Diving in Koh Bon

Dive into Koh Bon, Similan Islands for an epic underwater adventure! Explore vibrant coral walls and encounter majestic manta rays. Perfect for divers seeking thrilling encounters with marine giants

Diving into the Depths: The Allure of Koh Bon

Koh Bon, nestled within the stunning Similan Islands chain in the Andaman Sea, is a diver's paradise renowned for its breathtaking coral walls and frequent sightings of majestic manta rays. This dive site is a highlight for those visiting the Similan Islands, offering an unparalleled opportunity to dive with some of the ocean's most elegant creatures. Koh Bon is not just another dive location; it's a place where the magnificence of marine life is on full display, making it a must-visit destination for divers seeking unforgettable encounters. With its sloping reef and dramatic wall that drops into the deep blue, Koh Bon caters to a wide range of diving experiences, from exhilarating drift dives along the wall to peaceful explorations of the reef's vibrant coral formations. This guide will take you through the essentials of diving at Koh Bon, including the best time to visit, what marine life to expect, and how to make the most of your diving adventure in this iconic location within the Similan Islands National Park.

Timing Your Dive: The Best Seasons to ExploreKoh Bon

The ideal season for diving at Koh Bon aligns with the Similan Islands' overall best diving months, from November to April. During this period, divers can enjoy excellent sea conditions, with water temperatures ranging from 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F) and visibility often exceeding 30 meters (98 feet). These months offer the highest chance of encountering manta rays, particularly around the cleaning stations on the reef. The clarity of the water during this time maximizes the visual impact of the site's underwater topography and its marine inhabitants. Planning your dive trip within this window will ensure a more rewarding experience at Koh Bon.

Koh Bon Diverse Marine Life

Whale shark

Whale shark

Manta ray

Manta ray

Anemone fish

Anemone fish

Box fish

Box fish

Nudibranch

Nudibranch

Octopus

Octopus

Shrimp

Shrimp

Sea anemone

Sea anemone

Soft Coral

Soft Coral

Hard Coral

Hard Coral

Turtle

Turtle

Barracuda

Barracuda

Butterflyfish

Butterflyfish

Lionfish

Lionfish

Napoleon fish

Napoleon fish

Parrot fish

Parrot fish

Koh Bon Marine Life Sighting Calendar

HHigh chance
MMedium chance
LLow chance
-No sighting
ANIMAL
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Manta ray

Manta ray

MMMLL----LLM
Whale shark

Whale shark

MMMLL----LLM
Octopus

Octopus

MMMMMMMMMMMM
Butterflyfish

Butterflyfish

HHHHHHHHHHHH
Lionfish

Lionfish

HHHHHHHHHHHH
Parrot fish

Parrot fish

HHHHHHHHHHHH

The Marine Marvels of Koh Bon: Animals and Seasons

Koh Bon is celebrated for its regular manta ray sightings, making it a top destination for divers hoping to interact with these gentle giants. The island's cleaning stations attract mantas, providing a rare chance to observe these creatures up close. Besides manta rays, divers can encounter a variety of reef fish, moray eels, leopard sharks, and an occasional whale shark. The coral walls and reef are home to a rich biodiversity, including colorful soft corals, gorgonians, and a plethora of macro life, ensuring that every dive is filled with discovery.

Koh Bon Diving Conditions

Recommended scuba diving level
Advanced Open Water

Water temperature27°C - 30°C
Underwater visibility20M - 30M
Underwater currentMedium - Strong
Depth3M - 40M
WeatherTemperature: 28°C - 35°C Monsoon season: Jun - Sep
Underwater hazardStrong currents Down Current
Koh Bon offers a range of diving conditions that appeal to intermediate and advanced divers: Water Temperature: The waters around the Similan Islands are comfortably warm, with temperatures around 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F), facilitating enjoyable dive experiences. Underwater Visibility: Visibility at Koh Bon is generally excellent, often surpassing 30 meters (98 feet), providing clear views of the coral walls and the marine life that frequents them. Currents: The site can experience moderate to strong currents, which are ideal for drift diving along the wall but may require experience to navigate safely. Depth: The diving depth at Koh Bon varies, with the wall offering deeper dives and the reef providing shallower options, accommodating a range of diving preferences. Weather: Optimal diving conditions are found during the dry season, from November to April, with calm seas and clear skies, although diving is feasible year-round with the right conditions. Hazards: While diving at Koh Bon is relatively safe, divers should be mindful of the site's currents and the need for good buoyancy control to ensure a safe and enjoyable dive. Koh Bon in the Similan Islands stands as a beacon for divers seeking thrilling marine encounters and the serene beauty of underwater landscapes. Whether you're gliding alongside manta rays or marveling at the diversity of coral and fish species, Koh Bon promises an extraordinary diving adventure in the heart of the Andaman Sea, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.