Guide to Diving at Sail Rock

Sail Rock is rightfully regarded as the best dive sites in the Gulf of Thailand and is a fantastic destination for both novice and experienced divers. The single large rock lies between Koh Pan Am and Koh Tao and is surrounded by open sea. The sea has a constant current that allows exposed surfaces access to a never ending supply of nutrients. This source of microscopic foods has allowed an extensive and diverse environment to flourish on the sides of sail rock. The sides of the 20m rock face are teeming with life hiding between the sponges and soft corals.

Sail rock, Thailand is not just a paradise for marine life divers but also offers the chance for experienced divers to swim through a vertical cave which is locally known as the chimney. The Chimney of Sail Rock is a 18 meter long vertical cave formation with exits at both 6 and 12 meters and is a stunning venue for a seawater dive. Experienced divers can leave the crowds of day trippers by diving on the north eastern side of the island to the two secret pinnacles that extend from the 33 meter seabed. The slow flowing nutrient rich sea attracts large schools of feeding fish, that in turn also attracts the larger predators.

Whalesharks have been reportedly seen by divers over the past three seasons. Common fish sighted include Snappers, barracuda, Groupers, Fusiliers and batfish. The rock itself is a curiosity standing alone in the centre of the shallow sea has been described as an iceberg with only 9 m showing above the surface stretching downwards and outwards to the seafloor. Below the water level the rock contains sheer drops and jagged ridges. Conveniently there is a ledge at 12 meters perfectly suited for novice divers.

The divers allure of Sail Rock, Thailand is the abundance of sea life that has evolved due to the sea current washing nutrients across the corals. These currents, through not particular fast, are constant so always be wary and always dive with a buddy. Diving in Thailand is safe and standards are high but always check equipment and remember you general get what you paid for. It is very tempting to dive beyond your ability when surround by so much beauty and more experienced divers. Never put yourself in danger as emergency services are years behind many western countries. Never attempt to handle or irate the fish as some are extremely poisonous.