Koh Tao is one of the best places in the world to learn how to dive. But what makes this small tropical island such a special destination for divers and ocean lovers?
Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Tao is well known for its clear waters, colourful coral reefs, and rich marine biodiversity. Many dive sites around the island are located in relatively sheltered conditions, making Koh Tao a great place for beginner divers to gain experience and for marine conservation projects to study the underwater environment.
But it is not just about the location.
Koh Tao also has a strong diving and conservation community, bringing together divers, marine biologists, conservationists, and ocean lovers from around the world. Year after year, the island continues to be one of people’s favourite diving destinations. With passionate individuals working together to protect the ocean, the Koh Tao conservation community continues to grow stronger.
Koh Tao Conservation Diving
Conservation Diving Course in Koh Tao with New Heaven Dive School
New Heaven Dive School and the New Heaven Reef Conservation have been involved in ocean and reef conservation in the Koh Tao community for many years. With love and passion for the ocean, our team has taken part in marine research, marine life protection, artificial reef projects, underwater and beach clean-ups, and long-term reef conservation work.
Our Koh Tao conservation dive program was created to share this knowledge and experience with divers who want to learn more about the underwater world and become more involved in protecting it.
What Is a Conservation Diving Course?
Our conservation diving program combines reef ecology and marine biodiversity knowledge with hands-on conservation diving. You will learn through lectures led by our marine biologists and conservation instructors before taking your knowledge underwater during practical conservation dives.
The course takes from 3 days up to 12 weeks, depending on how much time you have and which program you would like to join. It is a hands-on and practical experience, usually including one lecture and one dive per day.
The program is designed to help you develop a deeper understanding of reef ecology, marine biodiversity, and the challenges facing coral reef ecosystems. Most importantly, you will learn how marine research and conservation diving can play an important role in understanding and protecting the ocean.
What Does the Conservation Diving Course Look Like?
Our reef conservation program follows a four-week course cycle, with one lecture and one conservation dive each day. Every week focuses on a different area of marine science and reef conservation.
Koh Tao Conservation Diving
Week 1: Ecological Monitoring Program (EMP)
Learn how marine ecosystems are monitored and studied underwater. Discover the importance of collecting data and understanding changes happening on coral reefs.
Week 2: Coral Week
Dive deeper into the world of corals, reef ecology, coral taxonomy, and coral diseases. Learn more about these fascinating animals and the important role they play in supporting marine biodiversity.
Week 3: Marine Life Week
Explore the incredible marine biodiversity of Koh Tao. Learn how to identify different marine species, including sharks and turtles, to better understand their roles within the reef ecosystem.
Week 4: Advanced Week
Take your knowledge and conservation diving skills further with more advanced topics and practical underwater experience.
Please note that course topics are subject to availability and may change depending on weather conditions, project requirements, and other circumstances. To join the Koh Tao conservation diving course, an SSI Advanced Adventurer certification or an equivalent diving qualification is required.
How to Apply for a Conservation Diving Course in Koh Tao
Ready to take your diving experience beyond just exploring the reef?
Simply reach out to New Heaven Dive School or New Heaven Reef Conservation to check availability and find out where we are in the current four-week conservation course cycle. Whether you have a few days or several weeks to spend in Koh Tao, our team can help you find a conservation diving experience that fits your schedule.
Join us underwater, learn more about reef ecology and marine biodiversity, and become part of the effort to protect the ocean we all love.