Breathtakingly beautiful beaches, cerulean waters as clear as glass, swaying palm trees and some of the most extensive underwater coral gardens in Thailand: welcome to the Surin Islands. This archipelago of five unspoiled islands is located in the Andaman Sea, just 60 km from the Thai mainland. Inhabited only by the Moken, an ethnic group of sea-faring people, and protected under the status as a National Marine Park, the beauty and biodiversity of these islands remain pristine. The warm tropical waters with incredible visibility provide a haven, not just for the abundant aquatic life, but also for nature lovers, snorkellers and divers. This is the opportunity to experience the underwater life of an area untouched by mass tourism.
Early morning, join the speed boat for an exhilarating journey over to the Surin National Park. The ‘Robinson Crusoe’ feeling soon becomes reality as the jungle-clad hills of the islands appear on the horizon. Ao Mae Yai is one of the larger bays and the first stop of the day. Don a mask and flippers (provided by us) and jump into the luminous waters to discover extraordinary marine life, or just take a gentle stroll along the powder-soft sands.
A visit to a village inhabited by the Moken sea gypsies is an absolute must on this trip. Semi-nomadic by nature, the seafaring community used to spend a lot of their time travelling, however they have now permanently moored their wooden boats off Surin Tai Island where many live in stilted wooden houses with thatched roofs. Also known as Chao Leh, they have their own language and culture and are known for their exceptional underwater swimming and fishing skills. The chance to meet with the villagers and watch them as they go about their daily life gives an insight into a way of life dictated by the waves of the ocean. There’s time for relaxing on Surin Beach, along with a leisurely Thai lunch in the fresh sea air at the National Park centre.
More swimming and snorkelling can be enjoyed at Chong Kad Bay and Suthep Bay. Both boast coral reefs teeming with sea creatures – some rare, others common – along with an impressive range of corals. Almost a thousand different species of fish are reported to live within the Surin Archipelago. Keep a look out for tiny seahorses, ghost pipefish, rays, clown fish, angel fish - maybe even small reef sharks and turtles. Finally, return by speedboat to the mainland and transfer back to your hotel in Khao Lak.
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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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