Gekko Scuba Divers | Surins

Overview:
This is unquestionably the most famous dive site in Thailand, and rightfully so. It is an isolated seamount is just a few kilometers from the Thai-Burmese border, to the east of Koh Surin Tai (South Surin Island). The Thai name, Hin Plo Naam means “Rock Protruding from the Water,” which is a good description as the top is visible only during low tide.

Characteristics:
The rock is a horse-shoe shaped structure made up of half a dozen linked pinnacles, shallowest in the middle at sea level and deeper at the ends at 12 meters below the surface. The “outside” or northern wall drops vertically to sand at 30 meters, while the “inside” is characterized by a rubble-and-boulder-filled field at a depth of 15-20 meters.
Highlights:
Richelieu has it all. Most famously, whale sharks are regular visitors, especially during the months of March and April when there is an increased quantity of plankton in the water after the long dry and sunny winter months. In addition to the main prize (and even if one doesn’t make an appearance) all manner of marine life makes its home here. Look for harlequin shrimp in the holes on the northeast wall, and check for nudibranchs on the southern side. Ornate ghost pipefish inhabit the sea fans and bush corals, and seahorses are normally present. Huges schools of barracuda are generally found to the south.
Marcia's notes:
Most liveaboards schedule at least two dives on this site, and as it is a relatively small place, expect there to be a number of other boats there and other divers in the water. Everyone wants to experience this magical place. It is truly not to be missed!