Scuba Diving In Asia

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Asia is home to some of the most incredible and vibrant marine life on the planet, making it a top destination for scuba divers of all levels. From the colorful coral reefs of the Philippines to the shipwrecks of Indonesia, there is something for everyone in Asia. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, you are sure to have an unforgettable diving experience in Asia.

The Most Popular Diving Destinations In Asia

Time and time again, scuba divers return to the following destinations:

Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Raja Ampat is home to over 1,500 species of fish and 700 species of coral. The water is crystal clear and the visibility is often over 100 feet, making it easy to see all the amazing creatures that live in these waters. Divers seeking Manta Rays can find them in Raja Ampat from October to April.

The remoteness of Raja Ampat makes it easy to relax and find peace between dives.

Similan Islands, Thailand

The Similan Islands are a group of islands that are part of a national park located in the Andaman Sea off the coast of Thailand. The park is only open from October 15th to May 15th of each year, limiting the time visitors can dive here. A liveaboard is the best way to reach the islands.

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, Philippines

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Sulu Sea, Philippines. Accessible only by liveaboard, this pristine reef is only open from March to June. Liveaboards are routinely booked years in advance!

Frequently Asked Questions About Scuba Diving In Asia

Find answers to the most commonly asked questions by travelers looking to dive in Asia here!

What Is The Best Time Of Year To Dive In Asia?

The answer to this question depends on your final destination. For example, most of Indonesia can be dived all year round but places like Perhentian Islands in the Philippines can only be visited between April and October.

What Marine Life Can I See In Asia?

Asia is home to a diverse range of marine life, including:

Nudibranchs: There are dozens of nudibranch species in Asia, including the brightly colored blue dragon nudibranch.
Endangered species: Divers may also have the opportunity to see endangered species, such as the Napoleon wrasse, Pacific bluefin tuna, and tiger tail seahorse.
Dugongs: Dugongs are marine mammals related to manatees and are the only living relatives of the Steller’s sea cow, which was hunted to extinction in the 1700s.

In addition to these specific examples, divers in Asia can also expect to see a variety of other marine life, such as:

Reef fish
Sharks
Rays
Turtles
Dolphins
Whales

The specific marine life you can see will vary depending on the dive site. However, Asia is a great place to see a wide variety of marine life, including common and rare species.