## Is There Any Scuba Diving in Bangkok?
Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is a bustling metropolis known for its vibrant street life, towering skyscrapers, and opulent temples. While it may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about scuba diving, there are actually a few options for those looking to explore the underwater world near the city.
### Diving Sites Near Bangkok
1. Koh Samet
Koh Samet is a small island located about 200 kilometers southeast of Bangkok. It is known for its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs. There are several dive sites around the island, including:
– Ao Hin Khok: A shallow reef with colorful corals and tropical fish.
– Ao Phutsa: A deeper reef with a variety of marine life, including sea turtles and rays.
– Ao Wai: A sheltered bay with calm waters and a sandy bottom.
2. Koh Chang
Koh Chang is a larger island located about 300 kilometers southeast of Bangkok. It has a more rugged coastline and offers a wider range of diving sites, including:
– Koh Rang National Park: A protected area with several dive sites featuring coral reefs, shipwrecks, and underwater caves.
– Koh Man Nai: A small island with a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, sharks, and rays.
– Koh Ngam: A pristine island with crystal-clear waters and healthy coral reefs.
3. Pattaya
Pattaya is a beach resort city located about 150 kilometers southeast of Bangkok. It has several artificial reefs and dive sites, including:
– Hardeep Wreck: A sunken ship that is home to a variety of fish and marine life.
– Koh Larn: A small island with clear waters and coral reefs.
– Koh Sak: A rocky island with underwater caves and a variety of marine life.
### Dive Centers and Operators
Several dive centers and operators offer guided tours and equipment rentals in Bangkok and the surrounding areas. Some reputable options include:
– Bangkok Scuba Diving: A PADI-certified dive center that offers day trips and liveaboard trips to Koh Samet and Koh Chang.
– Scuba Buri: A dive center located in Pattaya that offers guided dives, equipment rentals, and dive courses.
– Easy Divers: A dive center located in Koh Samet that offers a range of dive packages and excursions.
### Best Time to Dive
The best time to dive in Bangkok and the surrounding areas is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the waters are calm and visibility is at its best. However, diving is possible year-round, although the rainy season (May to October) can bring strong currents and reduced visibility.
### What to Expect
The underwater world around Bangkok is diverse and offers a range of experiences for divers of all levels. You can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including:
– Tropical fish (clownfish, angelfish, parrotfish)
– Sea turtles
– Rays
– Sharks (leopard sharks, blacktip sharks)
– Coral reefs
– Underwater caves
– Shipwrecks
### Conclusion
While Bangkok may not be a world-renowned scuba diving destination, it does offer a few options for those looking to explore the underwater world near the city. With its clear waters, coral reefs, and diverse marine life, scuba diving in Bangkok can be a rewarding and unforgettable experience.