Go2Similan Diving & Snorkeling Center

Located in Khao Lak, an hour north of Phuket, Go2Similan serves as a gateway to some of Thailand's most iconic diving. The centre is positioned to provide access to the Similan Islands, the Surin Islands, and the remote pinnacles of the Andaman Sea.

Whether you are looking for day trips to the reefs or more extensive liveaboard adventures, the centre organises excursions that cover the best of the region. The seasonal window for these trips runs from October to May, with the clearest conditions typically found between January and March.

The centre is led by Ann Christmas, a PADI Course Director, ensuring a high standard of instruction for both recreational and professional divers. As a PADI Instructor Development Centre (IDC), they are equipped to take you from your initial certifications through to Divemaster and beyond.

The team operates in English and Thai, providing a personalised service for all divers. Their commitment to the ocean is reflected in their status as a 100% Aware centre, supporting Project Aware, Shark Guardian, and the local Andaman Turtle Watch.

The course catalogue is extensive, covering the full spectrum of PADI certifications. Beginners can start with a Scuba Experience Tour or the PADI Open Water Course, while those looking to refine their skills can take the Peak Performance Buoyancy or Scuba Refresher courses.

Advanced divers can progress through the PADI Advanced Open Water Course, Deep Diver Specialty, and the Wreck Specialty Course. The centre also offers technical training, including Advanced Technical Diving and the Self Reliant Diver Course.

For professional candidates, Go2Similan offers the full range of Divemaster and Instructor Development Courses (IDC). They also provide specialised training such as the Search & Recovery Diver Course and the Dive Against Debris course.

The centre provides full equipment hire for those not travelling with their own kit. For those looking to extend their bottom time or dive deeper, Nitrox is available for use.

On-site facilities include a retail shop and a dedicated diving pool used for training and skills practice. For those staying long-term, such as Divemasters on course, the centre can assist with local accommodation arrangements.

The region is a magnet for large pelagics. During the season from December to April, you can encounter Manta ray (Mobula alfredi) and Whale shark (Rhincodon typus). You will also see various sharks, including Whitetip reef shark (Triaenodon obesus), Blacktip reef shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus), and the occasional Leopard shark (Triakis semifasciata).

The reefs are teeming with schooling fish such as Tuna (Thunnus), mackerels, Jacks (Carangidae), and various species of barracuda. You will regularly spot emperors, snappers (Lutjanus), and colourful reef fish swimming through the hard corals and soft corals.

For those with an eye for detail, the macro life is diverse. Look for Nudibranch (Chromodoris willani), various species of Octopus (Octopus vulgaris), Seahorse (Hippocampus kuda), and Ornate ghost pipefish (Solenostomus paradoxus). You may also find crabs (Brachyura), shrimp (Caridea), and various species of lobster (Homaridae) tucked into the reef structure.

Diving in this area is highly seasonal, with the national park being open from October to May. The best sea conditions and visibility are generally found during the months of January, February, and March.

While many sites offer relaxed conditions, certain locations like Koh Tachai and Deep 6 are known for having strong currents. Divers should assess their experience level and local conditions before planning these dives.