Diving HTMS Suphairin 313 – Koh Tao's Newest Wreck Dive
HTMS Suphairin 313 is Koh Tao’s newest wreck dive, and Duck n Dive Nangyuan offers exclusive access from our private island location. Sunk on September 7, 2023, this 44.9-meter Royal Thai Navy attack ship now rests upright on a sandy seabed just 15 meters north of No Name Pinnacle, on the west side of Koh Nangyuan . Unlike older wrecks that have been submerged for decades, this purpose-sunk artificial reef offers divers the rare opportunity to explore a large, intact naval vessel in its early stages of becoming a thriving marine habitat. With its mast reaching up to approximately 11 meters and the hull extending down to 27 meters, HTMS Suphairin 313 provides an accessible yet exciting wreck diving experience for those looking to add something new to their Koh Tao dive log
Key info
Location: West side of Koh Nangyuan, near No Name Pinnacle
Depth range: 11–27 meters (mast at 11m, seabed at 27m)
Vessel size: 45 meters long, 7 meters wide
Currents: Light to moderate
Water temperature: 27-30°C
Access from Nangyuan: 5 minutes by dive boat
Recommended Level: Advanced Open Water recommended; confident Open Water divers accepted
Dive Site Overview
The HTMS Suphairin 313 was a high-speed attack vessel belonging to the Royal Thai Navy’s Gulf Patrol Fleet, built by Singapore Ship Building and Engineering Company Limited . After an impressive 42 years of service, the ship was decommissioned in 2018 and transferred to the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources as part of the Underwater Learning Park and Marine Ecosystem Rehabilitation Project in Surat Thani Province . This initiative represents a unique fusion of naval history and marine conservation, giving these vessels a new purpose as artificial reefs that will support marine life for generations to come.
The wreck rests in approximately 25-27 meters of water, lying about 100 meters east-southeast of Ko Hang Tao and just 15 meters north of No Name Pinnacle . The vessel sits upright on a clean sandy bottom, providing divers with straightforward reference points and excellent penetration opportunities for those with the proper training . The intact nature of the wreck makes it an ideal site for practicing wreck diving techniques, navigation, and observing how artificial reefs develop over time.
Because this wreck was sunk very recently, it offers a unique “time capsule” experience. Divers can observe the early stages of coral colonization and marine life establishment, making return visits over the coming years particularly rewarding as the ecosystem evolves
Common Marine Life
Common sightings around the wreck include barracuda, trevally, groupers (including the impressive giant grouper), and various species of angelfish and butterflyfish . Moray eels have been observed taking up residence in crevices and openings throughout the structure, while blue-spotted ribbontail rays can often be found resting on the sandy bottom near the wreck’s perimeter.
For macro enthusiasts, the wreck’s nooks and crannies are home to nudibranchs, shrimp, and crabs beginning to establish themselves. Cuttlefish and octopus are occasional visitors, adding to the site’s diversity. The open water surrounding the wreck is patrolled by schools of fusiliers and yellowtail barracuda, while lucky divers may encounter whale sharks passing through during the migration season (typically March to June).
As the wreck ages and more coral growth establishes, the marine life population is expected to increase significantly, making this an exciting site to revisit over time .
Frequently Asked Questions About Diving HTMS Suphairin 313
What is the history of the HTMS Suphairin 313?
HTMS Suphairin 313 was a high-speed attack vessel that served the Royal Thai Navy’s Gulf Patrol Fleet for 42 years before being decommissioned in 2018 . After service, the ship was transferred to the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources as part of the Underwater Learning Park and Marine Ecosystem Rehabilitation Project. It was sunk on September 7, 2023, creating a new artificial reef and dive site near Koh Nangyuan
How deep is the dive at HTMS Suphairin 313?
Do I need a wreck specialty to dive this site?
You do not need a wreck specialty to dive the exterior of the HTMS Suphairin 313. Open Water or Advanced Open Water divers can explore the outside of the wreck, swim around the hull, and observe the structure from the exterior. Penetration beyond the natural light zone (swimming inside the wreck) requires PADI Wreck Diver certification and appropriate equipment. Your Duck n Dive guide will brief you on safe boundaries before the dive.
What marine life can I expect to see at this wreck?
Current sightings include barracuda, trevally, groupers, angelfish, butterflyfish, moray eels, blue-spotted rays, and various macro life . Because the wreck is new, the marine life is still establishing itself, offering a unique opportunity to watch an artificial reef develop over time. Whale sharks are occasional visitors during migration seasons.
How does this wreck compare to other wrecks in Koh Tao?
HTMS Suphairin 313 is one of two new wrecks sunk in September 2023, making it the newest wreck addition to Koh Tao’s dive offerings . At 44.9 meters long, it is a substantial vessel comparable in size to the famous HTMS Sattakut wreck, but much newer and more intact. The wreck’s upright position and proximity to No Name Pinnacle make it a unique offering that combines wreck and natural reef diving.
Can I dive the wreck and No Name Pinnacle in the same day?
How to Dive HTMS Suphairin 313 with Duck n Dive Nangyuan
HTMS Suphairin 313 is one of the most exciting new additions to our dive site offerings, and Duck n Dive offers regular trips to this historic wreck from our Koh Nangyuan base.
For certified fun divers, we include HTMS Suphairin 313 in our daily boat schedules. The short travel time of 10-15 minutes means more time underwater and less time bouncing on the surface. Because the wreck lies close to No Name Pinnacle, our dive boats frequently offer combined trips where you can experience both sites back-to-back.
Our PADI Wreck Diver specialty course can be conducted at HTMS Suphairin 313, allowing you to earn certification while exploring this intact naval vessel. The course teaches proper wreck penetration techniques, navigation, and safety protocols. For certified divers not seeking formal training, we offer guided wreck exploration dives that stay within the exterior of the wreck.
For certified divers who want a more personalized experience, we offer private speedboat charters to HTMS Suphairin 313. This allows you to set your own schedule, dive at your own pace, and combine the wreck with other nearby sites.
Because HTMS Suphairin 313 is an exposed offshore site, trips are subject to weather and current conditions. Your safety is our priority — our dive manager will advise on the day whether conditions are suitable for wreck diving.
