Similan Islands Snorkeling

surin snorkle tours - anemonefish

Our speedboat will get you the Similans quick so you have more time to enjoy the white sand beaches, azure waters and amazing fish that have made the Andaman Sea so special. We should spend 70 minutes or so (depends on the weather!) getting you to the Islands. Then? Maybe snorkeling with turtles, angelfish and hundreds of other species darting about the red, blue and yellow corals below you.

Bring the whole family! We not only are great snorkel guides, but with all staff are also dive instructors and anyone who wants to learn, or already is certified to dive – we will take care of you. Combine the trips – it’s easy.

Each day we go to different sites, so you can join us for a single day of snorkeling, two days, visit the Surin Islands or even – if you dare – join one of our overnight snorkeling tours!

Adults - 2900 Baht (all inclusive)

All Wicked Snorkel guides are passionate about the aquatic realm and it shows! We do far more than just swim around – rather we point out special species, unique coral systems and even some of the rare animals that live on the islands – like the Hairy-legged crabs. Wicked snorkel trips are very family friendly and can be conducted in English, Swedish, German and Thai. We are famous for our thorough briefings and high standards!

Similan Snorkeling Itinerary

similan water - and colors - snorkel tour

Your guides will be at your resort in the morning, let you know about the specific destinations to be expected and some information about safety and guidelines for safe snorkeling. Soon you’ll be on the white sand beaches and turquoise waters of the Similan Islands. After a picnic lunch (on the beach) of Thai delicacies we stroll off to one of the viewpoints for a scenic overview, then more snorkeling (or sunbathing if you prefer). Back to your resort with plenty of time for a sunset drink overlooking the Andaman Sea.

Please look at our Safe snorkeling guidelines page, or the Similan Snorkeling FAQ if you have further questions

Surin Islands Marine life

So what do we see on our trips? We can never guarantee what we will see but we very often see Turtle, Rays, Moray Eels, Octopus. While Manta Rays do visit the Similan Islands they rarely come into the shallows. Sharks are common on the Similans – but usually quite small and there are no known aggressive species that visit the Similans. Rather, enjoy the opportunity to see them in the wild without fear! Turtles – Green and Hawksbill are seen pretty frequently – Similan Island #1 is a turtle nesting sanctuary. Snapper, Trevally, Jacks, Sweetlips, Angelfish, Bannerfish, Barracuda and hundreds of species more. Not to mention hard corals, soft corals, sponges and exotic species

similan beaches

The trip price includes:

Marine Park Fee
Equipment
Guide - no more than 6 guests per guide!
Lunch – there’s always plenty so bring your appetite!
Water, tea, coffee, electrolytes, juice
Transfers from hotel/guest house (in the Khao Lak Area) to and from the pier

Additional fees:
Soda and Beer (25-80 bht ea)
Private Guide (1250 bht/day)

Khao Lak snorkeling

Thursday, May 29, 2008

Similan Snorkeling FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Wicked Diving is proud to announce our new Overnight Similan Snorkeling Tours, and we feel it is both our responsibility and a good idea to offer as much support and knowledge about the trips, the snorkeling and what to expect. Our experience here in Khao Lak and on the Similan Islands have give us a lot of knowledge to share!

Please visit our site for more information about Guidelines for Safe Snorkeling. Finally, we hope you just join us for a trip!

Below is from our Snorkeling FAQ pages....

Overnight Snorkeling Tour FAQ

What should I bring with me?
What should I NOT bring with me?
Can we put our valuables in a safety deposit box?
Can you pick me up from the airport?
Arrivals/Visa Questions
Do I get a guide?
When is the best time to travel to Khao Lak?
What are the conditions like on the Similan Islands
What about Travel Insurance?
Do I need vaccinations?
Where are the nearest Hospitals?
What about My safety While on tour with Wicked?
What happens if there is an accident?
If there is a Small medical problem?
What about seasickness?
What kind of food is served?
Is the food fresh?
I have special dietary requirements - what should I do?
Can I access ATM machines in Khao Lak?
Do I need cash on board?
What currency should I take on board?
Is alcohol included in the price of the trip?
Psst…What about other intoxicants? A little “weed” never hurts…
Can I recharge my torch, laptop, phone and camera?
How much should we tip?
Where are the other guests from?
Can we put our valuables in a safety deposit box?
Is there phone reception/email on board?
What Kind of products do you use that are Green?
Biodiesel? Isn’t that still producing Carbon?
What about the Linens?
Bathrooms
I am traveling alone - will I have to share a cabin?
Will I see whale sharks?
What are National Marine Park Fee requirements?
What are National Marine Park Fees for?
Can I touch things?
Is it okay to take souvenirs?
What about Trash?
Those turtles are cute – can I feed them?
It’s just food, it’s okay if I toss it overboard?
I am mad for fishing – is it okay?
What if I want to get closer to things?
Why take a group trip versus snorkeling on our own?
What are your Safe Snorkeling Practices
Do I need to be an experienced snorkeler?
What will the weather be like?
What does the tour fee include?
What does the tour fee exclude?
Can you go underwater with a snorkel?

1)What should I bring with me?

We strongly encourage these items:

sunscreen

toiletries

swim wear

Insurance policy

2 or 3 t-shirts

2 pairs shorts

sunglasses

hat

As evenings can sometimes be a little cooler, you might also bring a sweatshirt/jumper and light cotton pants. You always need less than you think.

2) What should I NOT bring with me?

Try not to over pack. You will not need a dry suit! More than a single paperback. Souvenirs.

3) Can we put our valuables in a safety deposit box?

You are able to place any valuables you wish in our safe (within reason – it’s not THAT large).

We also have a storage area for your bags during your adventure. Feel secure that your goods are safe while you are traveling.

4) Can you pick me up from the airport?

Through our partners at Khao Lak Taxi, we are happy to help. We can arrange transportation anywhere within Southern Thailand. Krabi Airport, Phuket airport, Phuket, Surat Thani, Taplamu, Takuapa, Ranong. Just Ask!

5) Arrivals/Visas:

Most European Countries and North Americans will receive a 30 day visa upon arrival and you must have a return flight ticket. Please double check with your local embassy or consulate if this is the case. Upon the day of your arrival, your passport must be valid at least 6 months!

6) Do I get a snorkel guide?

Yes. All our day trips and liveaboard trips are inclusive of guides holding professional diving certifications. In addition we offer our staff extensive safety training through our partner school Diver Safety.

Before each trip there will be detailed briefings and maps.

If you are certified to dive as a buddy team and feel you do not need a guide – please reconsider. The service is free, we know the area intimately and of know the conditions.

7) When is the best time to travel to Khao Lak?

There are 3 seasons in Khao Lak. The best time for a visit is between November and April. This is our "dry" season (during the day 30°- 33°C, during the night about 24°C), with a light east wind and wonderful conditions. May until the end of July is our "hot" season and we frequently get afternoon thunderstorms which can bring a lot of rain and can be therefore very refreshing. Our "wet" season runs from July through September with heavy rainfall and strong west winds. There is no scheduled diving during this time

8) What are the conditions like on the Similan Islands?

Health Questions

9) What about Travel Insurance?

We strongly recommend that you apply for travel insurance. Accidents do happen. Just like anywhere and anything in life you never know what will happen.

We do have insurance in case of accidents. It covers accidents and treatments in Thailand, but does not cover evacuations and repatriations.

10) Do I need vaccinations?

Shortly before your departure, it is advised to see a tropical disease doctor to double check for outbreaks. Or send us an email for advice. If you are traveling to South Thailand, you do not need Malaria vaccination. Your Tetanus vaccination should be up to date. Many of the areas we visit and stay in are quite safe and you should not OVER-anticipate problems.

11) Where are the nearest Hospitals?

Thailand has a very excellent health system. Privately run hospitals have, at a minimum European standards and all are ISO certified. The closest hospital to the Similan Islands is the Takuapa Hospital (just outside Khao Lak). Here in Khao Lak we offer 24 hour Ambulance Service

The most modern hospital in the region is 75 minutes from Taplamu (the pier). Phuket International Hospital runs one of the most modern Recompression chambers in South East Asia as partners with SSS Hyperbaric Network – the only internationally recognized hyperbaric chambers in Thailand.

12) What about My safety While on Wicked Tour?

3 of Wicked Staff are the Evacuation organizers for SSS Hyperbaric Network. They are all trained as Dive Medics, Emergency Medics and Remote location medics. In addition they all have experience dealing with and performing evacuations for all schools under all conditions. Rest assured that we are always ready. All staff are trained to the highest standards by Diver Safety and while we hope to never see you as a patient, our medical staff are on call 24 hour a day.

13) What happens if there is an accident?

In addition to have the most thoroughly trained staff in Thailand - we have many hours of 100% oxygen on the boat. Our emergency oxygen kits provide demand Inhalator valves, Non-rebreather masks and supplemental oxygen. Our First Aid Kit is to Ambulance level - not just a pair of plasters.

All staff are trained as DAN oxygen Providers, DAN hazardous Marine Life Injury, DAN Onsite Neurological Exams, Emergency First Responders and our Tour leaders all have satellite phones for direct contact (regardless of conditions) with local and international medical facilities.

Our partners, Diver Safety also offer the only evacuation service for the Similan and Surin Islands. You will always be in the best possible care.

14) If there is a Small medical problem?

There are several small drug stores and doctors in the area and they cover the medical need of the local people and also for the visitors. The local doctor in Khao Lak is quite affordable (100-200 Baht) So it is often a great way to achieve peace of mind without breaking the bank.

15) What about seasickness?

Seasickness can affect some people badly, and others not at all. It can affect some people sometimes and no affect them others. The season in the Similan Islands features generally calm seas. Mother Nature is always out there! So conditions can change. We do carry mild medication for these instances, as well as naturopathic solutions.

We also do have something else no other boat in Thailand offers – spend your nights on land! We have luxury tents or can arrange bungalows on the Similan Islands. Sleep on solid ground and wake refreshed!

Food:

Thailand is world famous for the endless variety of tasteful dishes. Every Restaurant and roadside stand offers treats that amaze and delight. Great selections of fresh fruits make for delicious snacks and fresh juices. Always be aware that dishes can be spicy - ask for things prepared Western-style instead of Thai Style.

16) What kind of food is served?

Usually fresh fruit and vegetables are combined with both Asian and International Cuisines. We are happy to cater to all requests (within reason). Don’t be surprised to find French Fries next to Massaman curry, next to Sausages next to Fried Rice.

17) Is the food fresh?

One of the reasons we run shorter trips. All meals served are fresh and made right in the kitchen. Pop you head in and watch PeePah and her assistant prepare each meal.

As one of the great cuisines, the meals will always feature Western and Thai dishes and you will find an array of rare and exotic treats.

18) I have special dietary requirements - what should I do?

Tell us in advance. We will pass on your dietary requirements to PeePah – our amazing cook to prepare meals for you. We are easily able to offer Vegetarian, Vegan, Lactose intolerant, Halal and Kosher Meals. If you have specific food allergies – no problem – as long as we know about it ahead of time!

Several of our staff have food requirements, so please don’t be afraid to ask!

Currency:

The trips can be paid online before arrival through our secure online server (a deposit is required). Any balance due before departure can be paid in cash or credit card. Please note that all credit card transactions are liable to have a 3-5% surcharge due to exorbitant fees charged by Thai Banks.

19) Can I access ATM machines in Khao Lak?

Oh boy can you! There are three within 100 meters of our shop. You can easily access Maestro, Cirrus, Visa, and Master Card. If you are wondering about other cards/systems, just send us a note and we’ll walk over and look

20) Do I need cash on board?

There is very little to spend money on. Soft drinks, beer diving courses and rental equipment, t-shirts, and gratuities for the staff and crew. We are happy to make a running tally of your expenses and charge your card on land at the end of the trip. Please note that there is a 3% charge for payments with credit card on liveaboards.

21) What currency should I take on board?

Please, it’s Thailand, pay in Baht. If you only have Dollars/Euros/Pounds/Yen we will be happy to arrange any payments.

22) Is alcohol included in the price of the trip?

No. We understand that this is your vacation and we are constantly striving to make it the best experience. We offer Alcohol for purchase aboard the boat. Please understand that we are here to make the trip amazing, show you the most amazing marine life and assure you of meticulous safety standards.

23) Psst…What about other intoxicants? A little “weed” never hurts…

NO. If we smell or have reason to believe that anyone is high, on anything other than nitrogen, you are done. Day is over. If we choose to, you will not be snorkeling anymore that trip, and Wicked does not offer refunds in these instances.

Your safety and those of the people around depends on you making clear decision. Anything that affects you ability to make clear decisions is STRONGLY discouraged.

Aside from moral arguments, the use and/or possession of illegal substances in Thailand is very illegal.

We hope that you take this decision very seriously. If you chose an operation that allows such behavior, are you choosing one that cares about your life?

Wait three days, have a blast! In the meantime – enjoy what mother nature has to offer!

24) Can I recharge my torch, laptop, phone and camera?

Yes, the voltage is 220. And is on from 06.00 to 24.00

25) How much should we tip?

Thai culture is a tipping culture. It is not, however a culture that tips a huge amount. Americans and Russians might be used to 20%, Europeans to 5%, Latin Americans to 10%.

As in any situation where tips are given - it is up to you and should be given voluntarily based on the quality of service provided. We are sure you will notice how hard the staff and crew work to provide you with the best possible experience. We hope you will note how the safety and enjoyment of everyone relies on this teamwork, professionalism and attitude. Many of our guests give a gratuity based on 5-10% of the cruise price or more.

26) Where are the other guests from?

Wicked is a very eclectic mix of people and nationalities. English is used as our common language for briefings and courses. You will also hear Swedish, German, Dutch and of course Thai guests around you.

Rather than assume the other guests on our trips are German, or English or Swedish, assume they are divers or snorkelers who want to learn more about the marine life. We will also, no matter the nationality or orientation, present you and all the guests with a smooth, enjoyable and memorable holiday

27) Can we put our valuables in a safety deposit box?

You are able to place any valuables you wish in our safe (within reason – it’s not THAT large).

We also have a storage area for your bags during your adventure. Feel secure that your good s are safe while you are traveling.

28) Is there phone reception/email?

To many the idea of being on a boat in the middle of nowhere and out of contact with the pressures of the modern world is a little slice of heaven, there are others who do need to be in contact, whether for business or personal reasons.

For safety we do have a satellite phone on our boat. Email access is limited to the abilities of your mobile phone (3G is not available on the Similan Islands – yet). Mobile phone coverage is about 50% of the Similans, and about 10% of the Koh Tachai/Richelieu Trips.

Green?

29) What Kind of products do you use that are Green?

Our soaps and detergents are all free-trade, organic and phosphate –free. This means that any grey water from the showers, sinks and kitchen all produce waste that will be broken down and absorbed by the environment.

In addition they are very high quality and fun to use.

When you dive with wicked – you make a difference.

30) Biodiesel? Isn’t that still producing Carbon?

We use 100% locally produced Biodiesel. We have taken a strong commitment to our community and the by spending our money here, rather than on petroleum imports, a significant portion of all income is spent here – in our community.

Biodiesel does produce carbon and is not the perfect solution. But in the marine environment, petroleum pollutants cause a severe and irreversible break in the bond between coral and the symbiotic algaes that live inside.

31) What about the Linens?

We have chosen to use 100% organic cotton sheets and towels. Both on the boat and on land you will find yourself in safe and guilt-free linens. (I also have to say that they are very comfortable) In the tropics and high humidity you don’t need much warmth, but the wicking abilities of natural cotton make for a comfortable and soothing sleep.

32) Bathrooms?

On the boat we have hot water showers and western style toilets. If you choose to sleep on the boat we have hot water showers and Western Style toilets. Our detergents and soaps are all organic, phosphate free.

If you choose to stay on land the toilets are more basic and the showers use ground water. While not warm, they are refreshing and brisk. Great way to wake up in the morning!

33) I am traveling alone - will I have to share a cabin/tent?

We at Wicked understand. We make every attempt we can to assure you of the most memorable holiday. We do, however have to accommodate all guests. If there are two males traveling solo, we will place them in the same cabin/tent. If we do have to place and solo male and female in the same cabin/tent, we will let you know. You may have the cabin/tent to yourself, but don’t count on it. If you are willing to pay the supplement, you can have the cabin/tent to your self.

We are also happy to arrange land based accommodation to assure you of solitary sleeping arrangements.

34) Will I see whale sharks?

These wonderful and increasingly rare creatures are amazing. Not us, nor anyone else can assure of seeing them. Whale Sharks have become increasingly uncommon and please don’t expect them. If you do, enjoy the amazing experience and celebrate. We do Whale Shark Research projects in late march and April of each year.

35) What are National Marine Park Fee requirements?

The Similan Marine National Park Entry Fee of 400 Baht per person per each entry for both divers and non divers and National Park Fee for divers of 200 Baht per diver per day (diver only). (Prices may change without prior notice from the Thai Forestry department).

36) What are National Marine Park Fees for?

These fees got to the maintenance and upkeep of this, and other less visited parks. It pays for the buoys, subsidizes the Thai entry Fees, pays for the protection and monitoring of the usage and damage (did you know several sites are off limits to divers?)

37) Can I touch things?

Wicked diving has a strict non-interferance policy. We are here to enjoy the underwater world. By touching things underwater we could destroy a home, ruin a relationship or get injured. Please avoid touching things.

Learning to control our movements and position in the water benefits our own comfort and safety as well as the health of the reef. Both are important! Reefs are constructed primarily by colonies of coral animals called polyps. By secreting a limestone skeleton, covered with a thin layer of living tissue, over many years these slow growing creatures essentially create their own geology. Although the limestone is durable, the soft-bodied polyps can easily be damaged by contact with hands, fins etc.

While the loss of one polyp doesn't appear to be such a big problem, this spot will be more susceptible to infections and can cause further mortality on the colony. Besides the impact on the coral, accidentally bumping into the reef can also harm you. Coral will easily cut through your soft skin, especially after you have spent some time in the water. Cuts in general, and coral cuts in particular, will heal slowly in the tropics, and are more susceptible to infection. For the mutual benefit of the reef and ourselves, we believe it’s both prudent and responsible to master the skills needed to minimize accidental close encounters with coral.

38) Is it okay to take souvenirs?

Yes - pictures and memories are strongly encouraged. Other than that and bad things could happen. Not only is it illegal to take souvenirs of any kind from a National Park in Thailand, but it could cause serious degradation.

Please Live and let live (or better yet, dive and let live). In contrast to its initial appearance of grandeur, living space on the reef is very scarce. Every little niche is or will be occupied soon by an organism of some type. Empty shells are a valuable part of the ecosystem, and they get recycled many times. Besides the obvious environmental concerns, some "live shells" can be quite dangerous. Some of the most beautiful (cone shells for example) contain animals that are highly toxic and when "captured" can cause serious problems. We discourage any shell collecting.

39) What about Trash?

Leave nothing but bubbles.

Although you don’t see as many signs as along a typical highway, littering under water is just as inappropriate as it is on land. We always carry trash bags during our outings, both from shore and from boats. Please use these containers rather than disposing refuse in the water. Pay special attention to plastic bags. They blow away easily and once in the water they closely resemble jellyfish, the main diet of many turtles. As we strive to be a "leave no trace" travel center, we bring all our garbage bag to the mainland, and encourage you to do the same.

40) I really enjoy the turtles - could I feed one?

Turtles may be cute and relaxed, but they learn to trust humans (and the boats they come on) and go to them for easy food. While you might not take one home to cook it, there are a great many people who will. Try not to teach turtles these bad habits.

41) It’s just food, it’s okay if I toss it overboard?

We constantly strive to be an "no impact" . While dispersing "food" in the water seems an easy way to attract large numbers of fish, it will often attract just certain species that usually chase other species away. Clearly, this alters the natural behavior (and diet) of fish we have come to observe. We discourage feeding the fish.

42)I am mad for fishing – is it okay?

Opps. I guess you haven't figured out who we are. If you are looking for fishing, we strongly encourage you to go to your own home country, and look for a sustainable fish farm.

43) What if I want to get closer to things?

Although many snorkelers dive underwater, we have found that some people would rather not, or don't find the need to do so. If you see a fish several feet below you though, and you want to get a closer look, you'll have to dive down. By doing this, your snorkel will fill up with water, and you will not be able to breathe until you clear the passage of your snorkel of water once you have resurfaced. It sounds a bit iffy, but it's a common thing for more experienced snorkelers to dive down and fill their snorkel with water.

To clear the snorkel of water, you must resurface, give a good strong blow of the snorkel as your head reaches the surface once again, and the top of the snorkel has penetrated the surface of the water. This should clear most if not all of the water that has filled the snorkel, and allow you to breathe normally through the snorkel once again. If you use what is called a "purge" snorkel, (which we recommend), you will rarely get water back in your mouth. We also recommend trying this technique first in a pool.

Once you get comfortable doing this as well as the other techniques mentioned, you will feel more confident, and will have a more positive relaxed experience out on the reef.

44) Why take a group trip versus snorkeling on our own?

Most dive boats are exactly that: dive boats that cater to the needs of SCUBA divers, not snorkelers. Most often, independent snorkelers are told simply to use the beach. While shore snorkeling can be excellent, many of the most exciting snorkeling sites are more easily accessed by boat. At most shops, snorkelers are permitted to "tag along" on a dive boat if they wish: but are firmly instructed to stay out of the way of the divers, and when the dive is over, so is your snorkel. Wicked Snorkeling Tours offer your own guide. We dictate the timing and location, picking the most ideal sites for snorkeling, not diving. But that's just one significant answer.
It is also that our guides are trained in the local marine environment. Not only the fish life and coral, but the hazards as well. Our guides will make sure you have fun and avoid injuries to yourself or the corals.

45) What are your Safe Snorkeling Practices?

Wicked believes firmly in safe snorkeling practices. Our Similan guides provide a general snorkeling orientation at the start of each program, followed by any level of instruction or assistance that's needed. Whether you're novice or experienced, skills can always be developed and our staff is always happy to assist. We deliberately limit our groups to insure that everyone receives the personalized attention you deserve. Before entering the water, either from shore or from a boat, Wicked guides provide a brief evaluation of the site including any particular highlights. Also, any relevant conditions are briefly reviewed: surge, currents, depth, visibility, etc. And staff members will always be present to assist in any way needed: helping with a mask, entering or exiting the water, or helping you identify an unknown fish.

46) Do I need to be an experienced snorkeler?

We cater to both novice and experienced snorkelers. Every program is distinguished by snorkeling instruction on whatever level is needed, whether it's how to put on a mask, or how to improve your free diving skills.

We concentrate on allowing you to develop a calm confidence in the water regardless of swimming ability or previous experience. Your relaxation in the water enhances both safety and enjoyment. Plus, it also reduces any perception of threat in the animals we've all come to view.

47) What will the weather be like?

We have carefully chosen times that should give us optimum weather conditions. However, even the best preparations cannot guarantee good weather.

48) What does the tour fee include?

On most programs (see specific trips for details), tour fees include all local transfers as specified in itinerary, meals as indicated in the itinerary, accommodations as specified, all snorkeling activities, guided excursions, local taxes, services of the trip leader and National Park Fees

49) What does the tour fee exclude?

On most programs (see specific trips for details), tour fees do not include international or domestic airfare, medical immunizations, medical expenses, snorkeling equipment or wetsuit rentals, SCUBA-costs, accident/baggage/cancellation insurance, excess baggage charges, meals not specified in the itinerary, dishes and beverages not part of included meals, alcoholic beverages, laundry, telephone, or fax charges, room service, and other items of a purely personal nature. Other terms and conditions exist, please see all the information listed in the Terms and Conditions Link

Thanks for reading this far!

Similan Diving (and Snorkeling too!)

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Khao Lak Snorkeling - with Wicked

Howdy!

We are proud to announce the new snorkeling tours for the upcoming season. Plenty of exciting developments are still brewing, so keep an eye on all this!

Daily Snorkeling Tours to the Similan and Surin Islands

We are far more than just a dive shop. Our Snorkel tours bring you to the most beautiful snorkeling sites in Thailand. For a one day trip you can chose between a one day Similan Island or Surin Island Snorkeling trips. But we also have an amazing 3 day/2 night Similan Snorkel tours where you can stay on on boat or stay on the islands! We also have a very special “castaway” tour that lets you stay overnight on the rarely visited Koh Tachai Island – Empty beaches and personal service

similan snorkeling - turtles

All our guides are passionate about the aquatic realm and it shows! We do far more than just swim around – rather we point out special species, unique coral systems and even some of the rare animals that live on the islands – like the Nicobar Pigeon and Hairy-Legged Crabs. But be careful - you might just stay an extra few days!

Wicked snorkel trips are very family friendly and can be conducted in English, Swedish, German and Thai. We are famous for our thorough briefings and high standards!

Similan Overnight Snorkeling Tours

Our Similan Overnight tours take you out for 3 days and 2 nights exploring the Similan Islands. Each overnight snorkeling tour always has guides designated specifically for you! Rejoice - the groups are always small no more than 6 guests per guide! The whole family can join as YOU choose to spend your evenings on the beach in our luxury tents, or on the boat. Our chef prepares all meals to your desires, and boy are they good. Great for the whole family as we cater to both divers and snorkelers. Stay together, yet do you own activities. The stars of the Andaman skies
We also have the unique Castaway package that takes you to Koh Tachai Island – the least visited part of the Similan Island National Park. Empty beaches, great snorkeling and incredible service. Prices Start at 9900 Baht for Adults
Booking Inquiry

One Day Similan Island snorkel trips

similan snorkeling beaches

Using our speedboat we visit the Similans for a great days snorkeling. Your guides will meet you at your resort in the morning, let you know about the specific destinations to be expected and some information about safety and guidelines for safe snorkeling. Soon you’ll be on the white sand beaches and turquoise waters of the Similan Islands. After a Buffet lunch of Thai delicacies we head off to one of the viewpoints for a scenic overview, then more snorkeling (or sunbathing if you prefer). Back to your resort with plenty of time for a sunset drink overlooking the Andaman Sea. Only 2900 Baht for Adults
Booking Inquiry

Please look at our Safe snorkeling guidelines page, or the Similan Snorkeling FAQ if you have further questions

Surin Islands Snorkleing Tours

surin snorkeling

The Surin Islands are more remote, and have much fewer visitors than the Similan islands. The Surins are famous for their great snorkeling (the diving is not so great). The corals are in great condition – With many small remote beaches. Made up two very large islands and many smaller rocks The Surin islands have plenty of choices. Due to the distance we start a bit earlier and end a bit later, but well worth the effort.. Your guides will meet you at your resort in the morning, let you know about the specific destinations to be expected and some information about safety and guidelines for safe snorkeling. Once we get to the Surin’s, your guide will escort you through some great sites. After a huge lunch we head off to one of the other beaches for some seriously scenic photography and a bit of a splash, then more snorkeling).. Only 3500 Baht for Adults

Similan Snorkeling

Sunday, May 25, 2008

Safe Snorkeling Practices on the Similan Islands

Here at Wicked we are always looking at ways to improve ourselves, to make the world around us a better place and to help our guests enjoy themselves more. As part of this we have an new and extensive library on safe snorkeling practices and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's. Below you will find a copy of the information on our site - on the Similan Snorkeling Guidelines page.

Please keep coming back to learn more!

Simply relax and move slowly. Marine life is less threatened by a relaxed snorkeler. Swimming slowly is not only more comfortable for you, but also is less likely to intimidate the wildlife we have all come to observe. Many creatures are extremely sensitive to vibrations in the water, and in fact depend on this sense for their survival. Quick motions of snorkelers are easily perceived as potential threats by many fish and invertebrates.

No matter how strong you are, humans simply cannot out swim animals such as whales, rays, turtles, fish and squid. Although the impulse may be to pursue these animals for a closer look, this will only scare them away. The relaxed snorkeler will find that aquatic mammals (including your snorkeling buddy), fish, and invertebrates will continue their natural behavior, while allowing you to approach them much more intimately.

Some very good Advice: Avoid Snorkeling alone. An overwhelming number of accidents happen to divers who go it alone, so having a buddy with you is a valuable asset in case of mishap. Choose a buddy who you are comfortable with and stay close together while you are out. And don't snorkel if you cannot swim.

If you have other questions please refer to our snorkeling FAQ's

Try to adjust all mask and snorkel settings for comfort and fit on the beach or boat first - it is much easier to do than when you already in the water! Don’t forget - use defogger or spit saliva onto the glass of the mask and then rinse before starting the snorkel, otherwise the mask will fog up.

Be aware of your surroundings. Know the area that you are snorkeling in and if there are any areas to avoid. Be very careful around rocky shores or pounding surf, which can pick up a snorkeler and cause injury. We don’t want to hurt the coral ;)

Donald Duck BAy

Remember to equalize the pressure in your ears if diving down while snorkeling - do it early and often (as a guide - once for every meter you descend). If it hurts - stop! Failure to do so will result in barotrauma (burst blood capillaries) in your middle ear, which then usually leads to infection.

Minimize contact with the reef. Learning to control our movements and position in the water benefits our own comfort and safety as well as the health of the reef. Both are important! Reefs are constructed primarily by colonies of coral animals called polyps. By secreting a limestone skeleton, covered with a thin verneer of living tissue, over many years these slow growing creatures essentially create their own geology. Although the limestone is durable, the soft-bodied polyps can easily be damaged by contact with hands, fins etc.
While the loss of one polyp doesn't appear to be such a big problem, this spot will be more susceptible to infections and can cause further mortality on the colony. Besides the impact on the coral, accidentally bumping into the reef can also harm you. Coral will easily cut through your soft skin, especially after you have spent some time in the water. Cuts in general, and coral cuts in particular, will heal slowly in the tropics, and are more susceptible to infection. For the mutual benefit of the reef and ourselves, we believe it’s both prudent and responsible to master the skills needed to minimize accidental close encounters with coral.

honeymoon bay

If swimming or snorkelling, always beware of boats coming past. Wave to make sure the boat driver can see you. Boat propellers and human limbs do not mix!!!

Live and let live. In contrast to its initial appearance of grandeur, living space on the reef is very scarce. Every little niche is or will be occupied soon by an organism of some type. Empty shells are a valuable part of the ecosystem, and they get recycled many times. Besides the obvious environmental concerns, some "live shells" can be quite dangerous. Some of the most beautiful (cone shells for example) contain animals that are highly toxic and when "captured" can cause serious problems. We discourage any shell collecting, other than items found above the high tide line.

If you see a shark while snorkeling, just keep quiet and observe it, don’t panic. The sharks around the Similan Islands are never aggressive towards people in the water.