- Truth is, up north it was fine and we didn't have to change our plans. We got 10 dives on RR!
Second, the highlight was not only 1 whale shark, that paid us a quick visit, but 2 different Mantas over 2 days!
Only 1 word comes to me... "WOW!!!!!"
For this first trip of the season we were pleased to share some fantastic dives with a small group of divers from the USA, Israel, and Austria and excited to welcome back Walter Marti, a wonderful videographer for some interesting sessions on Underwater Videography and how to make a stunning movie out of your next diving vacations... (His Video of the trip is coming soon and I can't wait to share it with you!)
Our second dive took place at Torinla Rock, an awe-inspiring underwater boulder dome on its white-sand bed where some special Hydroids thrive, providing a habitat for the striking nudibranch known affectionately as Pikachu! Amidst the familiar sights of the coral reefs - parrotfish, Sweet Lips, Bannerfish, Lionfish, and more - we explored this magnificent underwater sanctuary.
Venturing to Yellow Rock for our third dive, we were astonished by the abundance of marine life all around us - from large schools of yellowtail Barracudas to an impressive array of potato Groupers. Some photographers even had the pleasure of capturing footage of the exquisite Robustra, a black, red, and white nudibranch. Surin island is not only a paradise for divers, it is a well known destination for Photographers and we were delighted to bring two Cléa (8 years old) and her brother Luca (6 years old) on their first Snorkeling adventure! In Surin bay, they had an exhilarating first encounter with a Black Tip Reef Shark! |
Upon reaching Koh Bon, we thoroughly explored the entire island, with one highlight being the bustling cleaning station near the North ridge where a school of Batfish gathered, providing a picturesque opportunity for our photographers to capture their captivating cleaning rituals.
Some of our boldest divers ventured towards the deep pinnacle of Koh Bon, their audacity rewarded by a breathtaking spectacle of 40 meters plus visibility unveiling the colossal pinnacle against a backdrop of white sand, with a magnificent school of Batfish gracefully gliding overhead.
Upon our descent, we were greeted by the familiar residents of Richelieu Rock. A bustling congregation of Longnose Emperors, Jackfish, and Rainbow Runners formed a dynamic community that encircled the rock, engaging in energetic hunts that mesmerized us throughout our dives. These majestic creatures effortlessly swam around us, showcasing their dominance in every direction we looked.
As we meandered through the hidden nooks of Richelieu Rock, we encountered the regal Great Barracudas and graceful Batfish gracefully navigating the waters. Their presence added an ethereal charm to the underwater landscape, whether they were on the move or pausing for a cleansing session near the reef.
Venturing to the east side of the rock revealed a realm ruled by groupers perched atop towering pillars, teeming with a myriad of glass fish. The vibrantly coloured Parrotfish, serene Angelfish, and playful Clownfish danced amidst millions of shrimps and crabs, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Furthermore, the cracks and crevices of the reef harboured various species of Moray Eels, peacefully resting and observing the bustling underwater world around them. Not to forget the rivers of yellow snappers covering the inside of this word famous horseshoe!
Our time at Richelieu Rock was an unforgettable immersion into a vibrant ecosystem where every corner revealed a new wonder, making it a truly remarkable diving experience.
Richelieu was just as stunning as when we left it 6 months ago at the end of the last season, what a pleasure to be back!!! These 3 days held breathtaking surprises in store for us: Our luck seemed boundless on one of these dives that started with a magnificent Whale shark and ended with an oceanic manta to bid us farewell: an extra touch of magic! We were further astonished when a second Oceanic Manta Rays elegantly swam near Franck and stayed with him all through his safety stop (which got extended by a good 10 minutes!). While it is not uncommon to spot these creatures in the Andaman Sea, their appearance at Richelieu Rock is a very rare treat. James, with over two decades of experience in the area, had encountered Manta Rays at this spot only twice before today. We felt privileged to witness such a remarkable event. |
Mike is an award-winning photographer we've been following from afar since we discovered Blackwater diving. Based in Anilao, Philippines, he’s pioneered blackwater diving and leads many workshops each year around the globe. We’re thrilled to have him on board next week to lead our first underwater photography and blackwater Workshop in the Burma Banks!
With sharks by day and blackwater dives by night, we’re sure to capture some unforgettable moments.
Stay tuned for photos and trip updates!