KOH RANG

During the northeast season, the west side of the island offers good overnight protection.

The best anchorage near great snorkelling is in 10 metres on sand east of the three islands in the north, at 11°48.694N, 102°22.757E. However, approximately 100 metres due west off the tip of the northernmost island is an unmarked shallow hazard. Known locally as Koh Tien, this 24-metre high rock spire ends one metre below water level and is not marked on the charts, though can sometimes be marked by local divers with a red buoy. This mysterious spire makes for a spectacular dive site and is known for big fish and shark sightings.

There’s another good anchorage close by, between the south of Koh Rang and the islet of Koh Tun (also called Koh Rang Lek). Anchor in 7 metres on sand and snorkel around the small islet. On the beach is a small fisherman’s temple.

This is a good overnight anchorage in the southwest season, but there are no restaurants ashore. Early in the morning or after 4pm is the best time to have the coral atolls to the east of Koh Rang all to yourself.