Surin Islands
This marine national park is the Thai island group closest to Burmese
waters. The Surins are uninhabited but for a few park rangers
and the Singh (or Lion) Tribe of Chao Lay (Sea Gypsies),
who have a settlement on Koh Surin Tai. These nomadic sea
people continue in this modern age a very primitive way of life.
For cruising yachts these islands represent a much calmer environment
than the Similans, as considerably less commercial diving boats
frequent the anchorages.
Visiting vessels are subject to the same charges and regulations
as in the Similans.
The Surins consist of two main islands with off-lying islets and
rocks. Pretty coral and clear waters are of Similan standards, though
the fish life is not as abundant.
The shallow channel between the two principal islands (about 2
metres at high tide) has one of the most remarkable panoplies of
coral reef to be found anywhwere.
The National Park HQ is on Koh Surin Nua and has
basic accommodations at a modest price; contact for reservations
at the visitors' centre (+66 0 7649 1378); information about weather
conditions and current numbers of visitors can sometimes be obtained
from the park office on the island by calling +66 0 7641 9028-9.
Phone service to these isolated islands is, however, problematic.
Opposite the National Parks office is a wooden effigy carved to
look like a Red Indian, suggesting to the uninitiated that these
islands are a sacred place for the Chao Lay.
On the south of Koh Surin Tai, between the two rocks, is a tidal
anomaly, which can create a dangerous standing wave with the ground
swell from the west and a wind from the northeast.
The light on Koh Chi is reliable. Remember: only a few miles
north is the Burmese border, and permission is required in advance
before entering these waters.
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