Kingcruiser Wreck - Similan Islands

The Kingcruiser Wreck sits upright, pretty much intact, not far from Anemone Reef. We usually start our dive midship, dropping down to the car deck where light still filters through. The stern is always a good spot for finding schools of yellow snapper darting through the old passenger cabins. Inside, the wreck feels cavernous, but you can still make out stairwells and the odd old toilet. Watch for lionfish hovering in doorways and barracuda patrolling the perimeter, especially around the bow. It’s a good wreck for those who appreciate exploring large structures, rather than tiny nooks.

Location
Similan Islands, Thailand, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
7.790000, 98.490000
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
15-30m

Marine Protected Area: Phuket Environmental Protected Area

Best Time to Dive in Similan Islands

The warmest water temperatures in Similan Islands occur in May, averaging 30.8°C. The coolest conditions are in January at 28.6°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.6°C
  • February: 29.0°C
  • March: 29.6°C
  • April: 30.6°C
  • May: 30.8°C
  • June: 29.9°C
  • July: 29.6°C
  • August: 29.3°C
  • September: 29.0°C
  • October: 29.0°C
  • November: 29.2°C
  • December: 28.7°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Similan Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to Kingcruiser Wreck

Marine Life in Similan Islands

Home to 183 recorded species including 127 reef fish, 38 hard corals, 9 seagrass & algae, 4 sharks & rays, 2 other, 1 octopus & squid.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Kingcruiser Wreck

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 depth range of the King Cruiser Wreck dive site?
The King Cruiser Wreck dive site offers a depth range of 15-30 meters, making it accessible for divers with appropriate training. This depth profile allows for exploration of various parts of the 85-meter passenger ferry.
What marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the King Cruiser Wreck?
Based on the provided data, the King Cruiser Wreck is an 85-meter passenger ferry that sank on May 4, 1997, after hitting Anemone Reef. While the data highlights its popularity as a dive site, it does not specify particular marine life or detailed wreck features beyond its identity as a large sunken ferry. Divers interested in learning more about general marine life in the Similan Islands can consult our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving the King Cruiser Wreck, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving the King Cruiser Wreck is rated as an intermediate difficulty dive. Due to this rating, it is generally not recommended for beginner divers who may lack the experience required for wreck diving at depths between 15-30 meters. Divers should possess the necessary skills and certifications for intermediate-level dives.
What is the best time of year to dive the King Cruiser Wreck for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data for the King Cruiser Wreck does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions or visibility. For general information on when to dive in Thailand or the Similan Islands, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What diving certifications or minimum experience are required to dive the King Cruiser Wreck?
Given that the King Cruiser Wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive, divers should possess appropriate certifications and experience for such conditions. While specific certifications are not detailed in the provided data, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is typically recommended for intermediate wreck dives to safely navigate depths of 15-30 meters.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the King Cruiser Wreck dive site?
The provided data for the King Cruiser Wreck does not include information regarding typical current or visibility conditions. Divers are advised to consult local dive operators in the Similan Islands for real-time conditions before planning their dive.