Thailand's complete scuba diving information source: dive centres, dive courses, dive equipment, dive sites
A cornucopia of colour awaits below
A small crab takes refuge in a crinoid
Stand to attention, that nudibranch!
Diving & snorkelling in and around Thailand
| • | Andaman Sea | • | Diving seasons |
| • | The Gulf of Thailand | • | Dive operators |
There are many top-notch dive centres in both the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. PADI and SSI are the main certification agencies, in both recreational and technical diving tuition. There are also a number of BSAC, CMAS and NAUI training facilities along with IANTD, ANDI and TDI for the ‘Tekkies’. Entry-level courses through to Instructor programmes and specialities like cave diving and underwater photography are widely available.
Most of the larger and better-established dive operators maintain their equipment to high standards, with a good selection of sizes. BCDs, masks, fins, regulator and pressure consoles are obtainable everywhere; however, wetsuits, diving computers and underwater cameras are generally only available at the more established facilities.
Renting equipment
When you rent equipment − for your own safety and comfort − you should remember to check the following:
Buoyancy Control Device (BCD)
• Select the correct size. The last thing you want is a BCD that restricts your breathing because it is too tight. Conversely, if it is too large, you may feel you are about to slip out of it.
• Select a style or make that you are familiar with and take into consideration belts, buckles and fastenings.
• Check there are no leaks.
• Ensure that the low-pressure inflator connector is securely tightened.
• Ensure that both the deflator and power inflator buttons function correctly and do not stick.
- Ensure the mask fits correctly and does not leak.
- Check the skirt for damage or tears.
- Check the strap for signs of wear and tear. Bear in mind that if you lose the mask you might have to pay for it.
- Ask for an optical mask if required. Some larger operators carry a wide selection of prescription lenses.
- Check ease of breathing through both regulators.
- Ensure regulators mouthpieces are in good condition and that the bite lobes are okay.
- Purge regulator before putting it in your mouth - in the tropics, you never know what might have crawled inside!
- Check the pressure gauge; satisfy yourself that it does not stick.
- Be careful to get the size right: too small can result in cramp, too large and they may fall off.
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