Thailand has introduced a new set of scuba diving laws aimed at protecting its fragile marine ecosystems, particularly its coral reefs. These regulations, effective from April 2025, apply to all recreational diving and snorkeling activities across the country. As a dive center committed to responsible diving, we at Phoenix Divers Koh Tao support these changes and are here to help you understand what they mean for you. šø Underwater Photography Now Requires Advanced Certification or Experience One of the most significant changes is the regulation around underwater photography. Divers who wish to carry or use a cameraāwhether itās a GoPro, compact, or DSLRāmust now meet one of the following criteria: Hold a minimum of an Advanced Open Water certification (or equivalent from another recognized training agency). Have logged at least 40 dives, with proof of logged dives available on request. This rule was implemented in response to concerns over reef damage caused by inexperienced divers trying to capture underwater content. Poor buoyancy and lack of spatial awareness have led to accidental contact with corals, disturbing marine habitats. These new restrictions are designed to ensure that only divers with sufficient control and awareness are operating cameras near the reef. š§āš« Training Dive Camera Ban: No Cameras During Entry-Level Courses Additionally, cameras are now strictly prohibited during all training dives, including introductory courses like Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) and Open Water certification dives. This includes cameras used by students as well as instructors. The only exception is during officially sanctioned underwater photography courses, where the use of cameras is part of the training curriculum and conducted under supervision. These measures are intended to maintain a high level of safety and focus during instruction, allowing new divers to fully concentrate on mastering essential skills without the distraction or risk of handling cameras. š Additional Diving & Snorkeling Regulations to Protect the Reef The law also introduces a series of guidelines aimed at improving diver safety and minimizing environmental impact: Dive group sizes are now limited to a maximum of four certified divers per dive guide or instructor. Try dives and beginner sessions (such as DSD) are limited to two students per instructor to ensure high-quality supervision and safety. Snorkeling is restricted to areas where the depth is at least two meters above coral. Snorkelers must wear life jackets unless they are certified scuba divers. Touching marine life, moving corals, and feeding fish are explicitly banned. These actions disrupt ecosystems and can cause long-term damage to the reef. All of these rules are designed to preserve Thailandās unique underwater biodiversity while ensuring a positive and sustainable experience for both tourists and locals alike. ā ļø Penalties for Non-Compliance Dive operators, instructors, and guides are legally responsible for ensuring that these regulations are followed. Violations can result in serious penalties, including: Fines of up to 200,000 THB (approximately $6,000 USD) Temporary or permanent suspension of instructor or dive shop licenses Legal action for severe or repeated violations At Phoenix Divers Koh Tao, we take these laws seriously. Our staff is trained to uphold these standards, and we educate all our students and fun divers on how to dive respectfully and responsibly in Thailandās protected marine areas. š Why These Changes Matter Thailand is home to some of the most vibrant and biodiverse coral reef systems in Southeast Asia. However, increased tourism and careless diving practices have led to coral degradation in many areas. These new laws reflect a national effort to reverse that trend through sustainable tourism and marine conservation. By enforcing higher standards for diver experience and limiting reef contact, the government hopes to ensure that Thailand remains a world-class diving destination for generations to come. As a dive community, it’s up to all of us to support this mission by following the rules and educating others about their importance. š Join Us in Protecting Koh Tao’s Reefs If you’re planning to dive in Thailand, especially around Koh Tao, we encourage you to stay informed about these new regulations. Our team at Phoenix Divers is happy to answer questions, help verify your dive experience, and guide you through safe, respectful diving practices. For more information, please visit the Phoenix Divers Koh Tao diving courses page, or stop by our shop to chat with our instructors. Together, we can help preserve Thailandās underwater wonders and keep the islandās diving community thriving.