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Scuba Diving at Koh Doc Mai

Embark on a dive at Koh Doc Mai, Phuket! Marvel at dramatic wall dives, lush coral gardens, and exotic marine life. Perfect for divers eager to explore the Andaman Sea's treasures. Dive into paradise today!

Diving into the Depths: The Allure of Koh Doc Mai

Koh Doc Mai, a jewel in the Andaman Sea off the coast of Phuket, is a diver's dream with its vertical wall dives, abundant coral gardens, and a wealth of marine biodiversity. This small, jungle-topped island translates to "Flower Island" in Thai, aptly named for its underwater beauty resembling a blooming garden. Divers of all skill levels will find something to admire, from macro enthusiasts to those in search of larger pelagic fish. Whether you're taking your first dive or adding another log to your dive book, Koh Doc Mai offers an exceptional underwater experience, showcasing some of the best marine environments near Phuket, including mysterious cave systems and overhangs teeming with life. Join us as we dive deeper into what makes Koh Doc Mai a must-visit for any diving enthusiast. Discover the optimal times for exploration, the spectacular marine life awaiting you, and tips to enhance your diving adventure at this enchanting site.

Diving Season in Koh Doc Mai

Timing Your Dive: The Best Seasons to ExploreKoh Doc Mai

The prime diving season at Koh Doc Mai aligns with Phuket's overall best diving period, from November to April. These months provide the ideal conditions for diving, with calm seas, warm water temperatures ranging from 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F), and visibility that can extend beyond 20 meters (65 feet). This season allows divers to fully appreciate the island's vertical walls and vibrant coral gardens under the best possible conditions. Planning your dive trip within this timeframe not only ensures a great underwater experience but also a comfortable climate for enjoying Phuket's above-water attractions.

Koh Doc Mai Diverse Marine Life

Whale shark

Leopard shark

Blacktip reef shark

Anemone fish

Box fish

Nudibranch

Octopus

Shrimp

Sea anemone

Soft Coral

Hard Coral

Turtle

Barracuda

Butterflyfish

Lionfish

Parrot fish

Koh Doc Mai Marine Life Sighting Calendar

HHigh chance

MMedium chance

LLow chance

-No sighting

The Marine Marvels of Koh Doc Mai: Animals and Seasons

Koh Doc Mai is a sanctuary for an impressive array of marine life. The site's dramatic walls are adorned with soft corals and sea fans, creating a backdrop for the myriad of creatures that call this place home. Macro photographers will delight in the diversity of nudibranchs, ghost pipefish, and seahorses. Moray eels, leopard sharks, and even the occasional whale shark make appearances, offering thrilling encounters for divers. The crevices and caves serve as hideouts for smaller critters and provide an intriguing environment for exploration.

Koh Doc Mai Diving Conditions

Recommended scuba diving level
Open Water with Experience

Water temperature

27°C - 30°C

Underwater visibility

15M - 20M

Underwater current

Moderate to Strong

Depth

5m - 30m

Weather

Temperature: 28°C - 35°C Monsoon season: Jun - Sep

Underwater hazard

Strong currents, sharp objects in caves

Koh Doc Mai offers a variety of diving conditions suited to different levels of experience: Water Temperature: With year-round warm waters ranging from 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F), divers can enjoy extended dive times in comfort. Underwater Visibility: Visibility at Koh Doc Mai is generally good, ranging from 15 to 25 meters (49 to 82 feet), offering clear views of the coral walls and marine life. Currents: The site experiences mild to moderate currents, making it accessible to divers with basic experience while still offering a challenge to those looking to hone their drift diving skills. Depth: The dive sites around Koh Doc Mai vary in depth, providing options for both novice and experienced divers. The vertical wall drops dramatically, allowing for deep dives, while shallower sections are perfect for beginners. Weather: The best diving weather is during the dry season, from November to April, with calm seas and sunny skies providing ideal conditions for underwater exploration. Hazards: Divers should be cautious of strong currents and navigate carefully around the wall and cave entrances to ensure a safe dive experience. Koh Doc Mai is a testament to the underwater beauty of Phuket, offering divers a unique blend of wall diving, coral gardens, and an abundance of marine life. Whether exploring the deep blue or photographing the intricate details of macro life, Koh Doc Mai promises an unforgettable dive adventure in the Andaman Sea.