Following some potentially misleading media coverage on the recent dive site closures in Thailand - Wicked Diving, Khao Lak would like to state the following:
The recent global weather patterns that are responsible for the recent flooding in Australia and Sri Lanka have created higher than normal sea water temperatures in 2010 which has affected some reefs in our region. Coral bleaching has occurred at a limited number of dive sites throughout Thailand and beyond. The government of Thailand has taken some steps to reduce the possible impact of SCUBA diving and snorkeling on the areas where bleaching has occurred.
Thailand is home to more than two dozen Marine Parks and has some of the most highly rated dive sites in the world. Of these Marine parks, 7 have dive sites that will be closing. Of these 7 parks, a total of 16 dive sites will close. In the most famous of all these marine parks - The Similan Islands - only two dive sites are closed. In an are covering 140 sq. Km and having dozens of named dive sites - this has had very little impact on visitors.
We as a dive operator are passionate about the environment in which we live and work. Therefore we are deeply concerned about the condition of the reef. It is proven that there is virtually no connection between diving and coral bleaching, but we strongly support the decision to limit any potential stress to the coral as it recovers.
Ourselves, and a majority of dive operators in this region, fully support the National Parks decision and will continue to enforce our strict philosophy of "no impact diving". We do not allow contact with the reefs, harassment of any marine life or the feeding of any marine species. Further, our operation will continue to use phosphate free cleaning agents, biodegradable shampoos and conditioners as standard practice.
Khao Lak, Thailand, January 23rd, 2011
Wicked Diving is a small, boutique center focused on safety, service and responsible tourism in the diving industry. We cater to guests seeking a sense of adventure and wishing to experience the ecosystems we visit while assisting those communities we interact with.
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