Diving holidays: Richelieu Rock, Thailand
Each week at activityaway.co.uk we have been searching the seas to find you the best diving spots in the world, giving you the low down and the facts. This week, we look at one of Thailand’s premier dive spots – Richelieu Rock.
Where is it?
Richelieu Rock is located in the Surin National Marine Park, approximately 18km off the coast of the Surin Islands. The nearest well known resorts located on mainland Thailand are Khao Lak (70km away) and Phuket (200km away).
What’s it all about?
Richelieu Rock is Thailand’s premier dive spot, a horse shoe shape of rocky projections and a huge limestone rock pinnacle submerged in the Andaman Sea. The site draws divers from all over the world because of the way it attracts diverse species of wildlife.
What’s the diving like?
Diving here can be tricky, because it’s located so far out to sea; there is no protection for boats and currents are strong. However, with an experienced dive instructor this site has a lot to offer, with some top class wildlife viewing. The best sites are located at around 30-35 metres and it is well known to be one of the best places to view whale sharks in the world. Although these magnificent animals are endangered you have one of the best chances of seeing them here, with sightings about once every two weeks.
Other wildlife you may see on your dive includes huge graceful manta rays, schools of barracuda, tuna, snappers, mackerel and jacks. And in between the carpets of orange and purple soft coral lie a whole host of creatures, such as moray eels, tiger tail seahorses, ghost pipefish, lion fish and shimmering glass fish. You may even see exotic pineapple fish.
Dive equipment rental and dive companies
There are a few dive companies located on mainland Thailand as well as some on nearby islands that organise dive safaris to Richelieu Rock. Blue Guru, part of the luxurious Golden Buddha Beach Resort on nearby Koh Phra Thong Island, is a good option.
Another good company located in Khao Lak is the 5-star PADI dive centre - Similan Diving Safaris who offer safaris to many excellent dive spots. They also offer liveabord safaris, where you can sleep on board boats in cabins and enjoy a different dive spot each day. Also in Khao Lak is Khao Lak Diving who offer diving and snorkelling trips as well as dive certifications and liveaboard safaris.
If you’re staying in Phuket and want to dive Richelieu Rock then try Seafarer Divers Phuket who offer excellent PADI training, dive safaris, liveaboard trips to Richelieu Rock and kayak adventures.
Accommodation options
For ultimate eco-luxury located near to Richelieu Rock stay at the Golden Buddha Beach Resort with its stylish and unique beach chalets.
If you want to be nearby on Koh Phra Thong Island, but can’t afford a classy resort then you should try Mr. Chuoi’s Huts and Bar. This budget option provides ten charming bamboo beach huts with private bathrooms and stunning views.
For accommodation in Khao Lak itself, try the serene boutique resort of Baan Krating, offering beautiful local style beach chalets. One of the best value resorts in town, located in a lush jungle setting is Phu Khao Lak.
Interesting fact
If you spot a whale shark you can help protect them by submitting your photos and sighting information to http://www.whale-shark.org/.
Best suited to...
Fairly experienced divers who know what they’re doing, this is due to the nature of the strong currents and depth of the dive. However, beginners can still take PADI dive lessons at any of the schools mentioned and take liveaboard safaris to other destinations.
