Scuba Diving in Pattaya Thailand | A Complete Guide
When it comes to Scuba diving in Thailand, it amazes me how little people know about diving in Pattaya, let alone Dive in Pattaya. The Pattaya islands and its scuba diving are still not widely reported upon. Once coined, the Wreck diving capital of Thailand and a long-standing pro dive training ground produced excellent levels of divemaster’s and dive instructors due to its varied conditions. Let’s take a deep dive into Pattaya dive sites and what you can expect when diving Pattaya.
Pattaya Diving Holidays
Pattaya, a coastal holiday city located on the east cost of the Gulf of Thailand. Its location is not typically top of peoples list of dive destinations, while it does offer good diving opportunities.
Pattaya may not be as renowned as other dive destinations in Thailand like Phuket island, the Similans, or Koh Tao. However, the Pattaya islands and near by reefs and wrecks have some unique offerings and should receive more coverage as a choice for dive enthusiasts visiting the Kingdom.
Pattaya DivE Trips
Pattaya offers a variety of day trips to three nearby nearby dive site areas. The Pattaya Near Islands, Far Islands and Samae San Marine Park. These dive trips are appealing to divers of all levels looking for day trip excursions. Popular sites include the Koh Rin, Koh Khrok, Koh Sak to name just a few and the Khram and Hardeep wrecks, just two of seven shipwreck dives available.
Easy Diving Near Bangkok
Pattaya is close to Bangkok, Thailand’s capital city, making it easily accessible for divers who are already in the area and looking for Bangkok scuba diving options or want fast accessibility to dive sites just 1.5 hours from BKK Airport. It can be a convenient option for those looking to do some SCUBA without travelling too far upon landing in Thailand. Pattaya is also only 40mins from a hidden dive gem, the Samae San Islands
Dive Courses in Pattaya
Pattaya has several PADI dive shops and schools teaching try dives and Open water courses up to dive instructor levels, making it a suitable place for beginner divers learning to dive and complete training courses, including Pro dive certifications and advanced courses.
Marine Life In Pattaya
While Pattaya may not offer the same diversity of marine life as some other Thai dive destinations, you can still encounter various species of fish, coral, and other marine creatures. The underwater environment is relatively healthy. The Macro life is very good with plenty of Nudibranch, Seahorse and Shrimp to photograph.
Wreck Diving Pattaya
One of the main attractions for divers in Pattaya is wreck diving. The Hardeep Wreck, The Khram Wreck and the HTMS Kut Wreck are 2 of five popular wreck dive sites. Some are real WWII wrecks whilst others were intentionally sunk to create artificial reefs. Typically an advanced dive certification is required however it is possible to dive the shipwrecks whilst taking the Advanced Course meaning all certified divers can gain access to experience these wrecks and the varied marine life they offer with underwater exploration.
The Vizability
So, What is the water visability like in Pattaya? It’s important to note that Pattaya’s proximity to the extensive coastal development has had some negative impacts on the water quality over the years. Take the good with the bad, the viz and water conditions are still really nice. Its just the visibility can vary, and may not be as pristine clear as in more remote dive island locations in Thailand. The trade off? Spend 4-5 hours travelling to the middle of the Thai gulf Sea will give you crystal clear water. Drop in less than 1hr off coast and expect to 5m to 18m underwater.
Is Diving in Pattaya Bad? No, in fact its pretty good
If you want a great place to visit in Thailand want to go diving in Pattaya with Sea turtles or want to learn to dive or are a serious wreck diver seeking the best underwater shipwreck experiences in Thailand, you should dive in Pattaya. As a training ground and easy access diving it is an exceptional diving experience. You’ll meet lots of marine life from Sea Turtles, Seahorses, Puffer Fish Nudibranch and more! Its a stunning underwater landscapes and the varied conditions will certainly help you grow and learn as a scuba diver. I would say go and experience Pattaya for yourself. It has an allure both on land and below the waves.
Take a Look for Your Self - Underwater Photography From Diving Pattaya
Dive Sites: Where to go Diving In Pattaya
Pattaya Near Islands
The Pattaya Near Islands are a cluster of popular diving and snorkeling sites off the coast of Pattaya, Thailand. These islands, including Koh Larn, Koh Sak, and Koh Krok, offer clear waters, diverse marine life, and vibrant coral reefs, making them a convenient and accessible option for aquatic enthusiasts.
Pattaya Far Islands
The Pattaya Far Islands, situated off the coast of Pattaya, Thailand, are renowned for their exceptional scuba diving experiences. This cluster of islands, including Koh Rin and Koh Man Wichai, boasts crystal-clear waters, diverse marine ecosystems, and thrilling underwater landscapes, making it a favored destination for adventurous divers seeking vibrant aquatic encounters.
Samae San Marine Park
Samae San Islands, located near Pattaya just 40 mins away in Sattahip, Thailand, offer serene, less-visited alternatives to Pattaya’s bustling beaches. Koh Samae San and its neighboring islets provide tranquil, unspoiled environments with pristine waters, ideal for snorkeling and relaxation. These islands are known for their tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty as there are uninhabited and almost exclusively only visited by those on a scuba adventure in Thailand.
Wreck DIving In Pattaya Thailand
The HTMS Kut Wreck
The HTMS Kut, a former Royal Thai Navy vessel, now lies submerged off the coast of Pattaya, Thailand, as a captivating shipwreck dive site.
Sunk intentionally to create an artificial reef in 2006, it has since become a haven for marine life and underwater exploration. Divers are drawn to its eerie yet enchanting atmosphere, exploring the intricate corridors, deck, and marine inhabitants like barracudas, groupers, and colorful corals.
This wreck dive offers a unique blend of WW2 history and marine biodiversity, making it a popular dive destination for wreck divers in Pattaya.
HTMS Mattaphon Wreck
The HTMS Mataphon is a notable shipwreck situated off the coast of Pattaya, at Koh Larn near island.
At only 20m deep it offers a compelling dive experience. Formerly a Royal Thai Navy vessel, it was deliberately sunk in 2014 to create an artificial reef. Divers are drawn to its fascinating underwater world, exploring its sunken structure adorned with colorful corals and inhabited by a variety of marine life, including schools of fish, nudibranch, Seahorse and occasional visits from larger pelagic species.
The HTMS Mataphon wreck provides both recreational and educational opportunities for divers, adding to the appeal of Pattaya’s wreck dive offerings.
HTMS Khram Wreck
The HTMS Khram, a prominent shipwreck in Pattaya, Thailand, is a former Royal Thai Navy vessel submerged intentionally in 2003 to serve as an artificial reef and diving attraction.
This captivating wreck offers a unique underwater adventure, with divers exploring its intricate corridors, decks, engine room and marine inhabitants. Covered in vibrant corals and home to a diverse range of marine life, including snappers, barracudas, nudibranch, shrimp and more, the HTMS Khram provides an immersive and thrilling dive experience.
It’s a must-visit site for wreck diving enthusiasts and those seeking an underwater glimpse into history in the Pattaya region.
The Hardeep Wreck
The Hardeep Wreck, known as the SS Suddhadib, holds a storied past off the coast of Pattaya, Thailand. Sunk in 1945, after bombs rained down from Allied forces. This captivating dive site, adorned with corals and abundant marine life, beckons to explorers seeking both historical insight and underwater adventure. As divers descend into its depths, they discover the remnants of a cargo ship that carries the weight of its wartime history, making the Hardeep Wreck a compelling destination for those intrigued by sunken relics and marine biodiversity in the Pattaya region.
👉 Hardeep Wreck Full Review & Video
PADI Dive Centres in Pattaya
Pattaya boasts a wide array of dive shops and centers offering equipment rental, dive trips, and training courses. PADI (Professional Association Of Dive Instructors) is a global trusted dive brand whose certifications are recognised around the world. You can start with PADI from zero experience with a Discover Scuba Diving Day trip, get Your First Dive License as well as train all the way up to professional divemaster and dive instructor levels in Pattaya.
👉 Where To Stay When Diving Pattaya
Here are some notable PADI dive shops in Pattaya:
Pattaya Dive Centre
Pattaya Dive Centre is a reputable establishment known for experienced instructors, large boats, and first-time dive and snorkel try out day packages.
They are also a PADI Instructor development center who run PADI IDC course services but cater to divers of all levels.
Seafari Dive Center
Seafari Dive Center is one of the longest standing dive centers in Thailand. Seafari provides PADI courses and daily dive trips to Pattaya’s nearby islands and shipwrecks. Their dive packages cater to various preferences.
Pattaya Scuba Adventures
Pattaya Scuba Adventures, a significant PADI dive center, started by instructors who trained in Pattaya some 15 years ago. They offer a comprehensive range of services focusing on going that extra mile in personal service with smaller groups. It’s essential to check out if you’re into Underwater photography and wreck diving for their latest offerings and schedules.
Why Go Scuba Diving In Pattaya Thailand?
Scuba diving in Pattaya may not be as widely celebrated as some of the country’s more renowned dive destinations, but it offers a unique and rewarding underwater experience. This coastal city is the hidden gem of Thai diving, known for specific qualities that make it appealing to divers of various skill levels and interests.
Pattaya excels in wreck diving, boasting 5 shipwreck sites like the HTMS Khram and HTMS Kut, intentionally sunk naval vessels teeming with marine life and history. The World-famous Hardeep Wreck in 40mins down the road. Accessibility is another advantage, as it’s conveniently located near Bangkok, making it a suitable choice for those wanting to get going upon landing. Pattaya also serves as an excellent training ground for divers and Divemaster’s, with numerous 5star PADI dive centers offering the full range of PADI dive courses.
How Much does diving in Pattaya cost?
A Pattaya dive trips typically costs about $100 USD to $150 USD for a full day trip whilst dive course vary from $450 USD upwards depending on the level. This is cheaper than many other dive locations worldwide however read into your selection and see what’s on offer. cheaper doesn’t mean better.
When is the best time to dive in Pattaya?
Oct to Jan are very nice time of year to going scuba diving in Pattaya. June to Aug tend to have some great conditions too as the monsoon rains can bring stunning clear water on a rising tide which are quire surprising.
What is the best dive site in Pattaya?
Koh Rin is the best dive site in Pattaya, arguably Koh Rin has the best visibility and diversity of marine life. However, Koh Man Whichai, Japnese Gardens and Shark Fin Rock are also amazing.
While it may not match the crystal clarity of other locations in Asia it had great biodiversity and has many convenient dive spots within short distance. Pattaya has more Sea turtles’ sightings than anywhere else in Thailand! as well as Seahorse and Nudibranch. The dive sites around the Pattaya Near Islands and Pattaya Far Islands provide diverse underwater landscapes for exploration.
In conclusion, Pattaya, often overlooked, should not be dismissed as a Thailand diving destination. Whether you’re a beginner, a wreck enthusiast, Nudibranch macro photographer or Turtle lover simply seeking an accessible and educational dive experience, Pattaya’s underwater world has much to offer, making it a worthwhile addition to your scuba diving journey in Thailand.
