Koh Tachai is an island located in the Andaman Sea, approximately 40 kilometers north of the Similan Islands and about 130 kilometers northwest of Phuket, Thailand. It is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Here’s some information about Koh Tachai and its diving opportunities:
- Location and Topography: Koh Tachai is a small island covered with dense vegetation and surrounded by white sandy beaches. The island is part of the Similan Islands Marine National Park and offers excellent diving opportunities in its surrounding waters. The underwater topography consists of rocky outcrops, boulders, and coral formations, providing a diverse and captivating dive environment.
- Marine Life: Koh Tachai is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity. Divers can expect to encounter an abundance of reef fish, including angelfish, butterflyfish, and parrotfish, as well as vibrant coral formations teeming with marine life. The waters around Koh Tachai are also home to larger species such as reef sharks, leopard sharks, and occasionally manta rays. The island’s remote location and protected status contribute to its thriving ecosystem.
- Diving Conditions: Diving conditions at Koh Tachai are generally favorable. The visibility is often excellent, ranging from 15 to 30 meters (50 to 100 feet) or more, allowing for clear underwater views. The water temperature is typically around 27-30°C (80-86°F), making it comfortable for diving with a wetsuit or thin rash guard. Currents can vary, but they are usually moderate, suitable for divers with some experience.
- Diving Highlights: The dive sites around Koh Tachai offer a range of highlights for divers. The underwater landscape features colorful coral gardens, swim-throughs, and rocky formations, providing ample opportunities for exploration. Divers may encounter schools of fish, such as barracudas and snappers, as well as fascinating macro marine life like nudibranchs and seahorses. There’s also a chance to encounter larger marine species like whale sharks, particularly between February and April.
- Accessibility: Koh Tachai is primarily visited as part of liveaboard diving trips departing from Phuket, Khao Lak, or the Similan Islands. The island itself is uninhabited, and there are no accommodations available. Liveaboard trips provide the advantage of spending multiple days in the area, allowing for more dives and the opportunity to explore nearby dive sites, including the Similan Islands and Richelieu Rock.
- Season and Accessibility: The best time to visit Koh Tachai is during the high season, which typically runs from November to April when the weather conditions are more favorable and visibility is generally better. Diving at Koh Tachai is suitable for divers with intermediate to advanced experience levels, as well as those participating in liveaboard trips.
Diving at Koh Tachai offers a fantastic opportunity to explore a remote and pristine underwater environment teeming with marine life. It’s important to dive with a reputable dive operator that follows sustainable diving practices to ensure the conservation of this beautiful dive site. By doing so, you can have an unforgettable diving experience while contributing to the protection of the marine ecosystem.
