife is the only company with a focus exclusively on underwater imaging and lighting. The experience and dedication that go into each SeaLife product assures remarkable results."

5. Mozaik uw cameras
https://www.housingcamera.com/blog/​

Mozaik is a family run business, they are all divers and photographers. They inspiring divers to become photographers since 2006 by providing expert advice, comprehensive guides and tutorials and almost 24/7 customer service.
In the blog section of their site Mozaik gives the floor to its clients underwater photographers, they offer their best shots to their readers and present the passion of each of them in the form of a question-answer prompting visitors to involve them self further into this great adventure of underwater photography.
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6. Tony Wu Photo-naturalist
http://www.tonywublog.com/journal​

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Credit: Tony Wu
As he like to say about him self, Tony Wu is an underwater photographer. Or more accurately, a photographer who takes photos (mostly) underwater...
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"I find that I learn much more about myself, the world, and life in general this way, which is the inspiration underpinning all the images and stories I create. I also organise trips and adventures, usually with an emphasis on underwater photography, and I tend to prefer visiting destinations that are remote, unique and off the beaten path.''


7. Reef photo and video
https://reefphoto.com/blogs/photography/backlighting-underwater-subjects-when-how-and-with-what​

Authorized dealers for Nauticam, Zen Underwater, Ikelite, Inon, Light & Motion, Sea&Sea, Subal, Olympus, Nikon, Sony and UltraLight Control Systems. 
​At Reef Photo & Video, they believe that our effect on our community, environment, customers and employees is just as important as profitability. According to this, they base their philosophy on the following:
- offer the best possible customer experience
- improvement of the quality of life
- sustainable financial basis
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- Underwater photography accessories
​- Underwater photography blog and tutorials

8. Indopacific images
https://indopacificimages.com/​

Underwater photography by Don Silcock.
Indopacific images is the personal website of the Bali based, independent underwater photographer and photojournalist Don Silcock. Don is an Australian based on the Indonesian island.
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There is nothing for sale and no advertisements on this site… It’s simply Don sharing his experiences and image.
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9. Craig Parry
https://craigparryphotography.com/category/blog/​

Craig Parry is a multi award winning oceanic and nature photographer based in Byron Bay, Australia. His sensitive art photography offers a unique insight into the world around us. Primarily focusing marine and landscape imagery, subjects are presented in their natural environment in a manner which seeks to connect audiences with the environment. 
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10. Manta dive
https://manta-dive.com/blog​

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Manta Gili Air is run by Jon and Alex, who are both highly experienced dive instructors and dive shop Managers. They are located in Indonesia, on the Gili island.
Ben and Harriet run the dive shop throughout the year and will gladly answer any questions you may have relating to getting from Bali to Gili, accommodation on Gili Trawangan, fun diving, dive courses or anything else.
Their blog is about diving, UW photography, Gili islands...

11. Scuba shooters
http://www.scubashooters.net/underwater-life/​

Scubashooters is an underwater photography blog made by a group of professional and amateur photographers from all over the world, all with a passion in common: the underwater photography...
"In the website you can also find other interesting section like News, Magazine, Recommended Partners, Contest and Forum.
In the 
News, Magazine and Forum section we share with our users some interesting information's about underwater photography like technical tips and tricks, the best diving sites, camera reviews and much more!"
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12. Paparazsea
http://www.paparazsea.com/​

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From someone who had an extreme fear of water, Jun overcame his aversion to fully live a passion born a little despite himself ...
drawn into his first dive by a friend, the wonders of the seabed have torn the curtain of his fear and ignited the fire of passion in his heart ...
Jun is Filipino, and his blog introduces us to his country and diving from a very original and exciting angle.
Now Jun is diving instructor and ​and he never ceases to improve himself for the pleasure of being able to communicate this sacred fire that has been burning in him since his first dive ...

13. Underwater tribe blog
http://www.underwatertribe.com/underwater-tribe-blog/​

Specializing in customized itineraries for individuals, couples, and groups, they create the ultimate holiday in Indonesia. They are based in south Bali but they lead trips to all corners of Indonesia for scuba diving, photography, and land based adventure.
​Their blog is all about diving in Indonesia and about underwater life and photography...
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14. Underseaproduction
https://www.underseaproductions.com/blog/#​

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Underwater image specialists...
Established in 2006, and based in Australia, this award-winning business is specialized in underwater images. they offer freelance underwater photography and filming services. They film and produce marine life films, as well as creating custom productions for clients. They also teach people how they can improve their own underwater imaging skills. 
​They also organize underwater imaging expeditions.

15. Franck Fogarolo 
thesmilingseahorse.com/blog

Of course, we couldn't write an article about UW photographers without speaking about our own: Franck Fogarolo, our cruise director and co-owner of the Smiling Seahorse. He brings back sublime shots from each trip of our underwater playground. I invite you to discover his talent on our weekly blogposts. 
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An undiscovered paradise in the Indian Ocean, the Mergui Archipelago is the home of 800 islands surrounded by immaculate reefs and pinnacles bustling with life. Along with the abundance of gorgeous scenery and impressive marine life, one of the reasons we love this area so much is its air of exclusivity. Particularly appealing for a photographer, our boat rarely crosses paths with another while we cruise the crystal clear seas, and being alone on the dive sites make it so you will never get an unwanted photobomber finning through your frame.
               As your research has concluded, the best way to reach these coveted dive spots far from the clutches of civilization is on a liveaboard dive cruise with The Smiling Seahorse. Now that you’ve made the decision to embark on a magnificent adventure with us, you need to think about how to best prepare yourself.
               As photography enthusiasts, we understand that while regular divers also want to be well prepared for a cruise, photographers have many extra things to consider when getting ready for a once in a lifetime trip such as this. We have compiled this one-stop, all you need to know guide for underwater photographers diving in Burma to put your mind at ease...

An Underwater photographer’s ultimate guide to the Mergui Archipelago

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Building a diving liveaboard vessel in Thailand

28/7/2018

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MV Smiling Seahorse, our brand new steel boat is being built in the mangrove forest, near Ranong for the last 6 months or so. It is taking shape nicely and nearly ready for the coming season! While it is not yet all done, we wanted to send you a little update!
​Let me introduce her to you...
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From the front, the 2 massives windows on the main deck are the master cabins, so you can have a great seaview while cruising...  :)

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    The Smiling Seahorse Diving Blog

    A blog about our diving adventures in Burma and Thailand. Diving trip reports, guest reviews, fishy stories, wildlife fun facts and much more...
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    ​The Smiling Seahorse has been running dive cruises from Ranong since 2012.
    Our team of instructors are reporting with a short blogpost after every trip.
    Camille, Franck and some guest writers also contribute during the off season writing on various topics.
    Keep tuned for more fishy stories :)
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The Smiling Seahorse

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