First things first: we hope you’re safe Southern Thailand has seen serious flooding over the past week. Some provinces were hit hard, with road closures and local disruptions. Our thoughts are with everyone affected. If you’re watching the news and wondering, “Should I still come to Koh Tao?” — this update is for you. The big picture Multiple southern provinces experienced heavy rain and flooding after days of intense monsoon weather. National reports confirm loss of life and damage in parts of the deep south, especially around Hat Yai (Songkhla) and nearby provinces. It’s been a tough week for many communities. (Official coverage and summaries are linked below.) How Koh Tao has been affected Koh Tao is in the Gulf of Thailand, north of the worst-hit areas. We had periods of rough seas and stronger winds. A few ferry runs were paused on certain days when wave heights spiked, and some night ferries took weather days. When the Gulf gets choppy, operators play it safe — and we fully support that.{index=1} The good news: tourism services here have largely kept running with some schedule tweaks. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) reports that tourism on Koh Samui, Koh Pha-ngan, and Koh Tao is operating normally with the usual caveat to check ferry times in advance — exactly what we’re seeing on the ground. What conditions look like now (and the next few days) The Thai Meteorological Department says the northeast monsoon over the Gulf is weakening, with lighter, more scattered rain. Seas are around 1 m (a little higher in thundershowers). Later this week (4–7 Dec), we may see another easterly wave pass through with more rain and 1–2 m seas offshore — so expect the usual island reality: mostly diveable days, with the odd “weather call” when safety or comfort says wait. Are we still diving? Yes. We dive when it’s safe and enjoyable to do so. Our team checks the marine forecast, wind direction, and local conditions each morning. If a site is too exposed, we switch to a sheltered reef. If seas get bumpy, we slow the plan and keep things easy. And if Mother Nature says “nope” — we listen. Your safety and comfort come first. Travel to/from Koh Tao Ferries: Most services are running, sometimes with schedule adjustments. Reconfirm your sailing the day before, especially after big weather. Airports: Surat Thani and Samui are open as normal; allow buffer time for any mainland transfers after heavy rain. Back-up plan: If a ferry is paused for safety, operators roll you to the next available sailing. We can help you rebook and adjust dive days. What to expect on the reef after heavy rain Visibility can vary: Near-shore sites may go a bit milky after storms, but clear up quickly as winds settle. Pick of the day: We choose sites with shelter from wind and swell. Calm water beats bragging rights. Wildlife is still wonderful: Batfish at the safety stop, blue-spotted rays on the sand, and plenty of reef life doing reef life things. Simple tips if you’re arriving soon Check your ferry the day before: We’ll happily help. Pack light layers: A windbreaker for boat rides and a dry bag for your phone are always smart. Seasickness meds: Take them before you board if you’re prone to queasiness. Stay flexible: If we shuffle sites or dive times for safety, it’s so you have a better day underwater. Reassurance (the short version) Even with last week’s rough weather, island life on Koh Tao is steady. Ferries are running with the usual checks, the forecast is easing compared with the peak rain, and our boats are heading out when conditions are right. If you have questions about your dates, just ask — we’ll give you an honest read and a plan that feels good. We’re here to help Message us with your travel dates and experience level. We’ll suggest the best windows, the most comfortable sites, and how to make the most of your dive days. If conditions change, we’ll keep you updated and take care of the details so you can relax. Useful official updates Thai Meteorological Department – national forecast (monsoon easing; seas ~1 m, higher in storms). Tourism Authority of Thailand – travel conditions update (Koh Tao tourism operating normally; check ferry schedules). Reuters – regional flooding overview (context on the wider event). See you soon, safely Koh Tao is resilient. Conditions are trending better than the peak of the stormy spell, and we’re planning dives with the same care and calm we bring every day. When the seas say “go,” we go. When they say “wait,” we wait. Either way, your holiday — and the reef — are in good hands. Ready to plan?Contact Phoenix Divers with your dates. We’ll check the forecast and set up relaxed, beautiful dives at the right sites for the day.Get in touch