Samae San: A Diver's Paradise in the Gulf of Thailand

Nestled in the Sattahip district of Chonburi province, the Samae San archipelago offers a vibrant and diverse underwater world, making it a premier diving destination in the Gulf of Thailand. A cluster of small islands under the Royal Thai Navy's jurisdiction, Samae San boasts a rich marine ecosystem with a variety of dive sites suitable for all levels of experience, from novice divers to seasoned technical explorers. Its relative proximity to Bangkok and Pattaya makes it an accessible escape for those seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the sea.

A Kaleidoscope of Dive Sites

Samae San's underwater topography is a captivating mix of fringing coral reefs, dramatic rock formations, and fascinating shipwrecks. Each dive site presents a unique adventure:

For the Wreck Enthusiast: A Trio of Treasures

Samae San is a true haven for wreck divers, featuring both historical and modern underwater marvels.

• The T94 & T95 "Twin Wrecks": The newest stars of the Samae San seascape, the T94 and T95 are two decommissioned Royal Thai Navy patrol ships that were purposefully sunk in 2024. They now rest upright and intact, side-by-side in the channel between Koh Chuang and Koh Chan. With the seabed at approximately 26-30 meters and their superstructures rising to 18 meters, these "Twin Wrecks" create a spectacular site for Advanced Open Water divers. Because they are so new, divers have the unique opportunity to witness the very first stages of a thriving artificial reef as marine life rapidly colonizes the structures.

• The Hardeep Wreck: For a deep dive into history, the Hardeep Wreck, also known as the S.S. Suddhadib, offers a poignant glimpse into the past. This steam cargo ship was sunk by Allied bombers during World War II and now lies on its side at a depth of 27 meters. Over the decades, it has become heavily encrusted with corals and is home to a plethora of marine life, including moray eels, stingrays, and various macro critters.

Vibrant Reefs and Pinnacles: Hin Chalam and Hin Lak Bat

Hin Chalam, or "Shark Rock," is a submerged pinnacle renowned for its excellent visibility and bustling marine life. The site features granite boulders adorned with hard and soft corals, sea fans, and anemones. As its name suggests, it's a prime location for spotting blacktip reef sharks, as well as barracudas, groupers, and the occasional whale shark during the right season.

Hin Lak Bat, also known as "Shark Fin Rock" due to its shape above water, is another popular site. It offers a gentle slope and a wall dive, with depths ranging from 5 to 16 meters. The reef is teeming with a colorful array of reef fish, including parrotfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish. Keep an eye out for turtles gracefully gliding by.

Island Exploration: Koh Chuang and Koh Chan

The islands of Koh Chuang and Koh Chan provide shallower and more relaxed diving experiences, perfect for beginners and macro photography enthusiasts. Their fringing reefs are home to a wide variety of hard and soft corals, providing shelter for an abundance of smaller marine creatures. Look for nudibranchs, pipefish, and various species of shrimp and crabs hiding amongst the coral gardens. These islands also offer picturesque sandy bays for surface intervals.

A Thriving Marine Ecosystem

The waters of Samae San are a testament to a healthy and diverse marine environment. Divers can expect to encounter a wide array of aquatic life, including:

• Reef Fish: Schools of fusiliers, snappers, and yellowtail barracudas are a common sight. Angelfish, butterflyfish, and parrotfish add a splash of color to the reefs.

• Larger Marine Life: Blacktip reef sharks, hawksbill and green turtles, and large rays are frequently spotted. Lucky divers might even be graced with the presence of a majestic whale shark, particularly between November and April.

• Macro Life: The coral reefs and wrecks provide a haven for a variety of smaller creatures, making it a paradise for macro photographers. Nudibranchs of all shapes and colors, seahorses, pipefish, and a multitude of crustaceans can be found with a keen eye.

Diving Conditions and Best Time to Visit

Samae San offers year-round diving opportunities, with the best conditions generally found from October to January and again in April. During these months, the seas are calmer, and visibility can range from 10 to 30 meters. Water temperatures are consistently warm, averaging between 27 to 30 degrees Celsius.

Currents can vary from gentle to strong depending on the dive site and the tides, making some sites more suitable for experienced divers. It is always recommended to dive with a reputable and experienced local dive operator who understands the local conditions.

Getting There

Samae San is easily accessible from Pattaya, which is approximately a 45-minute drive away. Most dive trips are organized as day trips from Pattaya, with dive centers providing transportation to the pier in Samae San. From there, it's a short boat ride to the various dive sites.

Whether you are a wreck enthusiast, a macro lover, or simply seeking to explore the vibrant coral reefs of the Gulf of Thailand, Samae San offers an unforgettable underwater adventure. Its rich biodiversity, diverse dive sites, and convenient accessibility make it a must-visit destination for any diver visiting Thailand.