North Point - Mergui Archipelago

North Point sits a bit out from the north side of Koh Bangu, a granite boulder site that mirrors some of the conditions you find around Christmas Point. We’re talking big rocks, big currents sometimes, but usually excellent visibility, often 20 to 40 metres. You’ll drop down to around 22 metres, winding through channels and swim-throughs formed by these massive boulders that reach up to 8 metres from the surface. It's a spot for intermediate divers, where you can watch for schooling fusiliers or keep an eye on the bottom for leopard sharks resting in the sand. Just be ready for that current.

Location
Mergui Archipelago, Myanmar, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
10.088000, 97.976900
Maximum Depth
22m
Difficulty
Intermediate

Best Time to Dive in Mergui Archipelago

The warmest water temperatures in Mergui Archipelago occur in May, averaging 30.8°C. The coolest conditions are in January at 28.5°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.5°C
  • February: 28.9°C
  • March: 29.6°C
  • April: 30.7°C
  • May: 30.8°C
  • June: 29.9°C
  • July: 29.5°C
  • August: 29.2°C
  • September: 28.9°C
  • October: 29.0°C
  • November: 29.2°C
  • December: 28.7°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Mergui Archipelago

Nearest Dive Centres to North Point

Marine Life in Mergui Archipelago

Home to 173 recorded species including 106 reef fish, 49 hard corals, 8 seagrass & algae, 3 sharks & rays, 2 other, 2 octopus & squid.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for North Point

Based on average water temperature of 29.4°C, currents 7 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 29°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at North Point in the Similan Islands?
At North Point, near Similan Island number 9, divers can expect a typical depth of around 22m. The impressive granite boulders that characterize the site reach a maximum depth of 35m and rise to 8m, forming a dynamic underwater landscape.
What marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at North Point, Similan Islands?
North Point is renowned as a huge granite boulder dive site, offering spectacular underwater topography. Divers can explore fantastic swim-throughs and channels formed by these boulders, which rise from a maximum depth of 35m to 8m. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided information, the intricate boulder formations typically provide a rich habitat for various reef species.
How challenging is diving at North Point in the Similan Islands?
Diving at North Point is rated as Intermediate in difficulty. This is primarily due to the potential for strong currents, which are a common characteristic of this granite boulder dive site near Similan Island number 9. Divers should be prepared for varying conditions and possess appropriate experience for such environments.
When is the best time of year to dive North Point in the Similan Islands?
The provided information does not specify the best time of year to dive at North Point. For seasonal recommendations and optimal diving conditions in the region, it is advisable to consult a comprehensive when to dive guide.
What dive certification level is recommended or required for North Point, Similan Islands?
Given that North Point is classified as an Intermediate difficulty dive site, a corresponding certification level is recommended. Divers should possess a certification level appropriate for intermediate dives, which typically includes experience with potentially strong currents and deeper profiles.
What are the typical current and water conditions like at North Point, Similan Islands?
At North Point, divers should be prepared for conditions where currents can be strong. Despite the potential for strong currents, visibility is generally excellent, ranging between 20-40m, offering clear views of the huge granite boulders and their formations. A mooring buoy is normally available for descents, which can assist with entry in varying conditions.