Andaman Scuba

Andaman Scuba has been a fixture of the Thai diving scene since 1997, operating out of Khao Lak and Phuket. They specialise in both day excursions to the local reefs and extensive liveaboard cruises that reach the more remote corners of the Andaman Sea.

The centre provides access to some of the most significant marine environments in Southeast Asia, from the granite boulders of the Similan Islands to the untouched, deep-water ecosystems of the Mergui Archipelago in Myanmar. Their focus remains on delivering personalised, small-group experiences that respect the delicate ecology of these protected marine reserves.

The team is comprised of experienced instructors qualified under PADI, SSI, and CMAS standards. They provide instruction in English and French, ensuring clear communication for a diverse range of divers.

Operating as a human-scale centre, they prioritise intimate diving environments over large, crowded groups. This approach allows for tailored dive planning, whether you are a novice completing your first Open Water Diver course or a seasoned diver looking to explore deep canyons and underwater tunnels.

A full spectrum of training is available through PADI, SSI, and CMAS affiliations. Beginners can start with Discover Scuba Diving or the Open Water Diver course, with subsequent levels including Advanced Open Water Diver and Rescue Diver.

For those looking to progress their skills or technical knowledge, the centre offers Nitrox, Deep Diver, and Divemaster training. They also provide EFR Rescue Diver certification to ensure a high standard of safety and preparedness among their divers.

The centre provides a full range of rental kit, including masks, snorkels, fins, and wetsuits. For those looking for a complete setup, full equipment hire is available on-site.

Nitrox is available for use, and the centre is also equipped to support rebreather divers. For night dives, the centre provides the necessary equipment to explore the reefs after sunset.

The Andaman Sea is a stronghold for large pelagics. During migration seasons, you can encounter whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) and manta rays (Mobula alfredi). The reefs are also frequently visited by whitetip sharks (Triaenodon obesus), blacktip reef sharks, and leopard sharks (Triakis semifasciata), alongside schools of tuna (Thunnus), jacks (Carangidae), and barracudas (Sphyraena barracuda).

The reef architecture is defined by a stunning array of fixed life, including massive orange and pink Sea fan (Gorgoniidae) forests, various soft corals, and hard corals. Large gorgonians and anemones provide the habitat for a vast array of reef fish, such as angelfish (Pomacanthidae), batfish (Platax), and various species of parrotfish (Calotomus).

Macro life is abundant for those watching closely. Divers can find a great variety of nudibranchs, seahorses (Hippocampus kuda), and various crustaceans including mantis shrimp, cleaner shrimp (Lysmata), and spiny lobster (Homaridae). Look for ghost pipefish (Solenostomidae), frogfish (Antennarius), and ornate ghost pipefish (Solenostomus paradoxus) among the corals.

Small, intricate creatures also inhabit the crevices, including porcelain crabs, various species of shrimp (Caridea), and crabs (Brachyura). You may also spot ribbon eels, moray eels (Muraenidae), and various species of stingrays (Batoidea) patrolling the sandy patches and reef edges.

Diving in the Andaman Sea is best experienced from November to April. During this period, the conditions are generally most favourable for visibility and marine life activity.

Some sites, such as Yellow Rock and Hin Rap, are known to experience strong currents, which can be an exciting experience for experienced divers. However, many sites within the Similan and Surin archipelagos offer protected zones for those preferring calmer conditions. The phenomenon of El Niño can sometimes influence the area by bringing nutrient-rich, cooler currents that attract large numbers of pelagics.