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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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Trip Report: Burma Expedition aboard MV Smiling Seahorse (February 26 - March 6, 2025)

15/3/2025

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Departing from Ranong Badin Pier, our journey began with the usual Thai immigration process before setting course for Kawthung, Burma. Once the formalities were completed, we sailed northwest into the vast and remote Mergui Archipelago, a hidden gem of the Andaman Sea. With over 800 islands scattered across the region, Mergui is a paradise for divers, featuring towering limestone formations, soft coral gardens, and thriving marine biodiversity. This journey brought together an international group of adventurers from the UK, USA, Taiwan, Germany, Switzerland, France, and Thailand, all eager to explore this pristine underwater world.
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Day 1: First Encounters... Check Dive at High Rock

A gentle check dive to start the trip, where we encountered schools of yellowtail barracuda and yellowback fusiliers gliding over the reef. Moray eels peeked out from rocky crevices, and macro lovers were delighted to spot nudibranchs. The highlight was the sighting of two juvenile tiger tail seahorses camouflaged among the sea fans.
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Dive 2 at Ba wei, aka Rainbow Rock
True to its name, Rainbow Rock boasted a colorful display of soft corals in yellow, blue, pink, white, and red. The reef was bustling with Durban dancing shrimps, baby yellow boxfish, and giant moray eels lurking in the shadows. Crabs, both juvenile and adult scorpionfish, and the striking chromodoris annulata nudibranch added to the spectacle. Among the angelfish, a beautiful ring angelfish made a rare appearance.

Dive 3 at South Twin
This dive site delivered with a fantastic variety of marine life. Banded stick pipefish hovered near the bottom, while blue dragons and chromodoris annulata nudibranchs decorated the reef. A school of dusky batfish moved in synchrony, and an impressive Maldivian sponge snail was spotted near a cluster of sea fans. The biggest excitement came when a grey reef shark cruised by, adding a touch of adrenaline to the dive.

Night Dive
Under the cover of darkness, the reef transformed. Cleaning partner shrimps tended to their clients, while a devil scorpionfish lay in wait. Decorated crabs in shades of yellow and pink scuttled across the seabed, alongside red coral crabs and the striking blue dragon nudibranch.
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Day 2: Black Rock Spectacle Black Rock – The Jewel of the North

Located in the far northern reaches of the Mergui Archipelago, Black Rock is one of Burma’s most exhilarating dive sites. Rising from the depths of the open sea, this isolated pinnacle attracts pelagic species, making it a hotspot for large schools of fish and occasional visits from oceanic giants.
The day's dives at Black Rock did not disappoint. We swam alongside a massive school of bigeye jacks and yellowtail barracuda. Juvenile yellow spot fusiliers darted between the coral-covered slopes, while mantis shrimps and porcelain crabs found refuge in crevices. Nudibranch enthusiasts were thrilled with sightings of chromodoris annulata and chromodoris risbecia pulchella. The grand spectacle of the day came when an oceanic manta ray gracefully soared above us, followed closely by a giant white frogfish resting on a ledge. Other highlights included an octopus displaying its camouflage skills, a juvenile African pompano, and a lurking cobia.

​Blackwater Dive
Venturing into the darkness, we encountered ghostly planktonic creatures—larvae of flounder, sea butterflies, shrimps, and free-swimming larvaceans, creating an ethereal underwater experience.


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Day 3: Three Islets – A Macro Wonderland Square Roc

This dive kicked off with tiger tail seahorses clinging to gorgonian sea fans, while orange spotted pipefish wove through the reef. Chromodoris nudibranchs added splashes of color, and a marble ray rested on the sandy bottom. The rare mordilla brocki nudibranch made an appearance, and to our delight, an eagle ray soared past.

​Shark Cave

A site known for its vibrant marine life, Shark Cave was teeming with schools of juvenile pickhandle barracuda and a massive congregation of blue-and-gold fusiliers. Pharaoh cuttlefish engaged in mesmerizing mating displays, shifting colors right before our eyes. A banded krait sea snake glided through the coral, while chromodoris annulata nudibranchs lined the rock walls. Adding to the excitement, a pregnant giant pufferfish hovered near a coral outcrop.

Submarine Reef

Stonefish expertly blended into the reef, while trevallies and rainbow runners dashed across the blue. A giant titan triggerfish patrolled the area, and decorated sea urchins provided shelter for small reef critters. A massive school of yellow snappers blanketed the site, making for an unforgettable dive.

Shark Cave (Night Dive)

This nocturnal dive revealed an array of decorated crabs, Durban dancing shrimps, and baby slipper lobsters. A basket star shrimp hid among the reef, and we even spotted a ghostly wahoo passing by in the distance.

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Day 4 & 5: Sea Fan Forest & Western Rocky – Conservation Efforts Sea Fan Forest

A breathtaking dive site characterized by towering sea fans, home to tigertail seahorses, stonefish, and harlequin shrimps. Our dive team dedicated two dives to removing a massive ghost net draped across the east face of the reef, successfully freeing the site of this hazard.
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Western Rocky– The Cave
This legendary site, featuring a tunnel cutting through the island, offered sightings of moray eels, fusiliers, and lurking stonefish. A surprise encounter with a giant red frogfish at the safety stop made for a memorable end to the day.

Eagle Rock
Sunset diving here brought sightings of octopuses posing for cameras, baby lobsters, Maldivian sponge snails, and marble shrimps.
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Day 6: Dendro’s Peak – The Grand Final

Our final dive took place at Dendro’s Peak, a vibrant seamount bustling with marine life. Schools of giant trevallies, rainbow runners, and wahoo created an action-packed scene. Yellowtail barracuda and bigeye trevallies swirled around us, while mantis peacock shrimps and white-eyed moray eels hid among the rocks. A fitting end to an incredible expedition!

As we made our way back to Kawthung, we celebrated with the traditional Burmese beer before returning to Ranong, reminiscing about the unforgettable encounters of the past week. Until next time, Burma!

​Another unforgettable adventure with the MV Smiling Seahorse!
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Trip report : Exploring Burma Banks with MV Smiling Seahorse ( 23rd-29th January 2025).

20/2/2025

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23rd of January 2025 Trip report - a manta at the burma banks!!!
​Departing from Ranong Bodin Pier, our journey to the Burma Banks began with the usual immigration formalities in Thailand before heading to Kawthung, Burma. Once the official paperwork was complete, we set course for the remote and breathtaking Mergui Archipelago and the Burma Banks. With guests from Thailand, Burma, France, Denmark, Switzerland, the USA, Italy, Panama, and Belgium, we embarked on another unforgettable adventure aboard the MV Smiling Seahorse, eager to uncover the wonders of this legendary dive destination.

The Burma Banks is an isolated offshore reef system consisting of vast submerged plateaus and seamounts that rise abruptly from the deep ocean floor. Unlike the nearshore reefs of the Mergui Archipelago, which are fringed with islands, the Burma Banks lie far out in the Andaman Sea, approximately 180 km west of the Burmese coast. The area is renowned for its thrilling drift dives, expansive sandy plateaus, and vibrant coral outcrops, making it one of the most exhilarating dive sites in the region.
​Due to its remote location, the Burma Banks sees very few divers, creating a pristine and unspoiled underwater environment. The region's deep waters also contribute to exceptional visibility, often exceeding 30 meters, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the underwater landscape. Divers can explore vast coral bommies teeming with reef sharks, stingrays, and schools of jackfish, while the sandy seabed hosts garden eels and hidden stingrays. Occasionally, lucky divers may even spot oceanic manta rays gliding gracefully in the blue.
Manta ray at the Burma banks

Day 1 : High Rock and Three Islets aka Shark Cave, Square & Submarine

high rock island in Mergui Archipelago dive site in myanmar
Our first check dive at High Rock set the tone for the trip, with sightings of cowfish, schools of yellowtail barracuda, yellowback fusiliers, moray eels, cuttlefish, bigeye trevally, and an impressive African pompano. A wahoo streaked past, hinting at the pelagic action we hoped to see in the coming days.

The second dive at Square Rocks treated us to three tiger tail seahorses, a well-camouflaged orange-spotted pipefish, and a watchful hawkfish perched on a coral outcrop. Giant trevally lurked in the cracks, their silver bodies reflecting our dive lights.
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Our third dive at Shark Cave delivered more spectacular sightings, including a graceful marble ray, vibrant flabellina exoptata nudibranchs, chromodoris risbecia pulchella, and playful cuttlefish. The cave’s entrance teemed with dancing Durban shrimp, creating a mesmerizing display. In the afternoon, we went to explore a local fisherman village before the afternoon dives:
frangipagni Flowers in mergui archipelago beach visit
visiting a Beach village in myanmar's mergui archipelago dive trip
happy guests in mergui archipelago
Beach Flower under coconut tree in asia
We finished the day with a night dive at Shark Cave and Square Rock, where nocturnal creatures took center stage. Divers spotted more tiger tail seahorses, an array of Durban shrimp, crabs, boxing banded shrimp, and the curious seal face pufferfish sleeping among the rocks. A baby black-spotted boxfish, a tiny slipper lobster, hermit crabs, and a stunning Persian carpet flatworm rounded off the night’s highlights.
baby boxfish - myanmar 2025
diving with a seahorse in myanmar in 2025

Day 2 : North Twin Pinnacle & North Twin Reef

The first two dives at North Twin Pinnacle presented us with a thrilling mix of marine life: octopuses changing colors, a powerful school of giant trevally hunting in the blue, and an elegant eagle ray gliding past. Tuna and wahoo cruised through the deep, while giant moray eels watched from their dens. Macro enthusiasts delighted in chromodoris annulata, baby chromodoris risbecia tryoni, and ornate partner shrimp. A swirling school of barracuda made for breathtaking photos.
2025 myanmar diving expedition sea slug
myanmar school of barracudas
In the afternoon, we explored North Twin Reef, where we encountered gymnodoris rubropapulosa nudibranchs, more blue and white dragon nudibranchs, and a baby many-banded pipefish. Two separate groups had close encounters with small hawksbill turtles, while dogtooth tuna and schools of blacktip fusiliers darted through the currents.

Day 3 : Row Bank , Coral Bank and Silvertip Bank

 requiem shark
Our first two dives at Row Bank featured an impressive hawksbill turtle, a well-fed nurse shark resting under a ledge, and a passing Napoleon wrasse. An octopus provided an entertaining show, and jobfish patrolled the reef. We also spotted a rare three-dot angelfish, known as the "lipstick fish," and a stunning honeycomb moray eel.

Our third dive at Coral Bank introduced us to more nurse sharks, a massive great barracuda, and a coral crab protecting its orange eggs. The reef was alive with Napoleon wrasse, blue-spotted stingrays, and curious schools of bannerfish.
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The final dive of the day at Silvertip Bank was a highlight. We encountered a Napoleon wrasse, a majestic marble ray, and a silvertip shark patrolling its territory. The grand finale? A tornado of bigeye trevally swirling above us in mesmerizing formation.

Day 4 : Rainbow Bank and Silvertip Bank 

Two morning dives at Rainbow Bank continued our streak of stunning marine life encounters, with nurse sharks, bigeye trevally tornadoes, and more octopuses. The coral formations here were breathtaking, offering incredible opportunities for wide-angle photography.
Returning to Silvertip Bank for the afternoon dives, we observed a graceful hawksbill turtle, more marble rays, and an unforgettable sighting of three massive requiem sharks. A few lucky divers even spotted a male oceanic manta ray passing by to say hello, a rare find in these waters. We were thrilled to add one Manta sighting to Marine Mega fauna fondation's fez sightings in the Banks!
Our final dive of the day was a mesmerizing blackwater dive. Among the deep-sea drifters, we found a large remora, a rare sea elephant, pencil squid, a juvenile Sharp Enope squid, and larval forms of mantis shrimp, moray eels, and anemones. A tiny larval tripod fish and a delicate pearl fish larva stole the show.
pearl fish larva

Day 5 : Fan Forest , Western Rocky & Eagle's Nest

Back in the Mergui Archipelago, we started the day with two dives at Seafan Forest. As the name suggests, massive sea fans dominated the landscape, home to smiling seahorses hidden among the branches and grumpy stonefish doing what stonefish do best: pretending to be rock.
Seahorse in seafan forest
grumpy stonefish in seafan forest
diver in seafanforest

Ghost Net Removal: Our Ocean Heroes In Action

During our first dive on this fantastic forest of Seafans, we discovered a massive ghost net tangled in the coral. Recognizing the threat it posed to marine life, our dedicated team of dive pros sprang into action. Over the next hour, they carefully detached the net from the reef, ensuring minimal impact on the fragile corals.

By removing this ghost net, we saved countless marine creatures from a senseless death. Ghost nets continue to trap and kill marine life—fish, crabs, morays, and even sharks—that will never be eaten or used, making them a tragic waste. Beyond their impact on marine life, discarded fishing gear is one of the largest sources of plastic pollution in our oceans and contributes to coral reef destruction. This effort was a small but important step in protecting this beautiful dive site and preserving the underwater ecosystem for future divers.

We were lucky to have onboard seven awesome friends - Julien, Camille, Sofi, Tom, Thanda, Tim and Rich - who are also skilled dive professionals, including Thanda Ko Gyi, the founder of Myanmar's first ocean conservation organization, Myanmar Ocean Project and Tim & Rich from Thai Ocean Academy. With their expertise and manpower, we were able to make a real impact, ensuring that this stunning dive site remains a haven for marine life.
A big thank you to you all!!!
ghost net cleaning in myanmar
cleaning up seafan forest pinnacle
There were a lot of schools around the pinnacled: yellowback fusiliers, emperors, trevalli darted in all directions. Nudibranchs of various species, including chromodoris, decorated the reef, while cuttlefish displayed their remarkable camouflage abilities.
scuba diving with cuttlefish in myanmar waters
diving western rocky in burma
Our third dive at Western Rocky brought us face-to-face with pharaoh cuttlefish, a striking flabellina exoptata, and a stunning marble ray resting under an overhang.
At Eagle’s Nest, our fourth dive delivered an incredible encounter with three tiger tail seahorses and more pharaoh cuttlefish.

Day 6 : The Grand Finale at Dendro's Pinnacle

For our last dive, we headed to Dendro’s Pinnacle, a vibrant reef teeming with life. A magnificent marble ray glided past, pharaoh cuttlefish hovered in the currents, and schools of blue-spotted fusiliers flashed their electric hues as they moved in perfect synchrony.
With the final dive complete, we returned to Kawthung for immigration clearance, celebrating with a few well-earned Burmese beers before setting course for Ranong and the last leg of the immigration process.
seafan coral with schools of fish

A snapshot of this fantastic trip behind the mask of our friend: Sophie

Photo on sofa team
Another unforgettable journey exploring the wonders of Mergui Archipelago and the Burma Banks had come to an end.

With breathtaking encounters, incredible photographic moments, and the camaraderie of fellow divers, this trip aboard the MV Smiling Seahorse will surely be etched in our memories forever.

​Until next time, happy bubbles and safe diving!
Photo on sofa team
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Making Waves for Marine Conservation: A Reef Clean Up Success Story

29/11/2023

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'Sustain Responsible Operations,' our team embarked on a mission to tackle the pressing issue of ocean pollution.
The focus of our efforts was to remove discarded fishing nets and trash from the ocean's embrace, which pose a severe threat to marine life and delicate ecosystems.
The smiling seahorse, in collaboration with Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach, Seabeesdiving, Atlantis Divers, Phuket Veterans SAR Team, and DMCR, has made a significant splash with our latest Reef Clean Up event!
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In line with Marriott's Serve 360 commitment to 'Nurture Our World' and 'Sustain Responsible Operations,' our team embarked on a mission to tackle the pressing issue of ocean pollution. The focus of our efforts was to remove discarded fishing nets and trash from the ocean's embrace, which pose a severe threat to marine life and delicate ecosystems.
With dedication and determination, we successfully extracted nearly 30 kg of waste from the ocean depths. Each net and piece of trash removed is a step towards preserving our seas as a sanctuary for underwater life. The impact of our collective action cannot be overstated, as every item removed represents a potential life saved and a healthier marine environment restored.
With dedication and
With dedication and "with determination, we successfully extracted nearly 30 kg of waste from the ocean depths". Camille Fogarolo
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the participants who joined us in today’s reef clean up. Your enthusiasm and support are invaluable in our mission to protect our oceans. Together, we are making a tangible difference and demonstrating the power of community action in environmental conservation.

As stewards of the sea, it is our responsibility to continue these efforts beyond today's clean-up. Let us remain committed to reducing our environmental footprint, advocating for sustainable practices, and safeguarding the beauty and biodiversity of our oceans for generations to come.

Thank you once again to everyone involved for your dedication to this cause. Let's keep the momentum going and make waves for marine conservation! 🪸🐟
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Reviving local Reefs: 3D Printing for Marine Conservation efforts!

23/11/2023

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In the depths of Siam Bay, a groundbreaking collaboration has set its roots, aiming to rejuvenate and protect the delicate coral ecosystems. The Smiling Seahorse, in partnership with Team Buffalo and the Thai Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR), embarked on an innovative venture using 3D printed concrete 'coral substrate' forms to restore the vibrant marine life in Racha Yai, Phuket.
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The recent deployment of approximately 180 of these intricate structures marks a milestone in marine conservation. The vision? To bridge the gaps between coral bommies and provide a haven for broken yet living corals. As these structures are strategically positioned and covered with these fragments, they offer a promising environment for coral growth and development.
What's truly exciting is the immediate response witnessed during the deployment. Even before the completion of the setup, small fishes have begun seeking shelter within these novel formations. Their presence serves as a testament to the potential of these structures to not only rehabilitate coral life but also to foster a thriving habitat for an array of marine creatures.
It's a sight that sparks hope. The promise of these artificial reefs providing a safe haven for marine life, with each fragment of coral finding a new home, brings anticipation for the future. As these structures settle into the ocean floor, they stand as beacons of regeneration, inviting life back into these waters.
Reviving Reefs: 3D Printing for Marine Conservation
BEFORE: Full barge coming on site
DMCR initiative for reef restauration
AFTER: the barge is empty! job well done!
AFTER: the barge is empty all 180 coral structures have been lowered to the seabed
The team eagerly awaits the upcoming weeks, poised to witness the progress and transformation that these efforts will catalyze. The early signs of marine life finding sanctuary in these structures already hint at a brighter future for Siam Bay.
Beyond the immediate impact on coral restoration, the potential ripple effect is vast. With thriving reefs, the entire marine ecosystem stands to benefit. The influx of life attracted by these structures will likely contribute to the biodiversity of the area, paving the way for a richer and more balanced marine environment in the future.
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working underwater to detach the structures
many different shapes to create a nice reef in the future
structures have varied shapes and sizes to create an harmonious reef in the future
In the quest to safeguard our oceans, this collaboration stands as a testament to human innovation and dedication to environmental conservation. It's a reminder that even in the face of ecological challenges, creative solutions can emerge, offering a glimmer of hope for the future of our oceans.
As we eagerly anticipate the evolution of these artificial reefs, it's with optimism and excitement that we look forward to a time when these underwater structures will teem with life, contributing to the resurgence of marine ecosystems in Siam Bay and beyond.
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Well done team Buffalow and Thank you DMCR for letting us be a part of this great project!
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Celebrating World Ocean Day: Every Little Help Counts!

8/6/2023

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Camille Fogarolo, Ocean lover and owner of the Smiling Seahorse, a reef responsible Liveaboard
Camille Fogarolo, Ocean lover and owner of the Smiling Seahorse, a reef responsible Liveaboard
Introduction:
The world's oceans are a magnificent gift that nourishes life in countless ways. They provide us with food, oxygen, and breathtaking beauty. Unfortunately, they are also under threat from pollution and human activities. On the occasion of World Ocean Day, a group of dedicated individuals came together to make a difference. We embarked on an ocean clean-up adventure, focusing on Kata Beach and its nearby reefs. At the occasion of World Ocean day, let's talk about the importance of these clean-ups and how every small effort can contribute to the preservation of our precious marine ecosystems.

Cute pufferfish on the coral reef
Cute pufferfish on the coral reef
Preserving Fragile Reef Ecosystems:
Coral reefs are among the most diverse and vibrant ecosystems on the planet, supporting a vast array of marine life. These underwater wonderlands are not only visually stunning but also crucial for coastal protection, as they act as natural barriers against storms and erosion. However, reefs are facing severe threats from pollution, overfishing, and climate change. Engaging in reef clean-ups helps remove harmful debris and waste, reducing the risk of entanglement or ingestion for marine species and allowing the reefs to flourish.
Debris and waste are harmful for the ocean and his inhabitants
Debris and waste are harmful for the ocean and his inhabitants
Protecting Pristine Beaches:
Beaches are the gateway to the ocean, where many people experience their first connection with the marine environment. Clean beaches not only provide a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors, but also play a vital role in supporting coastal ecosystems. By participating in beach clean-ups, we prevent harmful substances from entering the ocean, safeguarding the habitat for shorebirds, turtles, and countless other marine creatures. It also helps maintain the natural beauty that attracts tourists and supports local economies.
Beaches are the gateway to the ocean, where many people experience their first connection with the marine environment.
Phuket Kata Beach
Ripple Effects of Individual Actions:
It's easy to underestimate the impact of our individual actions, but they can create powerful ripples of change. Participating in local clean-up initiatives may seem small, but it raises awareness and inspires others to take action. Every piece of trash picked up is one less item harming our oceans. By spreading the word about the importance of reef and beach clean-ups, we can mobilize communities, governments, and businesses to adopt more sustainable practices, leading to long-term positive change.
Clean-ups are not just about removing existing pollution; they are about changing behaviors and preventing future harm.
Great team! Great feeling! Ready for action!
Encouraging Sustainable Practices:
Clean-ups are not just about removing existing pollution; they are about changing behaviors and preventing future harm. By engaging in these activities, we highlight the need for responsible waste management, recycling, and reducing single-use plastic consumption. Through education and community involvement, we can inspire people to make conscious choices in their daily lives, minimizing their impact on the oceans and the planet as a whole.
World Ocean Day serves as a powerful reminder that our actions today shape the future of our oceans.
The result of our brave cleaners
Conclusion:
World Ocean Day serves as a powerful reminder that our actions today shape the future of our oceans. Reef and beach clean-ups are essential steps toward preserving these fragile ecosystems, and every small contribution counts. By coming together and taking responsibility for our actions, we can create a positive impact on a global scale. Let us embrace the power of collective action, encouraging sustainable practices and nurturing a deep appreciation for the beauty and importance of our oceans. Remember, every little help can make a significant difference in safeguarding our reefs and beaches for generations to come.

And you? What have you done today to celebrate World Ocean day?
And you? What have you done today to celebrate World Ocean day?
Yes!!!! Feeling so great!
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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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