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Diving at Richelieu Rock

Dive at Richelieu Rock, Phang Nga! Encounter whale sharks and explore vibrant marine life. A must-visit for experienced divers seeking unforgettable dives

Diving into the Depths: The Allure of Richelieu Rock

Richelieu Rock, situated in the stunning waters of Phang Nga province, near the Similan Islands, is acclaimed as one of the world's greatest dive sites. This horseshoe-shaped reef, part of the Surin Marine National Park, is a magnet for marine life enthusiasts, particularly for those dreaming of swimming alongside the elusive whale shark. Its rich marine biodiversity, spectacular coral formations, and the chance to see a wide array of pelagic species make Richelieu Rock a bucket-list destination for divers. Beyond its famous whale shark sightings, Richelieu Rock offers an explosion of color, with vibrant soft corals, anemones, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish. From experienced divers to underwater photographers, this site promises an unforgettable diving experience, showcasing the best of what the Andaman Sea has to offer. Dive into this guide to uncover the allure of Richelieu Rock, including the optimal seasons for diving, the diverse marine life you can expect to encounter, and tips to enhance your diving journey at this world-renowned location.

Diving Season in Richelieu Rock

Timing Your Dive: The Best Seasons to ExploreRichelieu Rock

The best time to dive at Richelieu Rock is between November and April, coinciding with the dry season in the Andaman Sea. These months offer the calmest sea conditions, optimal water temperatures of 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F), and visibility that can extend up to 30 meters (98 feet), creating perfect conditions for divers to explore the rich underwater ecosystem. This period also increases the chances of encountering whale sharks, especially from February to April, when they are most commonly sighted around the reef. Early booking is recommended to secure a spot on dive trips to Richelieu Rock during this peak diving season.

Richelieu Rock Diverse Marine Life

Whale shark

Manta ray

Leopard shark

Guitar shark

Blacktip reef shark

Eagle ray

Frogfish

Anemone fish

Box fish

Nudibranch

Octopus

Shrimp

Sea anemone

Soft Coral

Hard Coral

Turtle

Barracuda

Butterflyfish

Lionfish

Napoleon fish

Parrot fish

Richelieu Rock Marine Life Sighting Calendar

HHigh chance

MMedium chance

LLow chance

-No sighting

The Marine Marvels of Richelieu Rock: Animals and Seasons

Richelieu Rock is celebrated for its extraordinary marine biodiversity. The site is a haven for large pelagics, including manta rays and whale sharks, offering divers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The reef teems with life, from schools of barracuda and trevally to the more diminutive denizens like seahorses, ghost pipefish, and a myriad of nudibranch species. The vibrant corals serve as a backdrop for this bustling aquatic community, making every dive a vivid journey through an underwater wonderland.

Richelieu Rock Diving Conditions

Recommended scuba diving level
Open Water with Experience

Water temperature

27°C - 30°C

Underwater visibility

15M - 30M

Underwater current

Moderate - Strong

Depth

10M - 30M

Weather

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

Underwater hazard

Strong currents Down currents

Richelieu Rock caters to divers with an adventurous spirit and provides conditions that are most enjoyed by those with some experience: Water Temperature: The surrounding waters are pleasantly warm, with temperatures consistently between 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F), ideal for extended exploration. Underwater Visibility: Visibility is typically excellent at Richelieu Rock, ranging from 15 to 30 meters (50 to 98 feet), allowing divers to fully appreciate the site's underwater beauty. Currents: The area can experience moderate to strong currents, making it an exciting challenge for experienced divers and offering dynamic drift diving opportunities. Depth: The reef offers a range of depths, catering to advanced divers, with the most interesting features found between 10 to 30 meters (33 to 98 feet). Weather: The prime diving season offers the best weather conditions, with calm seas and sunny skies. Outside of these months, diving is still possible but can be subject to less predictable conditions. Hazards: Divers should be prepared for the site's currents and occasionally deeper dives. As with all dive sites, respecting marine life and following safe diving practices are paramount. Richelieu Rock in Phang Nga is a diver's paradise, offering an unparalleled underwater adventure in the Andaman Sea. With its reputation for whale shark sightings, vibrant coral life, and a plethora of marine species, it stands as a testament to the beauty and diversity of the ocean's depths, promising an extraordinary dive experience for those who venture into its waters.