Koh Tachai - Similan Islands

Koh Tachai Plateau is usually a stop on the way to Richelieu Rock, and it’s a good one. It’s a submerged plateau, mostly hard corals and big boulders, riddled with swim-throughs and channels. We’ve had some incredible luck here with schools of chevron barracuda, thick enough to dim the light, and always a good chance to spot tuna zipping by. If you’re lucky, manta rays cruise through, and the occasional whale shark decides to pay a visit when they're not up north. The currents can get serious, so it’s best for experienced divers.

Location
Similan Islands, Thailand, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
8.000000, 97.800000

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 Koh Tachai

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 Koh Tachai

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 Koh Tachai?
Based on the available data for Koh Tachai, the typical depth range for diving is currently unknown. While it is a submerged plateau, specific depth figures are not provided in the current information. Divers should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date depth information.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see at Koh Tachai?
Divers at Koh Tachai can expect to explore a fascinating underwater topography featuring a submerged plateau of hard corals and boulders. The site is also characterized by numerous swim-throughs and channels, offering exciting exploration opportunities. Marine life sightings often include majestic manta rays, huge schools of swirling chevron barracuda, and large numbers of tuna, with the possibility of encountering whale sharks.
How challenging is diving at Koh Tachai, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at Koh Tachai is rated as intermediate difficulty. This suggests that while it offers rewarding experiences, it may not be suitable for absolute beginner divers. Divers should possess a certain level of experience and comfort in varying conditions to fully enjoy this site.
When is the best time of year to dive at Koh Tachai for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive at Koh Tachai for optimal conditions and marine life sightings is not available in the current data. For details on seasonal variations and peak diving periods in the Similan Islands, we recommend checking our When to Dive section or consulting local dive operators.
What diving certifications or experience levels are recommended or required for Koh Tachai?
Given that Koh Tachai is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site, it is recommended that divers possess certifications and experience beyond entry-level. This ensures divers are comfortable with potential currents and the site's topography, allowing for a safer and more enjoyable experience. Always ensure your certification level matches the demands of the dive.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions like when diving Koh Tachai?
The provided data for Koh Tachai does not specify typical current or visibility conditions. As an intermediate dive site, divers should generally be prepared for varying conditions, which may include moderate currents. For the most current information on conditions, it is always best to consult with local dive centers in the Similan Islands before your dive.