Diving atDive Shop Point (Cambodia)
Adjacent to Cambodia's Koh Rong Sanloem Island, a PADI 5 Star IDC and TecRec Dive Center operates. Functioning as The Dive Shop, it establishes high standards for dive education and underwater exploration. Divers here access diverse marine environments, rich with extensive coral reefs and varied aquatic life. A dedicated team of PADI instructors upholds rigorous safety protocols across all diving activities.
Evening condition tracking at Dive Shop Point features an air temperature of 29.7°C. We have recorded wave heights measuring 0.46m during this period. These figures outline the environmental parameters currently present.
Dive Site Coordinates
10.5696, 103.2943
Dive Site Characteristics
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
Established in 2007, The Dive Shop Cambodia began offering comprehensive dive experiences off Koh Rong Sanloem. Recognized as the region's sole PADI 5 Star Instructor Development Center and TecRec facility, its presence has been instrumental in shaping local diving standards.
Dive sites primarily encompass vibrant hard and soft coral fringing reefs surrounding the islands. These environments extend to recreational depths, commonly reaching 30 m (100 ft). Within these varied ecosystems, divers can anticipate encounters with a broad spectrum of marine inhabitants.
Abundant reef fish schools often swirl through the corals, alongside an impressive array of macro-life tucked away in coral formations and rocky crevices. Exploring sandy areas adjacent to the reefs frequently uncovers additional unique macro subjects, appealing to divers with a keen eye for detail.
A fundamental aspect of operations involves maintaining small group sizes. Small group sizes ensure personalized attention and focused guidance for every diver, reflecting a commitment to both high-quality instruction and robust safety.
Course offerings span basic scuba diving certifications through to advanced technical diving qualifications and active participation in marine conservation initiatives.
Best Time to Dive
Optimizing your dive experience here largely depends on the seasonal weather patterns. The months from January to April, and again in December, consistently offer excellent dive scores, presenting the most favorable conditions. During these periods, average air temperatures comfortably hover between 27-29°C (81-84°F), and rainfall is minimal, making for pleasant surface intervals. While Saracen Bay generally maintains a tranquil environment, it's worth noting that prevailing easterly winds between December and March can occasionally lead to choppier waters and stronger currents. In such instances, operations may shift to Sunset Beach or Lazy Beach to ensure diver comfort and safety. The monsoon season, particularly July and September, sees higher rainfall averaging around 20 mm, potentially impacting surface conditions, though dive scores remain moderate to good during other wet season months.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Descending into these waters, divers typically encounter the extensive fringing reefs that characterize the area. These vibrant formations are home to an incredible diversity of hard and soft corals, providing a complex habitat for marine life. While water temperatures are not consistently reported, they generally remain warm, suiting tropical diving. Most of the year, the area experiences calm waters and gentle currents, creating an ideal setting for exploration. However, divers should be mindful that between December and March, eastern winds can occasionally generate choppy surface conditions and stronger currents, particularly in Saracen Bay. Depths vary across the sites, with reefs offering opportunities from shallow training areas to deeper sections where larger pelagics might be spotted. Visibility is generally good, allowing for clear views of the intricate reef ecosystem and its inhabitants.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Ensuring diver safety is a cornerstone of operations at The Dive Shop Cambodia, regardless of skill level. The facility employs state-of-the-art equipment and adheres to the industry's most stringent safety standards across all diving and training activities. Staffed by experienced PADI Instructors and guides, divers receive unparalleled attention and guidance, particularly benefiting from the policy of limiting group sizes. While no specific hazards are reported for these dive sites in available data, divers are always expected to follow their guide's instructions and adhere to safe diving practices. The team's commitment extends to fostering a deep appreciation for the marine environment, promoting responsible interaction with the underwater world.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
Individual comfort in the water can vary significantly from diver to diver, even under the same conditions.
For most recreational dives, dive skin or rash guard should provide comfortable protection. A hood or vest is suggested for sensitive divers due to surface winds. Forecast conditions over the next few days suggest temperatures will remain relatively stable.
Water temperatures across the dive area at Dive Shop Point are presently estimated to be around 31°C (87°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 30°C (85°F).
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
Check local Cambodia medical facilities.
Entry Requirements
View Cambodia Visa Hub
Currency
KHR
Nearest Airports
Nearest airports to help plan travel to this dive area.
Marine Life at Dive Shop Point
The underwater landscape here is dominated by an impressive array of hard and soft corals, forming dynamic reef structures around the islands. These coral gardens act as a magnet for a large collection of reef fishes, creating a vivid display of color and activity. Beyond the reef's immediate vicinity, divers might also encounter larger pelagics cruising the open water. A significant highlight for many is the enormous variety of macro-life; patient divers exploring the nooks, crannies, and surrounding sandy areas often discover fascinating smaller creatures, adding another layer of intrigue to the dive experience.
Dive Sites Near Dive Shop Point
View all dive sites in CambodiaDiscover more underwater gems in this area.
Dive Centers Near Dive Shop Point
No Dive Centers Local To Dive Shop Point
Are you a dive center visiting this location? Get listed to reach divers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of dive courses are offered?
The Dive Shop Cambodia offers a comprehensive range of PADI courses, from beginner levels like Open Water Diver to advanced certifications including PADI TecRec. They also provide PADI Snorkelling, Conservation programs, and PADI First Aid - EFR.
What kind of marine life can divers expect?
Divers can expect to see an incredible diversity of hard and soft corals, a large collection of reef fishes, and an enormous variety of macro-life. Opportunities to spot larger pelagics also exist, particularly on deeper or outer island expeditions.
Are there options for experienced divers?
Yes, experienced divers can join monthly exploration trips to outer islands like Koh Tang, Koh Prins, Koh Chlarm, or Condor Reef, which often include seeking out shipwrecks and new dive sites. Advanced PADI and TecRec courses are also available.
How are diving conditions typically?
Conditions are generally tranquil with calm waters and gentle currents for most of the year, especially in Saracen Bay. However, from December to March, eastern winds can create choppy waters and stronger currents, leading to operations relocating to more sheltered spots like Sunset Beach.
What languages do the instructors speak?
The team of PADI instructors and guides at The Dive Shop Cambodia can communicate in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, German, and Russian, ensuring clear instruction and guidance for a diverse clientele.
Is equipment rental available?
Yes, the dive center provides scuba equipment rental services. They also offer air fills, Nitrox, Trimix, and mixed gas, along with equipment sales and servicing.
Are there any conservation activities?
The Dive Shop Cambodia is dedicated to conservation efforts and offers specific conservation activities. They aim to foster a deep appreciation for the marine life in the Gulf of Thailand and the South Chinese Sea among divers.
Liveaboards Sailing to Dive Shop Point
Explore highly rated liveaboards visiting this dive site and discover the best routes in Cambodia.
Resorts & Accommodation
Find partner hotels and dive resorts directly accessing the reef.
Around This Area
Explore top-rated restaurants, activities, and attractions near Dive Shop Point reviewed by travelers.
Planning to dive Dive Shop Point?
Send one inquiry and receive offers directly from the best verified local dive operators.