Phuket dive sites

Anemone Reef is famous for two reasons. First, it was the submerged reef that the passenger ferry King Cruiser struck on May 4, 1997, causing it to sink nearby. Second, the reef earns its name from the extraordinary density of sea anemones that blanket virtually every surface, hosting thousands of clownfish in one of the highest concentrations found anywhere in Thailand.

The top of the pinnacle sits at approximately 4 meters below the surface, with the reef structure extending down to about 28 meters where it meets the sandy bottom. The most densely colonized sections are between 5 and 18 meters, where anemones and soft corals compete for space on every available surface.

Anemone Reef is suitable for intermediate divers with Open Water certification. The top of the reef is shallow enough for comfortable diving, but currents can be moderate to strong and visibility varies. The site is fully submerged with no surface reference, so good buoyancy control is important. Most operators visit it as part of a combined trip with Shark Point and the King Cruiser Wreck.

The King Cruiser was an 85-meter passenger ferry that operated between Phuket and Koh Phi Phi. On May 4, 1997, the vessel struck Anemone Reef and sank within approximately two hours. All passengers and crew were rescued safely. The wreck settled upright on the sandy bottom at 32 meters and has since become one of Thailand's most popular wreck dives.

Limited penetration of the upper decks is possible for certified wreck divers, but the structure has deteriorated significantly since sinking in 1997. Several sections of the superstructure have collapsed, and many areas are unstable. Most dive operators allow exploration of the open deck areas and wheelhouse but restrict deeper penetration. Always follow your guide and carry appropriate lights.