Koh Bon

Koh Bon Diving Guide: A Manta Ray Paradise

Koh Bon, part of the Similan Islands National Park, is a premier dive site renowned for its frequent manta ray encounters. The island boasts stunning underwater topography, healthy coral reefs, and a vibrant ecosystem, making it a must-visit for experienced divers seeking thrilling encounters.

Dive Details

Essential Information for Your Dive

• Typical depth range: 10-40 meters (33-131 feet)
• Average visibility: 15-30 meters (50-100 feet)
• Water temperature (seasonal): 27-30°C (81-86°F) from November to May; slightly cooler during the monsoon season.
• Difficulty level: Intermediate to Advanced. Strong currents are common, requiring good buoyancy control and experience.

Marine Life

Encounters with the Deep

Koh Bon's star attraction is undoubtedly the manta ray. Divers frequently witness these majestic creatures feeding around the island's cleaning stations. Besides mantas, you can expect to see:

• Leopard sharks
• White tip reef sharks
• Turtles (Hawksbill and Green)
• Schools of snapper and fusiliers
• Barracuda
• Moray eels
• A variety of reef fish, including angelfish, butterflyfish, and parrotfish

Best Time to Visit

Ideal Conditions for Diving

The best time to dive Koh Bon is during the dry season, from November to May. During these months, the weather is calmer, the visibility is at its best, and the chances of encountering manta rays are highest. The Similan Islands National Park is usually closed from mid-May to mid-October due to monsoon season.

What Makes It Special

Unique Underwater Features

Koh Bon is characterized by its unique rock formations, including a prominent ridge that extends into the ocean. This ridge creates an ideal environment for marine life and provides divers with opportunities for exploring various depths. The western wall offers stunning drop-offs and strong currents that attract pelagic species.

Practical Tips

Considerations for Divers

Due to the potential for strong currents, it is crucial to:

• Dive with an experienced dive operator who is familiar with the conditions at Koh Bon.
• Listen carefully to the dive briefing and follow the dive guide's instructions.
• Maintain good buoyancy control and be prepared to use a reef hook if necessary.
• Bring appropriate dive gear, including a wetsuit (3-5mm recommended), fins, mask, and snorkel.
• Consider bringing a surface marker buoy (SMB) to signal your location to the boat.
• Respect the marine environment and avoid touching or disturbing the coral or marine life.