The Similan Islands are commonly rated as one of the top 10 dive destinations in the world. The islands lie about 100 km Northwest of Phuket and were declared a National Park in 1982. The Similans are comprised of 9 granite islands which run roughly North to South and numerous small rock outcroppings, with white beaches and tropical jungle above the water and spectacular dive sites in warm, clear waters below the surface.The scuba diving in the Similan Islands varies from gently sloping coral reefs to deep rocky gorges and dizzying landscapes. In general, the East coast dive sites are hard coral reef dives, with some soft corals and a huge variety and abundance of marine life. The diving is fairly relaxed, with weak currents and 30m visibility.The West coast sites of the Similan Islands are slightly more challenging due to their depths and variable currents. Here you find the most incredible submarine rock formations, with huge boulders, swimthroughs and giant fan corals. This unique mixture of diving makes a Similan diving cruise a beautiful and fascinating voyage of discovery that always ends too soon.