Although it's Thailand's second largest island, tourism development has only recently come to Koh Chang. But in just a few short years, many resorts and other tourist services have developed. Things can get very quiet here during the low season, from May to September, but the diving can be pretty good all year around.
The bulk of the dive sites are in amongst the small islands between Koh Chang and Koh Kut to the south. There are numerous sea mounts and reefs here with an abundance of marine life.
Getting to Koh Chang
The fastest way to get to Koh Chang is to take a Bangkok Airways flight to Trat province, then use their transfer service to the pier in Laem Ngop for the boat to Koh Chang, and on to your hotel. At last check, there were two flights a day between Bangkok and Trat. The pier is only about 20 minutes from the airport, and transfers are available from Bangkok Airways directly. The cost is 300 to 370 Baht per person and vans run every 30 minutes from 6:30 to 18:30. Note that there are no taxis at the airport. You must either use the airport transfer service, or arrange for a transfer through your hotel.
The longer, cheaper route is by bus to Trat from Bangkok's Eastern Bus Terminal on Sukhumvit Road. The trip takes at least six hours, so it's an all-day jaunt to get to Koh Chang by bus. If taking the bus, on reaching Trat you will need to catch a songtaew to the pier at Laem Ngop. There are boats to Koh Chang about every half-hour during the high season from November to March.
Hotels & Resorts
There are many places to stay in Koh Chang, from inexpensive hotels, to luxury resorts.
Koh Chang Dive Centers
There are dozens of dive shops around Koh Chang. The lists below are culled from recommendations I've had from other divers.
Dive Shops
- Dive Supply
- Thailand's largest chain of dive shops has an outlet on Koh Chang.
Dive Operators
- The Dive
- Well established PADI 5 Star IDC center with it's own resort. Also offers various other adventure tours on land and sea.
- BB Divers
- Another PADI 5 Star center. Makes daily trips on their own boat, with a Sunday special "Lazy Divers Trip" that includes a night dive along with two late afternoon day dives.