Koh Yawabon - Similan Islands

Koh Yawabon, tucked away in the Similans, feels a bit like a well-kept secret. While most boats head elsewhere, we often find ourselves drifting past schools of fish so dense they shimmer, completely unfazed by our presence. Keep an eye out for lobsters tucked into the crevices and Kuhl's stingrays gliding along the sandy patches. The big draw here is the swim-through, but it’s a serious commitment: long, dark sections and strong currents mean you’ll need specific training to go beyond the entrance. For many, just exploring the exterior, with its relatively quiet atmosphere and abundant fish life, is reward enough.

Location
Similan Islands, Thailand, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
7.950000, 98.733300

Marine Protected Area: Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu ko Phi Phi

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 Yawabon

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 Yawabon

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 diving depth at Koh Yawabon?
The typical diving depth at Koh Yawabon is not specified in our current data. Divers should consult with local dive operators for the most up-to-date information on typical depths for various dive profiles at this site.
What kind of marine life can divers expect to see at Koh Yawabon?
Divers visiting Koh Yawabon can expect to encounter large schools of unwary fish, as the site is less frequented by dive boats compared to other islands. Additionally, lobsters are commonly found, along with the distinctive Kuhl's stingrays. It's a vibrant reef teeming with life.
How challenging is diving at Koh Yawabon, especially considering its swim-through?
Diving at Koh Yawabon is generally rated as intermediate difficulty. However, the island's prominent swim-through presents additional challenges. This feature has a large no light zone and can be subject to strong currents, meaning that penetrating it requires specialised scuba diving training and appropriate equipment.
What is the best time of year to dive at Koh Yawabon for optimal conditions?
Our current data for Koh Yawabon does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions. For general information on seasonal diving in the region, please refer to our When to Dive guide, or consult local dive operators for specific recommendations.
What certifications or experience levels are required to dive Koh Yawabon, particularly for its tunnel?
Diving at Koh Yawabon is rated as intermediate difficulty, suggesting a need for more than entry-level certification for general dives. Specifically, penetrating the island's long swim-through requires specialised scuba diving training due to its no light zone and potential for strong currents. Divers should ensure they have the appropriate experience and certifications before attempting the swim-through.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions like at Koh Yawabon?
While general current and visibility conditions for Koh Yawabon are not detailed in our data, it is noted that the island's long swim-through can be subject to strong currents. Divers planning to explore this feature should be prepared for potentially challenging conditions within the tunnel. For broader site conditions, local dive operators are the best resource.