This dive site, known as The Dome, is a prominent pinnacle located approximately 500m south of Tachai Island in Thailand. It features a unique underwater landscape dominated by a large, dome-shaped bedrock resembling an upturned plate, surrounded by massive granite boulders. The pinnacle's top rises to 12 meters, while its maximum depth extends to 23 meters. Navigation typically involves staying close to the main structure, especially given the potentially strong currents.
The site is renowned for its abundant marine life, particularly large pelagic species. Divers can expect to encounter significant numbers of predatory fish such as blue and white trevally, bluefin tuna, and barracudas. The mid-water column is teeming with vast schools of fusiliers, including yellowbacks, yellow dashes, and blue dashes. It's a prime location for spotting majestic manta rays and the awe-inspiring whale sharks, which are regularly sighted. At dawn and dusk, the site becomes a spectacle, with bluefin trevally attacking fusilier schools and tornadoes of blackfin barracuda forming.
The best time to experience The Dome's full glory is when conditions allow for managing the currents, which can be the strongest in the region. These currents are precisely what attract the large marine life, making it a thrilling dive for experienced divers. Freedivers with advanced skills may also find the opportunity to encounter pelagics challenging but rewarding. Divers should be prepared for strong drifts and potential changes in current direction, ensuring they have appropriate experience and safety equipment for such conditions.
