Thailand Bans Underwater Photography by Diving Trainees and Instructors
BANGKOK — In a significant move to protect fragile marine ecosystems, Thailand’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has issued a ban on underwater photography by scuba diving trainees and instructors during training and examination dives.
The new regulation, officially published in the Royal Gazette, is part of a ministerial order signed by Natural Resources and Environment Minister Chalermchai Sri-on. It aims to minimize coral damage, which has been critically impacted by diving-related activities.
Details of the Ban
Under the order:
- Scuba diving trainees and instructors are prohibited from taking underwater photographs during courses or certification dives.
- If photos are to be taken, only qualified divers may do so on behalf of the group.
These qualified photographers must have completed:
- The Advanced Open Water course by PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) or SSI (Scuba Schools International),
- Or the Advanced Scuba Diver course by NAUI (National Association of Underwater Instructors),
- Or an equivalent qualification from a recognized body.
Additional Snorkeling Restrictions
The ministerial order also imposes new snorkeling regulations:
- Snorkeling is prohibited in areas where water depth is less than two meters above coral reefs.
- Snorkelers must wear life vests, unless they have completed certified scuba diving or freediving training.
Enforcement and Penalties
Pinsak Suraswadi, Director-General of the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, emphasized that violators — including diving operators — may face strict penalties under the Act on the Promotion of Marine and Coastal Resources Management. These include:
- Up to two years in prison,
- And/or a fine of up to 200,000 baht.
Why the Ban?
The ministry cited the urgent need to preserve Thailand’s coral reefs, which have suffered extensive degradation due to careless diving practices, including physical contact and disturbances caused by underwater photography. This ban is seen as part of broader efforts to regulate marine tourism and promote sustainable diving behavior.
