Similan Dive Sites – Christmas Point

Located on the Northwest Corner of the Similan Islands – Christmas Point is a great site. This has long been a favorite for our staff and guests. It is also very reminiscent of one of our other favorites – Deep Six. However, We find a different set of species and also the conditions here are tricky.

Any current is likely to be stronger at the northern-most point, but again there are ample options to dive in relative shelter. This site can be dived several different ways – all depending on current, skill level and of course what you are looking for!

Towards the North and Deep – Beware of downward currents which can take you down to depths beyond 30 meters. But out here you’ll find a site called Shark Canyon by some, or any other name you feel like. There are often White-Tip Reef Sharks out here. But in the cracks you’ll often find Napolean Wrasse and Rays (Blotched, Kuhl’s and others). If the Visiblity is good – you’ll see why this site attracts so many fish – it doesn’t t stop! It drops in step like shelves to 40m, then ontowards 50m and beyond. Keep your eyes on the deep – Mantas and other visitors come by…

The middle of the site is composed of a collection of large boulders and rocks, similar to Elephant Head Rock and Deep Six, with a maze of connecting swim-throughs and channels. It is possible to find a route which matches a deep to shallow profile by working back to the south. At some point you will come to a ‘coral courtyard’ with three separate exits through triangular openings. These are always exciting and make for stunning photography. As well – keep an eye out for some amazing Nudibranchs and other small critters.

South and Deep is a coral garden. Lots of Whip Corals and Gorgonian Sea Fans. This area did get hit by the tsunami pretty hard, but a surprisingly large number of these sea fans made it. Look carefully out here…some really stupendous treats…Red and Purple Firs Gobys, Ribbon Eels, Ghost Pipefish and lots of the very small stuff like Allied Cowry.

Up in the Shallows are massive Boulders that are incredibly scenic. In here there are crazy currents, Barracudas, Trevallies and beautiful nooks. Turn a corner and come face to face with a Napolean Wrasse.

The currents here are very important. This is not a site to visit unaccompanied by (locally) trained DM’s. On the outer fringe we get downward currents! In the boulders they can be quite strong. And jumping in during slack tide is great, but it can change quickly. Make sure your Dm’s know the area. Because it’s easy to navigate and cope with the currents if you know where to go.

This site should be dived by experienced divers. Although, in the shallows, there is a protected bay that frequently has Turtles.

Best done as an early dive due to depths. Though the best photography is done in the late afternoons…

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