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

15/5/2025

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.

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.

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.

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.

Visit us when national parks reopen!!!

Conclusion:
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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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!!!

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

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.

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

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!

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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!

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 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.

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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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1st trip of the season: Marine Ecology trip in the North Andaman from 14th to 19th of October 2022

28/10/2022

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In partnership with Thai Ocean Academy and Thailand Manta Project

1st trip of the season: Marine Ecology trip in the North Andaman from 14th to 19th of October 2022

"Welcome on board for the 1st trip of the season" This is how started Franck's briefing.

We could feel the relax atmosphere on The Smiling Seahorse and everybody was happy and excited to be there, one of the first to witness Thailand's best dive sites for the first time since their closure six months ago!

This trip started from Ranong on the 14th October 2022. After eating and lighting the traditional firecrackers, we started to cruise to Koh Surin overnight, to start our fantastic diving trip.

The next day, everybody was impatient to start diving!!! Our first dive of the season was at Koh Chi, visibility was pretty good and the current really mild.

Despite the rain and waves, everybody enjoyed and came back to the boat smiling after the check dive, happy to be the 1st one to dive in the Surin islands this season !

During the second dive, we have spotted a turtle on Ao Packard and some divers spotted an Eagle Ray on Yellow Rock. Pretty nice surprise!

Green Sea Turtle

Eagle Ray

The 3rd dive on Torinla was pretty good too, we saw 2 Pikachu Nudibranchia and a huge Lobster.

4th dive: Let's go for the night dive!! We got sheltered in a lovely bay where the conditions were really nice for a quiet nocturnal exploration, the reef is covered in hard coral which was pretty cool to try our UV torches, we saw the classic a Moray eel hunting, and many types of colorful Shrimps.

Pikachu Nudibranchia

In the evening, we all enjoyed the delicious meal made by our amazing chef, Choui while listening Tommy and Ploy, two insightful marine biologists giving us an introduction to the marine ecology in the nighttime.

On the second day, we headed to the Similan islands, diving Koh Bon and Koh Tachai. Unfortunately the waves were quite rough in Koh Bon, making it impossible to have a nice dive on the usual dive sites so to keep it safe and fun for everyone, we tried the North side of Koh Bon which was better than expected. Following their dive leaders, divers divided underwater, some went East and could enjoy the macro life on sand, while the others went South West following a nice coral reef with plenty of tropical fishes.

For the 2nd dive, we headed to Koh Tachai pinnacle, it was still raining above water, but conditions were perfect once under: no current at all, clear visibility and not one other boat in sight! One group jumped in the middle of a Barracudas storm!! Everybody loved this dive, Bat fishes, Lobsters, huge Groupers, Nudibranchia so much to see!

On the 3rd dive: the star of the show were surely Shaaarkkks !!! A family of 6 Black tip Reef sharks came close enough for a nice photo!! So lucky!

Blacktip Reefshark

Batfishes

For the last dive of the day, weather conditions deteriorated, so we decided to skip the Blackwater dive, and do either a sunset dive or a night dive on Koh Tachai reef instead.

We enjoyed another excellent meal and listened to a talk given by Jamie, our Manta Specialist, about manta rays… She explained how to dive with them with minimal disturbance, how to take an ID photo for the database, how to recognize a male from a female, how to recognize certain behaviors etc. It was all very instructive to understand how every single diver could help scientific that protect these gentle giants!

After sleeping on Koh Surin. We went back north toward the Surin national park to dive its Jewel: Richelieu Rock. This dive site is just so beautiful ! Macro life everywhere, schooling fishes, Barracudas, Bat fishes many Tomato fish in their bright anemones, moray eels… some of us could even spot 4 massive Cobias giving us hope for something bigger to come out from the blue. The water was clear as crystal. But once onboard, the surface conditions were still pretty wavy, so we decided to head back to the Surin islands for 2 more nice sheltered dives.

This afternoon, Ploy and Tommy gave an insightful presentation about the living life of Corals and Nudibranchia. It was fascinating!

The third dive was at a site we rarely visit by lack of time but oh so stunning, we called it Sunset Wall. A huge wall of coral starting at 5 m and going down to 30 meters. We even found a pair of tiger tail Seahorses.

Healthy reef from Similan

Seafan Similan islands

To end this day perfectly, we enjoyed a wonderful Barbecue made of Lamb, chicken, sausages and vegan options as we had quite a few vegan and vegetarian onboard this week with tomatoes ala provencale, mixed salad, hand cut french fries, potatoes with homemade garlic butter… it was sooo tasty!

Franck offered a round of drinks to everyone to start what became a great night. We cruised back leisurely towards Ranong and woke up at our own pace the next morning with the smell of coffee and bacon!

A special mention for Bruce for his 100th dives and Claude for his 200th. Congratulation to Apple for her Aow course, and to Carmen and Jorge, who celebrated their Honeymoon onboard. Wishing you guys many years of fun diving together!!!

Thanks again to the Thai Ocean Academy for putting together this special Marine Ecology, the Marine biology presentations were really cool!