Blue Spotted Stingray (Neotrygon kuhlii)
Photo by Henry and TersiaThere are several other dive sites around the Surin Islands, such as Hin Rap, Koh Pachumba/Pratumba, and Hin Kong/Gong. While each could have its own dive site review, there are more similarities than differences, especially concerning the marine life and geology. While some of these dive sites are more suited to experienced divers, and some offer snorkelling opportunities, conditions can change from one day to the next. The Divemaster, PADI instructor, or group leader will make a decision on the day about which diving and snorkeling sites offer the best conditions for a safe and enjoyable time in the water. Surface waves and currents change all the time, as does underwater visibility.
Giant Moray Eel (Gymnothorax javanicus)
Photo by Henry and TersiaDue to the small area which the Surin Islands cover, it is no inconvenience to visit one dive spot only to find that it is unsuitable for today's group, then move around to another nearby diving site which offers more enjoyment or safety. The boat operators don't make money from visiting one over another, and Divemasters and instructors are divers too. They want the best diving for themselves as well as happy and safe customers. They will always make the decision which best suits the majority of the group, with a tendency to favour the weakest divers or snorkellers.
Around the lesser dive sites of the Surin Islands, currents range from very weak to strong, but all dives will be planned according to the conditions. Depths range from just one or two metres from the surface right down to approximately 30 metres in some places. Visibility depends on how much plankton or algae is in the water but usually averages at 20 metres and can be as much as 30 metres out here, far from the mainland and any pollution. Water temperatures are nothing to be concerned about, as they are always just right for humans to be relatively active in.
