Sail Rock

Sail Rock: The Pinnacle of Diving in the Gulf of Thailand

Sail Rock, known locally as Hin Bai, is widely regarded as the best dive site in the Gulf of Thailand. This iconic pinnacle offers an incredible diversity of marine life and exhilarating diving experiences for all skill levels.

Dive Details

Depth, Visibility, and Temperature

• Typical Depth Range: 5 meters to 40+ meters
• Average Visibility: 15-30 meters, often excellent
• Water Temperature (Seasonal):
  • November to February: 27-29°C (81-84°F)
  • March to May: 29-31°C (84-88°F)
  • June to October: 28-30°C (82-86°F)
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced (due to depth and potential currents). Suitable for confident Open Water divers with good buoyancy control, and Advanced Open Water divers will enjoy exploring the deeper areas.

Marine Life

Sail Rock is a magnet for marine life. Divers can expect to see large schools of chevron barracuda, trevally, batfish, and fusiliers circling the pinnacle. Keep an eye out for giant groupers, moray eels, and scorpionfish hiding amongst the rocks. Whale sharks are occasional visitors, especially between March and May. Macro life also thrives, with nudibranchs, shrimp, and crabs adding to the diversity.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Sail Rock is generally from February to May. During these months, the visibility is typically at its best, and the water temperature is warm and comfortable. Whale shark sightings are also more frequent during this period. While diving is possible year-round, the monsoon season (October to December) can bring reduced visibility and stronger currents.

What Makes It Special

Sail Rock's unique feature is its 'chimney', a vertical swim-through starting at 18 meters and exiting at around 10 meters. This provides a fantastic opportunity for divers to experience a different kind of diving environment. The sheer abundance and diversity of marine life, coupled with the impressive pinnacle structure, make Sail Rock an unforgettable dive site.

Practical Tips

Due to its popularity, Sail Rock can get crowded, especially during peak season. Arriving early is recommended to avoid the crowds. Be mindful of your buoyancy control, as the depth can change quickly. Check the current conditions before diving, and be prepared for potential currents, especially around the edges of the pinnacle. A dive computer is highly recommended. Finally, respect the marine environment and avoid touching or disturbing the coral and marine life.