On Sunday 5 July, two whale sharks were spotted at two separate sites around Koh Tao, offering divers a rare encounter at the height of the summer season.
The sightings took place at the dive sites of Chumphon Pinnacle and Sail Rock, two renowned spots on the island. Divers were able to film and photograph the animals, estimated between three and four metres, swimming among schools of fish. This shark is considered the largest living fish on Earth.
The president of the Koh Tao Tourism Association, Rumluek Assavachin, notes that the period from June to September marks the peak for whale shark sightings around the island. Encounters are frequent at the sites of Chumphon Pinnacle, Sail Rock, Hin Khao and Kong Tung Ku.
Rumluek Assavachin adds that multiple simultaneous sightings at these two locations have been reported in the past. This season is particularly anticipated by Thai and international divers, with appearances possible almost daily.
“The continued sightings of whale sharks are one of the main indicators of the richness of Koh Tao’s marine ecosystem, its food sources and its biodiversity.” … “They also result from ongoing cooperation between government agencies, the private sector, dive operators and local communities to conserve and restore marine resources.”