Similan Scuba Diving

Chinese Wall

Located at the southern point of Koh Miang, Similan Island number 4, Chinese Wall is named after the collection of granite boulders that stretch away from the southern point of island. The boulders begin above the surface and continue down underwater to a depth of almost 30m. These rocks form the swim-throughs, valleys, caverns and caves that make this site a Similan diver's playground.

The crevices are home to large giant moray eels as well as the finbriated moray, yellow margined moray and smaller white eyed moray. The eels are often seen being groomed by cleaner shrimps. The shrimps feed off the eels' skin, picking off bits of algae, loose skin and parasites with their claws; another one of the many symbiotic relationships to be observed when Similan scuba diving.

Moving along, more boulders form large overhangs and tunnels. Keep your eyes peeled and you may be lucky enough to see one or two of the resident white tip reef sharks hiding in the shadows. Some are up to 2 metres long. Bumphead unicornfish also take refuge in the cracks and crevices.

In the shallows you'll see parrotfish, fusiliers, surgeonfish and soldierfish. Look out for harlequin sweetlips and oriental sweetlips too. Trumpetfish and cornetfish are also numerous.

Also known as Bird Rock, Chinese Wall is a great Similan dive site and often the envy of divers as many boats don't stop here. Currents are usually moderate although sometimes they can be strong. Visibility is often good, above 20m. It is a good idea to carry a torch on this dive to reveal the true colours around the rocks at depth and find fish lurking in their hideouts.

If you do get the opportunity to dive here you may also get to go ashore to visit the beach while your boat is moored up. There is a small national park ranger station here and a trail which leads to another beach and a small holiday home belonging to the Thai princess.

Chinese Wall Reef Basics: Boulder wall and coral gardens
Depth: 6 - 27m
Visibility: 20 - 40m
Currents: Gentle
Surface conditions: Calm
Water temperature: 26 - 29°C
Experience level: Beginner - intermediate
Number of dive sites: 1
Diving season: October to May
Distance: ~90 km northwest of Phuket, 65 km west of Khao Lak
Access: Liveaboards and daytrips

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