Arrival and First Impressions

As a marine biologist with a passion for exploring the world’s most stunning underwater landscapes, I was thrilled to visit Koh Phi Phi for a dive tour. The island, known for its vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs, had been on my bucket list for quite some time. Arriving in March 2024, I was eager to dive into the crystal-clear waters and experience the underwater wonders firsthand.

Upon arrival, I was immediately struck by the island’s natural beauty. The lush greenery and towering cliffs provided a breathtaking backdrop to the turquoise waters. My fiancé and I had chosen to dive with Blue View Divers, a shop known for its eco-friendly practices and commitment to preserving the marine environment. As a marine biologist, this was an important factor for me, and I was pleased to see their dedication to sustainability.

Our first day of diving began with a short ride on a traditional longtail boat, accompanied by our guide, Luck, and another diver. The proximity of the dive sites to the bay meant minimal transit time, allowing us to maximize our time underwater. The anticipation of exploring the vibrant reefs and encountering diverse marine life was palpable.

Diving into the Depths

The first dive site was just outside the bay, along the cliffs. As we descended into the water, I was immediately enveloped by the serene beauty of the underwater world. The coral reefs were teeming with life, from colorful clownfish darting among the anemones to schools of snappers gliding gracefully through the water. The visibility was excellent, allowing us to fully appreciate the intricate details of the reef ecosystem.

During our surface interval, we enjoyed a leisurely lunch on the boat, surrounded by the stunning scenery. The gentle rocking of the boat and the sound of the waves created a calming atmosphere, perfect for reflecting on the incredible sights we had just witnessed. Our guide, Luck, was knowledgeable and attentive, ensuring that we had a safe and enjoyable experience.

The second dive of the day was equally mesmerizing. We encountered a variety of marine creatures, including moray eels, stingrays, and even a curious turtle. The highlight, however, was spotting a blacktip reef shark gliding effortlessly through the water. It was a thrilling moment that left us in awe of the ocean’s majesty.

A Day of Surprises

The following day, we were offered the opportunity to do a third dive, which we eagerly accepted. This time, we boarded a larger boat shared with another group. Despite a delayed departure due to other divers arriving late, the day was filled with excitement and unexpected encounters.

Our first dive site was meant to be Garang Heng, but due to navigational challenges, we ended up at Hin Bida instead. This turned out to be a fortunate twist, as Hin Bida is renowned for its diverse marine life. The dive did not disappoint, with sightings of squid, cuttlefish, and a blue-spotted ray among the highlights.

Between dives, we savored a picnic-style lunch, complete with local Thai sweets that Luck had kindly brought for us to try. It was a delightful way to experience the local culture and cuisine while surrounded by the beauty of the Andaman Sea.

As we concluded our diving adventure, I reflected on the incredible experiences and the vibrant marine life that Koh Phi Phi had to offer. The island’s commitment to eco-friendly practices and the expertise of our guide made the trip truly unforgettable. For anyone seeking a blend of serene beauty and exhilarating underwater exploration, Koh Phi Phi is a destination not to be missed.