Stricter Regulations for Diving Activities Now in Effect in Thailand: New national measures aim to protect coral reefs and marine life

Thailand Implements Stricter Marine Protection Rules for Divers and Snorkelers

Thailand’s Commitment to Marine Conservation

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is advising all travelers, divers, and snorkeling enthusiasts about new nationwide regulations designed to protect Thailand's precious marine environments. Effective April 22, 2025, these stricter rules, issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, aim to safeguard coral reefs and fragile marine ecosystems.

These measures are legally enforceable under the Marine and Coastal Resources Management Act and will be in effect across the country for five years.

Key Regulations for Operators and Participants

For All Activities:

• Operator Responsibility: All diving operators must ensure every trip is accompanied by a certified dive supervisor or assistant.

• Briefing Requirement: Before any activity, supervisors must brief participants on applicable laws and responsible practices. In protected areas (national parks, marine zones), additional legal requirements must be explained.

Diving Specifics:

• Supervision Ratios:

  • Deep Dives: One supervisor for up to four participants.

  • Introductory Dives: One supervisor for up to two learners.

  • Certified Instruction: One instructor for up to four students (must comply with coral protection protocols).

• Photography Restrictions:

  • During Training/Instruction: Prohibited unless conducted by a qualified diver with an Advanced Open Water certification (PADI, SSI, or equivalent) or 40+ logged dives. Proof of certification or an accredited underwater photography course is required.

  • Recreational Dives: Only divers meeting the above qualifications may carry cameras. Certification or dive log must be presented upon request.

• Coral Proximity: Participants must remain at least two meters above coral heads to avoid direct contact. Supervisors must ensure proper fin control to prevent coral damage.

Snorkeling and Freediving Specifics:

• Life Vest Mandatory: Unless you hold a recognized freediving certificate (which must be presented upon request), wearing a life vest is mandatory at all times when snorkeling near coral reefs.

• Supervision Ratio: One supervisor for up to 20 people. Additional supervisors/assistants are required if this number is exceeded.

Strictly Prohibited Activities in Coral Reef Zones

To protect delicate marine life, the following activities are now banned in coral reef areas:

• Touching/Handling Marine Life: Supervisors, assistants, and tourists must not move, handle, or display coral, marine animals, or any sea life. Contact with marine organisms is forbidden under all circumstances.

• Stirring Sediment: Behaviors that stir up sediment (e.g., poor fin control) are banned as they can smother coral.

• Feeding Fish/Littering: Feeding fish, littering, or causing any disturbance to reef habitats is not permitted.

• Underwater Walking Tours: Activities like "Sea Walker" and other seabed-based tours are prohibited in coral zones.

Enforcement and Penalties

• Tourist Non-Compliance: If a tourist fails to follow supervisor instructions (e.g., refusing to wear a life vest, touching coral), their activity must be immediately suspended. Supervisors are required to report violations to marine or national park authorities.

• Operator/Supervisor Non-Compliance: Dive operators, supervisors, and assistants who fail to enforce these rules may face revocation of their certification or operating license.

• Exemptions: These restrictions do not apply to academic, research, or conservation dives conducted under official supervision.

Thailand's Commitment to Marine Conservation

These regulations highlight Thailand's dedication to protecting its vital marine ecosystems while promoting responsible tourism. Travelers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these new rules and only engage with certified operators who fully comply with national standards.

For more information, please contact the TAT or consult a licensed local dive center before participating in marine activities.

Stricter Regulations for Diving Activities Now in Effect in Thailand: New national measures aim to protect coral reefs and marine life