Similan Diving Center
View more presentations from Wicked Diving - Similan Islands.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Avoid Jellyfish Creams
As posted the Wicked Diving Website....Please copy and post
Please feel free to contact us, DAN or any of the above with questions regarding this and other products promising to "prevent jellyfish stings"
-Similan Diving
The season has begun and diving is great! However some unscruplous marketers are trying to exploit people's fears. Trying to sell divers, snorkelers and visitors some "magic cream" that prevents jellyfish stings - people can be put at risk of injury or death.
Avoid this cream, let any dive shop or retail outlet that supplies it know how they are endangering their clients and please avoid it at all costs!!!
If you think this is just opinion...please read the email below regarding this product. Written and signed by the world's leaders in Jellyfish stings, envenomation and the head of DAN. I guess they might know a bit more than someone who makes and sells magic creams?
Avoid this cream, let any dive shop or retail outlet that supplies it know how they are endangering their clients and please avoid it at all costs!!!
If you think this is just opinion...please read the email below regarding this product. Written and signed by the world's leaders in Jellyfish stings, envenomation and the head of DAN. I guess they might know a bit more than someone who makes and sells magic creams?
From: JOHN LIPPMANN
Sent: 03 November 2009
To:
Cc: 'Lisa Gershwin'; 'Andrew Jones'; 'Peter Fenner'; 'Dr. Kenneth D. Winkel'; somchai.bussarawit; potjaman; lthaikru
Subject: FW: Marketing of Safe Sea in Thailand
We have been following the recent renewed correspondence about the proposed marketing of Safe Sea in Thailand. As you are aware, there are a group of us, including some well-known medical and marine biological jellyfish experts, who have been closely monitoring the situation with dangerous jellyfish in Thailand and we are all very concerned about the introduction of Safe Sea at this point in time.
Let us re-state some important facts:
1. There is definitely at least one variety of potentially lethal box jellyfish found in Thai waters. This includes the Chironex species as well as other chirodropids, currently unidentified, but probably just as venomous . There is absolutely no doubt about this as we have received good photographic evidence of these jellyfish, and have extensive evidence from numerous cases over more than a 20 years of the distinctive scarring caused by the stings of these particular jellyfish.
2. There have been numerous documented deaths caused by jellyfish in Thailand over many years: we currently have an article in print with details of a number of documented deaths and “near-misses”. The death of the Swedish girl last year was certainly not an isolated case, although to date it was the one that received the broadest media attention. We also have a steadily increasing number of case reports of life-threatening stings, including those with permanent scarring as well as those producing Irukandji syndrome.
3. Substantial experience from northern Australia over many years has shown the importance of effective prevention strategies. To date these have included the wearing of protective clothing, suitable netting, appropriate signage and education. As a result, despite the presence of large numbers of dangerous jellyfish at certain times of the year, there are very few serious stings.
4. The Safe Sea may have been shown to be an effective barrier to the stings of certain species of jellyfish. However, it appears that there is absolutely no evidence that it is effective in the prevention of stings from life-threatening box-type jellyfish, especially Chironex.
5. We are further concerned that even if Safe Sea should someday be demonstrated to be “as effective” for Chironex-type box jellyfish as it claims for other species (i.e., 75% efficacy, in reducing the frequency and severity of stings), this is still unacceptably high for otherwise unprotected exposure to lethal species.
In light of the above, we consider it to be irresponsible and dangerous to promote an unproven product in an area where the consequences of using the product could prove fatal. It is likely that tourists and Thai locals would be lulled into what could well be a false sense of security by using Safe Sea instead of taking preventative measures that have proven to be effective. Severe stings or deaths occurring without added protection of these preventative measures we suggest could have ongoing consequences.
Receiving FDA approval from Thailand does not indicate that the product is effective against Chironex-type box jellyfish stings and can be misleading in this context.
For all the above reasons we implore you to refrain from marketing Safe Sea in Thailand until such time that it has been independently demonstrated to be effective against the potentially lethal species found there and it is established that this product effectively prevents envenomation when interacting with these species.
Sincerely,
John Lippmann OAM
Executive Director
DIVERS ALERT NETWORK (DAN) ASIA-PACIFIC Australian Marine Stinger Australian Marine Stinger Expert and author
PO Box 384 (49A Karnak Rd)
Ashburton VIC 3147
Australia
Tel: +61-3-9886 9166; Fax: +61-3-9886 9155 Director
Please feel free to contact us, DAN or any of the above with questions regarding this and other products promising to "prevent jellyfish stings"
-Similan Diving
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Snorkeling - Responsible Practices for our reefs
Snorkeling - Responsible Practices for our reefs
Practices that you can do to help sustain the reef for generations to come
• Practice at first over sand patches and away from the coral:
• Get comfortable with buoyancy control and finning techniques.
• Be mindful of where your fins are to avoid accidentally hitting the reef or stirring up sand.
• Snorkel carefully near the Reef:
• Move slowly and deliberately in the water, relax and take your time – to remain horizontal in the water, and refrain from standing up.
• Do not snorkel into areas where the water is less than one meter deep.
• Do not touch the walls of semi-confined areas (for example, small overhangs), never squeeze through a small area.
• Use rest stations or other flotation aids (for example, float lines, swimming noodles, and flotation vests) if you need to rest while snorkeling.
• Do not lean on, hold onto, or touch any part of the reef or moving animals when taking underwater photographs.
• Be mindful of all marine life:
• Avoid making sudden or loud noises underwater.
• Avoid chasing or attempting to ride or grab free-swimming animals (such as turtles, whales, and sea snakes). Avoid blocking their path or making them change direction.
• Do not touching or relocating any animals or plants.
• Stay more than one meter away from giant clams.
• Do not feed the fish.
• Do not collect any shells or ‘souvenirs’.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Beginner's Guide to liveaboard diving - Thailand
Our first liveaboard - a real diving liveaboard experience
Laying at the bottom of a reef off the coast of Similan Island Koh Ha lays a Chinese fishing boat. As I float in these turquise waters I think about its story...
The whole trip is one of exploration and excitement - a liveaboard through the most famous dive sites in Thailand. We are headed off diving aboard the Similan liveaboard "Parinee" to get a taste of real diving.
A liveaboard is exactly what it says it is - a boat that you live in and dive from. For many years they were the preserve of hardened divers looking for challenges in very remote locations, but a few years ago liveaboards started catering to divers who were more interested in the serenity of the reefs and observing the marine life without the hassle of returning to shore each day.
We are guided by Tuk, a Thai diving instructor who has been working the Similan's for a few years. He is very into his fish (as are all the staff), but his passion lies in the smaller critters that we had never even noticed before. These stunning Islands are barely accessible to the day boats serving Khao Lak and Phuket. To experience the highlights of the area, and escape congestion on some of the sites - a growing number of recreational divers are choosing to do their diving from a liveaboard.
Dive operators were quick to spot the potential of these divers who were short on experience but eager to taste a new experience. There are now some boats that are super-luxurious, some are very budget and - in the case of our trip - even an ecologically friendly boat.
Many liveaboard virgins are worried about boredom when not diving but with up to four dives a day available, most divers are happy to relax on the sundeck between dives and catch some rays. In my time aboard the Pairnee, I struggled to read one book, write in my journal or even fill out my dive log. I did manage to log some great dives, sleep a lot, make some great new friends and eat some incredible Thai food, though.
A dive guide can make or break any liveaboard trip. The team on the boat was made up of Tuk (Thai), Ricky (Irish), Therese (Swedish) and Filip (Belgian). They more than made the trip - giving in-depth and entertaining briefings, organizing card games and charades after dinner and giving insight into the whole region and dynamic ecosystems.
At 80 feet, the Similan liveaboard was big enough to give divers the chance to spread out and it felt very stable, even in choppy seas.
While no one expected 5 star luxury - there was plenty to make the trip all the more comfortable. Cabins were air-conditioned, the showers were hot and the food was amazing. There were only 11 guests on the trip (maximum 12) and no dive group was bigger than 4 per guide. They supplied towels and sheets (organic cotton!) as well as the shampoo, soap and conditioner (all biodegradeable). I even won a shirt during charades!
On this trip we also had a videographer - Steff (English) - who did a small lecture on fish and marine life in the area. Using the video footage from each day he helped us recognize and understand a lot more about what we were seeing.
"We find that many of our guests are joining us for the first liveaboard experience." said operations manager Marcel Bruijs.
"The all-inclusive trips, the convenience to Khao Lak and Phuket and our ecologically friendly operation have opened up diving and liveaboards to a whole new class of divers. We now offer tours focused on education and conservation rather than Technical diving or remote locations"
That Chinese fishing boat? It turns out that it was illegally fishing in Thai waters and the government confiscated it. After some cajoling from local dive shops, the dangerous and damaging parts (fluids, lead based paint) were removed and she was sunk 3 years ago. Looking up from the depths as the schools of fish swimming past - I can't help but thank the park rangers for sinking this boat!
Included: Meals, coffee, tea, tanks, weights, guide service, transfers in the area, linens and even secure luggage storage
Life on board When not diving guests can lounge about on the sun deck, watch videos on the large flat-screen TV or kick back in one of the hammocks
Sleep tight? The cabins are not huge - but comfy. Air-conditioned, with comfy sheets and blankets. Each cabin has two bunk-style beds.
Food and drink All meals, snacks, coffee and tea are included. Beers and wine are on sale at a reasonable charge. The food was excellent throughout the trip and special dietary requirements are well catered for.
Service? Attentive and friendly Thai crew and a superb dive guide.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Last Minute Diving Special - Similan Islands
From Wicked Diving, Khao Lak Thailand:
Here at Wicked Diving we are always on the lookout for special offers to give you - our guests.
Today we were given the opportunity to share this great value trip!
Here at Wicked Diving we are always on the lookout for special offers to give you - our guests.
Today we were given the opportunity to share this great value trip!
Trip Departs: Tuesday 20th October 2009
Trip Returns: Saturday 24th October 2009
Duration: 4 days & 4 nights
Destination: Similan Islands, Koh Bon, Koh Tachai, Richelieu Rock, Surin Islands and Bonsoong Wreck
Dives: 14
Standard Quad share cabin: Normal Price = 29,000 Baht per diver. 20% DISCOUNT = 23,200 Baht per diver. (4 spaces available)
Standard Triple share cabin: Normal Price = 30,500 Baht per diver. 20% DISCOUNT = 24,400 Baht per diver. (3 spaces available)
Standard Twin share cabin: Normal Price = 32,000 baht per diver. 20% DISCOUNT = 25,600 Baht per diver (1 space sharing with male diver)
VIP Twin share cabin: Normal Price = 37,000 Baht per diver. 20% DISCOUNT = 29,600 Baht per diver. (2 cabins/4 spaces available)
VIP Double bed cabin: Normal Price = 37,000 Baht per diver. 20% DISCOUNT = 29,600 Baht per diver (1 cabin available).
If you would like to know more - contact us
The MV Queen Scuba is a 28m (92ft) vessel completed in 2003. She was built to be one of the more comfortable boats plying the Andaman Sea, and she has succeeded in that goal. One of the best things about this boat is the fact that she can take up to 21 guests--so those of you who like to travel in a fairly large group have other options now.
The boat is undergoing a slight redesign at this time, after one-year of operating in the Similan Islands and Richelieu Rock. She has one master cabin and five "VIP" or deluxe cabins. These cabins offer double-bed accommodation for you traveling couples out there. She also has three cabins with single beds down below; two of them are for two people, and one is a triple. The cabins are priced according to comfort level-lower for the below deck cabins, slightly higher for the VIP cabins, and highest for the master. The highest comfort comes with a price as on most boats.
The Master cabin is the nicest room on the boat, of course, and the owner's claim the nicest in all of Southeast Asia. That's pretty tall claim, but the fact of the matter is that you can't get much better as far as comfort goes. First come, first served! This cabin has a large king-sized bed, a large well-appointed ensuite bathroom with hot water, a DVD entertainment system with movies, a complimentary fruit basket, air conditioning, and panoramic ocean views.
The five VIP cabins all have a large double bed, a large ensuite bathroom with hot water, air conditioning, a complimentary fruit basket, and ocean views.
For you single gentlemen or ladies, the standard cabins are located below deck, but are still light and airy. They also feature ensuite facilities with hot water and air conditioning. One of the cabins take two persons, one of them takes three guests, and one of them takes four guests (perfect for a family). She takes a total of 21 persons on board.
If you would like to know more - contact us
The interior saloon is large enough to seat everyone on the boat, including crew, and features a DVD entertainment system and comfortable benches and low tables to sit and enjoy a drink. Most meals are served in the covered deck area just to the rear of the saloon. She has wooden tables and comfortable chairs where you'll enjoy your meal with three other guests. Meals are served buffet style, with fresh breads, fruit, and wonderful Thai and Western dishes served up by the fabulous chef.
Dive deck and gear area
Going down the stairs from the top deck you'll be on the cabin deck and this is where most of your time will be spent--gearing up for diving, the reason we're here. The dive deck is spacious and well designed. No moving tanks around, all tanks are filled at their stations or the crew will handle the lifting. Put your gear together and forget about it. Two dinghies will transfer you to the dive sites, or we'll jump off the mother ship. All pick-ups are done from the dinghies for your convenience. Since many of the dives are drift dives, this system is pretty common practice around here.
Divemaster or instructor staff on the boat do dive briefings. They are thorough and interesting, and will help you to have more fun underwater and to help you understand what you're seeing. All dives are guided if you choose; there is always a divemaster available for you if you want one. If you don't, that's OK too, just dive with a buddy. If you are traveling alone, we'll hook you up with a buddy.
If you would like to know more - contact us
The Queen Scuba realizes that Nitrox is the future of diving, here today, so full Enriched Air or Nitrox services are offered on board. And, for those of you not yet Nitrox certified, we offer these courses for your convenience. There are many options from a two-dive full certification in Nitrox to introductory dives for those not sure if they will like it or not. Of course there is plenty of normal air available as well.
If you would like to know more - contact us
The boat is outfitted with the latest in electronic marine equipment including GPS and radar for safety and ease of navigation. We have VHF radios, and mobile telephone communications equipment.
The Queen Scuba will be doing the standard four-day/ four-night trips, visiting all the best sites in Thailand's Andaman Sea. She will dive in the nine fabulous Similan Islands, as well as Ko Bon, Ko Tachai, and Richelieu Rock.
The Queen Scuba does 4-day and 4-night trips from October - May every year. These trips visit Similan, Koh Bon, Tachai and Richelieu Rock. These trips will depart from, and return to Thap Lamu pier, 10kms south of Khao Lak.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Beginners' Guide to Liveaboard diving
Our first liveaboard - a real diving liveaboard experience
Laying at the bottom of a reef off the coast of Similan Island Koh Ha lays a Chinese fishing boat. As I float in these turquise waters I think about it's story...
The whole trip is one of exploration and excitement - a liveaboard through the most famous dive sites in Thailand. We are headed off in in Wicked Diving's Similan liveaboard Parinee to get a taste of real diving.
A liveaboard is exactly what it says it is – a boat that you live in and dive from. For many years they were the preserve of hardened divers looking for challenges in very remote locations, but a few years ago liveaboards started catering to divers who were more interested in the serenity of the reefs and observing the marine life without the hassle of returning to shore each day.
We are are guided by Tuk, a Thai diving instructor who has been working the Similan's for a few years. He is very into his fish (as are all the staff), but his passion lies in the smaller critters that we had never even noticed before.
These stunning Islands are barely accessible to the day boats serving Khao Lak and Phuket. To experience the highlights of the area, and escape congestion on some of the sites - a growing number of recreational divers are choosing to do their diving from a liveaboard.
Dive operators were quick to spot the potential of these divers who were short on experience but eager to taste a new experience. There are now some boats that are super-luxurious, some are very budget and - in the case of our trip - even an ecologically friendly boat.
Many liveaboard virgins are worried about boredom when not diving but with up to four dives a day available, most divers are happy to relax on the sundeck between dives and catch some rays.
In my time aboard the Pairnee, I struggled to read one book, write in my journal or even fill out my dive log. I did manage to log some great dives, sleep a lot, make some great new friends and eat some incredible Thai food, though.
At 80 feet, the boat was big enough to give divers the chance to spread out and it felt very stable, even in choppy seas.
A dive guide can make or break any liveaboard trip. The team on the boat was made up of Tuk (Thai), Ricky (Irish), Therese (Swedish) and Filip (Belgian). They more than made the trip - giving in-depth and entertaining briefings, organizing card games and charades after dinner and giving insight into the whole region and dynamic ecosystems.
While no one expected 5 star luxury - there was plenty to make the trip all the more comfortable. Cabins were air-conditioned, the showers were hot and the food was amazing. There were only 11 guests on the trip (maximum 12) and no dive group was bigger than 4 per guide. They supplied towels and sheets (organic cotton!) as well as the shampoo, soap and conditioner (all biodegradeable). I even won a shirt during charades!
On this trip we also had a videographer - Steff (English) - who did a small lecture on fish and marine life in the area. Using the video footage from each day he helped us recognize and understand a lot more about what we were seeing.
“We find that many of our guests are joining us for the first liveaboard experience.” said Wicked Diving's Operations manager Marcel Bruijs.
“The all-inclusive trips, the convenience to Khao Lak and Phuket and our ecologically friendly operation have opened up diving and liveaboards to a whole new class of divers”
That Chinese fishing boat? It turns out that it was illegally fishing in Thai waters and the government confiscated it. After some cajoling from local dive shops, the dangerous and damaging parts (fluids, lead based paint) were removed and she was sunk 3 years ago. Looking up from the depths as the schools of fish swimming past - I can't help but thank the park rangers for sinking this boat!
I
ncluded:
Meals, coffee, tea, tanks, weights, guide service, transfers in the area, linens and even secure luggage storage
Life on board
When not diving guests can lounge about on the sun deck, watch videos on the large flat-screen TV or kick back in one of the hammocks
Sleep tight?
The cabins are not huge - but comfy. Air-conditioned, with comfy sheets and blankets. Each cabin has two bunk-style beds.
Food and drink
All meals, snacks, coffee and tea are included. Beers and wine are on sale at a reasonable charge. The food was excellent throughout the trip and special dietary requirements are well catered for.
Service?
Attentive and friendly Thai crew and a superb dive guide.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Similan Liveaboard Open Water Course
There are many different ways to learn to scuba 
dive. An instructor teaches someone in a pool. Others jump off a speedboat and some are lucky enough to do their course on a liveaboard. In Thailand the best bang for you Baht is on a liveaboard - more dives and more experience while cruising through paradise.
dive. An instructor teaches someone in a pool. Others jump off a speedboat and some are lucky enough to do their course on a liveaboard. In Thailand the best bang for you Baht is on a liveaboard - more dives and more experience while cruising through paradise.The Similan Islands are home to Thailand's most famous dive sites and are often listed as among the 10 best dive sites in the world. Conveniently located to Khao Lak and the nearby Phuket airport - the diving is very accessible. With the option of Speedboats or liveaboards - many beginning divers chose to do their Similan Liveaboard Open Water course on a 3 day journey through the uninhabited islands. These trips offer the guests their own cabins, meals and many different dive sites.
The calm clear waters, the relaxed atmosphere and the skilled instructors will all contribute to the success of the experience. This is important as SCUBA diving is a lifetime passion - not just a whim.
The courses are easy to take and only require a bit of your time. Much of the academic work can now be completed online (and for free) before you even arrive in Thailand. You can spend your vacation time in the water or on the beaches - no the classroom.
The first day is spent in the pool or on the beach simply getting used to the new equipment and incredible sensation of floating weightless! It's fun and thrilling to realize that gravity no longer exists - it also takes a bit of practice. Diving also requires a few new skills that you are unlikely to have learned before. Your Instructor will go through all the basic skills that will be demonstrated and practiced in the pool. Then you have the opportunity to practice them too!
In the pool or off the beach - the instructor will settle down in front of the student so that they can see all that she is demonstrating. After some breathing exercises and regulator recovery at the surface the instructor will get all the divers to kneel on the bottom of the pool breathing and getting used to being underwater. The instructor, followed by the student will complete each of the skills. The students need to complete mask clearing, regulator recovery and some basic buoyancy control skills. These basic skills are required to ensure the safety of the divers, as well as giving them confidence to truly enjoy the open water. The instructor and student will then swim around at the bottom of the pool getting comfortable with the equipment and used to the feeling of weightlessness and breathing underwater.
Once these basic skills are done and everyone feels comfortable - it's time to head off on an amazing journey through the Similan Islands. The student has the opportunity to do 9 dives with their instructor - gaining more confidence and feeling more and more at ease under the sea.
After the first couple of dives the underwater world will really open up. Passing turtles make the reefs an incredible opportunity to slow down and enjoy the marine life. That shadow over the students head? A Manta Ray - something that brings chills to even the most experienced diver. The chance to glide over the rainbow colored corals and the hundreds of species of reef fish make this a memory of a lifetime.
After the student has completed their first open water scuba dive - they surface with big smiles on their faces. The instructor will debrief them and explain how they may improve their diving knowledge and skills by doing a full certification open water scuba diver course. Only 8 more dives to go!
This is by far the best way to learn to scuba dive.
If you would like to make this story come true...simply join our Similan Liveaboard Open Water course
Friday, September 18, 2009
learning to dive: choosing a dive center with small groups
The maximum group size for a diving course.
When you are looking for diving courses around Thailand, you see that prices differ from place to place and sometimes even in the same place. This has to do with many factors, travel time to the dive sites, quality of equipment, service, safety equipment, park fees, operation costs, quality of staff etc. One of the most important factors in this is the group size of the course. Why waste your vacation to Similan Islands diving in the middle of a huge crowd?
There are places in Thailand where you can get a very good deal on courses, but you might end up in a big group of students, spending most of the time watching your buddies doing skills under water. The maximum number of students per instructor that the dive organizations allow during underwater training is 8. It is possible to increase that number to 10 or even 12 when 1 or 2 divemasters assist on the course. Big groups of course means low prices, but these "factory dive schools" often pump out as many students as possible in a very short time. This has a few disadvantages:
First of all, when you take a dive course, you want plenty of time to practice new exercises until you are comfortable with them. In big groups, you often end up doing an exercise once and that's it. As there are 7 more people to do the skill there is no time for repetition. In the worst case, the instructor might even skip certain skills to speed up the course. This is completely against the standards set by the diving industry.
Second, you wont get too much attention from your instructor, as he/she is not an octopus and has to keep an eye on a lot of people. This is fine if you don't have any problems, but it can get a bit messy, or even unsafe, if you and some other people need help from the instructor.Also, with big groups you often end up spending a lot of time on the skill part of the dive, which leaves only a bit of time left for the actual dive. And that's actually the best part of the course!
With big groups, there is not much time to spend with students who take a bit longer or need a bit more time to get comfortable under water. This leads to people being stressed. They might even drop out of the course, when with a bit more time and a calmer pace, they might have been able to get more comfortable and finish the course.
All in all at Wicked Diving we think that the maximum group size for a course is 4 people. This way the students get plenty of attention from the instructor and a lot of time under water to enjoy the beauty of the Similan Islands. We like a relaxed pace and if we need to spend some more time in the pool, classroom or in the sea, we just schedule an session. This leaves the instructors in control and guarantees a safe and relaxed course in which you will have plenty of time to ask questions, repeat and practice your skills and get maximum time diving some the best dive sites in Thailand.
Similan Diving
Monday, September 14, 2009
Open Water Course on a Liveaboard in Thailand
There are many different ways to learn to scuba dive. AN instructor teaches someone in a pool. Others jump off a speedboat and some are lucky enough to do their course on a liveaboard. In Thailand the best bang for you Baht is on a liveaboard - more dives and more experience while cruising through paradise.
The Similan Islands are home to Thailand's most famous dive sites and are often listed as among the 10 best dive sites in the world. Conveniently located to Khao Lak and the nearby Phuket airport - the diving is very accessible. With the option of Speedboats or liveaboards - many beginning divers chose to do their Similan Liveaboard Open Water course on a 3 day journey through the uninhabited islands. These trips offer the guests their own cabins, meals and many different dive sites.
The calm clear waters, the relaxed atmosphere and the skilled instructors will all contribute to the success of the experience. This is important as SCUBA diving is a lifetime passion - not just a whim.
The courses are easy to take and only require a bit of your time. Much of the academic work can now be completed online (and for free) before you even arrive in Thailand. You can spend your vacation time in the water or on the beaches - no the classroom.
The first day is spent in the pool or on the beach simply getting used to the new equipment and incredible sensation of floating weightless! It's fun and thrilling to realize that gravity no longer exists - it also takes a bit of practice. Diving also requires a few new skills that you are unlikely to have learned before. Your Instructor will go through all the basic skills that will be demonstrated and practiced in the pool. Then you have the opportunity to practice them too!
In the pool or off the beach - the instructor will settle down in front of the student so that they can see all that she is demonstrating. After some breathing exercises and regulator recovery at the surface the instructor will get all the divers to kneel on the bottom of the pool breathing and getting used to being underwater. The instructor, followed by the student will complete each of the skills. The students need to complete mask clearing, regulator recovery and some basic buoyancy control skills. These basic skills are required to ensure the safety of the divers, as well as giving them confidence to truly enjoy the open water. The instructor and student will then swim around at the bottom of the pool getting comfortable with the equipment and used to the feeling of weightlessness and breathing underwater.
Once these basic skills are done and everyone feels comfortable - it's time to head off on an amazing journey through the Similan Islands. The student has the opportunity to do 9 dives with their instructor - gaining more confidence and feeling more and more at ease under the sea.
After the first couple of dives the underwater world will really open up. Passing turtles make the reefs an incredible opportunity to slow down and enjoy the marine life. That shadow over the students head? A Manta Ray - something that brings chills to even the most experienced diver. The chance to glide over the rainbow colored corals and the hundreds of species of reef fish make this a memory of a lifetime.
After the student has completed their first open water scuba dive - they surface with big smiles on their faces. The instructor will debrief them and explain how they may improve their diving knowledge and skills by doing a full certification open water scuba diver course. Only 8 more dives to go!
This is by far the best way to learn to scuba dive.
If you would like to make this story come true...simply join our Similan Liveaboard Open Water course
Friday, September 4, 2009
When is The best Time to Dive the Similan Islands in Thailand?
The Similan Islands are renowned as home to the best diving in Thailand. Great dive sites with sloping reefs, deep boulder sites and virtually untouched pinnacles abound. However the weather plays a much bigger factor in the diving there than almost anywhere else in Thailand.
The factors that make the Similan Islands such a pleasure to dive also make them off-limits for 5 months of the year. The deep ocean currents in the Indian Ocean can bring in nutrient rich waters – as well as the monsoons! While the Similan Islands have great diving almost year-round, the monsoons make them unsafe to visit from May to October of each eyar.
The Government of Thailand takes this into account by making all visits to the islands off-limits – and illegal – from May 15th to November 1st. There are some nefarious operators who will offer trips during this time frame – but they are not only breaking the law – but also risking YOUR life. It is unwise to take them up on these offers.
From November to May the Similan Islands are open to diving. As the whole Similan Islands National Park lies just shy of the continental Shelf, the coral is well-fed from the nutrient waters. In addition the Islands are far enough off-shore to avoid the pollution and damage from the mass tourism of Phuket.
The very best time to dive the Similan Islands is in February and March. There are virtually no winds, the seas can be like a mirror and many of the large pelagics (Manta Rays, Whale Sharks and others) are playing in the local waters.
If you do plan on visiting – please book early. The Similan Liveaboards, for which the region is famous are often sold out (or at least the popular and safe ones – be very wary of “Last Minute Specials”). Daytrips to the Similan Islands, Koh Bon and also Richelieu Rock depart from Khao Lak each day. Leaving by speedboat, the Similan National Park is only 1 hour away. However, Phuket is still 120 km south, so one day trips are not feasible or sensible.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Open Water Course on a Similan Liveaboard - perfection!
There are many different ways to learn to scuba dive. An instructor teaches someone in a pool. Others jump off a speedboat and some are lucky enough to do their course on a liveaboard. In Thailand the best bang for you Baht is on a liveaboard - more dives and more experience while cruising through paradise.
dive. An instructor teaches someone in a pool. Others jump off a speedboat and some are lucky enough to do their course on a liveaboard. In Thailand the best bang for you Baht is on a liveaboard - more dives and more experience while cruising through paradise.The Similan Islands are home to Thailand's most famous dive sites and are often listed as among the 10 best dive sites in the world. Conveniently located to Khao Lak and the nearby Phuket airport - the diving is very accessible. With the option of Speedboats or liveaboards - many beginning divers chose to do their Similan Liveaboard Open Water course on a 3 day journey through the uninhabited islands. These trips offer the guests their own cabins, meals and many different dive sites.
The calm clear waters, the relaxed atmosphere and the skilled instructors will all contribute to the success of the experience. This is important as SCUBA diving is a lifetime passion - not just a whim.
The courses are easy to take and only require a bit of your time. Much of the academic work can now be completed online (and for free) before you even arrive in Thailand. You can spend your vacation time in the water or on the beaches - no the classroom.
The first day is spent in the pool or on the beach simply getting used to the new equipment and incredible sensation of floating weightless! It's fun and thrilling to realize that gravity no longer exists - it also takes a bit of practice. Diving also requires a few new skills that you are unlikely to have learned before. Your Instructor will go through all the basic skills that will be demonstrated and practiced in the pool. Then you have the opportunity to practice them too!
In the pool or off the beach - the instructor will settle down in front of the student so that they can see all that she is demonstrating. After some breathing exercises and regulator recovery at the surface the instructor will get all the divers to kneel on the bottom of the pool breathing and getting used to being underwater. The instructor, followed by the student will complete each of the skills. The students need to complete mask clearing, regulator recovery and some basic buoyancy control skills. These basic skills are required to ensure the safety of the divers, as well as giving them confidence to truly enjoy the open water. The instructor and student will then swim around at the bottom of the pool getting comfortable with the equipment and used to the feeling of weightlessness and breathing underwater.
Once these basic skills are done and everyone feels comfortable - it's time to head off on an amazing journey through the Similan Islands. The student has the opportunity to do 9 dives with their instructor - gaining more confidence and feeling more and more at ease under the sea.
After the first couple of dives the underwater world will really open up. Passing turtles make the reefs an incredible opportunity to slow down and enjoy the marine life. That shadow over the students head? A Manta Ray - something that brings chills to even the most experienced diver. The chance to glide over the rainbow colored corals and the hundreds of species of reef fish make this a memory of a lifetime.
After the student has completed their first open water scuba dive - they surface with big smiles on their faces. The instructor will debrief them and explain how they may improve their diving knowledge and skills by doing a full certification open water scuba diver course. Only 8 more dives to go!
This is by far the best way to learn to scuba dive.
If you would like to make this story come true...simply join our Similan Liveaboard Open Water course
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Advice on enjoying your time in Thailand
Thailand is Amazing, but These Tips Can Help You Enjoy it Even More
Thailand is a fascinating country, full of amazing things to do and see. But, if you want to have the best vacation possible, there are things you can do to make sure that happens. I’ve been living in Thailand for 4 years and have come up with a list of, what I think are the Top 10 things
to do to make sure your holiday is perfect.The Surin Islands are a great chain of islands
-Khao Lak Diving
Thailand is a fascinating country, full of amazing things to do and see. But, if you want to have the best vacation possible, there are things you can do to make sure that happens. I’ve been living in Thailand for 4 years and have come up with a list of, what I think are the Top 10 things
to do to make sure your holiday is perfect.The Surin Islands are a great chain of islands
1.Get a tourist visa at your local Thai embassy or consulate. Until last year, it was easy to come to Thailand as a tourist and, by doing visa runs every month (going over the border into Cambodia or Laos then coming right back to Thailand again), you could stay here as long as you wanted.The Thai government have now clamped down on too many visa runs, so it’s best to get a 60-day tourist visa at a Thai embassy in your own country. This can then be extended for an additional 30 days at an Immigration office in Thailand, giving you 90 days before you have to leave the country.
2. Learn a little Thai before you get here. Thai is a language that really nobody else speaks except the Thais, and there are only 60 million of them. So if you come to Thailand and can speak some Thai, you will find your experience is even more enjoyable, as the locals love anyone who even attempts to speak their language. “Sawatdee kha” Hello and Goodbye, (or Sawatdee krap, if you’re a man), “Kop Khun kha/krap” Thank you, “Tow rai kha/krap?” How much is that? – all will get you a smile and a nod and usually a cheaper price!
For those of you who are even more adventurous, sign up for a Thai language class at a local Thai temple in your country before you come, or check out Learning Thai for more in-depth Thai language lessons online for free! Khao Lak Liveaboards are a great way to enjoy diving
3.Don’t bring much cash with you. Not only is it safer to not carry around huge wads of cash (although I’ve never had a problem with pickpockets in Thailand), you will also find you’ll get a better exchange rate if you pull money through to Thailand from your bank account with your ATM card. All the money changers and the banks charge a fee and give you a lower exchange rate. Most banks in the US and Europe have low fees or no fees for withdrawing money via an ATM.
4. Bring lightweight clothing. Thailand is one of the hottest countries in the world. It is hot all year-round. Light-weight pants, long shorts, skirts, t shirts and cotton tops are preferable in this climate. Bring one dressier outfit for if you go to a more expensive restaurant or nightclub, but any other clothing you might need can be purchased here for as little as $2. The quality is great too.
5. If you’re coming to Bangkok, don’t stay on Khao San Road. Khao San Road is the backpacker area of Bangkok. It’s full of flea-ridden guest houses and dodgy Westerners. The Thais look down on people who stay on Khao San Road and, honestly, with good reason sometimes. Pay a few extra dollars and stay at a guest house off Sukhumvit or in northern Bangkok near the sky train. They’ll be cleaner, better taken care of, and you won’t have to experience the 24-hour noise of Khao San Road or the disdain of the Thais. Better yet, pay a bit more and stay in a nice hotel. Still cheap by Western standards and with very good accommodation and customer service.
6. Take advantage of all modes of transportation in Thailand. In Bangkok, we have the sky train, the underground train, taxis, tuk-tuks, a great bus system, boats going up and down the Chao Praya river, and even motorcycle taxis. Try to experience all of them while you’re here, as they’re all part of Thai life. They’re all also reliable and inexpensive.
My favorite is the boat system on the canals and on the Chao Praya River. You really get to experience the local culture when you’re crammed on a boat with 200 other people, and you see parts of Bangkok you would never see otherwise.
7. Speak to the Thais. Thais love to talk to foreigners, yet I see many foreign tourists here who make little or no effort to speak to them. Most people will know a few words of English and, even if they don’t, they will smile and try to speak to you with sign language. Funnily enough, it’s easily understandable and will really make your holiday. I’ve never understood those people who go back home saying “We had a great holiday in Thailand”, yet they barely interacted with any Thai people while they were here.
8.Eat local food at the food stalls. Some of the best food in Thailand is at the food stalls. It’s cooked fresh while you watch, the variety of food is endless, and it’s cheap. You will also experience the ‘real Thai culture’ as you sit at the side of the road and watch the traffic and people walk by. In certain areas of Thailand, you’ll also even see the elephants walking by!
If you’re not sure what to eat, check out my article on Street Stall Food in Thailand. I guarantee, if you try the food you will love it.
9. Get out of Bangkok and hit the beaches, the mountains or the jungle. Thailand has some of the best beaches in the world. Cities like Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Kanchanaburi and Ayutthaya also have mountains, jungle, historical temples, traditional Thai cultural events, night markets and more.
The best way to travel to most of Thailand is by bus or train. Public transportation here is very reliable and very cheap. A bus ride to Hua Hin, 3 hours outside Bangkok, is around $5. Taking the train to Kanchanaburi, an hour away and home of the Bridge over the River Kwai, is just over $1. Most of them are air-conditioned, and many of the buses will also come with a bottle of water, a snack and a movie for the price of the bus ticket!
10. Don’t be afraid to try something new. Thailand has things you will never experience at home. Fried bugs, beautiful golden temples, saffron robed monks, tuk-tuks, elephants and monkeys. It also has some of the nicest people in the world, the vast majority of whom would never do you harm.
I have lived here for more than 4 years. I have never had my wallet stolen, I have never felt threatened, I have never been in danger. I’m a single woman who often walks home alone at night without any problems. A feat I wouldn’t consider attempting in my old hometown of Los Angeles.
Try anything and everything that is offered to you. From weird food and drink and strangers suddenly holding your hand to help you cross the street, to a quick ride on a motorcycle taxi zipping through traffic on a Bangkok street – it’s all exotic and interesting. You’ll discover that Thais are wonderful, that eating a fried bamboo worm isn’t going to kill you, you won’t die from 10 minutes in a tuk-tuk on a polluted Bangkok street, and you’ll go home having had the best holiday of your life.
Follow the tips I’ve laid out for you and, I’ll guarantee, when you get home, you’ll already be thinking about booking your next trip to Thailand.
-Khao Lak Diving
Friday, August 14, 2009
Long-stay visas for thailand - free!!!
Get a fee-free Thailand visa until 2010
In an effort to help encourage Thailand’s travel and tourism industry, the Royal Thai Government has agreed to extend the exemption of the Thailand visa fee for tourist visa applications until 4 March 2010.
The exemption will apply to all applicants for a Thailand visa on arrival at all international airports in Thailand as well as those applying at Thai embassies and consulates abroad for stays longer than the period for which they are normally eligible.
Thailand currently gives a Visa on Arrival for citizens of 20 countries for a stay not exceeding 15 days. Citizens of another 42 countries are allowed a visa-free stay in Thailand not over 30 days.
Visitors who wish to stay longer than those periods have to apply for Thailand visas at the Thai embassies or diplomatic missions abroad before their arrival in the country.
The extension is one of several measures taken by the Thailand tourism industry to invigorate itself after a number of global and local events that have led to a temporary drop in visitor arrivals.
TAT Chairman, Mr. Weerasak Kowsurat says, “As a result of the global economic downturn, the worldwide travel and tourism sector has declined as people have become more cautious about spending on leisure and business travel. Hence, the government has implemented many measures to enhance Thailand’s competitive advantage and strengthen our country’s unique qualities.”
This offers a great opportunity to sign up for a 60 or 90 day visa. Stay in Thailand longer, do a Similan Liveaboard or even consider doing your Instructor Training!
In an effort to help encourage Thailand’s travel and tourism industry, the Royal Thai Government has agreed to extend the exemption of the Thailand visa fee for tourist visa applications until 4 March 2010.
The exemption will apply to all applicants for a Thailand visa on arrival at all international airports in Thailand as well as those applying at Thai embassies and consulates abroad for stays longer than the period for which they are normally eligible.
Thailand currently gives a Visa on Arrival for citizens of 20 countries for a stay not exceeding 15 days. Citizens of another 42 countries are allowed a visa-free stay in Thailand not over 30 days.
Visitors who wish to stay longer than those periods have to apply for Thailand visas at the Thai embassies or diplomatic missions abroad before their arrival in the country.
The extension is one of several measures taken by the Thailand tourism industry to invigorate itself after a number of global and local events that have led to a temporary drop in visitor arrivals.
TAT Chairman, Mr. Weerasak Kowsurat says, “As a result of the global economic downturn, the worldwide travel and tourism sector has declined as people have become more cautious about spending on leisure and business travel. Hence, the government has implemented many measures to enhance Thailand’s competitive advantage and strengthen our country’s unique qualities.”
This offers a great opportunity to sign up for a 60 or 90 day visa. Stay in Thailand longer, do a Similan Liveaboard or even consider doing your Instructor Training!
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Can I dive with Diabetes?
Table 1: Guidelines for Recreational Diving with Diabetes - Summary Form
Selection and Surveillance
– values >9% indicate the need for further evaluation and possible modification of therapy – in consultation with an expert in diving medicine, as required – after initial evaluation, periodic surveillance for silent ischemia can be in accordance with accepted local/national guidelines for the evaluation of diabetics Scope of Diving Diving should be planned to avoid: Glucose Management on the Day of Diving Delay dive if BG is: Rescue medications |
Thanks to Safe Diving for this!
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Thailand - Free long stay Visas until 2010
Get a fee-free Thailand visa until 2010
In an effort to help encourage Thailand’s travel and tourism industry, the Royal Thai Government has agreed to extend the exemption of the Thailand visa fee for tourist visa applications until 4 March 2010.
The exemption will apply to all applicants for a Thailand visa on arrival at all international airports in Thailand as well as those applying at Thai embassies and consulates abroad for stays longer than the period for which they are normally eligible.
Thailand currently gives a Visa on Arrival for citizens of 20 countries for a stay not exceeding 15 days. Citizens of another 42 countries are allowed a visa-free stay in Thailand not over 30 days.
Visitors who wish to stay longer than those periods have to apply for Thailand visas at the Thai embassies or diplomatic missions abroad before their arrival in the country.
The extension is one of several measures taken by the Thailand tourism industry to invigorate itself after a number of global and local events that have led to a temporary drop in visitor arrivals.
TAT Chairman, Mr. Weerasak Kowsurat says, “As a result of the global economic downturn, the worldwide travel and tourism sector has declined as people have become more cautious about spending on leisure and business travel. Hence, the government has implemented many measures to enhance Thailand’s competitive advantage and strengthen our country’s unique qualities.”
This offers a great opportunity to sign up for a 60 or 90 day visa. Stay in Thailand longer, do a Similan Liveaboard or even consider doing your Instructor Training!
In an effort to help encourage Thailand’s travel and tourism industry, the Royal Thai Government has agreed to extend the exemption of the Thailand visa fee for tourist visa applications until 4 March 2010.
The exemption will apply to all applicants for a Thailand visa on arrival at all international airports in Thailand as well as those applying at Thai embassies and consulates abroad for stays longer than the period for which they are normally eligible.
Thailand currently gives a Visa on Arrival for citizens of 20 countries for a stay not exceeding 15 days. Citizens of another 42 countries are allowed a visa-free stay in Thailand not over 30 days.
Visitors who wish to stay longer than those periods have to apply for Thailand visas at the Thai embassies or diplomatic missions abroad before their arrival in the country.
The extension is one of several measures taken by the Thailand tourism industry to invigorate itself after a number of global and local events that have led to a temporary drop in visitor arrivals.
TAT Chairman, Mr. Weerasak Kowsurat says, “As a result of the global economic downturn, the worldwide travel and tourism sector has declined as people have become more cautious about spending on leisure and business travel. Hence, the government has implemented many measures to enhance Thailand’s competitive advantage and strengthen our country’s unique qualities.”
This offers a great opportunity to sign up for a 60 or 90 day visa. Stay in Thailand longer, do a Similan Liveaboard or even consider doing your Instructor Training!
Friday, June 26, 2009
Shark Fin soup - less demand!!!
Singaporean groom Han Songguang took his campaign to stop consumption of one of Asia's top delicacies to a new level when he placed postcards of a dead shark on each guest's seat at his own wedding banquet.
Instead of shark's fin soup, a must at many ethnic Chinese wedding banquets, Han offered his guests lobster soup.
"If we can do our part to save X number of sharks ... why not?" said Han, a geography teacher, who married a diving enthusiast in December.
Wildlife conservationists, who have long railed against the popularity of shark fin soup, are finally seeing signs that consumption is dropping as young Asians become aware of the environmental impact of this much-prized dish.
Added to that is the global financial crisis, which is causing Asians to tighten their belts and either cut down on visits to restaurants or order more frugally from menus.
A symbol of wealth and status in Chinese culture, shark fin soup has long been an essential part of banquet celebrations for weddings and to welcome the Lunar New Year.
Until recently, only the rich could afford the soup. But demand has soared in recent years, hand-in-hand with rising affluence in East Asia. The quantity of shark fins demanded, around 800,000 metric tonnes a year, has caused a sharp decline in shark numbers. About 20 per cent of all shark species are now endangered.
Wildlife conservationists also decry the killing of sharks through "finning," whereby the fins are cut off and the live shark is tossed back into the sea. Unable to swim properly, the shark suffocates or is killed by predators.
"Today we have incredible access to information. It has become much harder to say, 'I didn't know,' " said Glenn Sant, marine program leader of the British wildlife group Traffic.
He urged young Asians to take a stand and say: " 'It shouldn't be an insult not to put shark fin on our wedding menu.' "
Despite efforts to ban "finning," environmentalists say it is still carried out across the region as fishermen want the valuable fin but don't want to store the rest of the shark, as its flesh fetches low prices at fish markets.
As young Asians such as Han take a stand against shark fin soup, environmentalists hope for a long-term drop in consumption.
Still, there is a robust market of older consumers who demand the soup at auspicious events.
"Students and people in their 20s wouldn't go to a shark eatery, and $15 for a dish is no cheap price," said Joyce Wu, program officer with Traffic.
Indonesia, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand and China, including Hong Kong, are all major shark fin consumers, according to a Traffic report. Trade in shark products was worth $310 million US in 2005, with fins 40 per cent of the total, the report says.
Those numbers are coming down as younger consumers eschew the delicacy of their parents.
Worldwide shark consumption dropped from a peak of 897,000 metric tonnes in 2003 to 758,000 in 2006, according to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization. Fins make up an increasingly small percentage of the total, Traffic says.
Sharks live a long time, said Yvonne Sadovy, a biology professor at the University of Hong Kong. "They have a low reproductive rate. In in other words, they produce just a few young every year or every few years. So you just can't take a lot."
Tastes have changed along with awareness for young Asians. Shang-kuan Liang-chi, a National Taiwan University student who has tried the crunchy jelly-like dish twice at formal events, prefers other food and avoids a shark fin restaurant near campus. "University students never go in there," he said.
Even chefs are hoping to turn the tide. At Singapore's Annual Chefs' Association dinner, shark fin traditionally served at the occasion was taken off the menu.
"It is much harder to stop serving shark's fin in our restaurants, as the consumers still demand it," said Otto Weibel, a food manager at one of Singapore's top hotels. "However, in our personal capacity, we can make a stand."
Global entertainment giant Disney bowed to pressure from animal rights activists and took the delicacy off its menu when it opened Hong Kong Disneyland in 2005.
http://www.canada.com/Technology/story.html?id=1489134
Monday, June 8, 2009
Similan Islands
Similan Islands
Located in Pha-nga province, only 50 km directly west of Khao Lak, the Similan Islands are home to most of Thailand’s most famous diving sites and can lay claim to having one of the best dive sites in Asia. The Similans are a huge scuba diving and snorkeling destination popular with liveaboard diving operators based in Khao Lak. Khao Lak tour operators are also close enough to run day trips by speedboat to this group of spectacular diving sites. None of this picturesque group of nine islands are inhabited - other than by the abundant marine life.
The Similans consist of 9 islands (Sembilan means 9 in Malay language) The islands are famed for their thriving reefs and abundance of delicate coral and variety of exciting marine life. It is possible to see chevron barracuda, giant trevally, manta rays, leopard sharks and rainbow runners. Easily visited by Daytrips from Khao Lak - to really enjoy your time on the islands you should truly visit on a Similan Liveaboard.
Among the most popular sites are Koh Bon and Elephant Head Rock. Both feature dramatic diving and great marine life. Often cited as a national resource - The Similan Islands are being considered as a World Heritage site.
Other popular diving sites in Similans include:
Stonehenge: This is a large towering rock formation with a variety of marine life. Divers can spot barrel sponges, lionfish, gorgonian sea fans, barracuda, wrasse, ghost pipefish and long nose butterfly fish.
Snapper Alley: This site is popular for night dives. Its solid healthy table and sheet provides marine life places to hide and sleep.
Sharkfin Reef: This is a dive site for experienced divers. It is possible to spot clown trigger fish, half-moon trigger fish, bat fish and surgeon fish.
East of Eden: Here is the most spectacular bommie in the Similans and the violet and blue corals can be seen.
Donald Duck Bay: This rock was named after the cartoon character it resembles and it is another great site for marine life where one can also see crabs, octopus and cuttlefish running across the sea bed.
The eastern coast of the Similan Islands with white sandy beaches, feature hard coral gardens which can slope down to 40m. Drift diving is how most diving is done on this coast - as divers use the current to propel them along the vibrantly rich reefs teeming with exotic marine life.
The western coast of the Similan marine park, facing out towards the Andaman Islands and India, offers very dynamic and scenic sites as divers soar through and around massive granite boulders. Dramatic rock formations abound including: overhangs, swim-thrus and canyons. There is an amazing variety of colorful soft corals and enormous sea fans that can span several meters across. There are very few places on earth like this.
The length of Similan Diving safari trips vary from three to five days, often longer if the diving liveaboard includes the Similans as just one stop on the itinerary
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