HMS Shalimar

Best months: Jan–May

Why dive here

With 173+ marine species recorded in the area - including blacktip reef sharks, eagle rays, giant moray eels, whale sharks and clownfish - HMS Shalimar offers some of Similan Islands's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 29-31°C, warmest April, May, June.

Best timeJan–May

WetsuitA 3mm shorty or thin full wetsuit

Marine lifeBlacktip Reef Sharks, Eagle Rays, Giant Moray Eels, Whale Sharks and Clownfish · 173+ species recorded

Water29-31°C · warmest April, May, June

CharacterWreck dive

StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

The HMS Shalimar, a 1943 S-class submarine, isn't just a dive; it's a history lesson encased in barnacles. We love its solemn presence, resting upright on the seabed, its conning tower still defiantly pointing towards the surface. Descending, you can almost feel the weight of its past, the tight quarters of a wartime vessel. Schools of fusiliers often swirl around the bow, a living, shifting curtain, while batfish hang out in the shadowy nooks. Our favourite part? Peeking into the torpedo tubes, imagining the subs they once held. This site is definitely for experienced wreck enthusiasts who appreciate exploration over just spotting big fish. The deeper sections can get a bit silty, so good buoyancy is key to really enjoy navigating the deck and superstructure. It’s a quiet dive, often without the usual Similan crowds, which makes the experience feel even more personal.

Safety Notes

Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

Today06:1118:1412h 3m daylightGolden hour 17:46

Reviews for HMS Shalimar

Conditions

Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for HMS Shalimar

HMS Shalimar Ocean Conditions

Monthly averages for HMS Shalimar, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (8.1, 98.3) (6km away)