This dive site is the iconic Sail Rock, a solitary pinnacle rising 15 meters above the surface and descending to 40 meters underwater, though the maximum recommended diving depth is 21 meters. Located between the islands of Koh Phangan and Koh Tao in the Gulf of Thailand, it is renowned for its unique natural underwater vertical swim-through, often called 'The Chimney'. Divers can enter this fascinating feature at a depth of 6 meters and typically exit at 18 meters, making for a truly memorable experience as they ascend through the rock. The site offers a relatively straightforward navigation around the pinnacle, with the chimney serving as a central point of interest.
The rich waters around Sail Rock attract a diverse array of marine life, particularly large pelagic species. Divers frequently encounter impressive schools of chevron barracuda, big schools of mackerel, jacks, trevally, and batfish. The site is also famously visited by seasonal whale sharks, adding to its appeal as a prime location for big animal encounters. While less emphasized, the pinnacle itself supports a healthy coral ecosystem that provides habitat for various reef fish and smaller invertebrates.
Sail Rock is best visited during the dry season for optimal conditions, typically from February to September, though whale shark sightings are seasonal and can occur between October and December, and again from April to June. It's a highlight for divers of all levels, offering shallow reef sections for beginners and the exciting chimney and deeper waters for more experienced divers. Freedivers will also find the site appealing due to its moderate depths and the iconic swim-through.
