Koh Lipe (Tarutao - Adang-Rawi)

In-water Risks to Plan For

• Currents: exposed corners and pinnacles can run strong tidal flow. Follow the briefing, stay with your buddy, and deploy an SMB before surfacing.
• Boat traffic: longtails and speedboats operate close to shore. Ascend with an SMB, and snorkel/freedive with a float and flag.
• Depth management: the Yong Hua Wreck and offshore pinnacles can push deeper profiles. Keep plans conservative and avoid exceeding training.
• Heat and dehydration: tropical sun plus repetitive diving adds risk. Hydrate and protect skin with a rashguard.

Operator Checks

• Confirm the boat carries oxygen and first-aid kit.
• Ask about maximum group size and guide-to-diver ratio.
• If you are doing advanced sites, verify your experience honestly and request a check dive first.

On-island Care

Koh Lipe has small clinics and pharmacies suited to minor illness, cuts, stings, and basic stabilization.

Serious Cases and Evacuation

For major trauma or suspected decompression illness, expect evacuation by speedboat to the mainland (Satun or Hat Yai area) and onward transfer to a hospital. Sea state can affect timing.

Hyperbaric and Diving Medicine

For confirmed diving injuries, specialized hyperbaric facilities and diving physicians are typically found in larger regional hubs such as Phuket. Carry diving accident insurance (for example DAN) that covers evacuation and chamber treatment.

Tarutao National Marine Park Etiquette

• Pay the park entry fee where required and respect seasonal closures.
• No touching, standing on, or collecting coral, shells, or wildlife.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen and keep fins off the reef.
• Support operators who use moorings instead of anchoring on reefs.

Reduce Waste on a Small Island

Koh Lipe has limited waste capacity. Bring a reusable bottle, refuse foam containers when possible, and pack out small plastics so they do not become marine debris.