The Similan Islands and Surin Island in the are temporarily closed to tourism. The Similan and Surin Islands are 50 – 70 kilometres off the coast of Phang Nga Province in the Andaman Sea. Most boat trips leave from the Thap Lamu pier between October and May.
The closure is due to the south west and westerly swell, and higher winds and rain, that occur during the wet season, making the trips to the islands more uncomfortable and the water less clear.
The Mu-Ko Similan National Park announced the annual closure this week. The closure start today, May 16 and runs through to to October 14.
The annual closures also provide a ‘break’ for the islands’ eco systems for a period of restoration.
The closure cover both the Similan Islands and Surin Islands in the Mu-Ko Similan National Park.
Shaun Stenning from 5 Star Marine also announced the closure…
“We wanted to thank all our guests who joined us with our private tours to the Similan Islands during this past season. Although these islands in the Andaman Sea are closed, our tours continue to some amazing spots in Phang Nga Bay through the annual wet season.”
“We hope to see you back onboard for The Similans next season.”
Although the Similan and Surin Islands have a break, along with a few other spots around the region, including Maya Bay (during August and September), the boat tours continue to many of the other islands during this period that are less affected by the annual monsoon.
