Viking Cave Phi Phi Lay

Viking Cave, also known as Tham Phaya Nak, is a fascinating dive site located on the east side of Phi Phi Ley Island. The cave gets its name from the ancient paintings found on its eastern and southern walls, which depict various types of boats, including what appears to be a Scandinavian Drakkar (Viking ship). These paintings were likely created by sailors seeking refuge from storms. While the cave itself and the striking bay above water are beautiful, the true diving gem lies underwater, a few hundred meters north of Viking Cave.

In recent years, the Phuket Marine Conservation Department (DMCR) has installed a stunning artificial reef here to help re-establish marine life. This artificial reef, composed of cube-shaped concrete structures, has become home to a diverse array of marine species. Long-finned batfish, lionfish, and leopard sharks are common inhabitants, and the structures have fostered the growth of various corals. This reef provides a haven for small fish seeking shelter from predators, attracting a vibrant community of marine life, including batfish, snappers, and barracudas.

The Viking Bay dive site benefits from being sheltered behind tall limestone cliffs, making it an excellent choice during the monsoon season when seas can be too rough for diving elsewhere. The site offers a mix of artificial and natural reefs, creating a diverse and engaging dive experience. As divers move north past the artificial reef, the sandy bottom transitions into a natural reef teeming with hard and soft corals, anemones, and large barrel sponges. This area is also frequented by large schools of yellow snappers and the occasional blacktip reef shark, particularly in the shallow parts of the reef.

Viking Cave and its surrounding dive sites provide a unique combination of historical intrigue and underwater beauty. The artificial reef, established by the Phuket Marine Conservation Department, has successfully revitalized marine life in the area, offering divers a chance to explore a thriving underwater ecosystem. Whether you are drawn to the vibrant coral structures or the possibility of encountering majestic marine creatures like leopard sharks and baby blacktip reef sharks.

Getting There

Dive boats go to Phi Phi & Shark Point every day of the week (weather permitting) as a part of the Phi Phi & Shark Point, 3 dive day trip from Phuket.

All scuba diving sites are chosen at the discretion of the tour leader on the day of the dive. The selection of dive sites depends on weather conditions, currents, safety considerations, and the suitability for the majority of divers on the boat. Therefore, we cannot guarantee specific dive sites before the boat departs.