Koh Bon Diving
Koh Bon
- Type of Dive: Wall, Slope, Reef, Drift
- Depth: 10 – 40 meters
- Visibility: 10 – 30 meters
- Difficulty: Intermediate / Advanced
Koh Bon is one of Thailand’s best dive sites for Manta Ray encounters.
Its western ridge features a steep, coral-covered slope, ideal for intermediate to advanced divers. Strong currents attract large pelagic fish.
The eastern side of the ridge forms the wall, while the western side is more of a gentle slope. Here, you can find coral bommies forming mushroom-like formations.
On the ridge itself, you can see many different sea fans growing and schooling fish swimming in the current. This is generally where most divers will sit most of the dive, hoping for a sighting of manta rays.
Koh Bon: The Ultimate Destination for Manta Ray Encounters in Thailand
If you are looking for the best place in Thailand to encounter majestic Manta Rays, Koh Bon is the destination for you. Located just north of the main Similan Islands chain, this limestone island is a magnet for large pelagic life and is a highlight of every King Andaman Scuba Diving itinerary.
Known for its dramatic underwater topography and nutrient-rich currents, Koh Bon offers a unique diving experience that differs significantly from the granite boulder landscapes of the southern Similans.
Dive Site Overview: Koh Bon
Type of Dive: Wall, Steep Slope, and Ridge Drift
Depth: 10 – 40 meters
Visibility: 10 – 30 meters
Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
The Famous Western Ridge
The star attraction of Koh Bon is its Western Ridge. This submerged limestone bridge extends out into the deep blue, acting as a natural cleaning station and crossroads for large marine life.
The Ridge: Most divers spend their time hovering along the ridge, where the current is strongest. This is the prime spot for Manta Ray sightings, as the rays often come here to feed and be cleaned by smaller fish.
The Wall: The northern side of the ridge features a steep, dramatic wall covered in small corals and sea fans, perfect for exploring as you look for hidden critters.
The Slope: The southern side is a more gentle slope characterized by unique mushroom-shaped coral bommies and lush sea fans swaying in the current.
Marine Life Highlights
Koh Bon is all about the “big stuff,” but there is plenty to see throughout the water column.
Manta Rays: The primary reason divers visit Koh Bon. These graceful giants are frequent visitors, especially from January to April.
Pelagic Action: The strong currents bring in schools of Trevally, Barracuda, and Rainbow Runners.
Shark Sightings: Keep an eye on the deep blue for passing Whale Sharks or White-tip Reef Sharks cruising the perimeter.
Macro Life: In the sheltered areas of the wall, you can find Nudibranchs, Moray Eels, and various Shrimps tucked into the crevices.
