Richelieu Rock

About this dive site

Explore the water around Thailand

Dive at Richelieu Rock Richelieu Rock is known as the jewel of the Andaman Sea and was highly rated by the famous diver and explorer Jacque Cousteau himself. Located about 18 km east of the Surin archipelago this majestic pinnacle penetrates the surface only at low tide and drops down to over 30 meters. On a clear day the visibility can be up to 35 meters, whereas on other days it won't be more than 10-15 meters. Lower visibility is generally related to greater amounts of plankton which is the main reason for the occasional visits of whale sharks. Growing to a length of up to 16 meters they are the biggest fish on the planet and are believed to have a lifespan of over 100 years. However, even without seeing these enormous ocean wanderers Richelieu Rock offers a spectacular diversity of marine life. Several types of always hungry barracudas and trevallies patrol the area and can be seen hunting between the immense number of reef fish. Their primary targets are big schools of snappers and fusiliers feeding in mid water. The rock itself provides shelter for hundreds of different types of creatures. Lion fish, mantis shrimps, lobsters, octopi, pipefish, colourful nudibraches, mating cuttlefish and giant groupers are just a few of them. Even ghost pipefish and the always hard to find yellow tiger tail seahorse live among the beautiful gorgonians and the huge soft coral gardens. Additionally, the cracks and crevices within the limestone structure provide excellent hiding ground for moray eels and scorpion fish. Richelieu Rock is a one of a kind dive experience and attracts divers from all around the world. So, put it on your bucket list and let Wetzone Divers take you there.