Big changes for diving in Thailand - and we’re totally here for it.
Starting April 22, 2025, Thailand introduced new rules to help protect its coral reefs, and honestly, it’s about time. These reefs are some of the most stunning on the planet, and they’ve taken a beating from mass tourism. So let’s break down what’s new, and why it’s a step in the right direction for ocean lovers everywhere.
First up: Beginner divers can no longer use cameras underwater, unless you’ve got your Advanced Open Water or at least 40 logged dives (with proof). Why? Because buoyancy and environmental awareness come with experience. Fewer clumsy camera moments = fewer broken corals. And that’s a win for everyone.
Photos during training dives? Not allowed - unless you’re taking an underwater photography Specialty course. That goes for instructors too. But no worries, if you want those dreamy underwater shots, you can still hire a certified professional photographer or videographer trained to do it responsibly.
Group sizes and supervision are getting a well-deserved upgrade: though honestly, it’s what we’ve always done, with very few exceptions.
🔹 Max 4 certified divers per guide
🔹 Try dives (like DSDs): just 2 students per instructor
🔹 Training dives: max 4 students per instructor
Smaller groups = better vibes, safer dives, and way less pressure on the reef. Total win-win - for divers and the ocean.
Snorkelling’s stepping up too:
🔹 Only where the reef is at least 2 metres deep
🔹Life jackets required (unless you're certified diver)
🔹Fin control must be taught before snorkellers can duck dive
🔹 Dive pros, snorkeling guides can - and should - stop anyone harming the reef
Also out: feeding fish, touching corals, harassing marine life, and littering.
Break the rules, and you might be banned from future dives, or even reported to the authorities. And it doesn’t stop there: dive instructors, operators, and their assistants are expected to step in immediately if someone’s not following the guidelines. If they don’t, they could face some heavy consequences, think license revocation, fines up to 200,000 baht (~$6,000), or even two years in prison.
It’s not just about ticking boxes, it’s about protecting the ocean for the long run!
There are exceptions for diving related to research, education, or conservation, as long as it’s supervised by the proper authorities.
We get it - change isn’t always easy. But these rules are a major step toward preserving Thailand’s reefs for generations to come. Coral doesn’t grow back overnight. Every broken branch, every kicked patch, every careless act adds up.
So let’s flip the script. Let’s all dive smarter, snorkel kinder, and lead with respect. We’re all in, and we hope you are too!
Let’s make sure we’re leaving Koh Tao better than we found it.
Come dive with us! Let’s keep the vibes high, the reefs thriving, and the memories epic.
