News
Similan Islands Liveaboard Trip Report: Day 2
Read the prologue to this trip report here.
Read Day 1 here.
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After a decent night’s sleep I was up bright and early, assembling my camera after charging the batteries and re-greasing the ‘O’ rings. I took it up to the briefing deck and got some tea and toast; this would become a habit I’m afraid.
Christmas Point
“Dive Briefing!” It was 7:30am. Today’s first dive site was going to be Christmas Point on Island number 9, the most northern point of the Similan group of Islands. It is called Christmas point due to the large amount of Christmas tree worms that can be found there. The briefing outlined that this was an exposed area, and the current can be strong – and as a result we may see some big marine life.
The first group once again entered the water at around 8am, followed quickly by the second and then by our group. We all descended down the mooring line to around 30 metres. Near the top of the shot line we came across a blue spotted stingray resting on the bottom. The site was made up of huge boulders and rocky outcrops, once again making it good for quite a few nice little swimthroughs and several large gullies with loads of sea fans. Twenty five plus metre visibility and a bright sun made it an incredibly blue site.
During a swim through of one of the gullies we came across a lovely blue and yellow ribbon eel, mouth open wide as it hoped to catch some breakfast. There were more fish in the shallower areas – oriental sweetlips, parrotfish, triggerfish and of course loads of Christmas tree worms. After everyone else had returned to the boat, Sharky and I carried on finding more swimthroughs. The last one looked like it might be a bit tight, but you never know until you try. Not being the smallest of people, Sharky thought he might be pulling me out by my heels, but it was a perfect fit, very little in it. The landscape underwater was very impressive. Dive five over, so time for breakfast, which once again was another pile of bacon, sausage, eggs, ham and toast.
Koh Bon
We were now heading further North to the next dive site, Koh Bon. Although not part of the Similan Islands, it is still part of the Mu Koh Similan National Park.
“Dive Briefing!” It was 10:30am. Dive six was going to be Koh Bon Ridge, on the western side of the island. Again an exposed area that can have very strong currents, which again might attract some large fish. The limestone ridge ran from the surface down to around forty metres. We were going to jump in on the east side of the ridge and swim around and over it, and if the current wasn’t too strong we would wait around looking into the blue for anything big passing by.
At around 11:00am we entered the water, descended to around 20 metres through a huge shoal of big eye snapper and headed to the ridge. There was quite a coverage of star corals (as well as the odd staghorn coral) and the usual reef fish. As we arrived at the ridge, the current greeted us; quite a good bit of current actually – we were hanging on for dear life! We hung on to the rocks for a few minutes looking into the blue for anything else that might like some strong current, but we saw nothing, so we swam over the ridge and down the other side. A couple of large Blue ring angelfish darted off as we got close (they don’t like having their picture taken). As we made our way a little shallower we came across huge beds of staghorn coral, some of which had been damaged by dynamite fishing before they made it part of the national park, but it is all beginning to grow back slowly. The staghorn corals were covered in shoals of glassfish and damsels; the odd rocky outcrop had an occasional nudibranch. As we were doing our safety stop a couple of huge barracuda swam over the ridge; at least we saw something big. 56 minutes later it was time to come up.
Koh Tachai
Another huge lunch was awaiting us; were they trying to fatten us up? I tried to do what I could to help clear all the food, then after a few minutes on the sun deck where we said goodbye to Koh Bon, we started making our way to Koh Tachai.
“Dive Briefing!” Dive number seven was to be Koh Tachai Pinnacle at 2:30pm, a circular plateau surrounded by boulders. We were told that we might be met with some very strong currents at this site. The plan was to get straight on to the mooring line, follow it down and get into the shelter of the boulders. We would then follow the boulders around, hopefully avoiding as much current as possible before ascending back on the shot line.
We jumped in and made straight for the mooring line, and yes, there was a current. Descending to around 27 metres there was a lot of life: parrotfish, fusilier, grouper, snapper, lionfish, triggerfish, angelfish and several batfish – everywhere you looked there were fish. Shoals of wide lined fusilier swarmed all over the place; batfish accumulated near the bottom of the shot line where they were being groomed by cleaner wrasse. Time was up – another dive over.
Koh Tachai pinnacle again
“Dive Briefing!” 5:00pm. Dive number eight was going to be a dusk dive on Koh Tachai pinnacle again. The briefing was short and similar to the last, except we were told that we wouldn’t be going as deep this time. I do like dusk dives – you can see where you are going and when you take a photograph the ambient light is minimal.
We entered the water at 5:30pm. Unfortunately there was another boat on the way – they obviously had the same idea. We dropped down the line and hid from the current, which didn’t seem to be as strong as before. The dive was very similar to before; lionfish, a giant moray, scorpion fish, puffer fish, spotted boxfish were all present. The divers from the other boat entered as we were swimming around, and when we came across them I realised that it was a Japanese group. Now I have nothing against Japanese divers, but every time I meet a group of them, they seem to be a little… how should I say it? Ragged. Now I am sure that there are thousands of perfectly good divers in Japan – I just don’t think that they go to the Similans.
While we were on the mooring line the current increased. To start with, everyone’s bubbles went vertically; after a few minutes they went at the same angle as the mooring line. Thanks to the fifteen divers from our boat, plus the Japanese who were now on the line, we had a free spa bath.
Time for the evening meal. I could feel the pounds piling on; what happened to my willpower? The boat was now making for our most northerly dive site: my favourite, Richelieu Rock. We reviewed the day, solved the world’s problems, wondered why we ever would want to dive in cold water again and watched a film.
Then it was time to turn in; we were going to be up early again tomorrow.
Read Similan Islands Liveaboard Trip Report: Day 3 here.
Ho Ho Ho! Vobster Quay’s recording-breaking charity Santa diving event returns on Sunday 15th December 2024 for another round of festive fundraising frivolities. Run in aid of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Help For Heroes, this ever-popular annual fundraising event aims to raise sack-loads of cash for these two very deserving charities.
Divers of all levels are invited to grab their Santa outfits – and as much festive cheer as they can muster – and head down to Vobster Quay near Mells, Somerset for a mass sponsored Santa dive in aid of charity. In previous years, the event has attracted divers from the far corners of the UK to join in the festive merriment for a final festive dive before the Christmas and New Year break. Back in 2015, the event smashed the world record for the most Santa divers with 188 divers taking to the waters donning their festive finery – a record that remains unbeaten to this day!
Vobster Santas isn’t just about setting records – it’s also about raising some serious cash for charity. Vobster Quay encourages all divers to get into the spirit of the season to raise much-needed funds for two very deserving charities – the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Help For Heroes.
Through individual sponsorship and online donations, divers can invite their friends, family and work colleagues to sponsor them to plunge into the balmy waters of Vobster Quay dressed in full festive finery. Since the very first Santa dive in 2007, the event has raised over £52,000 for charity. “It’s been over 17 years since the very first charity Santa dive took place at Vobster Quay and every year the event just keeps getting bigger and better” enthused Vobster Quay owner, Amy Stanton.
“Vobster Santas is a great way for divers to say a massive thank you to the both the RNLI and Help For Heroes – two very deserving charities close to our hearts. We’re immensely proud of all that Vobster Santas has achieved and hope that even more divers will join this year’s event on Sunday 15th December. I’m confident that we can make Vobster Santas 2024 the biggest yet!”.
Divers wishing to participate can get involved by simply registering their attendance at
www.vobster.com/event-vobstersantas.php.
Blogs
Dive into Adventure at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa: The Ultimate Diving Destination in the Maldives
Tucked away in the remote northern Haa Alifu Atoll, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is a premier destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable underwater experience. With over 30 dive sites to explore, divers of all levels can witness the unique and mesmerising beauty of the underwater world. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or new to the sport, Hideaway offers an exceptional diving adventure that is not to be missed.
Explore the Beauty Beneath the Surface
Hideaway is perfectly situated near some of the most spectacular dive sites in the Maldives. The dive school and team at Hideaway offer a very personalised experience to ensure each diver gets an interactive, immersive experience.
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Unique dive spots such as Theefaridhoo Thila (Heaven and Hell) as one of the 50 best dive sites in the whole of the Maldives, known for its beautiful soft coral gardens.
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As the resort is located next to a channel which gives guests surprise visits from eagle rays, manta rays, guitar sharks and more.
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One of the standout features of diving in the Haa Alifu Atoll is the abundance of rare and exotic marine species. The area is known for sightings of whale sharks, manta rays, turtles, and a variety of colorful reef fish. Diving at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa offers a rare opportunity to encounter these creatures in their natural habitat, creating lifelong memories for guests.
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Whether you’re exploring deep coral gardens, dramatic overhangs, or vibrant reef walls, each dive offers something new and exciting. The visibility in the Maldives is exceptional, often exceeding 30 meters, making it ideal for both underwater photography and general exploration.
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At Hideaway, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the thrill of diving. That’s why we cater to divers of all levels, from beginners to experienced professionals. Our professional dive center, led by expert instructors, offers a range of courses and guided dives. If you’re new to diving, you can start with an introductory course that will teach you the basics of scuba diving in a safe and controlled environment.
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For more experienced divers, we offer advanced dive courses and guided excursions to some of the more challenging dive sites. Our instructors are knowledgeable and passionate about the local marine life, ensuring that every dive is not only safe but also informative and enjoyable.
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Exclusive Diving Offer
To make your stay even more unforgettable, Hideaway is offering an exclusive diving package designed to enhance your experience both above and below the water. When you book a minimum 7-night stay, you’ll receive:
- 35% discount on room rates.
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This incredible offer provides the perfect opportunity to experience world-class diving while enjoying all the luxury and comfort that Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is known for.
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This diving offer can also be combined with our Anniversary and Honeymoon offers, allowing you to create the perfect celebration package. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply seeking a romantic getaway, this offer ensures that you can enjoy the best of both worlds – luxurious accommodations and unforgettable diving adventures.
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Terms & Conditions
- This offer is available exclusively for bookings made through the official Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa website using a specific booking code.
- The offer cannot be combined with other promotions available on the website or through other channels, nor can it be redeemed for cash.
- All dives are subject to weather conditions, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all guests.
- Black-out dates: This offer is not available from 24th December 2024 to 9th January 2025.
To book this exquisite offer, use the Promo Code: SCUBA24FD
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Hideaway is not just a resort; it’s a sanctuary for those seeking peace, adventure, and luxury. With spacious villas, private pools, and world-class dining options, the resort offers everything you need for a perfect holiday. From tennis, golf, gym, cycling to the exquisite underwater activities, unique dining options, Hideaway has something for everyone. And for diving enthusiasts, it provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful dive sites in the world.
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Our dive center is fully equipped with state-of-the-art gear, ensuring that every dive is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable. Our instructors are passionate about the underwater world and are eager to share their knowledge with you, whether it’s your first dive or your 100th.
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The Ultimate Dive Adventure Awaits
If you’re looking for an unforgettable diving holiday in the Maldives, look no further than Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa. With over 30 dive sites, unique marine life, and exclusive offers, we provide the ultimate underwater experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking adventure, our diving package offers exceptional value and incredible memories.
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Call: +960 650-1515
Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
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