Similan & Richelieu Part 2 - Thailand, January 2009

::The 2nd Installment::

With lowered expectations we embarked on the journey to Similans. I thoroughly enjoyed my dives despite not spotting any pelagics in the 1st couple days. And there was a strange tension on board, everyone doesn't seem to be as lively and bubbly as before. But the heavens gate opened, and against all odds the Manta Rays showed up at Koh Tachai during a late afternoon dive on the 3rd day.

Till date this will be the most exhilarating encounter with the Mantas. They came straight at me twice and I froze in my tracks. Looming towards me it took a suddenly turn and glided gracefully above me. I swore it was only 2 arms length away from me. If it gets any better I'll be riding it!

Other than the encounter with the Manta, I saw many interesting stuff, big ass groupers, trevallies, snappers not to mention the close up with a lone barracuda. (Wish I had a video camera to document) I even got an insight on the 2 different kinds of Mantis Shrimp (might attempt to summarize a video for you guys at a later date).

(Video Courtesy of Albert Kang)

Similan & Richelieu Rock Part 1 - Thailand, January 2009

Yesh.. the Similans Island, Phuket is just the place to get away from the Lunar New Year hordes back home. Decided to give it another shot as we were unable to reach the famous Richelieu Rock on the last two trips. Expectancy was high among all the divers most of whom were embarking on their maiden trip, hoping to spot the whale shark or Manta ray that are in season. For me I was just contented to be diving, had to constantly remind myself to just enjoy the dives regardless of the conditions.

In torrential rains we headed to the docks to equip our dive gears and dinner on board the vessel. A series cracking sounds emitted from Firecrackers (a Thai seaman's tradition for protection) disrupted our bubbly conversations. That was the sign for us to set sail for the Similan Isles and Richelieu on a 14 dive 4D/4N adventure.

(Video courtesy of Albert Kang)