What are the Similan and Surin Island National Park Fees?
When planning a scuba diving liveaboard trip from Phuket to the Similan or Surin Islands, it’s essential to consider the cost of Thailand National Park fees in your budget. These fees contribute to the preservation and protection of the islands’ unique marine ecosystems, ensuring that the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life remain healthy and accessible for future generations. In this blog, we’ll break down the Similan and Surin Island National Park fees, explaining what they cover and why they are an important part of your diving adventure. Understanding these fees will help you plan your trip more effectively and appreciate the natural beauty of these incredible destinations.
In 1982, the Similan Islands, including Koh Bon, were designated as a national park to preserve their natural beauty and ecological significance. As part of this protection effort, fees were introduced to fund the care and maintenance of the islands, ensuring they remain pristine for future generations.
For the 2015–2016 season, the entry fee for each national park was set at THB 500, with an additional THB 200 charged for each day you spend there. For example, if you embark on an overnight liveaboard trip, you would pay an entry fee of THB 500 plus THB 200 per day for two days, totalling THB 900.
These fees apply to both the Similan and Surin National Parks, which encompass the Similan Islands, Surin Islands, Koh Tachai, and Richelieu Rock. If you’re planning a four-day, four-night liveaboard trip that includes diving at both the Similan Islands and Koh Tachai/Richelieu Rock, your fees would be calculated as follows:
- THB 500 to enter the Similan Islands National Park
- THB 500 to enter the Koh Surin National Park
- THB 200 per day for four days
This results in a total of THB 1,800 for a four-day trip.
2018–2019 Update
The Similan Island Marine Park office updated its fee structure to charge the THB 500 entry fee each time you enter the park. Previously, re-entry did not incur an additional fee, but as of 2019, re-entry incurs another THB 500 fee. This change particularly affects operators like the Koon 9 boat, which follows a circular route and may re-enter the Similan Islands during the trip.
For example, a three-day, two-night trip would include the following fees:
- Day 1, Similan Islands: THB 500 Similan Islands entry fee + THB 200 daily fee
- Day 2 Surin Islands: THB 500 Surin Islands entry fee + THB 200 daily fee
- Day 3 Similan Islands: THB 500 Similan Islands re-entry fee + THB 200 daily fee
The total cost for this trip, which includes both the Similan and Surin Islands (Richelieu Rock), would be THB 2,100 for Koon 9 liveaboard.
These fees are paid directly to the scuba diving liveaboard operator, who then remits them to the authorities upon entering the national parks. Payment should be made in cash, with Thai Baht being the preferred currency. Planning for these fees ensures a smooth and enjoyable diving experience in these breathtaking marine environments.
