seafan forest - Similan Islands

The Seafan Forest in the Similans isn't always on everyone’s radar, but it’s a good, solid dive that often delivers. We’ve found the gentle slopes here covered in those distinctive purple and orange gorgonian fans, swaying in a mild current. It’s a pretty sight, especially when the light filters through. While whale sharks are seen occasionally, we usually spend our time spotting smaller reef dwellers tucked amongst the corals, like the resident frogfish if you have a good guide. It's a nice easygoing second dive of the day, perfect for enjoying the scenery without too much effort.

Location
Similan Islands, Thailand, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
9.946230, 97.862350
Type
reef
Maximum Depth
5-20m

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 seafan forest

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 seafan forest

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