“Tao” means turtle in Thai, and indeed, just below the surface of the water was a large sea turtle, cruising around the side of the boat.
Cameras were flashing and we jumped into the sea to get a closer look, but by this time the turtle was lazily headed out into the bay.
Welcome to the Similans – a tranquil island group of white sands and clear blue water.
The nine islands making up the Similans (the name derives from the Malay word for 'nine', sembilan), are located off Phang Nga, about a one and a half hour speed boat trip west of Khao Lak.
Boats depart from Tap Lamu Pier, just north of Sarasin Bridge.
Thanks to a stroke of good luck, today on my Similan Pro Dive snorkelling trip there are only three of us on board. As the Chinese couple have their own Chinese-speaking Thai guide, I’m lucky to have Prince of Songkla student and Pro Dive intern, Bee, all to myself.
Bee, 20, is originally from Nakhon Sri Thammarat, but moved to Phuket to study a tourism degree at the university. She’s in her first year of the degree, and so far has completed six enjoyable months of a one year work experience programme with Similan Pro Dive.
The trip was to take us to several of the stunning islands. Jumping into the waters off Koh Ba Ngu was an amazing experience. We saw an abundant array of tropical fish, two more turtles, but unfortunately none of the elusive manta rays that the area is known for.
Not surprisingly, the area is dubbed one of the best diving sites in the world.
Next up was Koh Similan, which is famous for its 'Sail Rock' natural outcrop. After a rather precarious scramble up a cliff, you are rewarded with majestic views across the bay, and down to the blue-green water and rocks below. It made for the perfect photo opportunity.
Next up was Koh Payu, and finally on to Koh Meang, where we would be staying the night.
The island has many tents set up for the large groups of Russian and Chinese tourists who frequently camp here.
However, there are also basic bungalows – either fan or air conditioned – available. Meals are served either on land or aboard a large sailing boat, moored off the beach.
The Similans are part of a larger national park established in 1982, and are closed to visitors for half the year due to the monsoon season, which brings with it strong sea swells and winds, making it dangerous for boats.
That's why every November, when the park reopens, tourists and local visitors alike seize the opportunity to visit this spectacular spot.
So too do the region’s commercial fisherman.
Illegal commercial fishing in the park is a big issue – with fisherman poaching large numbers of exotic fish every year from the protected national park.
But for now, at least, the Similan islands remain intact and provide excellent diving and snorkelling areas to explore. With white sandy beaches, the Similans, particularly Koh Similan and Koh Meang, are the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of Phuket.
Just make sure you get in quick – the park closes at the end of April for the low season.
Claire Connell travelled courtesy of Phuket Travel Company and Similan Pro Dive. The trip, including all park entry fees, hotel pick-up, accommodation and meals, is priced at around B6,500 per person.
Phuket Travel Co. offers daily tours to the Similans during the high season. The office is location on Soi Banzan, east of Jungceylon. For more information visit phukettravelcompany.com or call 087 282 5086.