Koh Tao, Thailand’s world-renowned diving paradise, has unveiled two exciting additions to its underwater world: the HTMS Suphairin and the HTMS Hanhak Sattru wrecks. These wrecks, once serving as fast attack craft for the Royal Thai Navy, now offer thrilling opportunities for divers to explore and discover the rich marine life and history hidden beneath the waves.
Source: Koh Tao Tourism Association
Wreck diving in Koh Tao provides divers with a unique opportunity to delve into history, experience marine conservation efforts, and witness marine life thriving around artificial reefs. The recently added HTMS Suphairin and HTMS Hanhak Sattru wrecks are a testament to Koh Tao’s commitment to preserving history while enriching the underwater environment.
In this article, we’ll dive into the details of these wrecks, their historical significance, environmental impact, diving conditions, and the courses available for divers eager to embark on these underwater adventures.
Source: Koh Tao Tourism Association
After 42 years of service, they were decommissioned in 2561 B.E. / 2018 and transferred to the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources for a new mission as part of the Underwater Learning Park and Marine Ecosystem Rehabilitation Project in the Turtle Island area, Koh Phangan District, Surat Thani Province. Their sinking marks a unique fusion of history and marine conservation, offering divers an opportunity to explore the relics of Thailand’s naval heritage.
The HTMS Suphairin and HTMS Hanhak Sattru, commissioned in the early 20th century, served as vital assets in Thailand’s maritime defence. Armed with modern weaponry, including Gabriel surface-to-surface missile launchers, these fast attack craft played diverse roles in safeguarding the nation and conducting joint operations with the Naval Special Warfare Division.
Source: Koh Tao Tourism Association
The sinking of the HTMS Suphairin and HTMS Hanhak Sattru wrecks contributes significantly to the local ecosystem.
Creating Habitat and Shelter: These wrecks now serve as artificial reefs, providing homes and refuge for a variety of marine organisms, including coral formations. They attract diverse marine species, enhancing overall biodiversity. Climate Resilience: Artificial reefs are more resilient to climate change and pollution, offering a stable environment for marine life. They also facilitate valuable research and studies in marine biology and ecology. Relieving Dive Site Congestion: With Koh Tao’s popularity among divers, the introduction of these two wrecks will help redistribute diving activity and reduce pressure on existing sites.The wrecks offer not only environmental benefits but also an exhilarating and enjoyable experience. As PADI Course Director, Chatsakul Kaewpanao, from Big Bubble Diving states, “Introducing a new wreck in Koh Tao isn’t just about coral conservation and reducing overcrowding; it’s about expanding divers’ horizons. With more dive options, we provide greater opportunities for exploration, allowing divers to take on new courses and continue their training year-round while safeguarding our marine environment.”
Source: Simon Krogsgaard from Assava Dive Resort
To search for and contact a PADI Dive Centre or Resort regarding Koh Tao wreck diving, visit the PADI Dive Shop Locator and use the filters to find the perfect dive shop for you.
HTMS Hanhak Sattru: Located in Aow Mao, on the east coast of Koh Tao, this wreck lies around 22-24 meters/72-79 feet with the top of the wreck currently at 13 meters/43 feet. HTMS Suphairin: Positioned near No Name Pinnacle, this wreck lies around 24-28 meters/79-92 feet with the top of the wreck currently at 16 meters/52 feet. However, it’s worth noting that there are ongoing discussions about the potential addition of another structure that could raise the highest point to 11 meters /36 feet in the future.PADI Course Director, Rich Westwood from Fifty Six Dive along with his team of divemasters and instructors are particularly excited about the location of the wrecks. “We at Fifty Six Dive are all so very excited with the arrival of two new wrecks here on Koh Tao. Not only will it create a diverse wreck diving experience for our divers, but the position of them, one on the east side and one on the west of the island, means we can enjoy all year round! We are also looking forward to seeing how the different locations will impact the different marine life that will adopt these wrecks as their home.”
Source: Simon Krogsgaard from Assava Dive Resort
The HTMS Suphairin and HTMS Hanhak Sattru wrecks, along with the existing popular wreck dives, the HTMS Sattakut, Unicorn, and MV Trident, make Koh Tao a fantastic wreck diving location. However, wreck diving requires specialized skills and knowledge that should be obtained through the PADI Wreck Diver Specialty Course, typically ranging from 2-4 days to complete, depending on the dive shop. PADI Dive Centres and Resorts in Koh Tao offer a range of courses to prepare divers for exciting experiences like these:
Wreck Diver: Learn safe exploration and penetration of shipwrecks using specialized techniques and equipment. Deep Diver: Dive as deep as 40 meters, unlocking access to various wrecks worldwide. Enriched Air Nitrox: Extend dive time safely by using enriched air nitrox. Peak Performance Buoyancy: Enhance control and propulsion skills for navigating wrecks and taking photos or videos. Digital Underwater Photography: Capture stunning images of the wrecks you explore. Sidemount: Dive with double air tanks for extended dive times, especially useful for overhead environments. Technical Diving (Tec 40, 45 & 50+): Explore wrecks at greater depths and master advanced techniques for safe penetration and extended dive times. Diver Propulsion Vehicle: Glide effortlessly around wrecks, opening up more opportunities for exploration.Whether you’re an experienced diver seeking deeper exploration or a novice eager to discover the world of wreck diving, these wrecks have something to offer. With proper training and respect for the marine environment, you can dive into the rich history and vibrant marine life surrounding these fascinating underwater relics.
Source: Simon Krogsgaard from Assava Dive Resort
As many divers and wreck enthusiasts share an appreciation for the history and technical intricacies of wrecks, as they add a layer of fascination to the underwater experience, detailed specifications and characteristics of the HTMS Suphairin and HTMS Hanhak Sattru wrecks are listed below.
Mission Tasks:
Coastal defence using the 57/70 mm / 2.24/2.75 inch gun Air defence using the 57/70 mm / 2.24/2.75 inch and 40/70 mm / 1.57/2.75 inch guns Serving as a picket vessel for the fleet Conducting joint operations with the Naval Special Warfare Division Command and control of a group of ships Anti-swarm defence with the 40/70 mm / 1.57/2.75 inch and .50-inch gunsVessel Specifications:
Commissioned: February 5, 2520 B.E. / 1977 A.D. Decommissioned: October 1, 2561 B.E. / 2018 A.D. Builder: Singapore Shipbuilding and Engineering Ltd.General Characteristics:
Length: 44.90 meters / 147.3 feet Width: 7.00 meters / 22.96 feet Draft: 2.11 meters / 6.92 feet Max Speed: 30 knots Max High-Speed: 37.5 knots / 46.4 mph Displacement Standard: 232 tons Full Displacement: 263 tons Maximum Operational Range: 1,170 miles / 1,883 kilometers / 1,164 miles Continuous Operation: 3 daysWeapon Systems:
1 x 57/70 mm / 2.24/2.75 inch gun 1 x 40/70 mm / 1.57/2.75 inch autocannon 2 x .50-inch machine guns WM 28/5 fire control system 6 x 103 mm / 4.06 inch illuminating rocket launchers 1 x Dagaie decoy launcher with 10 launch boxesShare This
