Dive Guide: Are there sharks at Shark Point in Phuket and Phi Phi?
The Shark Point dive site is one of the most dived spots in Phuket. Because it’s only halfway to Phi Phi Island, it’s also one of the most popular Phi Phi dive sites.
The dive spot got its name from the frequent Leopard Shark sightings. However, seeing one nowadays is rather unlikely.
Shark Point dive site brief
- Access: From boat
- Maximum depth: 82 feet/ 25 meters
- Visibility: 33 and 49 feet / 10 – 15 meters
- Dive time: 45 minutes
- Certification level: Advanced Open Water
- Current: medium to strong
- Type: deep dive, pinnacle
About Shark Point in Phuket & Phi Phi
Shark Point is just a 28 km sail away from Phuket (halfway to Phi Phi Island), located near Anemone Reef and the King Cruiser Wreck. The dive site has a maximum depth of 82 feet (25 meters), with an average visibly between 33 and 49 feet (10 – 15 meters).
Named after the many Thailand Leopard Sharks that used to inhabit its sandy depths, Shark Point is composed of three distinct pinnacles running from north to south. As you progress further south, these majestic structures become increasingly deeper and more impressive. The only pinnacle visible from the surface is the first one.
Dive plan for Shark Point
Divers often explore pinnacles one and two, usually starting with number one when factoring in ocean currents.
Diving tours typically start at the first pinnacle, where you can opt for a line descent or choose to explore freely, reaching depths of up to 82 feet (25 meters). Dependent on the direction of currents – which usually flow north-south in this region – if they are pushing northwards, then it is recommended that dives begin at the second pinnacle.
When you dive in between the two pinnacles at Shark Point, you stay at a depth of about 18 meters below sea level. Despite an average visibility of 33 to 49 feet (10 – 15 meters), it’s often impossible to see one pinnacle from the other. However, on your journey to pinnacle two, you can find soft corals and sea fans. In addition, there is also a magnificent hard coral garden that lies deeper beneath.
The second pinnacle reaches up to around 20 – 23 feet (6 – 7 meters) below sea level.
Pinnacle three (about 49 feet/15 meters deep) may be a challenge near the end of a dive. Especially, if you have to start at pinnacle 2 due to the currents.
What’s to see at Shark Point in Phuket & Phi Phi
Shark Point offers a marine life paradise where you can find a plethora of fascinating creatures, including scorpionfish, lionfish, pufferfish, blue-ringed angelfish, snappers, groupers, and species of moray eels. As you explore further into the pinnacle’s nooks and crevices, you can discover nudibranchs as well as shrimp. Additionally, keep your eyes peeled for juvenile cube boxfish or harlequin sweetlips swimming amidst schools of soldierfishes and silversides that glitter like silver coins.
If you are lucky, you might get to see a whale shark swimming by, but this is only on rare occasions during the winter months.
Similarly, unlike the name of the dive site suggests, you need to be lucky to find a leopard shark. Your chances increase to see one closer to Phi Phi. Blacktip reef sharks are also frequently visiting Phi Phi’s shallow bays and lagoons. For example, sightings are often reported at the famous Maya Bay.
When is the best time to dive at Shark Point?
The best time to dive at shark point is between November and April when conditions are generally calm and sunny. The visibility underwater is also at its best during this period. During the monsoon season (May-October), conditions can be unpredictable, with strong winds and heavy rains. It also increases the chances to see migrating animals like whale sharks or rays.
What certification is required to dive at Shark Point?
Because of its depth, Shark Point is a dive site for Advanced Open Water divers only. While you could stay at 18 meters, the current is quite challenging, as well. If you aren’t yet advanced certified, discuss this with your dive master.
Related dive sites
If you are interested in seeing sharks or other bigger animals, Marina Bay & Maritas Rock are great for sharks. Racha Noi South Tip is famous for manta rays. Overall, Racha Island has great dive sites to find marine life.
